WO2024048315A1

WO2024048315A1 - Program and system

Info

Publication number: WO2024048315A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/029777
Authority: WO
Inventors: 純希澤田; 秀太中前
Original assignee: 株式会社コロプラ
Priority date: 2022-09-01
Filing date: 2023-08-18
Publication date: 2024-03-07
Also published as: JP2024034640A

Abstract

This game system provides a gameplay environment in which, when a user plays a game, it is possible to forcibly assign one play mode among a plurality of play modes that are prepared in advance and to play the game in the forcibly assigned play mode. The forcibly assigned play mode is selected on the basis of the progress of the user in the game.

Description

Programs and systems

The present invention relates to a program and a system.

In recent years, game systems have become known that allow users to play games online, for example.

In such a game system, it is assumed that various users play the game, and the operator of the game system wants many users to continuously play the game.

However, a user who is not sufficiently skilled with a game tends to be less motivated to play the game than a user who is highly skilled.

Patent No. 5621879

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a program and a system that can suppress a decrease in motivation of a user who plays a game.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an assignment means for forcibly assigning a computer to one play mode among a plurality of play modes prepared in advance when a user plays a game; The one play mode that is forcibly assigned is based on the game progress of the user. Selected programs are provided.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention makes it possible to suppress a decrease in motivation of a user who plays a game.

1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the hardware configuration of a 1st user terminal. The figure which shows an example of the hardware configuration of a server apparatus. The figure which shows an example of the functional structure of a 1st user terminal. The figure which shows an example of the functional structure of a server apparatus. The sequence chart which shows an example of the processing procedure of a game system. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the 1st user's user data. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of cycle data. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of a play mode cycle. The figure which shows an example of an operation screen. The figure which shows the other example of an operation screen. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the point table for battle modes. The figure which shows an example of the data structure of the point table for enjoy modes. The figure for explaining the example of a change of the cycle of a play mode.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a game system according to this embodiment. A game system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is configured to allow a user to play a game online, for example, and includes a first user terminal 10, a second user terminal 20, and a server device 30. Note that in this embodiment, the games played by the user include competitive games in which the user competes against other users.

The first user terminal 10 is, for example, an electronic device used by a first user. The second user terminal 20 is, for example, an electronic device used by a second user different from the first user. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 are, for example, smartphones, but the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 are, for example, a tablet terminal and a smartphone. It may also be other electronic equipment such as a personal computer.

The server device 30 is communicably connected to the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 via a network 40 such as the Internet.

Although only two user terminals (first user terminal 10 and second user terminal 20) are shown in FIG. It is assumed that a plurality of user terminals are provided, each of which is used by a plurality of users (that is, a plurality of users who can play competitive games).

FIG. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the first user terminal 10 shown in FIG. Here, with reference to FIG. 2, a hardware configuration when the first user terminal 10 is a smartphone will be described.

As shown in FIG. 2, the first user terminal 10 includes a nonvolatile memory 11, a CPU 12, a main memory 13, a wireless communication device 14, a display 15, a touch panel 16, and the like.

Nonvolatile memory 11 stores various programs. The various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 11 include, for example, an operating system (OS) and various application programs that operate on the first user terminal 10.

The CPU 12 is a processor for controlling the operations of various components within the first user terminal 10, and executes various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 11, for example. The CPU 12 may be a single processor or may be composed of multiple processors. Note that various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 11 are loaded from the nonvolatile memory 11 to the main memory 13 and executed by the CPU 12, but the programs (application programs) executed by the CPU 12 include the game system 1 includes a game program 13A for operating as a user terminal.

The wireless communication device 14 is a device for performing wireless communication with an external device (for example, the server device 30, etc.).

The display 15 is a display device for displaying various screens related to, for example, a battle game played by the first user.

The touch panel 16 is an input device that detects the position touched by the first user's fingertip or the like, and is arranged, for example, to overlap the front surface of the display 15.

The display 15 and the touch panel 16 constitute a touch screen display, and the touch screen display can detect various operations performed by the first user on the screen.

Although the hardware configuration of the first user terminal 10 used by the first user has been described in FIG. 2, the second user terminal 20 used by the second user (and the song user terminal used by other users) has been described. ) has the same hardware configuration as the first user terminal 10. Therefore, in the following description, the hardware configuration of the second user terminal 20 (and other user terminals) will also be described using FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 30 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the server device 30 includes a nonvolatile memory 31, a CPU 32, a main memory 33, a wireless communication device 34, and the like.

