JP6715540B1 - Game system, game system control method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

A payment for a plurality of services is performed by first reading an identification image and performing payment processing. A game system (100) is provided with an image providing unit (34) which is generated in association with a management unit including a game machine (30) and provides an identification image (Q) including management unit identification information, and an identification unit. A reading unit (45) for reading the image to obtain management unit identification information, a presentation unit (44) for presenting a plurality of games-related services as charging targets, and a charging target for identifying the services selected by the user. The settlement information providing unit (46) that provides the settlement server (21A) with the settlement information including the information and the management unit identification information, and the settlement process that consumes the chargeable consideration, and the result of the settlement process is displayed in the game. The payment execution means (24, 25) for notifying the machine, and the presentation means, when presenting at least one service as a charging target, presents a plurality of services including other services as charging targets. [Selection diagram] Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a game system that presents a plurality of services as billing targets, a game system control method, and a computer program.

As a settlement method using a two-dimensional code, for example, in Patent Document 1, information such as a purchase price of a product and a transfer destination thereof is displayed in a two-dimensional code in a first information terminal, and is provided in a second information terminal. It also describes a configuration in which a two-dimensional code is captured by the camera unit. The user photographs the two-dimensional code using the second information terminal (for example, a mobile phone). Then, the user transmits the payment information read from the photographed two-dimensional code to the server of the payment agency. The server of the payment agent confirms the payment information, and reads the payment information including the purchase price and the transfer destination of the purchase price from the payment information. After that, when it is confirmed that the user approves the settlement, the financial institution is notified of the purchase price transfer request.

JP, 2003-141433, A

When playing a game provided by a game machine set in a store, it is necessary to pay a price for playing. For this payment, a mode in which a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) is displayed on the housing of the game machine can be considered. The user reads the two-dimensional code using the user terminal and pays for the consideration. Further, in addition to the price for playing, it is also possible to pay another price for purchasing an item used in the game.

When paying another consideration, a settlement for another consideration is newly accepted in addition to the payment for the play. Therefore, when the payment is made by reading the two-dimensional code, it becomes necessary to display and read the two-dimensional code each time the payment is made. As a result, the two-dimensional code is repeatedly displayed and read, which complicates the operation for settlement of other consideration.

A game system according to an aspect of the present invention is an identification image generated in association with a management unit set so as to include at least one game machine, and management unit identification information for identifying the management unit is provided. An image providing means for providing an identification image including the reading means for reading the identification image to obtain the management unit identification information, and the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information are provided. Presenting means for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game to be charged, and when the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the selection by the user is accepted and the selected service is identified. The payment information including the charge target information and the management unit identification information, the payment information providing means for providing the payment server with the payment information, and the payment process for consuming the charge target consideration corresponding to the charge target information. A payment execution means for notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment processing, wherein the presenting means sets at least one service related to the game as a charging target. When presenting, the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service are presented as the charging target.

Further, in the game system control method according to an aspect of the present invention, the management image is an identification image generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine. An identification image including management unit identification information is provided, the identification image is read to obtain the management unit identification information, and the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information provides the identification image. A plurality of games-related services are presented to the user as charging targets, and when at least one of the plurality of services is selected by the user, the selection by the user is accepted and the charging target information for identifying the selected service. And payment information including the management unit identification information is provided to the payment server, and a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information is executed, and the result of the payment process is identified by the management unit identification. When notifying the game machine identified based on the information and presenting at least one service related to the game as a charging target, the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service are provided. A service is presented as the charging target.

A computer program according to an aspect of the present invention is a computer program for a game system including a computer, and the computer program is a management unit configured to include the computer in at least one game machine. And an image providing unit that provides an identification image including management unit identification information for identifying the management unit, the identification image being generated in association with the management unit, and reading the identification image to obtain the management unit identification information. Reading means, presenting means for presenting to a user a plurality of services related to a game provided by the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information as a charging target; When the user selects at least one, the selection by the user is accepted, and the payment information is provided to the payment server, including payment information including billing target information for identifying the selected service and the management unit identification information. And a payment processing for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information and notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment processing. And presenting the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service when presenting at least one service related to the game as a charging target. Present as a billing target.

As a result, by reading the identification image for the first time and performing payment processing for the service, it is possible to pay for the other services.

The schematic diagram showing the whole game system composition. Explanatory drawing of the outline of a game system. The schematic block diagram of the game system of 1st Embodiment. The schematic sequence diagram of a game system. The schematic flowchart of the process by a game machine. The schematic flowchart of the process by a user terminal. The schematic flowchart of the process by a game server. The schematic flowchart of a process by a payment server. The schematic flowchart of the process by the user terminal of 2nd Embodiment. Schematic which shows a payment screen.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the following embodiments can be set arbitrarily and can be changed according to the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Further, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below.

[First Embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 100 including at least one game machine 30 includes a user terminal 40 and a center server 20. The center server 20 functions as a server device and includes a game server 21B and a payment server 21A. In addition, the game machine 30 can be connected to the center server 20 via a predetermined network 10. As an example, the game machine 30 is installed in a predetermined facility such as the store 31. Furthermore, the user terminal 40 can be connected to the center server 20 via the network 10.

The center server 20 is configured as one logical server device by combining server units as a plurality of computers. As an example, the center server 20 has a game server 21B and a settlement server 21A. However, the center server 20 may be configured by a single server unit. Alternatively, the center server 20 may be logically configured using cloud computing. The game server 21B provides the game machine 30 or the user of the game machine 30 with a plurality of services related to the game. This service includes a distribution service that distributes and updates the program or data of the game machine 30 via the network 10. The center server 20 appropriately distributes various programs or data necessary for providing the game to each game machine 30 through this distribution service.

The plurality of services related to games include, for example, a service for authenticating a user, a service for changing a user's game level, a service for providing items used in the game, a service for providing music used in the game, and participation in competitions. It includes a service to play and a service to play a predetermined mode. In addition, the plurality of services related to the game include a service for providing the game, which will be described later, and a service that is valid for a predetermined period.

A service for changing the user's game level is, for example, a service for releasing the upper limit of the level in a game in which experience value points are accumulated in the game and the user's level is increased by repeatedly playing (for example, "level upper limit of FIG. "Open"). This allows the user to play a new song according to his or her level. For example, in the initial state of the game, when the user reaches a predetermined level, the level upper limit value is reached and the level does not rise. In this case, the user charges the “open upper limit of level” service to release the upper limit of level. As a result, the level of the user rises above the upper limit, and the music provided to the user of a higher level can be played.

Services that provide items used in the game include, for example, services that provide digital cards that can be used in the game (“card issuance” in FIG. 2). This digital card serves as a user icon, and the user can set a desired card as a user icon. As an example, a user performs a lottery by charging a “card issuance” service, and a digital card corresponding to the result of the lottery is newly provided. Further, the service for providing the music used in the game includes, for example, a service for providing the music that can be used in the game (“add music” in FIG. 2). As an example, the user charges the “music addition” service to perform a lottery, and a song corresponding to the result of the lottery is newly provided.

The service for participating in the competition includes, for example, a service for participating in the competition (“participation in competition” in FIG. 2) in which a privilege according to the ranking is given. Participants in this tournament will be provided with benefits (eg, prize money, participation rights or invitation tickets to the official tournament, and novelty goods) according to their ranking. The service for playing a predetermined mode includes, for example, a service (“special member experience” in FIG. 2) in which a user at a lower membership level can temporarily play a mode provided to a user at a higher membership level. There is. In the mode for upper members (special users), the number of selectable songs is larger than in the mode for lower members (normal users), and more play modes can be selected. For example, when selecting to pay the monthly fee as the game consideration, the user can select the normal user mode and the special user mode. Then, the user who has selected the special user mode can play the special user mode.

