WO2022113327A1

WO2022113327A1 - Method, computer-readable medium, computer system, and information processing device

Info

Publication number: WO2022113327A1
Application number: PCT/JP2020/044446
Authority: WO
Inventors: 功淳馬場; 潤哉福重; 俊己安藤
Original assignee: 株式会社コロプラ
Priority date: 2020-11-30
Filing date: 2020-11-30
Publication date: 2022-06-02
Also published as: JPWO2022113327A1

Abstract

The present invention enhances the enjoyment of live-streamed content.　The present invention provides a method that causes a processor to execute: a step for receiving content distributed in real time, said content including an avatar of the content distributor, and a playing screen of a game being played by the distributor using a game terminal included in a game system; a first reproduction step for reproducing said content; a step for receiving a first input operation from a viewer who is viewing said content using a viewing terminal; a step for, if the first input operation is received, transmitting input information corresponding to the first input operation to a distribution system so as to transmit, from the distribution system to the game system, a support instruction that is an instruction for triggering an effect to support the distributor within the game; a step for receiving a request to reproduce content again after the first reproduction step is ended; and a second reproduction step for, if said request is received, reproducing said content again by operating a character.

Description

Methods, computer-readable media, computer systems, and information processing equipment

This disclosure relates to a method of executing a viewing program, a computer-readable medium, a computer system, and an information processing device.

Conventionally, technology for live distribution of content has been developed. In addition, distribution techniques have been developed that allow viewers to respond to live content. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for arranging an item purchased by a viewer on a display screen during live distribution. When the distributor, who is the subject of the image, responds to the item, the interaction between the viewer and the distributor is realized.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2012-12598

However, in the conventional technique, the intervention element of the viewer in the live distribution is limited. For example, in the prior art, it is difficult for the viewer to intervene in the progress of the game being executed in the content, as in the so-called “game live” game. Viewer intervention in livestreaming is related to the interest of the content.

One aspect of this disclosure is in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to improve the interest of the content in live distribution.

The method according to one embodiment according to the present disclosure is executed by a computer as a viewing terminal provided with a processor and a memory. This method is a step of receiving the content delivered in real time to the processor using the distribution system, and the distributor plays the content using the avatar of the distributor of the content and the game terminal included in the game system. The play screen of the existing game, the step of receiving the content including, the first playback step of playing the content, and the step of accepting the first input operation of the viewer who is watching the content using the viewing terminal. , When the first input operation is accepted, by transmitting the input information corresponding to the first input operation to the distribution system, the distribution system causes the game system to have an effect of supporting the distributor in the game. A step of transmitting a support instruction, which is an instruction for the content, a step of accepting a request for replaying the content after the end of the first playback step, and a step of accepting the request, the character is operated to perform the content again. The second reproduction step of executing reproduction is executed.

The method according to one embodiment according to the present disclosure is a group of first steps executed by a computer as a viewing terminal of a user, which comprises a first processor and a first memory, and is distributed to the first processor. Receives content that is delivered in real time using the system and includes the avatar of the distributor of the content and the play screen of the game being played by the distributor using the game terminal included in the game system. The step of accepting the first input operation, the step of accepting the first input operation, and the step of accepting the first input operation of the viewer who is viewing the content using the viewing terminal, the step of playing the content, and the step of accepting the first input operation. By transmitting the input information to the distribution system, the distribution system causes the game system to execute a step of transmitting a support instruction, which is an instruction for inducing an effect of supporting the distributor in the game. A second step performed by a computer as a viewing terminal for a user other than the viewer who has viewed the content delivered in real time, comprising a first set of steps, a second processor and a second memory. An avatar that is a group and is a step of receiving recorded operation instruction data from an external device to a second processor after the execution of the first step group, and the operation instruction data is not the target of direct operation by the user. Performs playback of the delivered content realized by the first step group by operating the avatar based on the steps and the action instruction data, including the motion data and voice data entered by the distributor associated with. A second step group for executing the step is included.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the interest of the content.

It is a figure which shows the outline of the support system. It is a figure which shows the hardware configuration of the various devices included in the support system. It is a block diagram which shows the functional configuration of the various devices included in the support system. It is a sequence diagram which shows an example of the flow of data transmission / reception and processing between devices in the case of creating content and live-streaming. It is a figure which shows the state of the content creation by a distributor, and an example of a display screen when the content is reproduced on a viewing terminal. It is a sequence diagram which shows an example of the flow of data transmission / reception and processing between devices when a viewer supports a game play of a distributor during live distribution. It is a figure which shows the example of the change of the reproduction screen before and after performing the 1st input operation by a viewer. It is a figure which shows an example of the data structure of the input information. It is a figure which shows an example of the data structure of a support instruction. It is a figure which shows another example of a reproduction screen. It is a figure which shows an example of the reproduction screen at the time of inputting and transmitting a message in a viewing terminal. It is a sequence diagram which shows an example of the transmission / reception of data between devices, and the flow of processing for notifying a viewer that another viewer has supported the game play of a distributor. It is a figure which shows an example of the reproduction screen in a viewing terminal when another viewing terminal corresponding to another viewer executes distributor support. It is a figure which shows an example of a delivery screen. It is a figure which shows an example of a viewer information. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation instruction data. It is a figure which shows an example of the user-viewer behavior history information. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the basic game progress of the game which concerns on a certain embodiment. An example of a transition between screens displayed on the display unit of a viewing terminal according to an embodiment is shown.

The support system according to the present disclosure is a system for the viewer of the content to support the game play of the distributor of the content. Hereinafter, the support system will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the following description and examples in the drawings, but is shown by the scope of claims, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims are included in the present invention. Is intended. In the following description, the same elements are designated by the same reference numerals in the description of the drawings, and duplicate description will not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
<Outline of operation of support system 1>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the support system 1 according to the present embodiment. The support system 1 includes a distribution system 2, a viewing terminal 100, and a game system 3. There may be a plurality of the distribution system 2, the viewing terminal 100, and the game system 3.

(Distribution system 2 and viewing terminal 100)
The distribution system 2 is a system for distributing content to the viewing terminal 100 in real time. The distribution system 2 includes one or more distribution servers 200 and one or more distribution terminals 300. Hereinafter, the real-time distribution of content is also referred to as "live distribution".

The distribution terminal 300 is a device that is mainly used for live distribution of content. The distribution terminal 300 is realized by, for example, a personal computer (PC) or a smartphone. The distribution terminal 300 creates content for live distribution in response to an input operation by the user of the distribution terminal 300. Hereinafter, the user of the distribution terminal 300 will be referred to as a "distributor". Further, the content created by the distribution terminal 300 is simply referred to as "content". The distribution terminal 300 transfers the content to the distribution server 200 in real time.

The content includes at least the avatar of the distributor and the play screen of the game that the distributor is currently playing using the game terminal 400 described later. The content may be, for example, a so-called "game live" live program in which the distributor talks about the impression of the game play through voice, avatar gesture, subtitles, etc. while referring to the play screen.

Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the "game" refers to a game that is being played by the distributor and whose content includes a play screen. The genre and content of the game are not particularly limited. However, the game is a game that can cause the support effect described later, that is, a game that is linked with the distribution system 2.

The distribution server 200 is a streaming server that distributes content received from the distribution terminal 300 in real time to the viewing terminal 100 using a streaming technique. The distribution server 200 is also a server that mediates the transmission and reception of various information between the viewing terminal 100 and the distribution terminal 300.

The viewing terminal 100 is a device that receives and reproduces the content in real time, that is, the content is streamed and reproduced. The viewing terminal 100 is realized by, for example, a PC or a smartphone. The viewing terminal 100 receives content from the distribution server 200 and plays it by streaming in response to an input operation by the user of the viewing terminal 100. Hereinafter, the user of the viewing terminal 100 will be referred to as a "viewer".

(Transmission and reception of information between the distribution system 2 and the viewing terminal 100)
The viewing terminal 100 may not only reproduce the content but also transmit the information specified or input by the input operation of the viewer to the distribution terminal 300 via the distribution server 200.

For example, the viewing terminal 100 accepts the viewer's first input operation. The first input operation is an input operation for producing an effect of supporting the distributor in the game. Hereinafter, the effect of supporting the distributor in the game is referred to as a "support effect". Also, supporting the distributor in the game is also referred to as "distributor support". In the game progressing in real time, the viewer can support the distributor by throwing a throwing item into the operating character of the distributor. For example, a tossed item is a clothing item to be attached to a character or an item consumed in a game (character's physical strength value, bullet in a shooting game, etc.).

The specific content of the support effect is not particularly limited. For example, when the game is an action game, the support effect may be an effect of recovering the physical strength value of the operating character of the distributor. Further, for example, when the game is a sports game, the support effect may be a field effect in which the character or team operated by the distributor is advantageous in the game. Further, for example, when the game is a gun shooting game, the support effect may be an effect of reloading the gun of the distributor or the operating character of the distributor. Further, for example, when the game is a game in which a player acquires a predetermined character or item by lottery or the like, the support effect may be an effect of granting the player, that is, the distributor, the right to perform the lottery.

When the viewing terminal 100 receives the first input operation, it transmits the input information corresponding to the input operation to the distribution system 2. Details of the input information will be described later. The viewing terminal 100 may transmit the input information to the distribution server 200 in exchange for the consumption of valuable data held by the viewer or a specific item. That is, the viewing terminal 100 may not be able to support the distributor unless the viewer consumes valuable data or a specific item.

When the distribution server 200 receives the input information, it transmits a support instruction to the game system 3. A support instruction is an instruction for inducing a support effect.

The distribution server 200 may collect various information related to live distribution from one or more viewing terminals 100 and transmit the various information to the distribution terminal 300. For example, the distribution server 200 may aggregate the number of viewing terminals 100 that are currently streaming and reproducing the content, that is, the current number of viewers, and transmit the content to the distribution terminal 300. Further, the distribution server 200 may aggregate the cumulative number of viewers from the start of distribution of the content and transmit it to the distribution terminal 300. Further, the distribution server 200 may specify the viewing terminal 100 that has transmitted the above-mentioned input information, and may transmit the information indicating the viewing terminal 100 to the distribution terminal 300.

(Game system 3)
The game system 3 is a system for providing a game. The game system 3 includes one or more game terminals 400 and one or more game servers 500. In the present embodiment, the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 each store a game program, and the game is realized by executing the game program.

For example, the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 may realize an online game in which a plurality of game terminals 400 participate in the game at the same time. Further, for example, the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 may realize a game executed on a browser started on the game terminal 400.

The game server 500 is a server that realizes a game by cooperating with the game terminal 400. For example, the game server 500 transmits / receives game-related data such as user information and game information to / from the game terminal 400, and performs synchronization processing between a plurality of game terminals 400. User information and game information will be described later. Further, when the game server 500 receives the support instruction from the distribution terminal 300, the game server 500 transmits the support instruction to the game terminal 400. That is, the game server 500 mediates the instruction transmission between the distribution terminal 300 and the game terminal 400.

Note that the game server 500 is not directly involved in the progress of the game, and may execute a process for starting the game on the game terminal 400, such as a login process. Further, the game server 500 may not be directly involved in the progress of the game, and may execute a process of mediating a plurality of game terminals 400. Then, the game may be realized by the cooperation of a plurality of game terminals 400. Further, the game server 500 may return a response indicating that the received support instruction has been executed to the distribution server 200 at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is, for example, the timing when the support instruction is received from the distribution terminal 300, the timing when the support instruction is transmitted to the game terminal 400, or the timing when the support effect by the support instruction is activated in the game server 500. ..

The game terminal 400 is a terminal device for playing a game, and is a device actually operated by the distributor. The game terminal 400 is realized, for example, by a PC, a housing of a consumer game, a controller, or the like. The game terminal 400 communicates with the distribution terminal 300 by wire or wirelessly. Specifically, the game terminal 400 transmits the created image of the game screen to the distribution terminal 300. As a result, the distribution terminal 300 can acquire a play screen showing the execution status of the game on the game terminal 400 and include it in the content.

The game terminal 400 may receive various instructions such as a transmission instruction on the game screen from the distribution terminal 300. Further, the game terminal 400 may receive information indicating an input operation performed via the input device of the distribution terminal 300 or the like from the distribution terminal 300, and proceed with the game based on the information. In other words, the distributor may be able to remotely operate the game terminal 400 via the distribution terminal 300.

When the game terminal 400 receives the support instruction from the distribution server 200 via the game server 500, the game terminal 400 causes a support effect in the running game in response to the support instruction. That is, as a reaction to the first input operation performed on the viewing terminal 100, a support effect is generated in the game executed by the game terminal 400.

Here, as shown in the figure, the viewing terminal 100 and the game terminal 400 are not directly connected. Further, the viewing terminal 100 is a terminal for viewing the content as described above, and is not directly involved in the execution of the game. In other words, the viewer is not playing the game with the distributor using the viewing terminal 100.

As described above, according to the support system 1 according to the present embodiment, the distributor and the viewer who is not playing the game are supported to play the game of the distributor in response to the first input operation to the viewing terminal 100. Can be done. That is, the viewer can intervene in the progress of the game included in the content only by watching the live distribution and performing the first input operation. Therefore, it is possible to improve the interest of the content.

In this embodiment, an example in which the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300 are separate devices will be described. However, the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300 may be an integrated device. For example, one PC may have both a function as a distribution server 200 and a function as a distribution terminal 300.

In this embodiment, an example in which the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 are separate devices will be described. However, the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 may be an integrated device. For example, one PC may have both a function as a game terminal 400 and a function as a game server 500.

In this embodiment, an example in which the distribution terminal 300 and the game terminal 400 are separate devices will be described. However, the distribution terminal 300 and the game terminal 400 may be an integrated device. For example, one PC may have both a function as a distribution terminal 300 and a function as a game terminal 400.

In this embodiment, an example in which the distribution server 200 and the game server 500 are separate devices will be described. However, the distribution server 200 and the game server 500 may be an integrated device. For example, one server may have both a function as a distribution server 200 and a function as a game server 500.

<Hardware configuration of support system 1>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of the support system 1. As shown in the figure, the support system 1 includes a distribution server 200, a game server 500, a plurality of viewing terminals 100, a distribution terminal 300, and a game terminal 400. The viewing terminal 100, the distribution terminal 300, and the game server 500 are connected to the distribution server 200 via the network 4. The game terminal 400 may also be connected to the distribution server 200 via the network 4. The game terminal 400 connects to the game server 500 via the network 4. The game terminal 400 may be connected to the distribution terminal 300 via the network 4.

(Network 4)
The network 4 is composed of various mobile communication systems constructed by the Internet and a radio base station (not shown). Examples of this mobile communication system include so-called 3G and 4G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) that can be connected to the Internet by a predetermined access point. Will be.

(Distribution server 200)
The distribution server 200 (computer, information processing device) may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The distribution server 200 includes a processor 20, a memory 21, a storage 22, a communication IF 23, and an input / output IF 24. These configurations included in the distribution server 200 are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus.

(Game server 500)
The game server 500 (computer, information processing device) may be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The game server 500 includes a processor 50, a memory 51, a storage 52, a communication IF 53, and an input / output IF 54. These configurations included in the game server 500 are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus.

(Viewing terminal 100)
The viewing terminal 100 (computer, information processing device) may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a feature phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a tablet computer. The viewing terminal 100 may be a reproduction device suitable for reproducing the content. As shown in the figure, the viewing terminal 100 includes a processor 10, a memory 11, a storage 12, a communication interface (IF) 13, an input / output IF 14, and a touch screen 15 (display unit). These configurations included in the viewing terminal 100 are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus. The viewing terminal 100 may be provided with an input / output IF 14 to which a display (display unit) configured separately from the viewing terminal 100 itself can be connected in place of or in addition to the touch screen 15.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the viewing terminal 100 may be configured to be communicable with one or more controllers 1020. The controller 1020 establishes communication with the viewing terminal 100 according to a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The controller 1020 may have one or more buttons or the like, and transmits an output value based on a user's input operation to the buttons or the like to the viewing terminal 100. Further, the controller 1020 may have various sensors such as an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor, and transmits the output values of the various sensors to the viewing terminal 100.

Further, the controller 1020 may be configured to be detachable from the viewing terminal 100. In this case, a coupling portion with the controller 1020 may be provided on at least one surface of the housing of the viewing terminal 100. When the viewing terminal 100 and the controller 1020 are connected by wire via the coupling portion, the viewing terminal 100 and the controller 1020 transmit and receive signals via the wire.

As shown in FIG. 2, the viewing terminal 100 may accept the attachment of a storage medium 1030 such as an external memory card via the input / output IF14. As a result, the viewing terminal 100 can read the program and data recorded in the storage medium 1030. The program recorded on the storage medium 1030 is, for example, a viewing program.

The viewing terminal 100 may store the viewing program acquired by communicating with an external device such as the distribution server 200 in the memory 11 of the viewing terminal 100, or the viewing program acquired by reading from the storage medium 1030 in the memory. It may be stored in 11.