Nonvolatile memory 31 stores various programs. The various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 31 include, for example, an operating system (OS) and various application programs that operate on the server device 30.

The CPU 32 is a processor for controlling the operations of various components within the server device 30, and executes various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 31, for example. The CPU 32 may be a single processor or may be composed of multiple processors. Note that various programs stored in the nonvolatile memory 31 are loaded from the nonvolatile memory 31 to the main memory 33 and executed by the CPU 32, but the programs (application programs) executed by the CPU 32 include the game system 1 includes a game program 33A for operating as a server device.

The wireless communication device 34 is a device for performing wireless communication with external devices (for example, the first user terminal 10, the second user terminal 20, etc.).

The functional configuration of the game system 1 according to this embodiment will be described below. The game system 1 according to the present embodiment allows the first and second users to play a competitive game, for example, by the first user terminal 10, the second user terminal 20, and the server device 30 working together. It has the function of providing a possible game play environment. Note that in this embodiment, the game play environment refers to an environment necessary for playing a competitive game in a broad sense, and includes various elements related to the competitive game. Note that an example of the game play environment includes a game space and the like.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the functional configuration of the first user terminal 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the first user terminal 10 includes an operation reception section 101, a control section 102, a display processing section 103, and a storage section 104.

Note that the operation reception unit 101, control unit 102, and display processing unit 103 shown in FIG. In other words, it is a functional unit realized by software. This game program 13A may be downloaded to the first user terminal 10 via the network 40, for example, or may be stored in advance in a computer-readable storage medium and distributed.

Furthermore, the storage unit 104 shown in FIG. 4 is realized by the nonvolatile memory 11 shown in FIG. 2 or another storage device (not shown).

The operation receiving unit 101 receives a first user's operation (instruction) for playing a competitive game in the game play environment provided by the game system 1. As described above, when the first user terminal 10 is a smartphone, operations accepted by the operation reception unit 101 include an operation of touching a fingertip on the touch panel 16 (touch screen display) provided in the first user terminal 10 (for example, (tap operation, drag operation, flick operation, swipe operation, etc.).

The control unit 102 interprets the operation accepted by the operation reception unit 101, and executes control to advance the battle game played in the game play environment.

The display processing unit 103 executes a process of displaying a screen (image) according to the above-described game play environment and the progress of the competitive game under the control of the control unit 102. The first user can perform operations for playing the competitive game while referring to the screen displayed by the display processing unit 103.

The storage unit 104 stores, for example, game data and user data. In addition, in the game system 1, an account is issued for each user (for example, the first and second users) who can play the competitive game, but game data is common data (information) between the accounts. ), which is referred to when executing the game program 13A described above. Specifically, the game data includes, for example, data for defining a game play environment, setting data regarding a competitive game, and the like. On the other hand, user data is data managed for each user account. Specifically, the user data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10 includes, for example, the first user's game progress in the competitive game, and various points and items acquired by the first user in the competitive game. etc. Note that in this embodiment, the degree of game progress refers to the degree of progress of the battle game by repeatedly playing the battle game, and the degree of game progress is represented by an index such as rank or level. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the game progress is a rank.

Although the functional configuration of the first user terminal 10 used by the first user has been described in FIG. 4, the second user terminal 20 used by the second user (and other user terminals used by other users) The functional configuration is similar to that of the first user terminal 10. Therefore, in the following explanation, the functional configuration of the second user terminal 20 (and other user terminals) will also be explained using FIG. 4.

FIG. 5 shows an example of the functional configuration of the server device 30. As shown in FIG. 5, the server device 30 includes a storage section 301, a data management section 302, and a control section 303.

Note that the storage unit 301 shown in FIG. 5 is realized by the nonvolatile memory 31 shown in FIG. 3 or another storage device (not shown).

Further, the data management unit 302 and the control unit 303 shown in FIG. 5 are functions realized by, for example, the CPU 32 (computer of the server device 30) provided in the server device 30 executing the above-described game program 33A (that is, software). Department. This game program 33A may be downloaded to the server device 30 via the network 40, for example, or may be stored in advance in a computer-readable storage medium and distributed.