Furthermore, the services provided by the game server 21B may include services that are not subject to billing. For example, the game server 21B may provide a service in which the game server 21B receives and saves play data including the play result of the authenticated user from the game machine 30. Further, the game server 21B may provide a service of providing the play data stored by the game server 21B to the game machine 30. In addition, the game server 21B may provide a service of matching users when a plurality of users play a common game via the network 10.

In addition, the service related to the game may include a service in which the center server 20 collects the consideration for providing the game from the user (“monthly charge” in FIG. 2). Further, the game-related service may provide a service of providing a game in which a selected number of pieces of music are played, as a service of collecting a consideration required for providing the game. In this case, the number of songs to be played may be designated.

The center server 20 also provides various Web services to the user of the user terminal 40 via the network 10. For example, the center server 20 may provide a service of providing a payment program PD2 (payment application software) described later or a service of displaying a Web page for payment of consideration. Further, the center server 20 provides a service that provides various game information related to the game provided by the game machine 30, a service that delivers various data or software to each user terminal 40 (including an update of data, etc.), and information by the user. You may provide the service which provides the place of exchange for transmission, exchange, and sharing, and the service which gives the user identification ID for identifying each user.

The network 10 is configured so that the game machine 30 and the user terminal 40 can be connected to the center server 20, respectively. As an example, the network 10 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP/IP protocol. Specifically, the LAN 12 connects the center server 20 and the game machine 30 to the Internet 11. The Internet 11 as a WAN and the LAN 12 are connected via a router 13. The user terminal 40 is also configured to be connected to the Internet 11. Alternatively, a local server may be installed between the game machine 30 and the router 13 of the store 31. The game machine 30 can be communicably connected to the center server 20 via this local server. The game server 21B and the payment server 21A of the center server 20 may be connected to each other via the Internet 11 instead of or in addition to the LAN 12.

The game machine 30 is a commercial (commercial) game device that allows a user to play a game within a range corresponding to the price in exchange for payment of a predetermined price. This game machine 30 is sometimes called an arcade game machine. In addition, the game machine 30 is a computer device, and is installed in the store 31 mainly for the purpose of making many users play the game repeatedly and increasing profits. As an example, the game machine 30 provides a music game in which an operating button is operated at the timing when a falling object reaches a determination line. The game machine 30 may provide various games other than the music game, such as a quiz game, a sports game, an action game, and a role playing game. Hereinafter, a case of providing a music game will be described as an example.

The user terminal 40 is a computer device capable of network connection. For example, the user terminal 40 includes a mobile terminal device 40A such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone), and a stationary or book-type personal computer 40B. In addition, the user terminal 40 includes various computer devices such as a stationary home game device, a portable game device, and a portable tablet terminal device. By mounting various computer software, the user terminal 40 can allow the user to enjoy various services provided by the center server 20.

Next, an outline of the invention according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. When playing a game on the game machine 30, the user logs in the game system 100 by causing the game machine 30 to read the IC card or the user terminal 40 and receiving user authentication. The game machine 30 transmits user identification information (for example, user identification ID) to the game server 21B of the center server 20. When the user pays the provision price necessary for providing the game, the game machine 30 starts providing the game. The payment of the provided consideration is a condition for providing the game. For example, when the “monthly charge” service is used, the monthly charge may be paid before the start of play or after the end of play.

Alternatively, the user may log in to the game system 100 from the user terminal 40. In this case, the user authentication by the game machine 30 can be omitted. For example, the user may log in to the game system 100 by activating the payment program PD2 previously downloaded to the user terminal 40 and receiving user authentication. The user reads the identification image Q with the user terminal 40 after logging in. Then, the user terminal 40 uses the management unit identification information (for example, the game machine identification ID) acquired from the identification image Q and the user identification information (for example, the user identification ID) input by the user, without using the game machine 30. It is transmitted to the server 21B. After that, the game server 21B transmits the game data including the play data of the user identified by the user identification information to the game machine 30 identified by the management unit identification information. Thereby, the game machine 30 can provide the game to the user.

The game machine 30 displays on the monitor 38 an identification image Q (for example, a two-dimensional code) including management unit identification information for identifying a management unit set so as to include at least one game machine 30. Further, the identification image Q is information for specifying the address of the Web page on which the payment screen is displayed, the address of the Web page for distributing the payment program PD2, or each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 can provide (for example, service). It may include an identification ID). Here, the management unit is a unit set to include a plurality of game machines 30 of the same model in one store 31, a plurality of game machines 30 installed in close proximity, or one game machine 30. Is. The management unit identification information is identification information unique to each management unit for identifying each management unit.

For example, when the management unit is set to include one game machine 30, the management unit identification information is unique to each game machine 30 for identifying the game machine 30 (eg, game machine identification information). ID). Further, when the management unit is set to include a plurality of game machines 30 of the same model in the store 31, the management unit identification information is identification information for identifying the store 31 and the model. In this case, one management unit identification information is used for the plurality of game machines 30. Hereinafter, a case where the management unit is set to include one game machine 30 and the game machine identification ID is used as the management unit identification information will be described as an example.

The user activates the payment program PD2 previously downloaded to the user terminal 40 and receives the user authentication. Then, the authenticated user uses the user terminal 40 to read the identification image Q displayed on the monitor 38 of the game machine 30. When the identification image Q is read, the user terminal 40 acquires the game machine identification ID as the management unit identification information from the identification image Q and transmits it to the game server 21B. Upon receiving the game machine identification ID, the game server 21B causes the user terminal 40 to display a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine 30 included in the management unit corresponding to the game machine identification ID. That is, the game server 21B presents the plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine 30 displaying the identification image Q to the user as a charging target. For example, the game server 21B transmits, to the user terminal 40, information (a service identification ID, for example) that identifies a plurality of services (billing factors) to be charged.

Then, the user terminal 40 causes the panel 47 of the user terminal 40 to display a payment screen for selecting the service to be charged. Here, the user purchases a substitute medium for payment, virtual currency, electronic money, and a consumption medium such as points as necessary. The purchase of the consumption medium may be performed using the payment program PD2, or may be performed using another program or a web page provided by the game server 21B. Alternatively, the user may pay for the currency. Then, the user selects a desired service from the displayed services via the payment screen. The user terminal 40 transmits to the game server 21B payment information including billing target information (for example, service identification ID) unique to each service for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID. The game server 21B stores the received payment information and transmits it to the payment server 21A. Note that the charging target information may be other information such as the service name and the price of the service (charge target price), but in the following, a case where the service identification ID is used will be described as an example.

The payment server 21A performs a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and transmits the result of the payment process to the game server 21B. Then, the game server 21B transmits the result of the payment process to the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID and the user terminal 40. When the game machine 30 is notified of the result of the payment process indicating that the payment is completed, the game machine 30 provides the service selected by the user. For example, when the user selects the “card issuance” service and the settlement process is completed, the game machine 30 performs a lottery in the game, and the data of the digital card issued according to the result of the lottery is played by the user. Append to data.

The result of the payment process includes information indicating that the payment has been completed or information indicating that the payment has not been completed. Further, the result of the payment process may include information (for example, service identification ID) for identifying the service for which the payment process corresponding to the result is performed. As a result, the game machine 30 can identify the service for which payment processing has been performed and provide it to the user. Furthermore, the result of the payment process may include information indicating the reason why the payment is not completed. Thereby, the game machine 30 can present the reason why the settlement is not completed to the user. Further, the result of the payment process indicating that the payment has not been completed may be transmitted only to the user terminal 40. The user can confirm on the user terminal 40 that the payment has not been completed. Therefore, the game machine 30 does not have to display the result of the payment process indicating that the payment has not been completed.

After the game is over, the play data is transmitted from the game machine 30 to the game server 21B. Then, the game server 21B stores the terminal identification information (for example, the terminal identification ID) for identifying the user terminal 40 and the play data in association with each other. After that, the game server 21B transmits play data (for example, play history) to the user terminal 40. The user terminal 40 displays the received play history on the display.