As described above, the viewing terminal 100 includes a communication IF 13, an input / output IF 14, and a touch screen 15 as an example of a mechanism for inputting information to the viewing terminal 100. Each of the above-mentioned parts as an input mechanism can be regarded as an operation part configured to accept a user's input operation.

For example, when the operation unit is composed of the touch screen 15, the viewing terminal 100 identifies and accepts the user's operation performed on the input unit 151 of the touch screen 15 as the user's input operation. Alternatively, when the operation unit is configured by the communication IF 13, the viewing terminal 100 identifies and accepts a signal (for example, an output value) transmitted from the controller 1020 as an input operation of the user. Alternatively, when the operation unit is composed of the input / output IF14, a signal output from an input device (not shown) different from the controller 1020 connected to the input / output IF14 is specified as an input operation of the user and received.

(Distribution terminal 300)
The distribution terminal 300 (computer, information processing device) may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a tablet computer. Further, the distribution terminal 300 may be a computer such as a server, a desktop personal computer, a laptop computer, or a tablet, and a computer group in which these are combined.

The distribution terminal 300 may be a group of devices in which a display device, an input device, and an information processing device are connected so as to be suitable for live distribution. As shown in the figure, the distribution terminal 300 includes a processor 30, a memory 31, a storage 32, a communication interface (IF) 33, an input / output IF 34, and a touch screen 35 (display unit). These configurations included in the distribution terminal 300 are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus. The distribution terminal 300 may be provided with an input / output IF 34 to which a display (display unit) configured separately from the distribution terminal 300 main body can be connected in place of or in addition to the touch screen 35.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the distribution terminal 300 is connected to peripheral devices such as one or more microphones 3010, one or more motion capture devices 3020, and one or more controllers 3030 via wireless or wired. , May be configured to be communicable. Peripherals connected wirelessly establish communication with the distribution terminal 300, for example, in accordance with a communication standard such as Bluetooth®. Further, the device group including these peripheral devices may be regarded as one set of distribution terminals 300.

The microphone 3010 acquires the voice generated in the surroundings and converts it into an electric signal. The voice converted into an electric signal is transmitted to the distribution terminal 300 as voice data, and is received by the distribution terminal 300 via the communication IF 33.

The motion capture device 3020 tracks the motion (including facial expressions, mouth movements, etc.) of the tracking target (for example, a person), and transmits the output value as the tracking result to the distribution terminal 300. The motion data, which is an output value, is received by the distribution terminal 300 via the communication IF 33. The motion capture method of the motion capture device 3020 is not particularly limited. The motion capture device 3020 selectively includes all mechanisms for capturing motion, such as a camera, various sensors, markers, a suit worn by a model (person), a signal transmitter, etc., depending on the method adopted. ..

The controller 3030 may have one or more physical input mechanisms such as buttons, levers, sticks, and wheels. The controller 3030 transmits an output value based on an input operation input to the input mechanism by the operator of the distribution terminal 300 to the distribution terminal 300. Further, the controller 3030 may have various sensors such as an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor, and may transmit the output values of the various sensors to the distribution terminal 300. The above-mentioned output value is accepted by the distribution terminal 300 via the communication IF 33. In the following, a person who performs some input operation on the distribution terminal 300 by using an operation unit provided in the distribution terminal 300 or various input mechanisms communicably connected to the distribution terminal 300 is referred to as an operator. .. The operator includes a person who operates the distribution terminal 300 using the input unit 351 and the controller 3030, a voice actor who inputs voice through the microphone 3010, and moves via the motion capture device 3020. The model to enter is also included.

The distribution terminal 300 may include a camera and a distance measuring sensor (not shown). Alternatively or in addition to the distribution terminal 300, the motion capture device 3020 and the controller 3030 may have a camera and a distance measuring sensor.

As described above, the distribution terminal 300 includes a communication IF 33, an input / output IF 34, and a touch screen 35 as an example of a mechanism for inputting information to the distribution terminal 300. If necessary, a camera and a distance measuring sensor may be further provided. Each of the above-mentioned parts as an input mechanism can be regarded as an operation part configured to accept a user's input operation.

The operation unit may be composed of the touch screen 35. In this case, the distribution terminal 300 identifies and accepts the user's operation performed on the input unit 351 of the touch screen 35 as the user's input operation. Alternatively, when the operation unit is configured by the communication IF 33, the distribution terminal 300 identifies and accepts a signal (for example, an output value) transmitted from the controller 3030 as an input operation of the user. Alternatively, when the operation unit is composed of the input / output IF34, a signal output from an input device (not shown) different from the controller 3030 connected to the input / output IF34 is specified as an input operation of the user and received.

(Game terminal 400)
The game terminal 400 (computer, information processing device) may be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a feature phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a tablet computer. The game terminal 400 may be a game device suitable for game play. As shown in the figure, the game terminal 400 includes a processor 40, a memory 41, a storage 42, a communication interface (IF) 43, an input / output IF 44, a touch screen 45 (display unit), a camera 47, and a distance measuring sensor 48. And prepare. These configurations included in the game terminal 400 are electrically connected to each other by a communication bus. The game terminal 400 may include an input / output IF 14 to which a display (display unit) configured separately from the game terminal 400 main body can be connected in place of or in addition to the touch screen 15.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the game terminal 400 may be configured to be communicable with one or more controllers 4020. The controller 4020 establishes communication with the game terminal 400, for example, according to a communication standard such as Bluetooth®. The controller 4020 may have one or more buttons or the like, and transmits an output value based on a user's input operation to the buttons or the like to the game terminal 400. Further, the controller 4020 may have various sensors such as an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor, and transmits the output values of the various sensors to the game terminal 400.

Note that, instead of or in addition to the game terminal 400 including the camera 47 and the distance measuring sensor 48, the controller 4020 may have the camera 47 and the distance measuring sensor 48.

It is desirable that the game terminal 400, for example, at the start of a game, have a user who uses the controller 4020 input user identification information such as the user's name or login ID via the controller 4020. As a result, the game terminal 400 can associate the controller 4020 with the user, and identifies which user the output value belongs to based on the source of the received output value (controller 4020). be able to.

When the game terminal 400 communicates with a plurality of controllers 4020, each user grips each controller 4020, so that the one game terminal does not communicate with other devices such as the game server 500 via the network 4. Multiplayer can be realized at 400. In addition, each game terminal 400 communicates with each other according to a wireless standard such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard (communication connection is made without going through the game server 500), so that multiplayer can be performed locally by a plurality of game terminals 400. It can also be realized. When the above-mentioned multiplayer is realized locally by one game terminal 400, the game terminal 400 may further include at least a part of various functions described later included in the game server 500. Further, when the above-mentioned multiplayer is realized locally by a plurality of game terminals 400, the plurality of game terminals 400 may be provided with various functions described later described in the game server 500 in a distributed manner.

Even when the above-mentioned multiplayer is realized locally, the game terminal 400 may communicate with the game server 500. For example, information indicating a play result such as a result or victory or defeat in a certain game may be associated with user identification information and transmitted to the game server 500.

Further, the controller 4020 may be configured to be removable from the game terminal 400. In this case, a coupling portion with the controller 4020 may be provided on at least one surface of the housing of the game terminal 400. When the game terminal 400 and the controller 4020 are connected by wire via the coupling portion, the game terminal 400 and the controller 4020 transmit and receive signals via the wire.

As shown in FIG. 2, the game terminal 400 may accept the attachment of a storage medium 4030 such as an external memory card via the input / output IF 44. As a result, the game terminal 400 can read the program and data recorded in the storage medium 4030. The program recorded on the storage medium 4030 is, for example, a game program.

The game terminal 400 may store the game program acquired by communicating with an external device such as the game server 500 in the memory 41 of the game terminal 400, or may store the game program acquired by reading from the storage medium 4030 in the memory. It may be stored in 41.

As described above, the game terminal 400 includes a communication IF 43, an input / output IF 44, a touch screen 45, a camera 47, and a distance measuring sensor 48 as an example of a mechanism for inputting information to the game terminal 400. Each of the above-mentioned parts as an input mechanism can be regarded as an operation part configured to accept a user's input operation.

For example, when the operation unit is configured with at least one of the camera 47 and the distance measuring sensor 48, the operation unit detects an object 4010 in the vicinity of the game terminal 400 and performs an input operation from the detection result of the object. Identify. As an example, a user's hand as an object 4010, a marker having a predetermined shape, or the like is detected, and an input operation is specified based on the color, shape, movement, or type of the object 4010 obtained as a detection result. To. More specifically, when the user's hand is detected from the captured image of the camera 47, the game terminal 400 inputs a gesture (a series of movements of the user's hand) detected based on the captured image by the user. Specify and accept as. The captured image may be a still image or a moving image.

Alternatively, when the operation unit is composed of the touch screen 45, the game terminal 400 identifies and accepts the user's operation performed on the input unit 451 of the touch screen 45 as the user's input operation. Alternatively, when the operation unit is configured by the communication IF 43, the game terminal 400 identifies and accepts a signal (for example, an output value) transmitted from the controller 4020 as an input operation of the user. Alternatively, when the operation unit is composed of the input / output IF44, a signal output from an input device (not shown) different from the controller 4020 connected to the input / output IF44 is specified as an input operation of the user and received.

<Hardware components of each device>
The processor 10 controls the operation of the entire viewing terminal 100. The processor 20 controls the operation of the entire distribution server 200. The processor 30 controls the operation of the entire distribution terminal 300. The processor 40 controls the operation of the entire game terminal 400. The processor 50 controls the operation of the entire game server 500.

Processors

10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).

The processor 10 reads a program from the storage 12 described later and expands it into the memory 11 described later. The processor 20 reads a program from the storage 22 described later and expands it into the memory 21 described later. The processor 30 reads a program from the storage 32 described later and expands it into the memory 31 described later. The processor 40 reads a program from the storage 42 described later and expands it into the memory 41 described later. The processor 50 reads a program from the storage 52 described later and expands it into the memory 51 described later. Processor 10, processor 20, processor 30, processor 40, and processor 50 execute the expanded program.

The

memories

11, 21, 31, 41, and 51 are the main storage devices. The

memories

11, 21, 31, 41, and 51 are composed of storage devices such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory 11 provides a work area to the processor 10 by temporarily storing a program and various data read from the storage 12 described later by the processor 10. The memory 11 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 10 is operating according to the program. The memory 21 provides a work area to the processor 20 by temporarily storing various programs and data read from the storage 22 described later by the processor 20. The memory 21 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 20 is operating according to the program. The memory 31 provides a work area to the processor 30 by temporarily storing various programs and data read from the storage 32 described later by the processor 30. The memory 31 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 30 is operating according to the program. The memory 41 provides a work area to the processor 40 by temporarily storing the program and various data read from the storage 42 described later by the processor 40. The memory 41 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 40 is operating according to the program. The memory 51 provides a work area to the processor 50 by temporarily storing a program and various data read from the storage 52 described later by the processor 50. The memory 51 also temporarily stores various data generated while the processor 50 is operating according to the program.

In the present embodiment, the program executed by the processor 30 may be a distribution program for realizing live distribution of contents. In the present embodiment, the program executed by the processor 10 may be a viewing program for realizing the function of streaming playback of the content and the function of supporting the play of the game of the distributor from the viewing terminal 100. Hereinafter, the function of supporting the game play of the distributor is simply referred to as a "support function".

In the present embodiment, the program executed by the processor 20 may be the above-mentioned distribution program or the above-mentioned viewing program. The processor 20 executes either or both of the distribution program and the viewing program in response to a request from the viewing terminal 100 or the distribution terminal 300. The distribution program and the viewing program may be executed in parallel.

That is, the distribution program may be a distribution program for realizing live distribution by cooperation between the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300. Further, the viewing program may be a viewing program for realizing the streaming playback function and the support function in cooperation with the viewing terminal 100 and the distribution server 200.

In the present embodiment, the program executed by the processor 40 and the processor 50 may be a game program for realizing the game by the game terminal 400. Alternatively, the program may be a game program for realizing the game in collaboration with the game terminal 400 and the game server 500. As an example, the game realized by the cooperation between the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 may be a game executed on a browser started on the game terminal 400.

Alternatively, the program may be a game program for realizing the game by the cooperation of a plurality of game terminals 400. Further, the various data include data related to the game such as user information and game information, and instructions or notifications to be transmitted / received between the devices of the game system 3.

Storages

12, 22, 32, 42, and 52 are auxiliary storage devices. The

storages

12, 22, 32, 42, and 52 are composed of a storage device such as a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Various data related to the game are stored in the

storages

12, 22, 32, 42, and 52.

The communication IF 13 controls the transmission / reception of various data in the viewing terminal 100. The communication IF 23 controls the transmission / reception of various data in the distribution server 200. The communication IF 33 controls the transmission / reception of various data in the distribution terminal 300. The communication IF 43 controls the transmission / reception of various data in the game terminal 400. The communication IF 53 controls the transmission / reception of various data in the game server 500.

Communication IFs

13, 23, 33, 43, and 53 use, for example, communication via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), Internet communication via a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, or a mobile phone network, short-range wireless communication, and the like. Control the communication that was there.

The input / output IF 14 of the viewing terminal 100 is an interface for the viewing terminal 100 to accept data input, and an interface for the viewing terminal 100 to output data. The input / output IF 14 may input / output data via USB (Universal Serial Bus) or the like. The input / output IF 14 may include, for example, a physical button, a camera, a microphone, a speaker, or the like of the viewing terminal 100. The input / output IF 24 of the distribution server 200 is an interface for the distribution server 200 to receive data input, and an interface for the distribution server 200 to output data. The input / output IF 24 may include, for example, an input unit that is an information input device such as a mouse or a keyboard, and a display unit that is a device that displays and outputs an image. The input / output IF 34 of the distribution terminal 300 is an interface for the distribution terminal 300 to receive data input, and an interface for the distribution terminal 300 to output data. The input / output IF34 includes, for example, information input devices such as a mouse, keyboard, stick, and lever, devices for displaying and outputting images such as a liquid crystal display, and peripheral devices (microphone 3010, motion capture device 3020, and controller 3030). May include connections for sending and receiving data between.

The input / output IF 44 of the game terminal 400 is an interface for the game terminal 400 to accept data input, and an interface for the game terminal 400 to output data. The input / output IF44 may input / output data via USB (Universal Serial Bus) or the like. The input / output IF 44 may include, for example, a physical button, a camera, a microphone, a speaker, or the like of the viewing terminal 100.

The input / output IF 54 of the game server 500 is an interface for the game server 500 to accept data input, and an interface for the game server 500 to output data. The input / output IF 54 may include, for example, an input unit that is an information input device such as a mouse or a keyboard, and a display unit that is a device that displays and outputs an image.

The touch screen 15 of the viewing terminal 100 is an electronic component that combines an input unit 151 and a display unit 152. The touch screen 35 of the distribution terminal 300 is an electronic component that combines an input unit 351 and a display unit 352. The touch screen 45 of the game terminal 400 is an electronic component that combines an input unit 451 and a display unit 452. The

input units

151, 351 and 451 are, for example, touch-sensitive devices, and are configured by, for example, a touch pad. The

display units

152, 352, and 452 are configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or the like.

The

input units

151, 351 and 451 detect the position where the user's operation (mainly physical contact operation such as touch operation, slide operation, swipe operation, and tap operation) is input to the input surface, and determine the position. It has a function to transmit the indicated information as an input signal. The

input units

151, 351 and 451 may be provided with a touch sensing unit (not shown). The touch sensing unit may adopt any method such as a capacitance method or a resistance film method.

Although not shown, the viewing terminal 100 and the game terminal 400 may include one or more sensors for specifying the holding posture of the viewing terminal 100 and the game terminal 400. This sensor may be, for example, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, or the like. When the viewing terminal 100 or the game terminal 400 includes a sensor, the processor 10 or the processor 40 identifies the holding posture of the viewing terminal 100 or the game terminal 400 from the output of the sensor, and performs processing according to the holding posture. Will also be possible. For example, the processor 10 or the processor 40 may be a vertical screen display in which a vertically long image is displayed on the

display unit

152 or 452 when the viewing terminal 100 or the game terminal 400 is held vertically. On the other hand, when the viewing terminal 100 or the game terminal 400 is held horizontally, it may be a horizontal screen display in which a horizontally long image is displayed on the display unit. As described above, the processor 10 or the processor 40 may be able to switch between the vertical screen display and the horizontal screen display according to the holding posture of the viewing terminal 100 or the game terminal 400.

The camera 47 includes an image sensor and the like, and generates a captured image by converting the incident light incident from the lens into an electric signal.

The distance measuring sensor 48 is a sensor that measures the distance to the object to be measured. The distance measuring sensor 48 includes, for example, a light source that emits pulse-converted light and a light receiving element that receives the light. The distance measuring sensor 48 measures the distance to the object to be measured by the timing of light emission from the light source and the timing of receiving the reflected light generated by the light emitted from the light source being reflected by the object to be measured. The ranging sensor 48 may have a light source that emits light having directivity.