The storage unit 301 stores game data similar to the game data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10 (and second user terminal 20) described above. Furthermore, the storage unit 301 stores user data for each user (eg, first and second users) registered in advance in the game system 1 (server device 30).

The data management unit 302 manages game data and user data stored in the storage unit 301. Specifically, the data management unit 302 executes processes such as adding, updating, and deleting game data and user data.

Note that, as described above, game data and user data are stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10, but the game data and user data are stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10. 1 user terminal 10 and stored in the storage unit 104. Although only the first user terminal 10 has been described here, the same applies to other user terminals including the second user terminal 20. However, although game data is commonly transmitted to multiple user terminals including the first user terminal 10 and second user terminal 20, user data is transmitted only to the user terminal used by the user corresponding to the user data. . In the following description, for example, user data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10 (that is, user data transmitted from the server device 30 to the first user terminal 10) will be referred to as the user data of the first user. The user data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the second user terminal 20 (that is, the user data transmitted from the server device 30 to the second user terminal 20) is referred to as the second user's user data.

The control unit 303 controls processing for realizing a battle between a plurality of users (for example, first and second users) in a battle game played in a game play environment provided in the game system 1.

Here, it is assumed that, for example, a first user using the first user terminal 10 and a second user using the second user terminal 20 compete in real time. In this case, for example, the first user can play a competitive game on the first user terminal 10 by operating the first user terminal 10, but the competitive game played on the first user terminal 10 ( If the second user's operation is not reflected in the competition (competition), the first user cannot use the first user terminal 10 to compete with the second user. Similarly, for example, the second user can play a competitive game on the second user terminal 20 by operating the second user terminal 20, but the competitive game played on the second user terminal 20 ( If the first user's operation is not reflected in the competition (competition), the second user cannot use the second user terminal 20 to compete with the first user.

Therefore, the control unit 303 controls the first user's operation performed at the first user terminal 10 (that is, the operation accepted at the operation reception unit 101 included in the first user terminal 10) to the first user terminal 10. , and transmits the operation to the second user terminal 20 (that is, relays the first user's operation from the first user terminal 10 to the second user terminal 20). Similarly, the control unit 303 controls the second user's operation performed at the second user terminal 20 (that is, the operation accepted at the operation reception unit 101 included in the second user terminal 20) to the second user terminal 20. and transmits the operation to the first user terminal 10 (that is, relays the second user's operation from the second user terminal 20 to the first user terminal 10). According to this, control for advancing the competitive game is executed on both the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 based on the operations of the first and second users, and the operations of both the first and second users are performed. A screen (competition game screen) on which is reflected can be displayed on both the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20. In other words, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, the action in the competitive game caused by the first user's operation is reproduced (synchronized) on the second user terminal 20, and the action caused by the second user's operation is By reproducing (synchronizing) the action in the battle game that is caused on the first user terminal 10, it is possible to realize a real-time battle using the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20.

Note that the game system 1 according to the present embodiment provides a game play environment, but this "provision of a game play environment" refers to the game program running in the game system 1 (that is, the first user terminal 10 and the first user terminal 10 described above). It is assumed that this is realized by a game program 13A executed on a plurality of user terminals including two user terminals 20 and a game program 33A executed on the server device 30. However, the game program according to this embodiment may be part of the

game programs

13A and 33A described above.

Further, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, the server device 30 may have at least a part of the functions that a plurality of user terminals (the first user terminal 10, the second user terminal 20, etc.) have, for example. However, a plurality of user terminals may have at least some of the functions that the server device 30 has. Furthermore, the game system 1 may include a plurality of user terminals and devices other than the server device 30. That is, the game program (

game programs

13A and 33A) according to this embodiment can be executed on a plurality of user terminals, the server device 30, or other devices.

By the way, in the present embodiment, the game system 1 can provide a game play environment in which the user can play a competitive game (that is, compete against each other) as described above. It is difficult for a user with a low skill level to maintain motivation (willingness) to play a competitive game compared to a user with a high skill level.

Specifically, for example, in the case of a competitive game in which a reward is given to a user who wins a battle, a user with a high level of proficiency in the competitive game wins the battle (that is, is given the reward). Since the possibility is high, it is considered that the motivation to play the competitive game is maintained and the player continues to play the competitive game.