[Center server configuration]
The control system of the game system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The payment server 21A of the center server 20 includes a payment server control unit 22A that controls the payment server 21A and a payment server memory 23A as a server storage unit that stores the payment program PA of the payment server 21A. The settlement server 21A is configured as a computer in which a processor that executes various kinds of arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program is combined with other peripheral devices.

In addition, the game server 21B of the center server 20 includes a game server control unit 22B that controls the game server 21B, and a game server memory 23B as a server storage unit that stores the game program PB of the game server 21B. The game server 21B is configured as a computer in which a processor that executes various kinds of arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program is combined with other peripheral devices.

The center server 20 includes a payment server 21A and a game server 21B, which are independent server devices. However, the center server 20 may include one server device that functions as the payment server 21A and the game server 21B. Further, the payment server 21A and the game server 21B may be installed in different places. As an example, the payment agent may own and manage the payment server 21A, and the game provider may own and manage the game server 21B. In this case, the payment server 21A and the game server 21B are connected via the network 10.

As an example, processors of the payment server control unit 22A and the game server control unit 22B are CPUs (Central Processing Units) or MPUs (Micro-Processing Units), and controls stored in the payment server memory 23A and the game server memory 23B. Based on the program, it controls not only the entire apparatus, but also various processings. The payment server memory 23A and the game server memory 23B are a RAM (Random Access Memory) that is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a HDD (Hard Disc) that store programs and system software. Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive).

A processor, for example, a CPU, can execute processing operations such as various calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in a ROM or a HDD. In addition, the settlement server control unit 22A and the game server control unit 22B are wired or wirelessly connected to an operation unit including a keyboard or various switches for inputting predetermined commands and data. In addition, the payment server control unit 22A and the game server control unit 22B are wired or wirelessly connected to a display unit that displays the input state, setting state, measurement result, and various information of the device. Furthermore, the payment server control unit 22A and the game server control unit 22B are a portable recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a CF (Compact Flash) card, and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Alternatively, the control can be performed according to a program stored in an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

The payment server memory 23A and the game server memory 23B are storage devices including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable non-transitory storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. The settlement server memory 23A and the game server memory 23B may store all data in one storage unit, or may store data in a plurality of storage units in a distributed manner. The payment server memory 23A stores a payment program PA as an example of a computer program that causes the payment server control unit 22A to execute various necessary processes. In addition, the game server memory 23B stores a game program PB as an example of a computer program that causes the game server control unit 22B to execute various necessary processes. The game server control unit 22B provides the user with various services including a music game by executing the game program PB. Further, the payment server memory 23A stores account information DA, and the account information DA is, for example, information indicating the balance of the consumption medium or currency owned by the user, and is associated with the user information unique to each user. ing.

The game server memory 23B stores a game data DB. This game data DB is various data for music games and play data for each user. As an example, various types of data for a music game include image data, music data, and musical score data. These data may be appropriately transmitted to the game machine 30. For example, the game server 21B transmits the game data to the game machine 30 for updating or providing an online game. The image data includes, for example, data such as an icon, each object, and a background. Also, the music data includes data such as music, sound effects, and effect sounds. The musical score data is data that defines the operation procedure of the game, and includes, for example, data such as the type of object, the timing at which the operation should be performed, and the arrival position at the determination line on the game screen. Further, the play data is data for inheriting the contents unique to each player such as the player's play history (past performance) from the next time onward. For example, the play data includes data such as the game level of the user, the membership level, the digital card owned by the user, the song acquired by the user, and the score of the tournament in which the user participated.

The payment server control unit 22A, which is an example of payment execution means, has a payment processing unit 24 and a notification unit 25 as logical devices. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resource of the payment server control unit 22A and the payment program PA as a software resource. Then, the payment processing unit 24 executes the payment processing for consuming the chargeable consideration corresponding to the service identification ID. The value of this chargeable consideration is included in the payment information and is transmitted from the user terminal 40. For example, when the "open upper limit of level" service shown in FIG. 2 is selected, the payment information includes a service identification ID corresponding to "open upper limit of level" and a value (500 yen) of the value. When the consumption medium is consumed, the value of the chargeable consideration may be converted into the consumption medium and consumed. Alternatively, the payment server memory 23A may store the value of the chargeable consideration associated with the service identification ID. The payment processing unit 24 consumes the consumption medium with reference to the stored value of the chargeable consideration.

The payment processing unit 24 performs user authentication based on the user information (for example, user ID and password) unique to each user acquired from the user terminal 40. Then, the payment processing unit 24 refers to the account information DA of the authenticated user, and subtracts the amount of the consumption medium corresponding to the value of the chargeable consideration included in the payment information from the consumption medium held by the user. Perform processing. Further, when the user purchases the consumption medium, the payment processing unit 24 may refer to the account information DA and add the consumption medium corresponding to the purchase amount to the consumption medium held by the user. When the user pays in currency, the payment processing unit 24 refers to the account information DA and subtracts the amount corresponding to the value of the chargeable consideration included in the payment information from the deposit amount held by the user. May be.

Alternatively, the payment process is a process in which the chargeable consideration is paid at a later date, a process of requesting a payment agent to perform the payment process, and a process of requesting a financial institution to withdraw the consideration from the user's external account. May be. Furthermore, the settlement process may be executed by combining a plurality of processes. For example, in the settlement process, an amount of the consumption medium corresponding to the value of the chargeable consideration may be purchased through the settlement agent, and the purchased consumption medium may be consumed. Furthermore, in the settlement process, payment may be made from an account or the like held by a person other than a user designated in advance. Further, in the payment process, the user may be authenticated based on the telephone number of the user terminal 40, the terminal ID, or the like.

The notification unit 25 notifies the result of the payment processing by the payment processing unit 24 to the game machine 30 identified based on the game machine identification ID via the game server 21B. The game server 21B may transmit the data related to the provided service (for example, the data of the purchased digital card) to the game machine 30 together with the result of the payment process. In addition, when the data related to the service to be provided is stored in the game machine 30, the game server 21B gives an instruction to permit the use of the data (for example, an instruction of a process for giving the user a right to use the data). May be transmitted to the game machine 30. Alternatively, the notification unit 25 may directly notify the game machine 30 of the result of the payment process.

The payment program PA causes the payment server control unit 22A as a computer to execute a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and a result of the payment process is identified based on the management unit identification information. It is made to function as a payment execution means for notifying the machine 30 directly or indirectly.

The game server control unit 22B has a target providing unit 26 and a service providing unit 27 as logical devices. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the game server control unit 22B and the game program PB as a software resource. Then, the target providing unit 26 transmits, to the user terminal 40, information (for example, service identification ID) that specifies each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 can provide. Then, the target presentation unit 44 of the user terminal 40 executes the payment program PD2 installed in advance to display the selection items corresponding to each of the plurality of services on the payment screen displayed on the panel 47. Alternatively, the target providing unit 26 may provide a web page including a payment screen. This Web page can be displayed on the panel 47 using browsing software installed in the user terminal 40.

The service providing unit 27 provides the user with a service, of the services selected by the user, for which the payment of the chargeable consideration has been completed. For example, the service providing unit 27 transmits the data of the digital card purchased by the user to the game machine 30. Then, the game providing unit 35 of the game machine 30 provides the digital card so that it can be set as a user icon. In addition, the service providing unit 27 transmits information identifying the song acquired by the user to the game machine 30. Then, the game providing unit 35 of the game machine 30 displays the music acquired by the user on the monitor 38 as music that the user can play based on the information.

[Game console configuration]
The game machine 30 includes a game machine controller 32 that controls the game machine 30, and a game machine memory 33 as a game machine memory that stores a control program. The game machine control unit 32 is a computer in which a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operation controls according to a predetermined program is combined with other peripheral devices. The game machine 30 also includes an acquisition unit 37, a monitor 38, and a consideration reception unit 39. Further, the game machine 30 has an operation unit including buttons operated by a user to play a game, and a device (not shown) such as a speaker for playing music.