<Functional configuration of support system 1>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a viewing terminal 100, a distribution server 200, a distribution terminal 300, a game terminal 400, and a game server 500 included in the support system 1. Each of the viewing terminal 100, the distribution server 200, the distribution terminal 300, the game terminal 400, and the game server 500 has a functional configuration (not shown) necessary for functioning as a general computer, and known functions in the game. It may include the functional configurations required to achieve it.

The viewing terminal 100 has a function as an input device that accepts a user's input operation and a function as an output device that outputs a game image or sound. The viewing terminal 100 functions as a control unit 110 and a storage unit 120 by the cooperation of the processor 10, the memory 11, the storage 12, the communication IF 13, the input / output IF 14, and the like.

The distribution server 200 has a function of communicating with the distribution terminal 300 and the viewing terminal 100 to support the distribution terminal 300 to live-distribute the content to the viewing terminal 100. The distribution server 200 functions as a control unit 210 and a storage unit 220 by the cooperation of the processor 20, the memory 21, the storage 22, the communication IF23, the input / output IF24, and the like.

The distribution terminal 300 has a function of creating content and delivering the content live to the viewing terminal 100 via the distribution server 200. The distribution terminal 300 functions as a control unit 310 and a storage unit 320 by the cooperation of the processor 30, the memory 31, the storage 32, the communication IF 33, the input / output IF 34, and the like.

The game terminal 400 has a function as an input device that accepts a user's input operation and a function as an output device that outputs a game image or sound. The game terminal 400 functions as a control unit 410 and a storage unit 420 by the cooperation of the processor 40, the memory 41, the storage 42, the communication IF 43, the input / output IF 44, and the like.

The game server 500 has a function of communicating with the game terminal 400 and supporting the game terminal 400 to advance the game. Further, the game server 500 has a function of mediating between the distribution server 200 and the game terminal 400. The game server 500 functions as a control unit 510 and a storage unit 520 by the cooperation of the processor 50, the memory 51, the storage 52, the communication IF 53, the input / output IF 54, and the like.

(Data stored in the storage unit of each device)
The storage unit 120 stores the viewing program 131 and the viewer information 132 of the viewer corresponding to the viewing terminal 100. The storage unit 320 stores the distribution program 331 and the distributor information 332 of the distributor corresponding to the distribution terminal 300. The storage unit 220 stores the viewing program 131, the viewer information 132, the distribution program 331, and the distributor information 332. The storage unit 220 collectively stores the distributor information 332 collected from each distribution terminal 300. The storage unit 220 collectively stores the viewer information 132 collected from each viewing terminal 100.

The viewing program 131 is a program executed by the viewing terminal 100 and the distribution server 200. On the other hand, the distribution program 231 is a program executed by the distribution terminal 300 and the distribution server 200.

It should be noted that the execution of the viewing program 131 and the distribution program 331 by the distribution server 200 is not essential. For example, when the viewing terminal 100 can realize the streaming playback function and the support function of the content by executing the viewing program 131 independently, the distribution server 200 does not have to execute the viewing program 131. Further, for example, when the distribution terminal 300 can realize live distribution by executing the distribution program 331 independently, the distribution server 200 does not have to execute the distribution program 331.

The viewer information 132 is data referred to when the control unit 110 executes the viewing program 131. The viewer information 132 is data managed for each viewer, and is illustrated in FIG. 15. For example, the viewer information 132 includes the name of the viewer, that is, the name of the viewer's account supported by the viewing terminal 100, the amount of valuable data held by the account, or the quantity of specific items held by the account. Information indicating the above may be included. Further, even if the viewer information 132 includes the delivery history of the delivered content, the history of sending and receiving messages, and the input history of the first input operation in the viewer account corresponding to the viewing terminal 100. good. Further, the viewer information 132 may include a purchase history of valuable data and a purchase or acquisition history of a specific item.

The item "item" illustrated in FIG. 15 stores a list of items as a game medium owned by the viewer. In this game, the item is, for example, a clothing item worn by a character.

The item "Distribution history" stores a list of videos, so-called back numbers, that have been live-distributed to viewers in the past in the live distribution part. In the live distribution part, the video that is PUSH-distributed in real time can be viewed only at that time. On the other hand, the moving images for past distribution are recorded on the distribution server 200 or the distribution terminal 300, and can be PULL-distributed in response to a request from the viewing terminal 100. In the present embodiment, as an example, the back number may be made available for download by the user for a fee.

Returning to FIG. 3, the distributor information 332 is data referred to when the control unit 210 executes the distribution program 231. The distributor information 332 is data managed for each distributor. For example, the distributor information 332 may include information indicating the name of the account of the distributor corresponding to the distribution terminal 300. Further, the distributor information 332 includes various information related to the distributed content such as the distribution history of the content, the number of playbacks of the distributed content, and the history of sending and receiving messages in the account of the distributor corresponding to the distribution terminal 300. It may be.

Further, the storage unit 320 of the distribution terminal 300 may store various data related to the distribution of the operation instruction data (not shown in FIG. 3). The operation instruction data is data for playing a moving image on the viewing terminal 100, and specifically, is data for operating a character object appearing in the moving image. The moving image played on the viewing terminal 100 based on the operation instruction data is a moving image in which the avatar operated by the distributor operates. "Movement" is the movement of at least a part of the avatar's body, including utterances. The motion instruction data may include motion capture data that captures the movement of the tracking target such as a model in advance, voice data that records the voice of an actor such as a voice actor, or input for operating the character. It may include operation history data indicating an operation history, or may include a motion command group in which commands associated with the above-mentioned series of input operations are arranged in chronological order.

As an example, as shown in FIG. 16, the operation instruction data includes "destination" which is meta information and each item of "character ID", "voice", and "movement" which is the content of the data. It is configured.

The destination designation information is stored in the item "destination". The destination designation information is information indicating to which device the operation instruction data is transmitted. The destination designation information may be, for example, an address unique to the viewing terminal 100, or may be identification information of the group to which the viewing terminal 100 belongs. It may be a symbol (for example, "ALL") indicating that the destination is all the viewing terminals 100 satisfying a certain condition.

The item "character ID" stores a character ID for uniquely identifying a character appearing in this game. The character ID stored here represents which character's action is indicated by the action instruction data.

The item "voice" stores voice data to be expressed in the character. Motion data that specifies the movement of the character is stored in the item "movement". As an example, the motion data may be motion capture data acquired by the distribution terminal 300 via the motion capture device 3020. The motion capture data may be data that tracks the movement of the actor's entire body, may be data that tracks the facial expression and mouth movement of the actor, or may be both. As another example, the motion data may be a motion command group instructing a series of movements of the character specified by an operation input by the operator of the distribution terminal 300 via the controller 3030. For example, when the commands "raise the right hand", "raise the left hand", "walk", and "run" are assigned to the buttons A, B, C, and D of the controller 3030, the operator can use them. , Button A, button B, button C, and button D are pressed in succession. In this case, a group of motion commands in which the commands "raise right hand", "raise left hand", "walk", and "run" are arranged in the above order is stored in the "movement" item as motion data. Will be done. In this embodiment, the voice data and the motion data are included in the operation instruction data in a synchronized state.

By receiving such operation instruction data, the control unit 110 of the viewing terminal 100 can operate the character appearing in the game as intended by the creator of the operation instruction data. Specifically, when the operation instruction data includes voice data, the control unit 110 causes the character to speak based on the voice data. Further, when the motion data includes motion data, the control unit 110 moves the character based on the motion data, that is, generates an animation of the character so as to move based on the motion data. ..

Returning to FIG. 3, the storage unit 420 and the storage unit 520 store the game program 431, the game information 432, and the user information 433. The storage unit 420 stores user information 433 of the user corresponding to the game terminal 400. On the other hand, the storage unit 520 collectively stores the user information 433 collected from each game terminal 400.

The game program 431 is a game program executed by the game terminal 400 and the game server 500. The game information 432 is data referred to when the control unit 410 and the control unit 510 execute the game program 431. The user information 433 is data managed for each user account.

(Functional configuration of distribution server 200)
The control unit 210 comprehensively controls the distribution server 200 by executing the distribution program 231 stored in the storage unit 220. For example, the control unit 210 receives the content from the distribution terminal 300 in real time and distributes the content live to the viewing terminal 100. The control unit 210 communicates with the viewing terminal 100 and the distribution terminal 300 to transmit and receive various information as needed.

The control unit 210 functions as a transmission / reception unit 211, a server processing unit 212, and a data management unit 213 according to the description of the distribution program 231. The control unit 210 can also function as another functional block (not shown) in order to support live distribution of the content from the distribution terminal 300, streaming reproduction of the content by the viewing terminal 100, and support for the distributor.

The transmission / reception unit 211 receives various data and requests from the distribution terminal 300. For example, the transmission / reception unit 211 receives a part or all of the distributor information 332 from the distribution terminal 300. The transmission / reception unit 211 transmits various data and requests to the distribution terminal 300.

Further, the transmission / reception unit 211 receives various data and requests from the viewing terminal 100. For example, the transmission / reception unit 211 receives a request for live distribution from the viewing terminal 100. The transmission / reception unit 211 transmits various information to the viewing terminal 100. For example, the transmission / reception unit 211 delivers the content live to the viewing terminal 100.

The server processing unit 212 performs live distribution and streaming playback of the content, as well as arithmetic processing necessary for supporting the distributor. The server processing unit 212 instructs the transmission / reception unit 211 to transmit various data. The server processing unit 212 instructs the data management unit 213 to add, update, or delete various types of information.

The data management unit 213 manages the data stored in the storage unit 220. The data management unit 213 adds, updates, or deletes various information included in the distributor information 132 and the viewer information 132 in response to an instruction from the server processing unit 212. The data management unit 213 may read at least one of the distributor information 132 and the viewer information 132 from the storage unit 220 according to the instruction of the server processing unit 212.

(Functional configuration of viewing terminal 100)
The control unit 110 comprehensively controls the viewing terminal 100 by executing the viewing program 131 stored in the storage unit 120. For example, the control unit 110 executes streaming reproduction of the content according to the operation of the viewing program 131 and the user. Further, the control unit 110 communicates with the distribution server 200 to send and receive information as needed during the reproduction of the content.

The control unit 110 functions as an operation reception unit 111, a playback unit 112, a display control unit 113, a communication unit 114, and a support instruction unit 115 according to the description of the viewing program 131. The control unit 110 can also function as other functional blocks (not shown) in order to realize streaming playback and distributor support.

The operation reception unit 111 detects and accepts a user's input operation to the input unit 151. The operation reception unit 111 determines what input operation has been performed from the action exerted by the user on the console via the touch screen 15 and other input / output IF 14, and outputs the result to each element of the control unit 110. do.

For example, the operation receiving unit 111 receives an input operation for the input unit 151, detects the coordinates of the input position of the input operation, and specifies the type of the input operation. The operation receiving unit 111 specifies, for example, a touch operation, a slide operation, a swipe operation, a tap operation, and the like as types of input operations. Further, the operation receiving unit 111 detects that the contact input is canceled from the touch screen 15 when the continuously detected input is interrupted.

The playback unit 112 executes streaming playback. The reproduction unit 112 reproduces the content received from the distribution server 200 via the communication unit 114.

The display control unit 113 causes the display unit 152 to display the content to be streamed and reproduced by the reproduction unit 112. The display control unit 113 may control and draw a 2D or 3D game object (UI object) for constructing a UI (user interface). For example, the display control unit 113 may superimpose the UI object necessary for various operations for viewing the content and supporting the distributor on the screen of the display unit 152 together with the content. The UI object is, for example, an icon, a button, a list, a menu screen, or the like. The UI object is a tool for the viewer to perform on the viewing terminal 100 in viewing the content and supporting the distributor. Further, the UI object is a tool for notifying the viewer of various information from the viewing terminal 100 during the reproduction of the content on the viewing terminal 100.

The communication unit 114 transmits various data and requests to the distribution server 200. For example, the communication unit 114 transmits a request for distribution of the content and a part or all of the viewer information 132 to the distribution server 200. The communication unit 114 receives various information related to live distribution from the distribution server 200. For example, the communication unit 114 receives the content from the distribution server 200 and a part or all of the distributor information 332.

When the operation reception unit 111 accepts the first input operation, the support instruction unit 115 creates input information corresponding to the first input operation and sends it to the distribution server 200. The details of the input information will be described later. The support instruction unit 115 may create and transmit input information in exchange for valuable data or consumption of a particular item. As a result, it is possible to set a limit on the number of times the viewer supports the distributor, so that the viewer can think about the timing and the number of times the distributor is supported. Therefore, the interest of the content is improved.

The control unit 110 may function as an analysis unit 116 (not shown). The analysis unit 116 analyzes (renders) the operation instruction data and instructs the character to operate based on the analysis result. In the present embodiment, the analysis unit 116 starts rendering of the operation instruction data triggered by the fact that the operation instruction data supplied by the distribution terminal 300 is received via the communication IF 33. From the analysis result, the distribution terminal 300 immediately instructs the character to operate based on the operation instruction data. This makes it possible to show the user a character that operates in real time.

(Functional configuration of distribution terminal 300)
The control unit 310 comprehensively controls the distribution terminal 300 by executing the distribution program 331 stored in the storage unit 320. For example, the control unit 310 creates content according to the operation of the distribution program 331 and the distributor, and supplies the content to the viewing terminal 100 via the distribution server 200. The control unit 310 communicates with the distribution server 200 and the game terminal 400 to send and receive information.

The control unit 310 functions as an operation reception unit 311, a distribution unit 312, a display control unit 313, and a communication unit 314 according to the description of the distribution program 331. The control unit 310 can also function as other functional blocks (not shown) depending on the nature of the content to be distributed in the distribution system 2.

The operation reception unit 311 detects and accepts the operator's input operation to the input unit 351. The operation reception unit 311 determines what kind of input operation has been performed on the console via the touch screen 35 and other input / output IF 34s from the action exerted by the operator, and outputs the result to each element of the control unit 310. Output. The details of the function of the operation reception unit 311 are almost the same as those of the operation reception unit 111 in the viewing terminal 100.

The distribution unit 312 executes various processes related to content distribution. The distribution unit 312 includes a distribution screen creation unit 312A, a content creation unit 312B, and a notification unit 312C. For example, the distribution unit 312 generates operation instruction data for operating the character according to the operation of the distributor of the distribution terminal 300, and distributes the operation instruction data to the viewing terminal 100.

The distribution screen creation unit 312A creates a screen for the distributor to support the operating of content creation by the distributor. Hereinafter, the screen for the distributor is also referred to as a distribution screen. The configuration of the distribution screen is not particularly limited. For example, the distribution screen creation unit 312A creates a distribution screen capable of listing various components included in the content such as an avatar, a game screen, and various parameter displays. The distribution screen created by the distribution screen creation unit 312A is displayed on the touch screen 35 via the display control unit 313.

The content creation unit 312B creates content for live distribution. The specific method of content creation by the content creation unit 312B will be described later.

The notification unit 312C creates and outputs various notifications for the distributor. For example, the notification unit 312C notifies the distributor that the distributor support has been provided.

The display control unit 313 outputs a display screen reflecting the processing results executed by each of the above elements to the display unit 352 of the touch screen 35. The details of the function of the display control unit 313 are substantially the same as those of the display control unit 113 in the viewing terminal 100. For example, the display control unit 313 may display UI objects necessary for various operations for live distribution on the screen of the display unit 352 together with the content or superimposed with the content.

The communication unit 314 transmits various data and requests to the distribution server 200. For example, the communication unit 314 transmits the content and a part or all of the distributor information 332 to the distribution server 200. The communication unit 314 receives various information related to live distribution from the distribution server 200. For example, the communication unit 314 receives a part or all of the viewer information 132 from the distribution server 200. Further, the communication unit 314 communicates between the distribution terminal 300 and the game terminal 400. For example, the communication unit 314 receives an image of the game screen from the game terminal 400 in real time.

(Functional configuration of game terminal 400)
The control unit 410 comprehensively controls the game terminal 400 by executing the game program 431 stored in the storage unit 420. For example, the control unit 410 advances the game according to the game program 431 and the user's operation. Further, the control unit 410 communicates with the game server 500 as necessary to transmit and receive information while the game is in progress.

The control unit 410 functions as an operation reception unit 411, a game progress unit 412, a display control unit 413, and a communication unit 414 according to the description of the game program 431. The control unit 410 can also function as other functional blocks (not shown) in order to advance the game, depending on the nature of the game to be executed.

The operation reception unit 411 detects and accepts the user's input operation to the input unit 451. The operation reception unit 411 determines what kind of input operation has been performed from the action exerted by the user on the console via the touch screen 45 and other input / output IF44s, and outputs the result to each element of the control unit 410. do.

For example, the operation receiving unit 411 receives an input operation for the input unit 451, detects the coordinates of the input position of the input operation, and specifies the type of the input operation. The operation reception unit 411 specifies, for example, a touch operation, a slide operation, a swipe operation, a tap operation, and the like as types of input operations. Further, the operation reception unit 411 detects that the contact input is canceled from the touch screen 45 when the continuously detected input is interrupted.