On the other hand, users who have low (insufficient) proficiency in competitive games often find it difficult to win in battles (that is, are not given rewards), and their motivation to play the competitive game tends to decline. Conceivable.

Therefore, in the game system 1 according to the present embodiment, a mechanism for suppressing a decrease in motivation of users who play competitive games is proposed.

Hereinafter, an overview of the operation of the game system 1 according to this embodiment will be briefly explained. In this embodiment, for example, when a battle is held in the game play environment provided by the game system 1, a reward is given to a user who wins the battle (hereinafter referred to as a winning user) based on the result of the battle. A penalty shall be imposed on the user who has been granted and loses the match (hereinafter referred to as a defeated user).

In this case, as mentioned above, users with low skill level lose their motivation to play the competitive game due to consecutive defeats (penalties are imposed), and are discouraged from continuing to play the competitive game. There is a possibility of giving up.

For this reason, in this embodiment, for example, there is a play mode (hereinafter referred to as a battle mode) and a battle game in which a user competes against another user and rewards are given or penalties are imposed based on the result of the battle. We provide multiple play modes such as a play mode (hereinafter referred to as "enjoy mode") in which rewards are given based on the score when playing, and when users play a competitive game, they can choose between the multiple play modes. By forcibly allocating one of them, a decrease in the motivation of the user who plays the competitive game is suppressed.

Hereinafter, an example of the processing procedure of the game system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence chart of FIG. 6.

In the following description, in the game play environment provided by the game system 1, two users play a golf game in which they alternately hit the ball against each other and compete for the number of strokes to reach the cup (that is, play a golf match). Assume a case.

In this embodiment, this golf game is played in one of the above-described battle mode and enjoy mode.

When a golf game is played in the competitive mode, two users compete using, for example, four holes prepared in advance. In this case, the user who reaches the cup with fewer strokes on the first hole of the four holes is determined to be the winning user, and the other user is determined to be the losing user. Note that in the case of a golf game, there is a possibility that two users have the same number of strokes on one hole (in other words, the result is a draw), but two users may have the same number of strokes on the first hole. In this case, the game advances to the second hole as an overtime game, and if there is a user who has fewer strokes on the second hole, that user is determined to be the winning user and the other user is determined to be the losing user. Furthermore, if two users have the same number of strokes on the second hole, the game advances to the third hole, and if there is a user with fewer strokes on the third hole, that user is the winning user and the other user is the losing user. Decide as a user. If two users have the same number of strokes on the third hole, a winning user and a losing user are determined by, for example, having a near-pin competition on the fourth hole. In the battle mode, a reward is given to the winning user determined in this way, and a penalty is imposed to the losing user.

The method for determining winning users and losing users in the battle mode described here (that is, the fighting method) is only an example, and winning users and losing users may be determined by other methods. Note that, as an example of another method, a PK method can be considered. In the PK system, two users play against each other in sequence using, for example, five holes prepared in advance, and the user who wins in the cup with the fewest number of strokes on each hole is added to the number of wins by one. Note that if two users have the same number of strokes, it is a draw, and the number of wins is not added to either user. According to the PK method, as a result of playing against each other in order from the 1st hole to the 5th hole, the user with the most wins at the end of the 5th hole is determined as the winning user, and the user with the least number of wins is determined as the losing user. It is determined. In addition, if you are in a situation where you cannot make a comeback even if you win all of the remaining matches (for example, if one user wins all from the 1st hole to the 3rd hole), the match will be held for all 5 holes. A winning user and a losing user may be determined (that is, the competition may be ended) without performing the above. Further, if the number of wins is the same at the end of the fifth hole, the above-mentioned near pin confrontation etc. will be held as sudden death.

On the other hand, when a golf game is played in the enjoy mode, two users play the golf game in the same format as in the battle mode, as in the battle mode described above. Two of the five holes are used, and the outcome of the match between the two users (that is, the winning user and the losing user) is not determined. In the enjoy mode, each of the two users is given a reward based on the score (number of strokes) when playing the golf game on the two holes described above.

It is assumed that, in the game play environment provided in the game system 1 as described above, the user plays a golf game by, for example, operating the user's character.