As an example, the processor of the game machine control unit 32 is a CPU or an MPU, and controls the entire device based on a program stored in the game machine memory 33, and also comprehensively controls various processes. Further, the game machine memory 33 includes a RAM which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a storage device such as a ROM, an HDD and an SSD which stores programs and system software. For example, the CPU can execute various processing operations such as calculation, control, and determination according to the control program stored in the ROM or the HDD. Further, the game machine control unit 32 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, a DVD, a CF card, and a USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

The game machine memory 33 is a storage device including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable non-transitory storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. Further, the game machine memory 33 records various data together with the game machine program PC, and records game data DC as an example. The game data DC is data for causing the player to play a predetermined game according to the game machine program PC. For example, the game data DC includes image data, music data, musical score data, and play data.

The game machine control unit 32 includes an image providing unit 34 and a game providing unit 35 as logical devices. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the game machine controller 32 and the game machine program PC as a software resource. Then, the game providing unit 35 executes various arithmetic controls necessary for the progress of the game in order to control the progress of the game. The game providing unit 35 also executes a process for enjoying the service provided by the service providing unit 27 of the game server 21B.

The image providing unit 34 serving as an image providing unit provides the user with the identification image Q generated in association with the management unit set to include at least one game machine 30. For example, the image providing unit 34 acquires the generated identification image Q from an external device connected to the housing of the game machine 30. The identification image Q includes management unit identification information (for example, game machine identification ID) for identifying the management unit, and is a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark) as an example. Alternatively, the identification image Q may be a one-dimensional code such as a barcode and an identification code formed of predetermined characters or symbols. Further, the image providing unit 34 may acquire the management unit identification information (for example, the game machine identification ID) from the external device and generate the identification image Q.

The image providing unit 34 displays the identification image Q on the monitor 38 in order to provide it to the user, and enables the user to read the identification image Q. Alternatively, the image providing unit 34 may display the identification image Q on the display of the external device or the panel 47 of the user terminal 40. Further, the image providing unit 34 may cause the printing device connected to the game machine 30 to print the identification image Q and issue a receipt or a card on which the identification image Q is printed.

The game providing unit 35 provides a music game in which the player is informed of the operation timing corresponding to the music selected by the user. As an example, the game providing unit 35 reads out the operation timing information included in the musical score data, and reversely calculates the timing at which the object appears at the appearance position while referring to the moving speed of the object set for each song. And decide. That is, the game providing unit 35 refers to the set timing, moving speed, and screen length. Then, the game providing unit 35 causes the monitor 38 to display the object so as to reach the determination line at the set timing, and then moves the object at the set moving speed.

The acquisition unit 37 as an acquisition unit acquires user identification information unique to the user for identifying the user. As an example, the user identification information is a user identification ID composed of predetermined characters or symbols. Alternatively, the user identification information may be player personal information. This personal information includes information such as a name, address, and telephone number that can identify the user individually, and a personal identification number set by the player. In the following, a case of using the user identification ID will be described as an example.

The acquisition unit 37 acquires the read user identification ID by reading the user identification ID written on the authentication medium by a reader (not shown). Alternatively, the reader of the game machine 30 may read the user identification ID displayed on the screen of the user terminal 40. The acquisition unit 37 may also acquire the user identification ID input by the user via an input device (not shown) such as a numeric keypad or a touch panel.

The consideration receiving unit 39 functions as a means for receiving the provided consideration necessary for providing the game. This provided consideration is a consideration required for the game machine 30 to start providing the game. When the consideration receiving unit 39 receives the provided consideration, the game machine control unit 32 of the game machine 30 starts providing the game. The consideration receiving unit 39 collects at least a part of the consideration for the game or service from the user using currency, alternative coins, medals, tokens, electronic currency (including virtual currency and points), or the like. As an example, the user can pay the provided consideration by inserting a coin into the insertion opening of the consideration receiving unit 39. Thereby, it is possible to pay the provided consideration using the physical consumption medium and to pay the chargeable consideration for the other service using the user terminal 40 during the game. Alternatively, the consideration receiving unit 39 may collect the consideration via a card medium that records the remaining amount of electronic currency.

The provided consideration may be a consideration for a user registration service required for providing a game or a consideration for a user card issuing service required for providing a game. If the user pays the provided consideration in advance, or if the user pays the provided consideration after playing, the game machine control section 32 starts providing the game even if the consideration receiving section 39 has not received the provided consideration. May be. As an example, the information indicating that the provided consideration has been paid is included in the game data (play data) transmitted from the game server 21B.

The game machine program PC is an identification image Q generated by associating the game machine control unit 32 as a computer with a management unit set to include at least one game machine 30, and identifies the management unit. The identification image Q including the management unit identification information is provided to function as an image providing unit.

[User terminal configuration]
The user terminal 40 includes a terminal control unit 42 that controls the user terminal 40, and a terminal memory 43 that stores the terminal program PD1, and is connectable to the payment server 21A via the network 10. The terminal control unit 42 is a computer in which a processor that executes various kinds of arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program is combined with other peripheral devices. The user terminal 40 also includes a panel 47 as an input display device.

As an example, the processor of the terminal control unit 42 is a CPU or an MPU, and controls the entire device based on a program stored in the terminal memory 43, and also controls various processes in a centralized manner. The terminal memory 43 also includes a RAM that is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a storage device such as a ROM, an HDD, and an SSD that stores programs and system software. For example, the CPU can execute various processing operations such as calculation, control, and determination according to the control program stored in the ROM or the HDD. The terminal control unit 42 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, a DVD, a CF card, and a USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

The terminal memory 43 is a storage device including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable non-transitory storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. Further, the terminal memory 43 stores a payment program PD2 in addition to the terminal program PD1. When the payment program PD2 is executed, a payment screen is displayed on the panel 47.

The terminal control unit 42 includes a target presentation unit 44, a reading unit 45, and a payment information providing unit 46 as logical devices. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the terminal control unit 42 and the terminal program PD1 or the payment program PD2 as software resources. The target presenting unit 44 as a presenting unit presents a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine 30 included in the management unit identified by the game machine identification ID to the user as charging targets. When presenting at least one service related to the game as a charging target in this way, the target presenting unit 44 presents a plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service as charging targets.

Specifically, the target presenting unit 44 transmits to the game server 21B a service specifying request (hereinafter also simply referred to as specifying request) including the game machine identification ID received from the reading unit 45. Then, the target presentation unit 44 acquires, from the target provision unit 26 of the game server 21B, information (for example, service identification ID) that identifies each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID can provide. To do. Then, the target presentation unit 44 executes the payment program PD2 to display the selection items corresponding to the plurality of services specified based on the information on the payment screen (FIG. 2). When the identification image Q includes information that identifies each of the plurality of services, the target presentation unit 44 acquires the information from the reading unit 45. Here, the target presentation unit 44, when presenting at least one service out of the plurality of services, continuously charges from the presentation of a plurality of services including other services different from the service. Present as.

For example, when presenting the “monthly charge” service shown in FIG. 2, the target presentation unit 44 is another service different from this, such as “open level upper limit”, “issue card”, “add music”, and “contest”. The "participation" and "special member experience" services are presented as selection items to be charged. Then, the user can pay the price for the service (charge price) by selecting the desired service from the selection items and selecting the confirmation button displayed. Further, the target presentation unit 44, when presenting any service other than the “monthly charge” service, for example, an “open upper limit level” service, includes a plurality of other services including a different “monthly charge” service. May be presented as a charging target.