The game progress unit 412 performs various processes related to the progress of the game. For example, the game progress unit 412 specifies the instruction content of the user based on the coordinates of the position of the input operation received by the operation reception unit 411, the type of operation, and the progress status of the game. In addition, the game progress unit 412 performs various determination processes related to the progress of the game. Further, the game progress unit 412 adds, updates, or deletes various information included in the game information 432 and the user information 433 stored in the storage unit 420.

The display control unit 413 creates an image of the game screen, and transmits the image to the distribution terminal 300 via the communication unit 414 in real time. The display control unit 413 generates, for example, an image including a game object and a background image as a background of the game object, and transmits the image to the distribution terminal 300. The display control unit 413 may display the image of the game screen on the display unit 452.

The display control unit 413 may control and draw a 2D or 3D game object (UI object) for constructing a UI (user interface). For example, the display control unit 413 may display a game screen on which UI objects necessary for various operations of the game such as icons, buttons, lists, and menu screens are superimposed on the background image. The UI object is a tool for the user to input the game terminal 400 necessary for the progress of the game. The UI object is a tool for the user to obtain information output from the game terminal 400 while the game is in progress.

The communication unit 414 transmits various data and requests to the game server 500. For example, the communication unit 414 transmits a part or all of the game information 432 or the user information 433 to the game server 500. The communication unit 414 receives various data and requests from the game server 500. For example, the communication unit 414 receives a part or all of the game information 432 or the user information 433 from the game server 500.

Further, the communication unit 414 communicates between the game terminal 400 and the distribution terminal 300. For example, the communication unit 414 transmits the image of the game screen created by the display control unit 413 to the distribution terminal 300 in real time.

(Functional configuration of game server 500)
The control unit 510 comprehensively controls the game server 500 by executing the game program 431 stored in the storage unit 520. Further, the control unit 510 may communicate with a plurality of game terminals 400 to mediate the exchange of data between the game terminals 400.

The control unit 510 functions as a transmission / reception unit 511, a server processing unit 512, and a data management unit 513 according to the description of the game program 431. The control unit 510 can also function as other functional blocks (not shown) in order to support the progress of the game in the game terminal 400, depending on the nature of the game to be executed.

The transmission / reception unit 511 receives various data and requests from the game terminal 400. For example, the transmission / reception unit 511 receives a part or all of the game information 432 or the user information 433 from the game terminal 400.

The transmission / reception unit 511 transmits various data and requests to the game terminal 400. For example, the transmission / reception unit 511 transmits the support instruction received from the distribution server 200 to the game terminal 400.

The server processing unit 512 performs arithmetic processing necessary for providing the game. The server processing unit 512 instructs the transmission / reception unit 511 to transmit various data. The server processing unit 512 instructs the data management unit 513 to add, update, or delete various information included in the game information 432 and the user information 433.

The data management unit 513 manages the data stored in the storage unit 520. The data management unit 513 adds, updates, or deletes various information included in the game information 432 and the user information 433 in response to an instruction from the server processing unit 512. The data management unit 513 may read at least one of the game information 432 and the user information 433 from the storage unit 520 according to the instruction of the server processing unit 512. The data management unit 513 may read out from the storage unit 520 a program to be executed by a certain game terminal 400 among the game programs 431 and transmit the program to the game terminal 400.

The functions of the viewing terminal 100, the distribution server 200, the distribution terminal 300, the game terminal 400, and the game server 500 shown in FIG. 3 are merely examples. For example, the distribution server 200 may include at least a part of the functions of the viewing terminal 100 or the distribution terminal 300. Further, for example, the viewing terminal 100 or the distribution terminal 300 may include at least a part of the functions included in the distribution server 200. Further, for example, the game server 500 may have at least a part of the functions provided by the game terminal 400. Further, for example, the game terminal 400 may have at least a part of the functions included in the game server 500.

Further, the viewing terminal 100 may cooperate with other components other than the above-mentioned components or other devices connected to the viewing terminal 100. For example, the viewing terminal 100 may have other components or other devices perform a part of the processing in the viewing terminal 100.

Further, the distribution system 2 may use a device other than the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300 as a component of the distribution system 2 and cause the other device to execute a part of the processing in the distribution system 2. That is, the computer that executes the distribution program 231 in the present embodiment may be any of the distribution server 200, the distribution terminal 300, and other devices, or may be realized by a combination of a plurality of these devices.

Further, the game system 3 may use a device other than the game terminal 400 and the game server 500 as a component of the game system 3 and cause the other device to execute a part of the processing in the game system 3. That is, the computer that executes the game program 431 in the present embodiment may be any of the game terminal 400, the game server 500, and other devices, or may be realized by a combination of a plurality of these devices.

<Flow of delivery process>
FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of data transmission / reception and processing between devices when content is created and live-streamed. The game server 500 is not shown in FIG. 4 because there is no essential processing in the flow from content creation to distribution.

In step S100, the game progress unit 412 of the game terminal 400 starts the game. The game progress unit 412 starts the game, for example, when the operation reception unit 411 receives an input operation instructing the start of the game. The game progress unit 412 instructs the display control unit 413 to create a game screen according to the progress of the game. The display control unit 413 receives the instruction and creates a game screen.

In step S102, the communication unit 414 transmits the image of the game screen created by the display control unit 413 to the distribution terminal 300 in real time. The game screen may be displayed on the display unit 452 of the game terminal 400.

In step S104, the communication unit 314 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the image of the game screen in real time. The communication unit 314 sends the received image of the game screen to the distribution unit 312 at any time.

In step S106, the distribution unit 312 creates the content and transmits the content to the distribution server 200 in real time via the communication unit 314. The content may include action instruction data. The method of creating the content will be described in detail later. After that, the distribution unit 312 continues the live distribution of the content until, for example, the operation reception unit 311 receives an input operation instructing the end of the live distribution.

The distribution unit 312 may generate operation instruction data as content. Specifically, the distribution unit 312 identifies a character for video distribution, and stores the character ID of the character in the "character ID" item of the operation instruction data. The video of which character is to be distributed at what time may be scheduled in advance by the game master and registered in the distribution terminal 300. Alternatively, the operator of the distribution terminal 300 may specify in advance to the distribution terminal 300 which character's operation instruction data is to be created. The distribution unit 312 stores the acquired voice data in the "voice" item of the operation instruction data. The distribution unit 312 stores the acquired motion capture data in the "movement" item of the operation instruction data. The distribution unit 312 links the voice data and the motion capture data so that the voice data and the motion capture data are synchronized with each other. The distribution unit 312 uses the group identification information of the group of these viewing terminals 100 or the address of one viewing terminal 100 as the destination designation information so that one or more viewing terminals 100 are the destinations, and the operation instruction data. Store in the "Destination" item of.

In step S108, the transmission / reception unit 211 of the distribution server 200 receives the content in real time. The transmission / reception unit 211 may temporarily or non-temporarily store the received content in the storage unit 220. The distribution server 200 waits until a request for live distribution is received from the viewing terminal 100.

In step S110, the operation reception unit 111 of the viewing terminal 100 receives an input operation instructing the viewer to view the content. When the operation reception unit 111 receives the instruction, the reproduction unit 112 executes step S112.

In step S112, the reproduction unit 112 requests the distribution of the content via the communication unit 114.

In step S114, the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 receives the distribution request via the transmission / reception unit 211. Upon receiving the request, the server processing unit 212 executes the processing of step S116.

In step S116, the server processing unit 212 distributes the content received from the distribution terminal 300 to the viewing terminal 100 in real time. After that, the server processing unit 212 continues the live distribution of the content until, for example, the transmission / reception unit 211 stops receiving the content from the distribution terminal 300, or the viewing terminal 100 notifies that the viewing has ended.

In step S118, the communication unit 114 of the viewing terminal 100 receives the content in real time.

In step S120, the reproduction unit 112 streams and reproduces the content received by the communication unit 114 at any time. In step S120, the reproduction unit 112 may move the avatar according to the operation instruction data of the content received by the communication unit 114. In other words, the reproduction unit 112 reproduces the video in which the avatar is operating and reproduces the sound of the avatar by real-time rendering. After that, the reproduction unit 112 continues the streaming reproduction until it is determined to be YES in step S122 or YES in step S124.

In step S122, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the operation reception unit 111 has received an input operation instructing the end of viewing. If YES in step S122, that is, if the operation reception unit 111 receives an input operation instructing the end of viewing, the reproduction unit 112 executes step S126.

In step S126, the reproduction unit 112 ends the streaming reproduction of the content. Further, the reproduction unit 112 notifies the distribution server 200 of the end of viewing via the communication unit 114. When the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 receives the notification, the server processing unit 212 stops the live distribution to the viewing terminal 100.

On the other hand, if NO in step S122, that is, if the operation receiving unit 111 does not accept the input operation instructing the end of viewing, the control unit 110 further executes the process of step S124.

In step S124, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the live distribution has ended. For example, the control unit 110 may determine that the live distribution has ended when the reception of the content in the communication unit 114 is completed. If NO in step S124, the control unit 110 repeats the process from step S122. On the other hand, if YES in step S124, the reproduction unit 112 executes the process of step S126. That is, the reproduction unit 112 ends the streaming reproduction of the content.

According to the above processing, the content including the play screen of the game in progress on the game terminal 400 and the avatar of the distributor is created and distributed in real time. As a result, the viewer can see the avatar of the distributor and the play screen of the game played by the distributor by viewing the content through the viewing terminal 100.

(Content creation and playback screen)
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a state of content creation by a distributor and an example of a display screen when the content is reproduced on the viewing terminal 100. Hereinafter, the display screen when the content is being reproduced on the viewing terminal 100 is referred to as a "reproduction screen". In the following description, the game realized by the game system 3 is a gun shooting game in which the stage is cleared by shooting and defeating an enemy. Further, in the following description, as a support effect, the effect of increasing the number of remaining bullets of the distributor in the above-mentioned gun shooting game, that is, the effect of reloading the gun is activated according to the first input operation. do.

The state (A) in FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a state of content creation by a distributor. The distributor 701 creates content by inputting various inputs to the distribution terminal 300. For example, the distributor 701 inputs his / her voice 700 to the distribution terminal 300 via the microphone 3010.

Further, the motion capture data of the model 702, which is a part of the distributor, may be input to the distribution terminal 300. The distribution unit 312 reflects the movement indicated by the motion capture data supplied from the motion capture device 3020 on the movement of the distributor's avatar. The motion capture data is obtained by acquiring the movement of the model 702 via the motion capture device 3020.

Further, as described above, the game screen is supplied to the distribution terminal 300 from the game terminal 400 at any time. The content creation unit 312B of the distribution terminal 300 sequentially synthesizes the content based on the voice, the motion capture data, and the game screen input in real time.

For example, the content creation unit 312B draws an image of a character object indicating the distributor's avatar. At this time, the content creation unit 312B moves the posture of the character object to a posture corresponding to the movement of the model 702 indicated by the motion capture data.

The content creation unit 312B synthesizes the above-mentioned image of the character object and the game screen. This makes it possible to create content including the distributor's avatar and the play screen of the game being played by the distributor.

Further, the content creation unit 312B may synthesize the voice having the same content as the voice 700 emitted by the distributor 701 into the content. Here, the "voice of the same content" means the voice 700 itself, a voice obtained by subjecting the voice 700 to a predetermined voice processing, or a voice obtained by mechanically uttering the content of the voice 700 with a reading software or the like. Further, the content creation unit 312B may synthesize a character string or the like input via the touch screen 35 or the like of the distribution terminal 300 into the content.

Further, for example, the content creation unit 312B generates operation instruction data instructing the distributor 701 (voice actor or the like) to make the controlled character speak based on the voice data input via the microphone 3010. May be good. The operation instruction data generated in this way includes at least the above-mentioned voice data. Further, for example, the distributor 701 (model or the like) may generate motion instruction data instructing the character to be controlled to perform a motion based on the motion capture data input via the motion capture device 3020. The motion instruction data generated in this way includes at least the above-mentioned motion capture data. Further, for example, it is instructed that the operator operates the character to be controlled based on the history of the input operation input through the input mechanism such as the controller 3030 or the operation unit such as the input unit 351 which is the operation history data. The operation instruction data to be performed may be generated. The operation instruction data generated in this way includes at least the above-mentioned operation history data. The operation history data is, for example, information in which operation logs indicating which button of the controller 3030 is pressed at what timing by the operator when which screen is displayed on the display unit are organized in chronological order. ..

The state (B) in FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a reproduction screen in the viewing terminal 100. The playback screen 800 includes at least the distributor's avatar 801 and the game play screen 802. Further, the reproduction screen 800 may include a column 807 that displays the amount of valuable data or a specific item owned by the viewer. Further, the reproduction screen 800 may include a button 805 and a button 806 for accepting the first input operation. The button 805 and the button 806 are buttons for causing different support effects. In other words, the first input operation for the button 805 and the first input operation for the button 806 are accepted by the control unit 110 as different types of first input operations. The reproduction screen 800 may include only one of the button 805 and the button 806. In this way, by including the UI object for accepting the first input operation in the playback screen 800 and displaying it, the viewer can be made to execute the distributor support by a simple operation.

Further, the playback screen 800 may include a button 804 for sending a message to the distributor. Further, the viewing terminal 100 may output an audio 803 having the same content as the audio input by the distributor from an output device such as a speaker.

<Flow of support processing>
FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of data transmission / reception and processing between devices when a viewer supports a game play of a distributor during live distribution. The sequence diagram shown in FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram in a case where the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300 are delivering the content live and the viewing terminal 100 is playing the content. In other words, the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 6 shows an example of the flow of data transmission / reception and processing executed between steps S120 and S122 in the sequence diagram shown in FIG.

In step S200, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the operation reception unit 111 has accepted the first input operation. In the case of NO in step S200, that is, when the operation receiving unit 111 does not accept the first input operation, the control unit 110 waits for the acceptance of the first input operation while playing the content by the reproduction unit 112. If YES in step S200, that is, if the operation reception unit 111 receives the first input operation, the support instruction unit 115 executes step S202. The first input operation is, for example, an input operation for the

button

805 or 806 included in the reproduction screen 800 shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the playback screen 800 before and after the first input operation is performed by the viewer. The state (A) of FIG. 7 shows the reproduction screen 800 before the first input operation for the button 805 is performed by the viewer A. On the other hand, the state (B) in FIG. 7 shows the reproduction screen 800 after the first input operation is performed.

As shown in the state (A) of FIG. 7, when an input operation for the button 805, for example, an input operation for pressing the display area of the button 805 on the touch screen 15 is performed, the operation receiving unit 111 performs the input operation. , Accepted as the first input operation. When the first input operation is accepted, the support instruction unit 115 executes step S202.

In step S202, the support instruction unit 115 creates input information according to the type of the first input operation, and transmits the input information to the distribution server 200. For example, the support instruction unit 115 receives an input operation performed on any of the

buttons

805 and 806 included in the playback screen 800, specifies which button the input operation is performed on, and then identifies each button. Create input information according to.

The input information may be at least information that can notify that the first input operation has been performed on the viewing terminal 100. The data structure is not particularly limited as long as the input information includes information necessary for the distribution terminal 300 to create a support instruction.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the input information. In the illustrated example, the input information includes information in a "user ID" column, a "user name" column, a "date and time" column, an "instruction" column, and a "consumption" column. The input information of FIG. 8 is an example of the input information generated when the input operation for the button 805 is accepted in the state (A) of FIG. 7.

Information for identifying the viewer is stored in the "user ID" column. In the "user name" column, information indicating the name of the viewer's account, for example, the handle name is stored. Hereinafter, the name of the viewer's account will also be referred to as the viewer's name. Information indicating the date and time when the first input operation is performed is stored in the "date and time" column. The date and time may be timed using the control clock of the control unit 110 or the like. Information indicating the type of the first input operation is stored in the "instruction" column. In the example of FIG. 8, the input information is the input information when the first input operation indicating the instruction A is performed. The "consumption amount" column stores information indicating the amount of valuable data or a specific item consumed when the first input operation is accepted and the input information is created. If both valuable data and specific items are available to assist the distributor, the Consumption column should indicate the type of what was consumed, that is, the type of valuable data consumed and the specific item. It is desirable that the indicated information is also stored.

In step S204, the support instruction unit 115 notifies the user that the distributor has been supported via the display control unit 113. For example, the support instruction unit 115 instructs the display control unit 113 to create a playback screen 800 including a notification that the first input operation has been accepted. Further, for example, the support instruction unit 115 instructs the display control unit 113 to create a reproduction screen 800 including notification of valuable data or consumption of a specific item by the first input operation. Further, for example, the support instruction unit 115 causes the display control unit 113 to display a pop-up image or the like notifying the support effect caused by the first input operation. The reproduction unit 112 may execute the above-mentioned various notifications by voice or the like.