First, for example, when a first user using the first user terminal 10 plays a golf game, the game program 13A is started on the first user terminal 10, and the operation reception unit 101 included in the first user terminal 10: A first user's operation to start playing the golf game (hereinafter referred to as play start operation) is received (step S1).

When the process of step S1 is executed, the first user terminal 10 transmits a play start request to the server device 30 based on the play start operation accepted in step S1 (step S2). Note that the play start request transmitted in step S2 includes a user ID and the like for identifying the first user who uses the first user terminal 10.

The play start request transmitted in step S2 is received by the server device 30. When the play start request is received, the server device 30 sets the first user identified by the user ID included in the play start request to one of the plurality of play modes (battle mode and enjoy mode) described above. A process for forcibly assigning a play mode (hereinafter referred to as a play mode assignment process) is executed (step S3).

The play mode assignment process will be explained below. In this embodiment, play mode assignment processing is performed based on user data and cycle data.

First, user data will be explained with reference to FIG. Note that the storage unit 301 included in the server device 30 stores user data for each user (first and second users, etc.) who play the golf game, but here, the user data of the first user will be explained. .

As shown in FIG. 7, the user data of the first user includes a user ID, rank, rank points, items, and the like.

The user ID is identification information for identifying the first user. Note that the user ID is assigned to the first user when the first user registers with the game system 1.

The rank indicates the rank of the first user identified by the user ID. Rank points are points earned by the first user identified by the user ID. Note that rank points can be acquired by playing the golf game, and the rank increases (promotes) according to the rank points. In this embodiment, the rank has a function as an index that simply indicates the skill of ball control (that is, golf game), and a user who plays a golf game earns rank points and improves the rank. One of the objectives is to increase

The item is an item (information indicating) acquired by the first user identified by the user ID. The item is used, for example, to improve (assist) the golf-related ability of the character operated by the first user.

Although the first user's user data has been described here, the same applies to the data structure of the user data of other users including the second user.

Further, although the user data has been described here as including a user ID, rank, rank points, and items, the data structure of the user data may be different from the data structure shown in FIG. 7, for example, at least in part. .

Next, cycle data will be explained with reference to FIG. Note that, for example, in FIG. 5, the game data and user data are stored in the storage unit 301 included in the server device 30, but the cycle data is stored in the storage unit 301 together with the game data and user data. It is assumed that

The cycle data is data indicating a play mode cycle determined for each rank, and includes ranks and play mode cycles in association with each other. In this embodiment, seven ranks are prepared: beginner, rookie, bronze, silver, gold, platinum, and diamond. Note that Beginner is the lowest rank and Diamond is the highest rank.

Beginner is a rank whose purpose is to teach the player how to play the golf game by providing an operation tutorial that explains the basic operating methods related to the golf game. Rookies start introducing the competitive mode, and are at such a rank that even if they play a golf game in the competitive mode and lose, the penalty is minimal. Bronze is a rank aimed at improving scores (score making) and making players conscious of winning in battles. Silver is a rank whose purpose is to improve skill level compared to the above-mentioned bronze users and win in battles. Gold is a rank for highly skilled users. Platinum corresponds to the rank in which the user who plays the golf game in this embodiment performs the final battle, and is a rank that allows the user to aim for the highest rank (diamond). Diamond is a rank corresponding to a kind of goal in the golf game in this embodiment.

In FIG. 8, cycle data (cycle data for each rank) 301a to 301g including each of the seven types of ranks described above are shown.

The cycle data 301a includes a rank "Beginner" and a play mode cycle "All Enjoy Mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301b includes a rank "Rookie" and a play mode cycle "1 time in battle mode, 2 times in enjoy mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301c includes a rank "Bronze" and a play mode cycle "1 time in battle mode, 1 time in enjoy mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301d includes a rank "Silver" and a play mode cycle "1 time in battle mode, 1 time in enjoy mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301e includes the rank "Gold" and the play mode cycle "All battle mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301f includes the rank "Platinum" and the play mode cycle "All battle mode" in association with each other.

The cycle data 301g includes the rank "Diamond" and the play mode cycle "All battle mode" in association with each other.

Although the description has been made here assuming that seven types of ranks are prepared (that is, the cycle data 301a to 301g are stored in the storage unit 301), the number and names of the ranks may be changed as appropriate. I don't mind.