Here, the user may log in to the game system 100 by activating the payment program PD2 previously downloaded to the user terminal 40 and receiving user authentication. In this case, the user reads the identification image Q with the user terminal 40 after logging in. Then, the user terminal 40 transmits the game machine identification ID acquired from the identification image Q and the user identification ID input by the user to the game server 21B without using the game machine 30. Then, the game server 21B transmits the game data including the play data of the user identified by the user identification ID to the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID.

The target presentation unit 44 may display a payment screen for the chargeable consideration corresponding to the user identified based on the user identification ID. As an example, the target presentation unit 44 may display a payment screen unique to each user when the identified user satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined conditions include that the game level, the play period or the number of plays has reached a predetermined value, that the monthly usage fee has been paid, and that the user is a special user. For example, in a payment screen unique to each user, an item or game mode that cannot be normally selected can be selected, or a service can be provided at a lower price than usual. The user identification ID is acquired by the target presentation unit 44 when the user inputs the user identification ID when executing the payment program PD2 of the user terminal 40. Alternatively, the user identification ID is acquired when logging in to the game machine 30, and is transmitted from the game machine 30 to the target presentation unit 44.

The reading unit 45 causes the identification image Q displayed on an imaging device (not shown) to be read. Then, the reading unit 45 acquires the game machine identification ID from the read identification image Q and transfers it to the target presentation unit 44. When the identification image Q includes information that identifies each of the plurality of services, the reading unit 45 may deliver the information to the target presentation unit 44. Alternatively, when the identification image Q is a one-dimensional code, the reading unit 45 may read the identification image Q with a barcode reader (not shown). Furthermore, the imaging device that reads the identification image Q may be provided in the game machine 30. In this case, the reading unit 45 functions as a reading unit in cooperation with the imaging device. That is, the reading unit 45 receives the read identification image Q from the game machine 30 and acquires the game machine identification ID from the identification image Q.

When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services displayed on the panel 47, the payment information providing unit 46 accepts the selection by the user. Then, the payment information providing unit 46 provides the payment server 21A with payment information including the service identification ID for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID. Here, the game machine identification ID is acquired from the reading unit 45 when the user reads the identification image Q. Further, the payment information may include user information (for example, a user identification ID, or a user ID and a password) for identifying a user as information used for the payment process.

The panel 47 is an input display device such as a touch panel and displays a payment screen. The user selects a desired service from a plurality of services via the panel 47. Further, instead of the panel 47, a display as a display unit and a ten-key pad and a keyboard as an input unit may be provided.

The payment program PD2 causes the terminal control unit 42 as a computer to function as a reading unit that reads the identification image Q and acquires the management unit identification information. In addition, the payment program PD2 serves as a presentation unit that presents the terminal control unit 42 to the user as a charging target for a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine 30 included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information. Make it work. When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services on the terminal control unit 42, the payment program PD2 accepts the selection by the user and the charging target information for identifying the selected service and the management unit identification information. The payment information including the payment function is provided to the payment server 21A. Furthermore, when the payment program PD2 presents the terminal control unit 42 with at least one service related to the game as a charging target, it presents a plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service as a charging target. Function as a presentation means.

The payment program PA, the game machine program PC, the terminal program PD1, and the payment program PD2 described above function together as a computer program of the game system 100. Further, any of the programs can be executed while being stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[Payment flow for consideration]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8, a flow of processing performed by the game server 21B, the payment server 21A, and the game machine 30 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, when the user logs in to the game machine 30, the game machine control unit 32 of the game machine 30 acquires the user identification ID and transmits it to the game server 21B. Further, when the user pays the price for providing the game, the game machine control unit 32 starts providing the game. Then, the image providing unit 34 of the game machine 30 displays the identification image Q on the monitor 38 to provide it to the user. Here, the payment of the provided consideration can be performed by inserting the consumption medium into the consideration receiving unit 39 of the game machine 30. Further, the user may pay the provided consideration using the user terminal 40, or may pay the provided consideration as a monthly usage fee in advance. Further, the provided consideration paid by the user as the monthly usage fee may be collected after playing the game.

On the other hand, the game server control unit 22B of the game server 21B authenticates the user by referring to the user identification ID acquired from the game machine 30. Then, the game server control unit 22B transmits the game data DB including the play data to the game machine 30. Although not shown, the target providing unit 26 of the game server 21B acquires a specification request including the game machine identification ID from the user terminal 40. Then, the target providing unit 26 transmits, to the user terminal 40, information identifying each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 can provide. Thereby, when the identification image Q is read and the payment process is executed, payment screens of a plurality of services are displayed. Therefore, when receiving the provision of a plurality of services, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the settlement process can be simplified.

When the identification image Q is displayed, the user reads the identification image Q using the user terminal 40 and selects a desired service from the payment screen displayed on the panel 47 of the user terminal 40. Then, the payment information providing unit 46 of the user terminal 40 accepts the selection by the user and provides the payment server 21A with payment information including the service identification ID for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID. Upon receiving the payment information, the payment processing unit 24 of the payment server 21A performs payment processing and determines whether the payment is completed. Then, the user terminal 40 is notified of the result of the payment process indicating that the payment is completed or the result of the payment process indicating that the payment is not completed. The terminal control unit 42 of the user terminal 40 displays the result of the payment process on the panel 47.

Alternatively, the user may log in to the game system 100 by activating the payment program PD2 previously downloaded to the user terminal 40 and receiving user authentication. In this case, the user reads the identification image Q with the user terminal 40 after logging in. Then, the user terminal 40 transmits the game machine identification ID acquired from the identification image Q and the user identification ID input by the user to the game server 21B without using the game machine 30. Then, the game server 21B transmits the game data including the play data of the user identified by the user identification ID to the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID.

The payment processing unit 24 also notifies the game machine 30 of the result of the payment processing via the game server 21B. When the game machine 30 is notified of the result of the payment processing indicating that the payment is completed, the game machine 30 provides the user with the service in which the payment processing corresponding to the result is performed. Then, when the user finishes playing the game, the game machine 30 transmits the play data to the game server 21B. After that, the game server control unit 22B stores the play data in the game server memory 23B.

Subsequently, a flow of processing by the game machine 30 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the user logs in to the game system 100 from the game machine 30 (S501). For example, the user logs in the game system 100 by causing the reader of the game machine 30 to read the IC card. Then, the game machine control unit 32 of the game machine 30 transmits the user identification ID to the game server 21B (S502). After that, the game machine 30 receives the game data from the game server 21B (S503). When the user logs in to the game system 100 using the user terminal 40, the user terminal 40 transmits the user identification ID to the game server 21B. Therefore, the processes of S501 and S502 are omitted.

Further, the consideration receiving unit 39 of the game machine 30 receives the provided consideration of the game from the user (S504). Then, the game machine control unit 32 starts providing the game (S505), and the image providing unit 34 of the game machine 30 displays the identification image Q on the monitor 38 (S506). Alternatively, the user may pay the provided price of the game by consumption medium payment through the user terminal 40 or payment of a monthly fee. In this case, the game machine 30 receives from the game server 21B information indicating that the provided consideration has been paid.

When the user selects the provision of the service and the settlement process is performed, the game machine 30 receives the settlement process result (YES in S507). Upon receiving the payment processing result, the game machine control unit 32 determines whether the payment is completed based on the payment processing result (S508). When the payment is completed and the chargeable consideration has been paid (YES in S508), the game machine control unit 32 additionally provides the service selected by the user (S509). After that, when the game play ends, the game machine controller 32 transmits the play data to the game server 21B (S510), and the process ends.

On the other hand, when the payment is not completed (NO in S508), the charge target consideration has not been paid, so the game machine control unit 32 continues to provide the game without providing the service selected by the user. Then, when the game play ends, the game machine controller 32 transmits the play data to the game server 21B (S510), and the process ends. If the user does not select to provide the service, the game machine control unit 32 does not receive the settlement processing result (NO in S507) and continues to provide the game to the user. Then, when the game play ends, the game machine controller 32 transmits the play data to the game server 21B (S510), and the process ends.