In step S206, the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 receives the input information. The server processing unit 212 creates a support instruction based on the received input information. The data structure of the support instruction is not particularly limited as long as the control unit 410 of the game terminal 400 includes information necessary for realizing the support effect. For example, the distribution server 200 may store support information in the storage unit 220, which is information in which the type of the first input operation, that is, the type of the instruction in the viewing terminal 100 and the content of the distributor support are associated with each other. .. Then, by referring to the support information, the server processing unit 212 specifies the content of the support effect from the first input operation indicated by the input information. Then, the server processing unit 212 creates a support instruction indicating the content of the specified support effect.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a support instruction data structure created by the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200. The support instruction data shown in FIG. 9 indicates the support instruction created in response to the input information shown in FIG. 7. In the illustrated example, the support instruction includes a "support effect" column and an "effect size" column.

Information that defines the content of the support effect is stored in the "support effect" column. When the support effect is an effect that changes the numerical value of a predetermined in-game parameter related to the game, information indicating the parameter to be changed is stored in the "support effect" column. Further, when the fluctuation amount of the numerical value of the parameter is variable, the "support effect" column stores information indicating how the parameter is changed. The "support effect" column may include information indicating the amount of change in the parameter.

For example, in the illustrated example, in the information stored in the "Support Effect" column, it is stipulated that the in-game parameter of the quantity of possessed items called "bullets" in the game is "reloaded", that is, increased. There is. In the illustrated example, the number of bullets is assumed to be the variable x.

In the "effect size" column, information indicating the amount of change in a predetermined parameter related to the game, that is, the effect size of the support effect is stored. In the illustrated example, the effect size is fixed at 10, but the effect size may be defined, for example, depending on the amount of valuable data or the consumption of a particular item. Specifically, when two specific items are consumed, the effect size may be twice as much as when one is consumed. If the "support effect" column contains information indicating the amount of change in the parameter, the support instruction may not include the information in the "effect size" column.

The input information may include information that defines the content of the support effect. For example, even if the input information shown in FIG. 8 contains information shown in the "support effect" column and the "effect" column shown in FIG. 9 in place of or in addition to the information shown in the "instruction" column. good. In this case, the storage unit 120 of the viewing terminal 100 stores the support information. Further, the support instruction unit 115 specifies the content of the support effect corresponding to the first input operation, and creates input information including the content. In this case, the server processing unit 212 may transmit the received input information as it is to the game server 500 as a support instruction. Further, in this case, the support information may not be included in the distribution server 200.

The support instruction may include information indicating the type of the first input operation, not the content of the support effect. For example, instead of the information shown in the "support effect" column and the "effect" column shown in FIG. 9, the information indicated by the "instruction" column of the input information shown in FIG. 8 may be included. In this case, the storage unit 520 of the game server 500 or the storage unit 420 of the game terminal 400 stores the support information. Further, in either the game server 500 or the game terminal 400 that stores the support information, the content of the support effect corresponding to the first input operation is specified. When the game server 500 specifies the content of the support effect, the content is transmitted from the game server 500 to the game terminal 400. In this case, the distribution server 200 does not have to include the support information.

In step S208, the server processing unit 212 transmits the created support instruction to the game server 500.

In step S210, the game server 500 receives the support instruction.

In step S212, the game server 500 transmits a support instruction to the game terminal 400. That is, the game server 500 transfers the support instruction received from the distribution server 200 to the game terminal 400.

In step S214, the game progress unit 412 of the game terminal 400 receives a support instruction via the communication unit 414.

In step S216, the game progress unit 412 activates the support effect indicated by the support instruction in the ongoing game. Here, the game screen created by the display control unit 413 is transmitted to the distribution terminal 300 at any time. Therefore, the fact that the game progress unit 412 activates the support effect is reflected in the game screen transmitted to the distribution terminal 300.

In step S218, the display control unit 413 of the game terminal 400 transmits the game screen to the distribution terminal 300 via the communication unit 414.

In step S220, the distribution unit 312 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the game screen. The content creation unit 312B of the distribution terminal 300 creates the received game screen, that is, the content including the play screen of the game of the distributor, and distributes the content live via the distribution server 200. The reproduction unit 112 and the display control unit 113 display the reproduction screen including the content on the touch screen 15. As a result, the play screen after the support effect is activated is displayed on the touch screen 15 of the viewing terminal 100.

(Playback screen after the first input operation)
The state (B) in FIG. 7 shows the playback screen 800 after the input operation for the button 805 is performed. When the input operation for the button 805, that is, the first input operation is performed, the support instruction unit 115 reduces the valuable data or the specific item held by the viewer A by a predetermined amount. Then, in exchange for the consumption of valuable data or a specific item, the above-mentioned input information is created and transmitted to the distribution server 200.

For example, the support instruction unit 115 updates the viewer's valuable data or the holding amount of a specific item stored in the viewer information 132. The holding amount is referred to when the reproduction screen 800 is created by the reproduction unit 112 and the display control unit 113. Therefore, as shown in the state (B) of FIG. 7, the holding amount of valuable data or a specific item displayed in the column 807 of the reproduction screen 800 is also updated. In the illustrated example, the number of valuable data (gems) held by the viewer is reduced by 10.

The input information is transmitted from the support instruction unit 115 to the distribution server 200. Then, a support instruction is created in the distribution server 200, and the support effect is activated in the game terminal 400 of the game system 3 based on the support instruction.

This will increase the number of remaining bullets for the player, that is, the distributor, in the gun shooting game. In other words, the viewer A can use the valuable data to help the distributor reload the gun in the game by performing an input operation on the button 805. The game screen 802 of the playback screen 800 includes a column 802A indicating the remaining ammunition of the gun. In the illustrated example, the support effect increases the number of remaining ammunition of the gun by 10.

Further, as shown in the state (B) of FIG. 6, on the playback screen 800, a pop-up 808 notifying the amount of valuable data consumed by the input operation for the button 805 and the support effect caused by the input operation. May be displayed.

By the way, the distribution server 200 also executes step S222 when transmitting the support instruction in step S208.

In step S222, the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 transmits the input information to the distribution terminal 300.

In step S224, the distribution unit 312 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the input information. As a result, the distribution unit 312 can recognize that the distributor support has been provided.

In step S226, the notification unit 312C of the distribution unit 312 notifies the distributor that the distributor support has been made. When the input information includes the viewer name, it is preferable that the notification unit 312C notifies the viewer name of the viewer who provided the distributor support together with the notification that the distributor support has been performed.

The notification method in step S226 is not particularly limited. For example, the notification unit 312C may notify the distributor by voice that the distributor support has been made from the speaker of the distribution terminal 300. In addition, the notification unit 312C notifies that the distributor support has been made by displaying a pop-up image or the like indicating that the distributor support has been made on the distribution screen created and displayed by the distribution screen creation unit 312A. May be good.

In the above description, the processing of steps S222 to S226 has been described after the processing of steps S208 to S220. However, the processing order of the processing of step S208 and the processing of step S222 is not particularly limited. Further, step S208 and step S222 may be executed in parallel.

Therefore, the processing order of the processes of steps S210 to S220 and the processes of steps S224 to S226 is not particularly limited. For example, the distribution terminal 300 may notify the distributor of the support after receiving the game screen after the support effect is activated. That is, the process of step S226 may be executed after the process of step S200.

Further, in step S222, transmission of input information from the distribution server 200 to the distribution terminal 300 is not essential. For example, when the support effect is activated in step S216, the game terminal 400 may notify the distribution terminal 300 that the support effect has been activated. In this case, when the distribution terminal 300 receives the notification from the game terminal 400, the distribution terminal 300 performs the notification in step S226.

As described above, according to the support system 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to support the game play of the distributor in response to the first input operation for the viewing terminal 100. That is, the viewer can intervene in the game play of the distributor by performing the first input operation while watching the live distribution. Therefore, it is possible to improve the interest of the content.

<Content modification example>
In the above description, the game provided by the game system 3 is independent of the content distributed by the distribution system 2, and the game screen is captured by the distribution terminal 300 from the game terminal 400, so that the game screen becomes the content. It was decided to be included in.

However, the support system 1 may be a system in which the distribution system 2 and the game system 3 are integrated. For example, the distribution terminal 300 and the game terminal 400 are integrally configured, and the distribution screen creation unit 312A may collaborate with the game progress unit 412, the game server 500, and the like to create a game screen and distribution screen. good. Then, the distribution screen creation unit 312A may provide a game for the distributor or the distributor's avatar to play on the distribution screen in cooperation with the game progress unit 412, the game server 500, and the like. In this case, the game play screen included in the content is the content itself including the distributor's avatar.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the playback screen. The playback screen 900 shown in FIG. 10 displays content as a game screen, including the distributor's avatar 901. The playback screen 900 includes the distributor's avatar 901. Further, the reproduction screen 900 includes a button 905 for accepting the first input operation. In addition, the playback screen 900 includes

objects

902 and 908 related to the progress of the game, a column 907 indicating the amount of valuable data or a specific item held, and a button 904 for sending a message to the distributor. You may be.

The operation reception unit 111 receives a first input operation such as an input operation by touching the button 905 on the playback screen 900. Subsequent processing is the same as the above-mentioned processing. For example, the support system 1 may increase the remaining time in the illustrated game realized in the distribution terminal 300 as a support effect in response to the first input operation for the button 905.

[Embodiment 2]
The operation reception unit 111 of the viewing terminal 100 may accept a second input operation, which is an input operation instructing the viewer to send a message to the distributor. Further, when the control unit 110 of the viewing terminal 100 receives the second input operation, the control unit 110 may send a message to the distribution system 2. Further, the display control unit 113 includes a message transmitted from the viewing terminal 100 to the distribution system 2 together with the content and a UI object for receiving the first input operation on the touch screen 15, and other viewers other than the viewer. May display a message transmitted from another viewing terminal 100.

Further, the display control unit 113 may display the content and the UI object for accepting the first input operation as well as the UI object for accepting the second input operation on the touch screen 15. Hereinafter, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. The same description as that described in the first embodiment will not be repeated.

(Sending and displaying messages)
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a reproduction screen when a message is input and transmitted in the viewing terminal 100. In the following example, the playback screen 850 of the viewer's viewing terminal 100 in which the user name stored in the viewer information 132 is "A man", that is, the viewing terminal 100 of A man will be described as an example.

The state (A) in FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a playback screen 850 when the second input operation is accepted. The content creation unit 312B of the distribution terminal 300 according to the present embodiment creates content including the display area of the message from the viewer and distributes it live. A message from each viewing terminal 100 is displayed in the display area at any time.

The reproduction unit 112 of the viewing terminal 100 reproduces the content including the above-mentioned display area. Therefore, the reproduction screen includes a display area 810 for displaying a message from the viewer, as in the illustrated reproduction screen 850.

The display control unit 113 of the viewing terminal 100 reproduces the UI object 811 which is a software keyboard for inputting a message and the message input field 812 when the operation receiving unit 111 accepts a predetermined input operation of the viewer. Display on screen 850. The predetermined input operation is, for example, an input operation for the button 804 on the reproduction screen 800 shown in the state (B) of FIG.

The operation reception unit 111 of the viewing terminal 100 receives a second input operation, which is an input operation instructing the distributor to send a message. In the illustrated example, the second input operation is an input operation for confirming the input message, that is, an input operation for the enter button of the software keyboard 811. As shown in the figure, it is assumed that the input operation for the enter button of the software keyboard 811 is performed while "Do your best!" Is input in the input field 812. In this case, the control unit 110 reads out the viewer name stored in the viewer information 132, and distributes the viewer name and the confirmed message, that is, the information indicating the character string "Do your best!". It is transmitted to the distribution server 200 of the system 2.

The destination of the message is the distributor, but the content of the message itself is not particularly limited. For example, the content of the message may be an impression of the content, a reply comment to a comment of another viewer, or the like.

In this case, the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 receives the message and the viewer name from the viewing terminal 100 of the A man via the transmission / reception unit 211. The server processing unit 212 transfers the received viewer name and message to the distribution terminal 300.

The distribution unit 312 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the viewer name and the message from the distribution server 200. The content creation unit 312B includes the text character string of the message and the viewer name, the UI image, the game screen, and the avatar so that the message is displayed in the display area of the message in the content together with the message destination, that is, the viewer name. Synthesize the components of the content such as, and deliver it live.

The playback unit 112 of the viewing terminal 100 receives and plays back the live-delivered content. As a result, the reproduction screen 850 shown in the state (B) of FIG. 11 is displayed on the touch screen 15. The state (B) of FIG. 11 is a playback screen 850 of the viewing terminal 100 of the A man after the message “Do your best!” Shown in the state (A) of the figure is transmitted from the viewing terminal 100 of the A man. It is a figure which shows. For example, the message 810A and the user name (A man) who sent the message are displayed in association with each other in the display area 810 of the reproduction screen 850.

Since there may be a plurality of viewing terminals 100, the distribution server 200 of the distribution system 2 receives the viewer name and the message from the plurality of viewing terminals 100 and transfers them to the distribution terminal 300. Then, the content creation unit 312B of the distribution terminal 300 synthesizes the message and the viewer name with the components of other contents so that the messages are displayed in the display area together with the name of the viewer who sent the message. Create content. Therefore, for example, a message other than the message of the A man included in the content may be displayed on the reproduction screen 850 of the viewing terminal 100 of the A man.

In the state (C) of FIG. 11, the viewing terminal 100 of the A man is obtained when the B thick uses a viewing terminal 100 other than the viewing terminal 100 of the A man, that is, the viewing terminal 100 of the B thick is used to transmit a message. It is a figure which shows the reproduction screen 850 in. As shown in the figure, the viewing terminal 100 of the A man displays a reproduction screen 850 in which the message 810B transmitted by a viewer (thick B) other than the A man is displayed in the display area 810.

According to the above processing, the viewing terminal 100 indicates to the viewer a message instructed by the viewer to be transmitted and a message transmitted by a viewer other than the viewer from the other viewing terminal 100. be able to. In this way, by showing a message of another viewer to a certain viewer, it is possible to make the certain viewer recognize the existence of another person who is viewing the same content while viewing the content. For example, the A man who sees the reproduction screen 850 shown in the state (C) of FIG. 11 can recognize that the B thick is watching the same content. In addition, A man and B thick can talk with each other by sending messages to each other. This makes it possible for the viewer to experience that the content is being viewed by a plurality of people. In addition, since the viewer can react to the distributor or others with the message, the interest of the content is improved.

Note that the distribution screen creation unit 312A of the distribution terminal 300 may display the message received from the viewing terminal 100 and the name of the viewer who sent the message on the distribution screen. Alternatively, the distribution unit 312 may notify the distributor by voice of the content of the message received from the viewing terminal 100 and the viewer name via the speaker or the like of the distribution terminal 300.

This allows the distributor to recognize who sent what kind of message. Therefore, for example, as shown in the state (C) of FIG. 11, the message can be replied by voice 813 or the like. As a result, it is possible to activate the interaction between the viewer and the distributor, and the interest of the content is further improved.

(Flow of processing for support notification)
When the display control unit 113 of the viewing terminal 100 transmits a support instruction from the distribution system 2 to the game system 3 by the input information from the other viewing terminal 100, the display control unit 113 corresponds to another viewing terminal 100. The viewer may be notified of the name of the person and that the other viewer has supported the distributor's gameplay.

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of data transmission / reception between devices and a processing flow for notifying the viewer that another viewer has supported the game play of the distributor. In FIG. 12, as an example, the process flow when two viewers, A man and C assistant, are viewing the content using their respective viewing terminals 100, and C assistant executes the distributor support. Shows.

The processing of steps S300 to S326 in FIG. 12 is the same as the processing flow of steps S200 to S226 in FIG. However, in the example of FIG. 12, the viewing terminal 100 transmits the input information including the user ID and the viewer name to the distribution server 200. Further, in step S326, the notification unit 312C of the distribution terminal 300 notifies not only that the distributor support has been performed, but also the viewer name of the viewer who has provided the distributor support.

The distribution server 200 executes step S328 after transmitting the support instruction to the game server 500 in step S308 or after transmitting the input information to the distribution terminal 300 in step S322.

In step S328, the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 provided support contents and support to the viewing terminals 100 other than the viewing terminal 100 that is the transmission source of the input information among the viewing terminals 100 that are playing back the content. Notify the viewer name. For example, the server processing unit 212 sends the above-mentioned notification to the viewing terminal 100 other than the viewing terminal 100 associated with the user ID indicated by the received input information.

In the example of FIG. 12, the server processing unit 212 notifies the viewing terminal 100 of the A man of the support content and the name of the viewer who provided the support. The distribution server 200 may notify all the viewing terminals 100 that are playing the content of the support notification and the name of the viewer who provided the support.

In step S330, the control unit 110 of the viewing terminal 100 of the A man receives the notification from the distribution server 200.

In step S332, the display control unit 113 of the viewing terminal 100 of A man reflects the notification received in step S330 on the playback screen. The display control unit 113 creates, for example, a pop-up image showing the name of the C assistant who provided the distributor support and the content of the distributor support executed by the instruction of the C assistant, and superimposes and displays the pop-up image on the playback screen.