Subsequently, a flow of processing by the user terminal 40 will be described with reference to FIG. When the identification image Q is displayed, the user activates the payment program PD2. At this time, user authentication is performed by the terminal control unit 42 (S601). Then, when the user shoots the identification image Q using the imaging device (for example, a built-in camera) of the user terminal 40, the reading unit 45 of the user terminal 40 reads the identification image Q (S602). The reading unit 45 acquires the game machine identification ID from the read identification image Q (S603) and transfers it to the target presentation unit 44 of the user terminal 40.

The target presentation unit 44 transmits the game machine identification ID to the game server 21B, and provides information (for example, service identification ID) that identifies each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID can provide. It is acquired (S604). Then, the target presentation unit 44 causes the payment screen (FIG. 2) to display selection items corresponding to the plurality of services specified based on the information (S605). Here, the target presentation unit 44 presents a plurality of services as charging targets after the payment process of the payment consideration required to provide the game is completed. That is, the identification image Q is displayed after the payment process of the consideration for providing the game is completed. After that, the target presentation unit 44 presents a plurality of services as charging targets. Subsequently, when the user selects a desired service from the selection items, the payment information providing unit 46 of the user terminal 40 receives the selection by the user (S606). Then, the payment information providing unit 46 transmits the payment information including the service identification ID for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID to the payment server 21A and provides the payment information (S607).

After that, when the result of the payment process is received from the payment server 21A, the target presentation unit 44 displays the result of the payment process on the panel 47 (S608), and the process ends. As an example, if the result of the payment process includes information indicating that the payment is completed, the target presentation unit 44 displays on the panel 47 that the payment is completed. The user confirms the completion of payment and receives the purchased service. On the other hand, if the result of the payment processing includes information indicating that the payment has not been completed, the target presentation unit 44 displays on the panel 47 that the payment has not been completed. The user can pay the chargeable consideration again.

Furthermore, the target presentation unit 44 can display selection items corresponding to a plurality of services on the payment screen during the first game or during the second and subsequent games. That is, the target presenting unit 44 can present a plurality of services as billing targets after the payment process of the payment consideration necessary for providing the game is completed. As a result, after the settlement process is performed once, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the payment for the chargeable object can be paid during the game.

Subsequently, a flow of processing by the game server 21B will be described with reference to FIG. 7. When the user logs in to the game system 100, the game machine control unit 32 of the game machine 30 acquires the user identification ID and transmits it to the game server 21B. The game server control unit 22B of the game server 21B authenticates the user based on the acquired user identification ID (S701). Then, when the user is authenticated, the game server control unit 22B transmits the game data including the play data of the authenticated user to the game machine 30 (S702).

After that, when the specification request including the game machine identification ID is received from the user terminal 40 (YES in S703), the target providing unit 26 of the game server 21B specifies information of each of the plurality of services that the game machine 30 can provide ( For example, the service identification ID) is transmitted to the user terminal 40 (S704). On the other hand, when the specific request is not received (NO in S703), the game server 21B waits until it receives the play data from the game machine 30.

After that, when the result of the payment process is received from the payment server 21A (YES in S705), the game server control unit 22B transmits the result of the payment process to the game machine 30 (S706). On the other hand, when the result of the payment process is not received (NO in S705), the game server 21B waits until it receives the play data from the game machine 30.

Then, when the play data is received from the game machine 30 (YES in S707), the game server control unit 22B saves the play data in the game server memory 23B (S708), and the process ends. On the other hand, when the play data is not received (NO in S707), the game server 21B waits until the play data is received from the game machine 30.

Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a flow of processing by the payment server 21A will be described. When the payment processing unit 24 of the payment server 21A acquires the payment information from the user terminal 40 (S801), the user authentication is performed (S802). Here, the payment processing unit 24 authenticates the user based on the user information (for example, user ID and password) acquired from the user terminal 40. When the payment information includes user identification information (for example, user identification ID), the payment processing unit 24 may authenticate the user based on the user identification information. Alternatively, when the user authentication is performed in advance, the payment processing unit 24 may omit the user authentication.

Then, the payment processing unit 24 performs payment processing based on the payment information (S803). For example, the payment processing unit 24 refers to the account information DA of the authenticated user, and subtracts the amount of the consumption medium corresponding to the value of the chargeable consideration included in the payment information from the consumption medium held by the user. Then, when the payment is completed (YES in S804), the notification unit 25 of the payment server 21A notifies the game server 21B and the user terminal 40 of the result of the payment process including the information indicating that the payment is completed (S805). ), the process ends.

On the other hand, when the payment is not completed (NO in S804), the notification unit 25 notifies the game server 21B and the user terminal 40 of the result of the payment process including the information indicating that the payment is not completed ( S806), the process ends. For example, when the consumption medium owned by the user is less than the amount of consumption medium corresponding to the value of the chargeable consideration, the payment processing unit 24 does not complete the payment. Alternatively, the notification unit 25 may notify the game machine 30 and the user terminal 40 of the result of the payment process.

According to the invention according to the first embodiment described above, the consideration for a plurality of services can be paid by first reading the identification image Q and performing the settlement process. That is, when the identification image Q is read and the payment process is executed, payment screens for a plurality of services are displayed. Therefore, when receiving the provision of a plurality of services, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the settlement process can be simplified.

[Second Embodiment]
The second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the payment of the provided consideration presented by the presenting means is a condition for presenting a plurality of charging targets. In the description of the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be described, the same reference numerals will be given to the components already described, and the description thereof will be omitted. Except as otherwise noted, the components designated by the same reference numerals have substantially the same operations and functions, and have substantially the same operational effects.

In the second embodiment, the target presentation unit 44 of the user terminal 40 presents a plurality of billing targets after the provision consideration presented by the presentation unit is paid. That is, the target presenting unit 44 presents the provided consideration for providing the game as the charging target, and when it determines that the payment of the provided consideration is completed, also presents a plurality of services including other services as the charging target. Further, the target presentation unit 44 also displays a service that is valid for a predetermined period after the end of playing the game, for example, a “monthly charge” service (FIG. 10C) even after the end of playing. The service valid for the predetermined period is a service that is not provided after the predetermined period has elapsed.

For example, the “monthly charge” service is a service in which the game machine 30 provides a game for a predetermined period (for example, one month). In addition to this, the "entry" service for participating in the official tournament is a service that allows the user to participate in the official tournament for the duration of the tournament. Further, the "special member" service is a service in which the user can play a mode for a special user for a predetermined period. As an example, the service that is valid for a predetermined period is continuously presented from the billing targets of the payment screen presented earlier. Specifically, the payment screen of FIG. 10A that presents the consideration provided to provide the game as a billing target, or the payment screen of FIG. 10B that presents a plurality of services including other services as a billing target includes services that are valid for a predetermined period. The "monthly charge" service is presented as a chargeable object. Then, also on the payment screen of FIG. 10C presented later, the “monthly charge” service is continuously presented as a charge target.

In addition, when the user activates the payment program PD2 on the user terminal 40, the target presentation unit 44 causes the panel 47 to display the services that are valid for a predetermined period even after the game ends as a charging target. It should be noted that another service, for example, "open level upper limit" is a service that is effective while playing the game. Therefore, the service is displayed based on the game machine identification ID of the game machine 30. On the other hand, a service that is valid for a predetermined period is valid even after the end of playing the game, and thus may be displayed without being associated with the game machine identification ID. That is, the service valid for a predetermined period can be provided even for a game machine other than the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID acquired from the read identification image Q. As an example, when receiving the “monthly charge” service, the user can play a game provided by different game machines 30 of the same model for a predetermined period. However, the target presentation unit 44 may display a service associated with the game machine identification ID and valid for a predetermined period as a charging target. For example, the target presentation unit 44 provides a service that is valid for a predetermined period provided by the game machine 30 identified by the game machine identification ID acquired from the read identification image Q (as an example, the game machine 30 that has been identified for the predetermined period). Service for playing a game provided by) may be displayed as a charging target.

Hereinafter, a more detailed description will be given with reference to FIG. 9 showing the target presentation processing of the user terminal 40 and FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C showing an example of the payment screen. Note that, in FIG. 9, the processing until the service identification ID is acquired is the same as that in FIG. 6, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

First, the target presentation unit 44 of the user terminal 40 acquires information (for example, service identification ID) that identifies a service from the game server 21B. Then, as shown in FIG. 9, the target presentation unit 44 displays, as the at least one service specified based on the information, the charging target for the service that provides the game on the payment screen (FIG. 10A) (S901). Specifically, on the payment screen of FIG. 10A, a service that provides one game (“1 play”), a service that provides three games “3 play”, and a game for a predetermined period of time are provided. The service (“monthly charge”) is displayed as the charge target. Here, since the identification image Q is displayed before the payment of the provided consideration, the payment screen of the provided consideration can be displayed before the game starts. It should be noted that "1 play count" and "3 play counts" are not services that are valid for a predetermined period after the game ends, but are services that are frequently selected to play the game. Therefore, both are highlighted by being underlined.

Subsequently, when the user selects a desired service from a plurality of charging targets, the payment information providing unit 46 of the user terminal 40 accepts the selection by the user (S902). Then, the payment information providing unit 46 sends the payment information including the service identification ID for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID to the payment server 21A and provides it (S903). After that, when the result of the payment process is received from the payment server 21A, the target presentation unit 44 displays the result of the payment process on the panel 47 (S904).

The target presentation unit 44 determines whether the payment for the provided consideration has been completed based on the result of the payment process (S905). Specifically, if the result of the payment processing includes information indicating that the payment is completed, the target presentation unit 44 displays a message to that effect on the panel 47 (S904) and determines that the payment is completed (S904). (YES in S905). Then, the target presentation unit 44 causes the payment screen (FIG. 10B) to display the selection items corresponding to the plurality of services specified based on the acquired service identification ID (S906). After that, the user can play the game provided by the game machine 30. Here, the target presentation unit 44 presents a plurality of services as charging targets on condition that the payment for the provision consideration required to provide the previously presented game is completed.

When the payment screen of FIG. 10B is displayed, the payment of the provided consideration has already been completed. Therefore, in this payment screen, the services that provide the game are not displayed as the charging targets, except for services that are valid for a predetermined period (“monthly charge” service). However, when the play of the first game ends and it becomes necessary to pay the provided consideration again, the service that provides the game may be displayed on the payment screen (FIG. 10A) as a charging target.

Subsequently, when the user selects a desired service from the selection items, the payment information providing unit 46 of the user terminal 40 accepts the selection by the user (S907). Then, the payment information providing unit 46 transmits the payment information including the service identification ID for identifying the selected service and the game machine identification ID to the payment server 21A and provides the payment information (S908). After that, when the result of the payment process is received from the payment server 21A, the target presentation unit 44 displays the result of the payment process on the panel 47 (S909), and the process ends.

If the result of the payment processing received from the payment server 21A includes information indicating that the payment has not been completed, the target presentation unit 44 displays a message to that effect on the panel 47. (S904), it is determined that the payment is not completed (NO in S905). Then, the target presentation unit 44 waits until the settlement of the provided consideration is completed. The user can again pay the provided consideration. Further, if the result of the payment processing received from the payment server 21A after the game is started includes the information indicating that the payment is not completed, the object presenting unit 44 displays that fact on the panel 47. The user can pay the chargeable consideration again.

Further, the target presentation unit 44 may display the payment screen for payment of provision (FIG. 10C) after the game machine 30 starts providing the game, more specifically, after the user finishes playing the game. Specifically, on the payment screen of FIG. 10C, a service for providing a game for a predetermined period (“monthly charge”) is displayed as a charge target. In other words, the target presentation unit 44 continuously displays the service for providing the game for a predetermined period as the charging target. The user may desire to purchase the service for providing the game for the predetermined period even after the game is finished playing. Therefore, the target presentation unit 44 displays a payment screen for the price of the service providing the game for a predetermined period during the game being played and after the user finishes playing the game. Since the "monthly charge" service is also a service for providing a game, it is also displayed on the payment screen shown in FIG. 10A.

Further, in order for the user to play the game again after finishing playing the game, payment of the provided consideration is required. Therefore, the target presentation unit 44 may display the payment screen (FIG. 10A) for payment of the provided consideration again when the user reads the identification image Q after finishing playing the game.

According to the invention according to the second embodiment described above, the consideration for a plurality of services can be paid by first reading the identification image Q and performing the settlement process. That is, when the identification image Q is read and the payment process is executed, payment screens for a plurality of services are displayed. Therefore, when receiving the provision of a plurality of services, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the settlement process can be simplified.

Further, according to the invention of the second embodiment, the payment screen for the payment for consideration is also displayed on the user terminal 40. Thus, by reading the identification image Q for the first time and performing the payment process, it is possible to display not only the payment screen for the chargeable consideration but also the payment screen for the provided consideration. That is, if the identification image Q is read for the first time, it is possible to pay the provided consideration for playing a plurality of times by omitting the step of reading the identification image Q each time.

Also in the second embodiment, the game machine 30 may include the consideration receiving unit 39. When the consideration receiving unit 39 collects the provided consideration, the target providing unit 26 of the game server 21B transmits the service identification IDs corresponding to the services other than the game providing service. Furthermore, the payment screen (FIG. 10C) after the end of the game play may display a service that is valid for another predetermined period as a charging target.

Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the exemplary embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above exemplary embodiments. The present invention also includes inventions modified within the scope of the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention. In addition, each embodiment and each modification can be appropriately combined without departing from the scope of the present invention.

For example, in the presentation of the charging target by the target presentation unit 44, at least one charging target and another charging target are displayed on one screen, or at least one charging target is followed by another charging target. Including cases where For example, other billing targets may be displayed by scrolling, displaying by clicking a button, or by popping up. Further, when the payment server 21A and the game server 21B are provided in the same server device, the game server control unit 22B may function as the payment server control unit 22A, and the payment server control unit 22A causes the game server control unit. It may function as 22B.

Further, the image pickup device for reading the identification image Q may be provided in the game machine 30. In this case, the reading unit 45 functions as a reading unit in cooperation with the imaging device. That is, the reading unit 45 receives the identification image Q read by the imaging device provided in the game machine 30, and acquires the game machine identification ID from the identification image Q.

Hereinafter, various aspects derived from the above-described embodiments and modified examples will be described. In addition, in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, reference numerals illustrated in the accompanying drawings are added. However, the reference numerals are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated embodiments.

The game system (100) is an identification image (Q) generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine (30), and is a management unit identification for identifying the management unit. An image providing unit (34) for providing an identification image containing information, a reading unit (45) for reading the identification image to obtain the management unit identification information, and the management unit identified by the management unit identification information. Presenting means (44) for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine, which are included in, and the user selecting at least one of the plurality of services. A payment information providing unit (46) for accepting a selection and providing payment information including the charge target information for identifying the selected service and the management unit identification information to the payment server (21A), and the charge target information. And a payment execution means (24, 25) for executing a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to, and notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment process. And presenting the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service as the charging target when presenting at least one service related to the game as the charging target. To do.

In the control method of the game system (100), an identification image (Q) generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine (30), and identifying the management unit. An identification image including management unit identification information is provided (S506), the identification image is read (S602), the management unit identification information is acquired (S603), and the management unit identified by the management unit identification information is obtained. A plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine included are presented to the user as a charging target (S605), and when the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the selection by the user is accepted ( S606), payment information including the charge target information for identifying the selected service and the management unit identification information is provided to the payment server (21A) (S607), and the charge target consideration corresponding to the charge target information. (S803), the payment processing result is consumed, and the result of the payment processing is notified to the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information (S805, S806). When presenting one service as a charging target, the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service are presented as the charging target (S605).