Note that, when the support effect is activated in step S216, the game terminal 400 may notify the distribution terminal 300 that the support effect has been activated. Further, when the distribution terminal 300 receives the notification from the game terminal 400, the distribution terminal 300 may transfer the notification to the distribution server 200. Then, when the server processing unit 212 of the distribution server 200 receives the notification in the transmission / reception unit 211, the server processing unit 212 may execute step S328. As a result, it is possible to notify each viewing terminal 100 of the support content and the like when the support effect is actually activated in the game. Therefore, even in each viewing terminal 100, when the support effect is actually activated in the game, the support content and the name of the account of the viewer who supported can be displayed on the playback screen.

(Display of support notification)
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a reproduction screen in the viewing terminal 100 when another viewing terminal 100 corresponding to another viewer executes distributor support. The reproduction screen 860 shown in the states (A) to (C) of FIG. 13 is a reproduction screen displayed on the viewing terminal 100 of the man A after the reproduction screen 850 shown in the state (C) of FIG.

The state (A) in FIG. 13 shows a playback screen when C assistant, who is another viewer, executes distributor support from the terminal of C assistant. As described with reference to FIG. 12, when the input information is transmitted from the viewing terminal 100 of C assistant to the distribution server 200, the distribution server 200 transmits a support instruction to the game server 500 and includes the viewing terminal 100 of A man. Notify the viewing terminal 100 of the name of the C assistant who instructed the support and the content of the support.

The display control unit 113 of the viewing terminal 100 of the A man creates a pop-up image 814 showing the name of the C assistant who provided the distributor support and the content of the support, and superimposes the pop-up image 814 on the playback screen. In this way, by indicating to a certain viewer that the support has been provided by another viewer, and to indicate the support content and the name of the supporter, the same content is viewed by the certain viewer who is viewing the content. It is possible to recognize the existence of others who are doing it. For example, in the example of the state (A) in FIG. 13, it is possible to make the A man recognize that the C assistant is watching the same content and has provided the distributor support. This makes it possible for the viewer to experience that the content is being viewed by a plurality of people. In addition, by making other viewers aware that one viewer has executed the distributor support, it is possible to arouse the competitiveness of the other viewers and encourage them to provide the distributor support.

Further, as described in step S326 of FIG. 12, the distributor is notified of the name of the viewer who executed the distributor support. As a result, as shown in the state (A) of FIG. 13, the distributor can return a response by voice 815 or the like to the viewer who has executed the distributor support. Furthermore, since the distributor can recognize the name of the viewer who has executed the distributor support, he / she can read the name and make a reply as in the illustrated voice 815.

The audio 815 is similarly distributed to all viewing terminals 100 as content. Therefore, when the distributor returns a response such as voice 815, C-assist can hear or see the response to himself / herself who supported the distributor by viewing the content. Therefore, C-suke can not only view the content but also interact with the distributor of the content in both directions. Therefore, the interest of the content is improved.

Further, a viewer other than C assistant, for example, A man, can recognize that the distributor picks up the name of C assistant and responds on his / her viewing terminal 100. In this way, by showing a certain viewer the interaction between the distributor and the other viewer, it is possible to encourage the certain viewer to be proactively involved in the content through the support of the distributor.

The state (B) of FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a playback screen of the viewing terminal 100 of the man A when the man A executes the distributor support after the state (A) of the figure. As shown in the figure, when the A man executes the distributor support, the fact that he / she has provided the support is displayed on the playback screen 860 as, for example, a pop-up 816. As in the case of C assistant, the distributor is notified of the name of the viewer who executed the distributor support, so that the distributor can also return a reply to the A man, for example, voice 817.

The state (C) in FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a playback screen on the viewing terminal 100 of the A man when C assistant further executes the distributor support after the state (B) in the figure. As shown in the figure, pop-

ups

814, 816, and 818 indicating that each viewer has performed distributor support may be displayed in chronological order on the playback screen 860. In the illustrated example, a pop-up indicating a new notification is displayed toward the bottom of the playback screen 860. The display control unit 113 may delete these pop-ups from the playback screen 860 after a certain period of time has elapsed.

Note that the viewing terminal 100 may notify the user, that is, the viewer, of the date and time when the distributor support is executed in step S304. Further, the distribution server 200 may transmit the date and time when the distributor support is provided to each viewing terminal 100 in step S328 of FIG. In this case, the distribution server 200 may specify the date and time when the distributor support is provided from the input information.

Then, each viewing terminal 100 may display the date and time when the distributor support was made on the playback screen 860 in step S332. For example, the display control unit 113 may display the pop-

ups

814, 816, and 818 shown in each figure of FIG. 13 including the date and time when the distributor support is performed.

Further, the distribution server 200 does not notify the viewing terminal 100 of the support content and the viewer name, and the content of the notification is not shown on the playback screen of the viewing terminal 100, but the content itself of the distribution terminal 300 is notified of the content of the notification. It may be delivered including the same contents as. For example, the distribution server 200 and the viewing terminal 100 do not have to execute steps S328 to S332 of FIG. In this case, the content creation unit 312B of the distribution terminal 300 sends a voice or image notification indicating the content of the notification received in step S326, that is, the name of the viewer who executed the distributor support and the content of the support. It may be included in the content. As a result, each viewing terminal 100 can reflect the above-mentioned notification on the reproduction screen by reproducing the content.

(Distributor screen)
The distribution system 2 may distribute the content including the avatar of the distributor and the play screen of the game played by the distributor using the game terminal 400 included in the game system 3 in real time. The distribution system 2 may receive input information based on the first input operation, including the viewer name associated with the viewing terminal 100, from one or more viewing terminals 100. The distribution system 2 may cause an effect of supporting the distributor in the game by transmitting the support instruction corresponding to the input information to the game system 3. Then, when the distribution system 2 receives the input information, the distribution system 2 may notify the distributor of the viewer name and the content of the support effect.

For example, when the communication unit 314 receives the input information, the distribution screen creation unit 312A of the distribution terminal 300 may show the viewer name included in the input information and the content of the support effect to the distributor on the distribution screen. good.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a distribution screen created by the distribution screen creation unit 312A. The illustrated distribution screen 950 shows a distribution screen when creating the content displayed on the reproduction screen 860 shown in the state (C) of FIG.

The distribution screen 950 includes, for example, the distributor's avatar 951 and the game play screen 952. The arrangement position, posture, facial expression, etc. of the avatar 951 may be displayed in the same manner as the display mode on the reproduction screen. As a result, the distributor can confirm how the avatar is displayed on the playback screen through the distribution screen 950.

Further, the distribution screen 950 may include, for example, a display area 960 for displaying a message from a viewer, and messages 960A and 960B transmitted from each viewer. Since the distribution server 200 and the distribution terminal 300 receive messages at any time during live distribution, messages are displayed in real time in the display area 960. As shown in the figure, the name of the viewer who sent the message may be added to each message.

Further, the distribution screen 950 may be provided with a display area 955 that displays the name of the viewer who executed the distributor support and the content of the support effect by the distributor support. The date and time when the distributor support was executed may also be written in the display area 955. As a result, the distributor can recognize that the distributor support has been performed, so that, for example, a response can be returned to the viewer who provided the distributor support. Therefore, the interaction between the viewer and the distributor is activated, and the interest of the content is improved.

Further, the distribution screen 950 may be provided with a column 953 that displays at least one of the number of viewers who are currently viewing the content and the total number of viewers of the content. Then, the number in column 953 may be updated in real time. As a result, the distributor can grasp the number of viewers viewing the content through the distribution screen 950.

Further, the distribution screen 950 may be provided with a column 954 that displays the amount of valuable data or a specific item consumed by the viewer of the content for the distributor support in the content. Then, the number in column 954 may be updated in real time. As a result, the distributor can grasp the implementation status of the distributor support from the quantitative viewpoint through the distribution screen 950.

[Embodiment 3]
The viewing terminal 100 according to the support system 1 may have a function as a game terminal. The "function as a game terminal" referred to here may be a function of realizing the same game as the game realized by the game terminal 400, or a function of realizing another game different from the game. May be good. Here, the "other game" may be, for example, a game provided in the viewing terminal 100 and which gives the viewer a reward according to the reception information of a GPS receiver (not shown), that is, the position information.

The support instruction unit 115 of the viewing terminal 100 according to the present embodiment accepts the first input operation in exchange for the consumption of valuable data or a specific item. Further, the control unit 110 of the viewing terminal 100 according to the present embodiment advances the same game as the game realized by the game terminal 400 or another game according to the input operation of the viewer. The control unit 110 further grants the viewer valuable data or specific items consumed to perform the first input operation, depending on the progress of the game or other game described above.

According to the above configuration, valuable data or specific items necessary for support can be given as a reward for the viewer playing a game or another game. In other words, viewers can secure valuable data or specific items needed to assist the distributor when viewing the content by playing the game or other game in advance before the content is scheduled to be distributed. Can be kept.

This allows the viewer to acquire valuable data or specific items to support the distributor's gameplay. Therefore, it is possible to make it easier for the viewer to support the game play of the distributor. This makes it possible to further activate the interaction between the viewer and the distributor. It can also motivate the viewer to play the game and other games.

[Embodiment 4]
The viewing terminal 100 may receive operation information indicating that the distributor has executed a predetermined operation from the distribution system 2. Further, the viewing terminal 100 may display a UI object for accepting the first input operation when the operation information is received. Alternatively, the viewing terminal 100 may enable acceptance of the first input operation for the above-mentioned UI object when the operation information is received.

Note that the specific example of the distributor's "predetermined operation" is not particularly limited. For example, the "predetermined operation" of the distributor may be an input operation for the distribution terminal 300, for example, an input operation related to the creation of content. For example, the predetermined operation may be an input operation performed by the distribution terminal 300 on the touch screen 35 or the like, or a voice input operation using the microphone 3010. When accepting a voice input operation, the control unit 310 recognizes the input voice by voice and specifies the operation content.

For example, when the game is the above-mentioned gun shooting game, when the distributor speaks to the microphone that "there is not enough bullets" as in the voice 700 of FIG. 5, the operation reception unit 311 of the distribution terminal 300 sends this. The reception and control unit 310 identifies the input operation corresponding to the voice by voice recognition. When the input operation corresponds to the above-mentioned predetermined input operation, the control unit 310 transmits operation information indicating that the predetermined operation has been executed to the distribution server 200.

Further, the "predetermined operation" of the distributor may be an operation performed by the distributor on the game terminal 400, that is, an input operation related to the progress of the game. For example, when the game is the above-mentioned gun shooting game, the input operation for determining the stage to be played may be the above-mentioned predetermined operation. Further, for example, when the game is an action game including a battle with an enemy, the input operation for selecting a predetermined chat icon in the game may be the above-mentioned predetermined operation. In these cases, the operation reception unit 411 of the game terminal 400 determines whether or not the received input operation is a predetermined operation. If it is not a predetermined operation, the game terminal 400 does not perform any special processing. On the other hand, in the case of a predetermined operation, the communication unit 414 of the game terminal 400 transmits operation information indicating that the distributor has executed the predetermined operation to the distribution terminal 300. When the communication unit 314 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the operation information, the communication unit 314 transfers the operation information to the distribution server 200.

When the transmission / reception unit 211 of the distribution server 200 receives the operation information, the operation information is transferred to the viewing terminal 100 during viewing the content. The communication unit 114 of the viewing terminal 100 receives the operation information. When the communication unit 114 receives the operation information, the display control unit 113 displays a UI object for accepting the first input operation, such as the

buttons

805 and 806 in FIG. 5, on the playback screen. Alternatively, the display control unit 113 enables acceptance of the first input operation for the UI object displayed on the playback screen.

Thereby, the distributor can control whether or not the first input operation in the viewing terminal 100, that is, the operation for supporting the distributor is accepted or not, by his / her own input operation. For example, the distributor can hide the

buttons

805 and 806, etc., or invalidate the reception of input operations during the period when the viewer does not want to intervene or when he / she wants the viewer to concentrate on viewing.

In addition, it is possible to control whether or not the operation for supporting the distributor can be accepted according to the input operation performed by the distributor in the game. Therefore, it is possible to receive distributor support at an appropriate timing.

Further, the viewer can easily determine the timing to support the distributor depending on whether the UI object is displayed or hidden, or whether the input operation for the UI object is accepted or not. Therefore, it is possible to further activate the distributor support by the viewer.

Note that there may be multiple types of predetermined operations of the distributor. Then, the display control unit 113 of the viewing terminal 100 may display a UI object corresponding to a predetermined operation type indicated by the operation information. Alternatively, the display control unit 113 may enable acceptance of the first input operation for the UI object corresponding to the type. For example, the

buttons

805 and 806 in FIG. 5 may be controlled to accept or reject a display or input operation according to different predetermined operations. As a result, when there are a plurality of types of distributor support methods, it is possible to separately control whether or not to accept them according to the operation of the distributor. Therefore, it is possible to have the viewer execute appropriate distributor support at a more appropriate timing.

[Embodiment 5]
The viewing terminal 100 may receive progress information indicating that the progress status of the game by the distributor has reached a predetermined status from the distribution system 2. Further, when the viewing terminal 100 receives the progress information, the viewing terminal 100 may display a UI object for accepting the first input operation. Alternatively, the viewing terminal 100 may enable acceptance of the first input operation for the above-mentioned UI object when the progress information is received.

In this case, the game progress unit 412 of the game terminal 400 determines whether or not the progress of the game has reached a predetermined situation, and if the predetermined situation is reached, information indicating that the predetermined situation has been reached. The progress information is created and transmitted to the distribution terminal 300.

The specific example of the above-mentioned "predetermined situation" is not particularly limited. For example, when the game is the above-mentioned gun shooting game, the game progress unit 412 progresses when the number of bullets possessed by the character operated by the distributor in the game, that is, the number of remaining bullets becomes a certain value or less. Information may be created and transmitted. Further, for example, when the game is an action game including a battle with an enemy, the game progress unit 412 creates and transmits progress information when the physical strength value of the character operated by the distributor becomes a certain value or less. May be good. Further, for example, the game progress unit 412 may create and transmit the progress information when a predetermined event is started in the game.

When the communication unit 314 of the distribution terminal 300 receives the progress information, the communication unit 314 transfers the progress information to the distribution server 200.

When the transmission / reception unit 211 of the distribution server 200 receives the progress information, the transmission / reception unit 211 transfers the progress information to the viewing terminal 100 during viewing the content. The communication unit 114 of the viewing terminal 100 receives progress information. When the communication unit 114 receives the progress information, the display control unit 113 displays a UI object for accepting the first input operation, such as the

buttons

Thereby, it is possible to control whether or not the operation for supporting the distributor can be accepted according to the situation of the game play by the distributor. Therefore, the distributor can receive the distributor support at an appropriate timing in the game play. In addition, the viewer can easily determine the timing to support the distributor depending on whether the UI object is displayed or hidden, or whether the input operation for the UI object is accepted or not. Therefore, it is possible to further activate the distributor support by the viewer.

[Embodiment 6]
<Game overview>
In the present embodiment, after the live distribution of the real-time content is completed, the once distributed content may be re-progressed. That is, even after the real-time live distribution is once completed, the user (viewer) of the viewing terminal 100 requests the progress of the completed live distribution part, and the live distribution is performed based on the received operation instruction data. You can replay the content again. As a result, the user can look back at the live stream again, and even if he / she misses it, he / she can watch the live stream again. In the following, it is assumed that the scene after the real-time streaming reproduction (live distribution part) of the content in step S126 shown in FIG. 4 is completed. Further, the character here is assumed to be a character operated by the distributor.

<Processing overview>
In the present embodiment, the viewing terminal 100 is configured to perform the following steps in order to improve the interest of the game based on the viewing program 131. Specifically, the viewing terminal 100 (computer) has a step of requesting the progress of a completed live distribution part via an operation unit such as an input unit 151, and has been completed from the server 200 or the distribution terminal 300. A step of receiving the recorded operation instruction data related to the live distribution part and a step of advancing the completed live distribution part by operating the character based on the recorded operation instruction data are executed. Here, the recorded operation instruction data includes motion data and voice data input by the distributor who operates the game terminal 400. The distributor includes not only a person who plays a game on the game terminal 400 but also a person who performs the movement indicated by the motion capture data or utters a voice (model 702), but does not include a viewer. The recorded operation instruction data is often stored in the storage unit 220 of the distribution server 200 or the storage unit 320 of the distribution terminal 300, and is distributed to the viewing terminal 110 again in response to a request from the viewing terminal 100. It is good to do it.

In the present embodiment, the progress of the completed live distribution part based on the recorded operation instruction data is different depending on the result of whether or not the user of the viewing terminal 100 has progressed the live distribution part in real time. Is good. Specifically, when it is determined that the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the same live distribution part as the user has advanced the live distribution part in real time is advanced again. Is good (return delivery). In return delivery, it is better to perform a selective progression of the live delivery part. On the other hand, when it is determined that the user does not have a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, it is preferable to advance the live distribution part in a progress mode different from the progress in real time (missed distribution). Here, if it is determined that there is no track record in the overlooked distribution, for example, the user has the right to receive the live distribution, and if the user has the live distribution time, the real-time live distribution part can proceed. Nevertheless, this includes cases where this was not actually done. For missed deliveries, it's a good idea to perform a limited progression of the live stream part.