A computer program for a game system (100) including a computer (22A, 32, 42), wherein the computer program associates the computer with a management unit set to include at least one game machine. An image providing means (34) for providing an identification image including the management unit identification information for identifying the management unit, the identification image (Q) generated by the above; and the management unit identification information by reading the identification image. And a presenting means (44) for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information as a charging target. ), and when the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment information including the charging target information for identifying the selected service and accepting the selection by the user and the management unit identification information. A payment information providing means (46) for providing the payment to the payment server (21A) and a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and a result of the payment process as the management unit identification information. The payment execution means (24, 25) for notifying to the game machine identified based on the function, and the presenting means when presenting at least one service related to the game as a billing target. , Presenting the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service as the charging target.

As a result, the consideration for a plurality of services can be paid by first reading the identification image Q and performing the payment process. That is, when the identification image Q is read and the payment process is executed, payment screens for a plurality of services are displayed. Therefore, when receiving the provision of a plurality of services, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the settlement process can be simplified. Then, even when the game is played twice or more, in the second and subsequent games, it is possible to omit the step of reading the identification image Q and pay the service fee.

The presenting means (44) presents the plurality of services as the charging target after the payment processing of the consideration for providing the game is completed. Therefore, the target presentation unit 44 can display selection items corresponding to a plurality of services on the payment screen during the first game or during the second and subsequent games. That is, the target presenting unit 44 can present a plurality of services as billing targets after the payment process of the payment consideration necessary for providing the game is completed. As a result, after the settlement process is performed once, the step of reading the identification image Q each time can be omitted, and the payment for the chargeable object can be paid during the game.

The game system includes the reading unit (45), the presenting unit (44), and the payment information providing unit (46), and further includes a user terminal (40) connectable to the payment server (21A). Accordingly, by reading the identification image Q for the first time and performing the payment process, the step of reading the identification image Q each time using the user terminal 40 can be omitted, and the fees for a plurality of services can be paid.

The game machine (30) has means (39) for receiving a consideration for providing the game. Thereby, it is possible to pay the provided consideration using the physical consumption medium and to pay the chargeable consideration for the other service using the user terminal 40 during the game. Furthermore, it is possible to provide the convenience of being able to play the game without using the payment program PD2 to the user who does not need the additional service. That is, both the first-time user who plays the game as a trial and the regular user who needs the additional service must pay the provided consideration for starting the game. Therefore, the payment provided by all the users can be paid using the physical consumption medium, and only the additional service can be paid using the user terminal 40. As a result, it is possible to provide convenience to the first user without the need for advance preparation. In addition, since the use opportunity of the physical consumption medium is reduced, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of problems (for example, the limitation of the unit of price setting and the preparation of change) due to the physical consumption medium.

The at least one service is a service for providing the game, and the presenting means (44) displays a payment screen for payment of a necessary consideration for providing the game. As a result, in addition to the price to be charged, it is possible to pay the price to provide the game.

The presenting means (44) displays the payment screen for the payment consideration after the game machine (30) starts providing the game. As a result, after the settlement process of the provided consideration is completed, it is possible to omit the step of reading the identification image Q each time and pay the plurality of services during the game.

The presenting means (44) further comprises an acquisition unit (37) for acquiring user identification information unique to the user, and the presenting unit (44) displays a payment screen for the chargeable consideration corresponding to the user identified based on the user identification information. Is displayed. Thereby, the payment screen for the chargeable consideration can be different for each user.

The whole or part of the exemplary embodiments disclosed above can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

(Appendix 1)
An identification image generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine, the identification image including management unit identification information for identifying the management unit is read to identify the management unit. Get the information,
Presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information as a charging target,
When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment server includes payment information including the charging target information that identifies the selected service and accepts the selection by the user, and the management unit identification information. Provided to
A method of controlling a user terminal, wherein, when at least one service related to the game is presented as a charging target, the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service are presented as the charging target.

(Appendix 2)
A computer program for a user terminal comprising a computer,
The computer program stores the computer,
An identification image generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine, the identification image including management unit identification information for identifying the management unit is read to identify the management unit. A reading means for obtaining information,
Presenting means for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine, which are included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information, as billing targets,
When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment server includes payment information including the charging target information that identifies the selected service and accepts the selection by the user, and the management unit identification information. The payment information providing means provided to
A computer program, wherein the presenting means, when presenting at least one service related to the game as a charging target, presents the plurality of services including other services different from the at least one service as the charging target. ..

21A: payment server 22A: payment server control unit (computer)
24: Payment processing unit (payment execution means)
25: Notification unit (payment execution means)
30: Game console 32: Game console controller (computer)
34: Image providing unit (image providing means)
37: Acquisition unit (acquisition means)
39: Compensation Receiving Section (Means for Receiving the Provision Compensation)
40: User terminal 42: Terminal control unit (computer)
44: Target presentation unit (presentation means)
45: Reading unit (reading means)
46: Payment information providing unit (payment information providing means)
100: Game system Q: Identification image

Claims (7)

An image providing unit that provides an identification image that is generated in association with a management unit that is set to include at least one game machine and that includes management unit identification information that identifies the management unit,
A reading unit that reads the identification image and acquires the management unit identification information;
Presenting means for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine, which are included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information, as billing targets,
When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment server includes payment information including the charging target information that identifies the selected service and accepts the selection by the user, and the management unit identification information. Payment information providing means provided to
Payment execution means for executing a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment process, Equipped with
The presenting means presents a service providing the game as at least one of the billing targets, and at the end of playing the game, at least a service valid for a predetermined period after the playing of the game is the billing target. A game system presented as one . Said presenting means, when the payment process of providing compensation needed to provide the game is finished, as the charging said plurality of services including a valid service while at least the user is playing the game The game system according to claim 1, which is presented. Said reading means, said presenting means, and which has the settlement information providing unit further comprises a user terminal connectable to the settlement server, a game system according to claim 1 or 2. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the game machine has a unit for receiving a consideration for providing the game. Further comprising acquisition means for acquiring user identification information unique to the user,
It said presenting means, the displays a payment screen chargeable consideration, game system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 corresponding to the user identified based on the user identification information. An identification image generated in association with a management unit set to include at least one game machine, the identification image including management unit identification information for identifying the management unit,
Reading the identification image to obtain the management unit identification information,
Presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information as a charging target,
When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment server includes payment information including billing target information for identifying the selected service and accepting the selection by the user, and the management unit identification information. Provided to
Executing a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment process,
The service for providing the game is presented as at least one of the billing targets, and after the end of playing the game, at least a service valid for a predetermined period after the end of playing the game is presented as one of the billing targets. , Game system control method. A computer program for a game system including a computer,
The computer program stores the computer,
An image providing unit that provides an identification image that is generated in association with a management unit that is set to include at least one game machine and that includes management unit identification information that identifies the management unit,
A reading unit that reads the identification image and acquires the management unit identification information;
Presenting means for presenting to the user a plurality of services related to the game provided by the game machine, which are included in the management unit identified by the management unit identification information, as billing targets,
When the user selects at least one of the plurality of services, the payment server includes payment information including the charging target information that identifies the selected service and accepts the selection by the user, and the management unit identification information. Payment information providing means provided to
Payment execution means for executing a payment process for consuming a chargeable consideration corresponding to the chargeable information, and notifying the game machine identified based on the management unit identification information of the result of the payment process, And let it work,
The presenting means presents a service providing the game as at least one of the billing targets, and at the end of playing the game, at least a service valid for a predetermined period after the playing of the game is the billing target. A computer program presented as one .

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