<Functional configuration of support system 1>
In the viewing terminal 100 according to the present embodiment, when it is determined that the user (viewer) of the viewing terminal 100 has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the analysis unit 116 further sets the live distribution part. Receives and analyzes viewer behavior history information. The viewer behavior history information is a data set of viewer behavior records received by an input operation during the progress of the live distribution part, in addition to the contents of the recorded action instruction data. The viewer action history information is often associated with the recorded operation instruction data, and is preferably stored in the storage unit 220 of the distribution server 200 or the storage unit 320 of the distribution terminal 300. In addition to or instead of this, the viewer behavior history information may be stored in the storage unit 120 of the viewing terminal 100.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of viewer behavior history information. The viewer action history information includes, for example, items such as an action time, an action type, and an action detail in which the user has acted in the live distribution part, and is associated with a user ID that identifies the user of the viewing terminal 100. The item "behavior time" is the time information in which the user performed an action in the live distribution part, the item "behavior type" is a type indicating the user's action, and the item "behavior details" is the specific action of the user. Content. For example, for actions specified by the items "behavior type" and "behavior details", consumption of valuable data by user input operation (for example, throwing money and billing by purchasing items, etc.), comment input, and Actions such as changing items such as the character's clothing (so-called dress-up) may be included. In addition, such an action may include selection of a time for later playing back a specific progress portion of the live distribution part (for example, a recording operation of the specific progress portion). In addition to this, such actions may include the acquisition of rewards, points, etc. during the live distribution part. The viewer behavior history information is preferably associated with each other between the data structure of the game information described with reference to FIG. 15 and the data structure of the motion instruction data described with reference to FIG. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that these data structures are merely examples and are not limited thereto.

<Processing flow>
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a basic game progress of a game executed based on the game program according to the present embodiment. The processing flow is applied to the scenes after the end of the live distribution time when the real-time live distribution part has already been completed.

In step S401, the input unit 151 of the viewing terminal 100 newly requests the progress of the completed live distribution part. In step S302, in response to the request in step S401, the viewing terminal 100 receives the recorded operation instruction data related to the completed live distribution part from the distribution server 200 or the distribution terminal 300 (character control device).

The recorded action instruction data includes motion data and voice data input by the operator associated with the character. In addition to the recorded operation instruction data, the viewing terminal 100 may receive various progress record data acquired and recorded along with the movement of the character during the progress of the real-time live distribution part. Specifically, the progress record data may include viewer behavior data in which the user who participated in the real-time live distribution part behaves in accordance with the movement of the character. The viewer behavior data is data including a record of the behavior during the live of all the users (that is, the viewers who participated in the live) who have advanced the real-time live distribution part in real time. In particular, the viewer behavior data should include messaging content such as text messages and icons sent by the viewer to the character in real time during the live performance. In this way, by advancing the completed live distribution part using the progress record data, it is possible to faithfully reproduce the reaction of the viewer in the live distribution part that has progressed in real time, and it is possible to faithfully reproduce the reaction of the viewer in the live space in real time. The sense of presence can be further improved.

Note that the recorded operation instruction data and progress record data may be received by the viewing terminal 100 as separate data, and each may be analyzed (rendered). Alternatively, the distribution server 200 or the distribution terminal 300 may combine the previously recorded operation instruction data and the viewer behavior data, and the viewing terminal 100 may receive the combined data set at one time. By receiving the combined data set, it is possible to reduce the load of subsequent data analysis (rendering) by the viewing terminal 100. In the following description, it is assumed that the progress record data is combined with the recorded action order data (that is, the progress record data is included in the recorded action order data).

Next, in step S403, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time. The determination may be performed, for example, with reference to the item "destination" shown in FIG. 16 based on whether there is a record in which the operation instruction data is transmitted to the viewing terminal 100. Alternatively, it may be executed based on whether or not there is a record of live distribution from the character in the past with reference to the item "delivery history" shown in FIG. In addition to this, when the operation instruction data already recorded is stored in the storage unit 120 of the viewing terminal 100, it may be determined that the live distribution part has already been advanced in real time. In addition, the determination may be performed by combining them, or by any other method.

If it is determined in step S403 that the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time (YES), the progress of the completed live distribution part is "return distribution". On the other hand, when it is determined in step S403 that the user has no record of progressing the live distribution part in real time (NO), the progress of the completed live distribution part is "missed distribution". As mentioned above, the user experience is different between "return delivery" and "missed delivery".

If it is determined in step S403 that the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the processing flow proceeds from YES in step S303 to step S404. In step S404, the analysis unit 116 acquires the viewer behavior history information of the live distribution part shown in FIG. 17 and analyzes it. The viewer behavior history information may be acquired from the distribution server 200 or the distribution terminal 300, or may be used directly when it is already stored in the storage unit 120 of the viewing terminal 100.

(Endpaper delivery)
Subsequently, in step S405, the control unit 110 re-progresses the completed live distribution part (that is, the above-mentioned “return distribution”). Specifically, the live distribution part is re-progressed using the recorded operation instruction data and the viewer action history information analyzed in step S404. Further, in the return distribution, the throwing item input in the real-time live distribution part may be reflected in the operation mode of the character. For example, if the viewer puts in a clothing item (here, a "necklace") in the livestreaming part, the character is actuated based on that item (ie, wearing a necklace). As a result, the live distribution part may be re-progressed. That is, the re-progress of the live distribution part reflects the viewer behavior history information and the reward information, is similar to the live distribution part that has progressed in real time, and is unique to the viewer.

Further, in the return distribution, the re-progress of the live distribution part is selectively executed according to the time information specified by the user's input operation of the viewing terminal 100 via the operation unit, which was recorded when the live distribution part was first advanced. It should be done. Specifically, by using the data of "action time" included in the viewer action history information described with reference to FIG. 17, the user specifies a specific action time, and the live distribution part is selectively advanced from there. Can be made to. For example, if the user inputs a comment 2 minutes and 45 seconds after the start of the live distribution part, the user can advance the live distribution part again by specifying the timing 2 minutes and 45 seconds later. .. In addition to the above-mentioned record of comment input, such re-progress is "action time" corresponding to the consumption of valuable data by the user's input operation and the record of actions such as change of items such as character's clothing. It is better to make it feasible based on.

Further, in the return distribution, if the user of the viewing terminal 100 has selected a specific progress part by an input operation between the live distribution parts progressed in real time, the selected specific in the re-progress of the live distribution part. Only the progressing part can be selectively advanced. As a result, the user can efficiently play back only the specific progress part of the live distribution part later. Specifically, when the user selects a specific progress part and a record of such an action is registered in the user action history information, the live distribution part is selectively progressed by using the data of the action time. Can be made to. For example, if the user has selected a period of 2 minutes 45 seconds to 5 minutes 10 seconds from the start of the live distribution part, the user can re-progress the live distribution part over that period.

Also, in the return distribution, unlike the live distribution part that progressed in real time, it is better to limit the actions of the viewers that can be accepted. Specifically, in the live distribution part that progressed in real time, consumption of valuable data by the input operation of the viewer (in one example, throwing money, billing by purchasing items, etc.) could be accepted. On the other hand, in the re-progress of the completed live distribution part, the consumption of such valuable data may be restricted so as not to be accepted. More specifically, in the live distribution part progressed in real time, a user interface (UI) including a button and a screen for executing the consumption of valuable data was displayed on the display unit 152. Then, the viewer could execute the consumption of valuable data through such an input operation with the UI. On the other hand, in the return delivery, such a UI should be hidden so that the viewer cannot explicitly perform the input operation. In other words, in the real-time live distribution part, it is possible to support the distributor, while in the return distribution, it is not possible to support the distributor. In the live distribution part in real time, the viewer can support the distributor in real time, and can perform operations that are more interesting than the return distribution and the overlooked distribution. Therefore, it is possible to give the user an incentive to watch the real-time live distribution, and as a result, guide the user to the real-time live distribution.

(Missed delivery)
Returning to FIG. 18, if it is determined in step S403 that the user of the viewing terminal 100 has no record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the processing flow proceeds from NO in step S403 to step S406. In step S406, the control unit 110 performs a limited progression of the completed livestreaming part (ie, the "missed delivery" described above). The reason why the missed delivery is restricted is that the user has the right to receive the live stream, but it can be considered that he has waived this right, so not all of the live stream is necessarily limited. Based on the idea that it is not necessary to reproduce and present it to the user.

Specifically, in the overlooked distribution, the progress of the live distribution part is executed using the recorded operation instruction data. As mentioned above, if the user earns a reward as an item (“necklace”) through the scenario associated with the story part, the character will wear and act on that item in the livestream part that progresses in real time. The image was combined. That is, the movement mode of the character was associated with the reward. However, in the overlooked distribution, unlike the live distribution part that progresses in real time, the reward is not associated with the movement mode of the character. That is, the image composition process in which the character wears the item and operates it is not performed. That is, the progress of the completed livestreaming part is limited in that it does not reflect the reward information and is not unique to the user.

According to the above-mentioned configuration and method, in the return distribution, the thrown money item input in the real-time live distribution part can be reflected in the movement mode of the character. On the other hand, in the overlooked distribution, the thrown money item input in the real-time live distribution part is not reflected in the movement mode of the character. In other words, in the return delivery, it is possible to deliver an image that is more interesting than the overlooked delivery. Therefore, it is possible to give the user an incentive to watch the retrospective distribution rather than the overlooked distribution, and as a result, guide the user to the real-time live distribution.

Also, in the overlooked distribution, unlike the live distribution part that progressed in real time, it is better to limit the actions of the users that can be accepted. Specifically, in the live distribution part that progressed in real time, it was possible to accept the consumption of valuable data by the user's input operation (in one example, throwing money, charging by purchasing items, etc.). On the other hand, in the progress of the completed live distribution part, the consumption of such valuable data may be restricted so as not to be accepted. More specifically, in the live distribution part progressed in real time, a user interface (UI) including a button and a screen for executing the consumption of valuable data was displayed on the display unit 152. Then, the user could execute the consumption of valuable data through such an input operation in the UI. On the other hand, in the overlooked delivery, such a UI should be hidden so that the user cannot explicitly perform an input operation.

Further, in the return distribution and the overlooked distribution, the user of the viewing terminal 100 can participate in the live distribution part or the like, as in the live distribution part or the like that progresses in real time. The live distribution part and the like include (but is not limited to) a user-participatory event as described in the first embodiment, and the user is provided with an interactive experience with the avatar object. Examples of user-participation-type events include questionnaires provided by characters, quizzes given by avatar objects, battles with avatar objects (for example, junken games, bigo games), and the like. Then, as in the case of live distribution in real time, the participation result of such a user participation type event is fed back to the user in the overlooked distribution. For example, in the return delivery, when the user participates in and answers the event of the four-choice quiz given by the avatar object, the result of the correctness determination is fed back to the user. (However, if a user who did not participate in the live in real time answered a questionnaire or quiz in the missed delivery, or if a feedback delivery that participated in the live in real time gave a different answer than during the live participation, these users Although the content of the answer is not reflected, the program may automatically make only a simple judgment (correctness judgment, etc.) and give feedback.) Also, in the return delivery, the user is different from the one during live participation. When an answer is given, a display such as "The answer is different from that during the live" may be displayed and output to the user terminal by comparing with the answer of the user who is participating in the live.

Also, in the overlooked distribution, unlike the live distribution part that progresses in real time, the user may be restricted from earning a predetermined game point for the above feedback. Specifically, in a live distribution part that progresses in real time, as a result of the user playing a specific scenario, predetermined game points may be associated with the user and added to the points owned by the user. On the other hand, in the progress of the completed live distribution part, such points may not be associated with the user. As a result of not adding the points owned by the user, for example, in the case of a game in which a plurality of users who are game players are ranked based on the points, when the user advances the completed live distribution part, this is the case. It will not affect the ranking.

After the end of the return distribution (step S405) or the overlooked distribution (step S406), the viewing terminal 100 may request the progress of the completed second part (live distribution part) again. That is, it is preferable that the return delivery or the missed delivery can be repeatedly executed a plurality of times. In this case, the processing flow returns to step S401.

According to the above configuration and method, in the viewing terminal 100, even after the live distribution part has progressed in real time, the user can proceed with the live distribution part again in various modes. As a result, the user becomes more attached to the character through the experience of realistic interaction with the character, so that another part that operates the character can be played with even more interest. can. As a result, it has the effect of increasing the immersive feeling of the game and improving the interest of the game.

<Modification 1>
In the above embodiment 63, whether the progress of the completed live distribution part is a return distribution or a missed distribution is determined based on whether or not the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time. (Step S403 in FIG. 18). On the other hand, in the first modification of the present embodiment, the user may be configured to select the return delivery or the overlooked delivery. Alternatively, regardless of the presence or absence of the above achievements, only the overlooked delivery may be provided to the user. Alternatively, regardless of the presence or absence of the above achievements, only the overlooked delivery may be provided to the user.

<Modification 2>
In the sixth embodiment, after the end of the return distribution (step S405 in FIG. 18) or the overlooked distribution (step S406 in FIG. 18), the progress of the completed second part (live distribution part) may be requested again. And said. That is, the return delivery or the missed delivery could be repeatedly executed a plurality of times. In the second modification, it is preferable that the second and subsequent return delivery or missed delivery correspond to the record of the previous return delivery or missed delivery.

When the first return distribution or the overlooked distribution is performed, the first distribution history data is stored in the storage unit 220 of the distribution server 200 or the storage unit 320 of the distribution terminal 300. After that, when the recorded operation instruction data related to the completed live distribution part is requested again from the viewing terminal 100, the first distribution history data is recorded from the distribution server 200 or the distribution terminal 300 (character control device). It is delivered together with the completed action instruction data. The viewing terminal 100 refers to the received first distribution history data, and if the first return distribution or the overlooked distribution is performed halfway, the viewing terminal 100 will perform the second return distribution or the second return distribution from the continuation. Resume the progress of overlooked delivery. As a result, the viewer can efficiently perform the look-back delivery or the missed delivery.

If the first delivery is a return delivery, the return delivery should be executed from the second time onward, and if the first delivery is a missed delivery, the missed delivery should be executed from the second time onward. Further, when the recorded operation instruction data already exists in the viewing terminal 100, the viewing terminal 100 may not receive the recorded operation instruction data again. As a result, the amount of data received by the viewing terminal 100 can be saved.

<Modification 3>
In the sixth embodiment, whether the progress of the completed live distribution part is a return distribution or a missed distribution is determined according to the actual result of the user of the viewing terminal 100 advancing the live distribution part in real time. (Step S403 in FIG. 18). In the third modification, when it is determined that the user has progressed the live distribution part halfway in real time, it is preferable to restart the progress of the completed live distribution part from the continuation. The record of how far the user has advanced the live distribution part in real time can be determined from the viewer behavior history information described above in FIG. That is, the viewer behavior history information records how long the user has progressed with respect to a specific live distribution part. Although not limited to this, the resumption of the completed live distribution part should be a missed distribution, which is a limited progress. As a result, the user can efficiently execute the overlooked delivery.

[Other variants]
In the above embodiment, the button 805 or the like for receiving the support instruction to the distributor from the user of the viewing terminal 100 is displayed so as to be superimposed on the content received by the viewing terminal 100. In addition to this, the support instruction may be given in response to the user of the viewing terminal 100 performing a touch operation or the like on the object in the game screen displayed on the viewing terminal 100. For example, the distribution terminal 300 presses (1) the motion capture data of the distributor and (2) the data of the operation contents performed by the distributor on the game terminal 400 (for example, a predetermined button of the game controller) via the distribution server 200. The data of the progress of the game (which quest is being played, etc.), (3) the voice 700 emitted by the distributor, and the like are transmitted to the viewing terminal 100. The viewing terminal 100 operates the distributor's avatar 801 based on (1) the distributor's motion capture data sequentially received from the distribution terminal 300. The distributor's avatar 801 is placed in the virtual space and rendered in real time based on the motion capture data. Further, the viewing terminal 100 holds an emulator program for operating a game program equivalent to the game program 431 operating on the game terminal 400. In the viewing terminal 100, (2) the game play status of the distributor can be reproduced in real time based on the data of the operation content performed by the distributor on the game terminal 400 and the data of the progress status of the game of the distributor. The reproduced result can be displayed on the touch screen or the like of the viewing terminal 100. Therefore, the viewing terminal 100 can specify which object in the game screen is designated by the user of the viewing terminal 100 based on the user's operation on a pointing device such as a touch screen. The viewing terminal 100 transmits the information of the object specified by the user to the game server 500 via the distribution server 200. Here, it may be assumed that the effect of the support instruction is associated with each object that can be specified by the user. For example, in the example of FIG. 11, by detecting the touch operation of the user of the viewing terminal 100 on the column 802A, the support effect of replenishing the remaining bullets can be reflected in the game. In addition, by detecting the touch operation of the user of the viewing terminal 100 on the physical strength bar in the game screen, the support effect of recovering the physical strength can be reflected in the game. In addition, by detecting the touch operation on the avatar 801 it may be possible to exert a predetermined support effect.
Further, the game played by the distributor may be a single-player game. It is possible to support the distributor by performing predetermined actions (for example, recovery operation, replenishment operation of remaining bullets, etc.) that the distributor can perform in a single-player game on behalf of the distributor.

<Example of display screen of viewing terminal 100>
FIG. 19 shows an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 152 of the viewing terminal 100 based on the game program according to the present embodiment, and an example of a transition between these screens. Examples of screens include a home screen 900A, a live selection screen 900B for live distribution, and a missed selection screen 900C for missed distribution. In the transition example, the transition from the home screen 900A to the live selection screen 900B is possible. Further, the live selection screen 900B can be transitioned to the home screen 900A and the overlooked selection screen 900C. Similarly, it is possible to transition from the overlooked selection screen 900C to the live selection screen 900B. The actual distribution screen (not shown) is transitioned from the live selection screen 900B and the overlooked selection screen 900C.

(Home Screen)
The home screen 900A displays various menus for advancing the live distribution part on the display unit 152 of the viewing terminal 100. When the control unit 110 receives an input operation for starting the game, the control unit 110 first displays the home screen 900A. Specifically, the home screen 900A includes a "live" icon 902 for transitioning to the live selection screen 900B. Upon receiving an input operation for the "live" icon 902 on the home screen 900A, the control unit 110 causes the display unit 152 to display the live selection screen 900B.

(Live selection screen)
The live selection screen 900B presents live information that can be distributed to the user. In particular, a list of one or more live notification information for notifying the user of the live distribution time and the like in advance is displayed. The live announcement information includes at least the live delivery date and time. Further, the live announcement information may include free / paid live information, an advertisement image including an image of a character appearing in the live, and the like. Further, the live selection screen 900B may display the notification information regarding the live distribution to be distributed in the near future on the live selection screen on the pop-up screen 906.

At the live distribution time, the server 200 searches for one or more viewing terminals 100 that have the right to receive live distribution. The right to receive livestreaming is conditioned on the fact that the consideration for receiving livestreaming has been paid (for example, holding a ticket). The corresponding live notification information will be displayed on the viewing terminal 100 that has the right to receive the live distribution.

The viewing terminal 100 accepts a live playback operation, for example, a selection operation for a live that has reached the live distribution time on the live selection screen 900B (more specifically, a touch operation for a live image). Accordingly, the control unit 110 shifts the display unit 152 to the actual distribution screen (not shown). As a result, the viewing terminal 100 can advance the live distribution part and advance the live viewing process in real time. When the live viewing process is executed, the moving image reproduction unit 117 operates the character in the live distribution part based on the received operation instruction data. The moving image reproduction unit 117 generates a moving image reproduction screen (for example, the reproduction screen 800 of FIG. 11) including a character that operates based on the operation instruction data in the live distribution part, and displays it on the display unit 152.

Further, the live selection screen 900B has a "return (x)" icon 908 for transitioning to the screen displayed immediately before and a "missing delivery" icon 910 for transitioning to the missed selection screen 800C on the display unit 152. It may be displayed. Here, the control unit 110 transitions the screen 900B to the home screen 800A in response to an input operation for the “return (x)” icon 908 on the live selection screen 900B. On the other hand, for the input operation for the missed distribution icon 910 on the live selection screen 900B, the control unit 110 shifts to the missed selection screen 900C on the screen 900B.

(Missing selection screen)
The overlook selection screen 900C displays, among the delivered information about one or more live delivered in the past, the delivered information that the user has not made the live delivery part progress in real time. When the input unit 151 of the viewing terminal 100 receives an input operation for the live distribution information displayed on the overlooked selection screen 900C, for example, the image 930 including the character appearing in the live, the control unit 110 receives the input operation for the image 930 including the character appearing in the live. You can proceed with the livestreaming part that has already been completed.

As shown in the example of the overlook selection screen 900C, the delivered information about the live is further delivered with the playback time 912 of each delivered live, the period until the end of delivery (days, etc.) 914, and how many days before the present. Information 916 indicating whether or not it has been done, past delivery date and time, and the like may be included. Further, the overlooked selection screen 900C includes a "back (<)" icon 918 for transitioning to the live selection screen 900B. In response to the input operation for the "return (<)" icon 918, the control unit 110 transitions to the live selection screen 900B.

In the present embodiment, the overlooked selection screen 900C is not limited to this, but it is preferable that the transition is made only from the live selection screen 900B and not directly from the home screen 900A. The missed distribution is performed for the user who missed the live distribution, and is only a function accompanying the live distribution function. In addition, one of the purposes of this game is to enhance the fun of the game by allowing the user to watch the live distribution in real time, support the character in real time, and deepen the interaction with the character. For this reason, in order to guide the user to watch the live distribution in real time rather than the overlooked distribution that cannot interact with the character in real time, here, the home screen 900A cannot be directly transitioned to the overlooked selection screen 900C. Is good.

In addition, on the overlooked selection screen 900C, the delivered information that the user has not made the live distribution part in real time is displayed. Instead of this, the delivered information about all the live delivered in the past may be displayed in a list for each live. In this case, it is preferable that either the return delivery or the missed delivery is executed depending on whether or not the user has progressed the live delivery part in real time. Specifically, when it is determined that the user has a track record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the above-mentioned return distribution is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has no record of advancing the live distribution part in real time, the distribution will be overlooked. Return delivery and missed delivery can provide different user experiences.

[Example of implementation by software]
Each control block of the

control units

110, 210, 310, 410, and 510 may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, or a CPU (Central Processing Unit) may be realized. It may be realized by software using it.

In the latter case, the information processing device provided with at least one of the

control units

110, 210, 310, 410, and 510 is a CPU that executes an instruction of a program that is software that realizes each function, and the above program and various data are computers. It is equipped with a ROM (ReadOnlyMemory) or a storage device (these are referred to as "recording media") readable by (or a CPU), a RAM (RandomAccessMemory) for expanding the above program, and the like. Then, the object of the present invention is achieved by the computer (or CPU) reading the program from the recording medium and executing the program. As the recording medium, a "non-temporary tangible medium", for example, a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, or the like can be used. Further, the program may be supplied to the computer via any transmission medium (communication network, broadcast wave, etc.) capable of transmitting the program. It should be noted that one aspect of the present invention can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the above program is embodied by electronic transmission.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and the embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in the different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[Additional notes]
The contents relating to one aspect of the present invention are listed below.

(Appendix 1)
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, it is a viewing method executed by a computer as a viewing terminal (100) including a processor (10) and a memory (11), and is distributed to the processor in real time by using a distribution system. It is a step of receiving the content to be received, and receives the content including the avatar of the distributor of the content and the play screen of the game played by the distributor using the game terminal included in the game system. A step (step S118), a first reproduction step (step S120) for reproducing the content, and a step (step S200) for accepting a first input operation of a viewer who is viewing the content using the viewing terminal. ) And, when the first input operation is accepted, the input information corresponding to the first input operation is transmitted to the distribution system, so that the distribution system can send the game system to the game system in the game. A step of transmitting a support instruction, which is an instruction for inducing an effect of supporting the distributor (step S202), a step of accepting a request for replaying the content after the end of the first playback step, and the above-mentioned step. When a request is received, a method is provided in which the character is operated to execute a second reproduction step of executing the reproduction of the content again.

(Appendix 2)
In Appendix 1, the second reproduction step is executed based on the recording of the action by the input operation of the viewer.

(Appendix 3)
In Appendix 2, the record of the action includes time information, and the second reproduction step follows the designation of time information by the viewer's input operation via the operation unit during the first reproduction step. ..

(Appendix 4)
In Appendix 2 or 3, the action comprises selecting a specific progress portion by an input operation of the viewer via the operation unit during the first reproduction step, and in the progress of the second reproduction step. , Only the selected progress of the specific progress portion is executed.

(Appendix 5)
In any of the appendices 2 to 4, in the progress of the second reproduction step, the support is an instruction from the distribution system to the game system to induce an effect of supporting the distributor in the game. Instructions cannot be sent.

(Appendix 6)
According to certain aspects of the disclosure, a first set of steps performed by a computer as a user's viewing terminal, comprising a first processor and a first memory, the first processor comprising a distribution system. Receives content that is distributed in real time using the content, including the avatar of the distributor of the content and the play screen of the game being played by the distributor using the game terminal included in the game system. A step of receiving the first input operation, a step of accepting the first input operation of a viewer viewing the content using the viewing terminal, and a step of accepting the first input operation, the first step. (1) Support that is an instruction for causing the effect of supporting the distributor in the game from the distribution system to the game system by transmitting the input information corresponding to the input operation to the distribution system. A viewing terminal of a user other than the viewer who has viewed the content delivered in real time by the real-time delivery, including a step of transmitting an instruction, a first step group for executing the operation, a second processor, and a second memory. The second step group executed by the computer as described above, the step of receiving the recorded operation instruction data from the external device to the second processor after the execution of the first step group. By operating the avatar based on the steps and the action instruction data, the action instruction data includes motion data and voice data input by the distributor associated with the avatar that is not the target of direct operation by the user. Provided is a method including a step of executing reproduction of the delivered content realized by the first step group, and a second step group of executing the reproduction of the delivered content.

(Appendix 7)
In Appendix 6, during the reproduction of the distributed content, an instruction for causing the distribution system to cause the game system to have an effect of supporting the distributor in the game by using the viewing terminal. I cannot send the support instruction.

(Appendix 8)
In Appendix 6 or 7, between the delivery of the real-time content, the operation mode of the avatar can be associated with a support instruction which is an instruction for inducing an effect of supporting the distributor, and the delivered. During the reproduction of the content distribution, the operation mode of the avatar is not associated with the support instruction.

(Appendix 9)
In any of Appendix 6-8, during the delivery of the real-time content, points can be associated with the play result of the scenario associated with the live delivery part, during the playback of the delivery of the delivered content. The point is not associated with the result of the play.

(Appendix 10)
In any of the appendices 1 to 9, the viewing terminal further includes a display unit, and the display unit is transitioned from the first screen for displaying a menu for advancing the live distribution part and the first screen for distribution. A second screen for displaying possible live information and a third screen for displaying information about live delivered in the past can be displayed, and the third screen is a transition from the second screen. It is configured so that the transition is not made from the first screen.

(Appendix 11)
In Appendix 10, when the processor further accepts an input operation by the user for the second screen, the processor executes a step of transitioning from the second screen to the third screen.

(Appendix 12)
It is a computer-readable medium that stores computer-executable instructions, and when the computer-executable instruction is executed, the processor is made to execute any of the methods of the appendices 1 to 11.

(Appendix 13)
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a computer system including a first information processing apparatus and a second information processing apparatus, wherein the first information processing apparatus is the first step according to Appendix 6. It comprises a first memory for recording a first program including a group, and a first processor for controlling the operation of the first information processing apparatus by executing the first program.
The second information processing unit has a second memory for recording a second program including the second step group described in Appendix 6, and the second information by executing the second program. Provided is a computer system including a second processor that controls the operation of a processing device.

(Appendix 14)
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing apparatus is provided with a second memory for recording a second program including the second step group described in Appendix 6, and by executing the second program. Provided is an information processing apparatus including a second processor for controlling the operation of the second information processing apparatus.

1 Support system, 2 Distribution system, 3 Game system, 4 Network, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 Processor, 11,21,31,41,51 Memory, 12,22,32,42,52 Storage, 15, 35,45 touch screen, 48 distance measuring sensor, 47 camera, 100 viewing terminal, 110,210,310,410,510 control unit, 111,311,411 operation reception unit, 112 playback unit, 113,313,413 display control Unit, 114,314,414 Communication unit, 115 Support instruction unit, 120,220,320,420,520 Storage unit, 431 game program, 131 viewing program, 132 viewer information, 332 distributor information, 151,351,451 Input unit, 152,352,452 Display unit, 200 distribution server, 211,511 transmission / reception unit, 212,512 server processing unit, 213,513 data management unit, 231,331 distribution program, 300 distribution terminal, 312 distribution unit, 312A Distribution screen creation unit, 312B content creation unit, 312C notification unit, 400 game terminal, 412 game progress unit, 432 game information, 433 user information, 500 game server, 1020, 3030, 4020 controller, 1030, 4030 storage medium, 3010 microphone , 3020 Motion capture device, 4010 Object, 13,23,33,43,53 Communication IF, 14,24,34,44,54 Input / output IF

Claims

A viewing method performed by a computer as a viewing terminal, comprising a processor and memory, the processor.
A step of receiving content delivered in real time using a distribution system, which is a play screen of a game played by the distributor using the avatar of the distributor of the content and a game terminal included in the game system. And the steps to receive content, including
The first reproduction step of reproducing the content and
A step of accepting a first input operation of a viewer who is viewing the content using the viewing terminal, and
When the first input operation is accepted, by transmitting the input information corresponding to the first input operation to the distribution system, the distribution system sends the distributor to the game system in the game. A step to send a support instruction, which is an instruction to cause a support effect, and
After the end of the first reproduction step, a step of accepting a request for reproduction of the content again, and
Upon receiving the request, the second reproduction step of executing the reproduction of the content again by operating the character, and
How to get it done.
The method according to claim 1.
The method, wherein the second reproduction step is executed based on the recording of the action by the input operation of the viewer.
The method according to claim 2, wherein the record of the action includes time information.
The second reproduction step is a method according to the designation of time information by the input operation of the viewer via the operation unit during the first reproduction step.
In the method according to claim 2 or 3.
The action comprises selecting a specific progress portion by the viewer's input operation via the operation unit during the first reproduction step.
A method in which, in the progress of the second regeneration step, the progress of only the selected specific progress portion is executed.
In the method according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
A method in which, in the progress of the second reproduction step, a support instruction, which is an instruction for inducing an effect of supporting the distributor in the game, cannot be transmitted from the distribution system to the game system.
A first set of steps performed by a computer as a user's viewing terminal, comprising a first processor and a first memory, to the first processor.
Content delivered in real time using a distribution system, including an avatar of the distributor of the content and a play screen of a game played by the distributor using a game terminal included in the game system. Steps to receive content and
The step of playing the content and
A step of accepting a first input operation of a viewer who is viewing the content using the viewing terminal, and
When the first input operation is accepted, by transmitting the input information corresponding to the first input operation to the distribution system, the distribution system sends the distributor to the game system in the game. A step of transmitting a support instruction, which is an instruction for inducing a support effect, and a first step group of executing the support instruction.
A second group of steps performed by a computer as a viewing terminal for a user other than the viewer who has viewed the content delivered in real time, comprising a second processor and a second memory. After executing the first step group, the second processor
A step of receiving recorded action instruction data from an external device, wherein the action instruction data includes motion data and voice data input by a distributor associated with the avatar that is not the target of direct operation by the user. Steps and
A second step group for executing the step of executing the reproduction of the delivered content realized by the first step group by operating the avatar based on the operation instruction data, and a second step group for executing the step.
Including, how.
The method according to claim 6.
During the reproduction of the distributed content, the distribution system uses the viewing terminal to cause the game system to have an effect of supporting the distributor in the game. Can't send, how.
In the method according to claim 6 or 7.
During the delivery of real-time content, the behavior of the avatar can be associated with support instructions, which are instructions for inducing an effect that assists the distributor.
A method in which the support instruction is not associated with the behavioral mode of the avatar during the reproduction of the delivery of the delivered content.
In the method according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
During the delivery of the real-time content, points can be associated with the result of playing the scenario associated with the live delivery part.
A method in which the points are not associated with the result of the play during the reproduction of the delivery of the delivered content.
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the viewing terminal further includes a display unit, and the display unit includes the display unit.
To display the first screen that displays the menu for advancing the live distribution part, the second screen that displays the live information that can be distributed by transitioning from the first screen, and the information about the live that was distributed in the past. It is configured to be able to display the third screen of
A method in which the third screen is configured to be transitioned from the second screen and not transitioned from the first screen.
The method according to claim 10, further to the processor.
A method of executing a step of transitioning from the second screen to the third screen when an input operation by a user for the second screen is accepted.
A computer-readable medium in which a computer-executable instruction is stored, and when the computer-executable instruction is executed, the computer-readable medium causes the processor to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11. ..
A computer system including a first information processing device and a second information processing device.
The first information processing device is
A first memory for recording the first program including the first step group according to claim 6.
A first processor that controls the operation of the first information processing apparatus by executing the first program is provided.
The second information processing device is
A second memory for recording the second program including the second step group according to claim 6.
A second processor that controls the operation of the second information processing apparatus by executing the second program.
Computer system.
It is an information processing device
A second memory for recording the second program including the second step group according to claim 6.
A second processor that controls the operation of the second information processing apparatus by executing the second program.
Information processing equipment.