Further, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the play mode cycle may be the same even if the ranks are different, but the play mode cycle may always be different when the ranks are different.

Here, in the play mode assignment process executed in step S3 described above, the play mode forcibly assigned to the first user is determined according to the play mode cycle predetermined for the rank of the first user. It shall be selected (determined).

Specifically, the data management unit 302 included in the server device 30 refers to the user data stored in the storage unit 301 and obtains the rank of the first user. Note that the rank of the first user is acquired from the first user's user data (user data including the user ID included in the play start request transmitted in step S2 described above).

Next, the data management unit 302 refers to the cycle data stored in the storage unit 301 and obtains the play mode cycle defined for the rank of the first user.

Here, it is assumed that the rank of the first user is Rookie, and the cycle of play modes defined for the Rookie is once in the battle mode and twice in the enjoy mode. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 303 selects the play mode so that the play mode is sequentially repeated, with one cycle of the battle mode and two times of the enjoy mode. That is, for example, if the number of times the first user has played the golf game is the first time after the first user's rank becomes Rookie, the competitive mode is selected as the play mode assigned to the first user. . Further, when the first user plays the golf game for the second time, the enjoy mode is selected as the play mode assigned to the first user. Furthermore, when the first user plays the golf game for the third time, the enjoy mode is selected as the play mode assigned to the first user. When the golf game is played for the fourth time or later, the play mode is similarly selected according to the play mode cycle.

In addition, in order to select the next play mode according to the play mode cycle as described above, the control unit 303 holds, for example, a history of play modes selected (assigned) in the past in chronological order. shall be. According to this, for example, when the two most recently selected play modes are the battle mode and the enjoy mode (that is, the battle mode and the enjoy mode are selected in that order), the control unit 303 controls the next play mode. Enjoy mode can be selected as the mode. Further, the control unit 303 can select the battle mode as the next play mode, for example, when the two most recently selected play modes are both the enjoy mode. Furthermore, if the two play modes most recently selected are Enjoy mode and Battle mode (that is, Enjoy mode and Battle mode are selected in that order), the control unit 303 selects Enjoy mode as the next play mode. mode can be selected.

Although the description has been made here assuming that the history of play modes selected in the past is maintained, this embodiment may be configured as long as it is possible to select the next play mode according to the cycle of play modes described above. .

Specifically, the control unit 303 holds the order (position) of the most recently selected play mode in the above-described one cycle (competition mode, first enjoy mode, and second enjoy mode cycle). Good too. In this case, if the order of the battle mode in one cycle is "1", the order of the first enjoy mode is "2", and the order of the second enjoy mode is "3", for example, the order of the held play modes is "1", the control unit 303 selects the enjoy mode whose order is "2" as the next play mode, and updates the order of the held play modes to "2". Further, for example, if the order of the held play modes is "2", the control unit 303 sets the order as "2" as the next play mode.
3" is selected, and the order of the held play modes is updated to "3". Further, for example, if the order of the held play modes is "3", the control unit 303 selects the battle mode whose order is "1" as the next play mode, and changes the order of the held play modes. is updated to "1". In this embodiment, even with such a configuration, the next play mode can be appropriately selected according to the play mode cycle.

Although the case where the first user's rank is rookie has been described here, the same applies to other ranks. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 8, if the rank of the first user is beginner, the enjoy mode is selected (assigned) to all. Further, when the first user's rank is gold, platinum, and diamond, the battle mode is selected (assigned) for all of them. In this way, ranks may be prepared to which only the same play mode is assigned.

In the play mode assignment process, the play mode selected as described above is forcibly assigned (set) to the first user.

When the process of step S3 is executed, the control unit 303 executes a matching process based on the play start operation received by the server device 30 (step S4).

Here, in FIG. 6, for convenience, the processes of steps S1 to S3 that are executed when the first user using the first user terminal 10 plays a golf game are shown, but other users When a player plays a golf game, steps S1 to S3 are similarly executed. Although not shown in the figure, taking as an example a second user who uses the second user terminal 20, when the operation reception unit 101 included in the second user terminal 20 receives the second user's play start operation, the second user uses the second user terminal 20. A play start request including a user ID for identifying the second user is transmitted from the second user terminal 20 to the server device 30, and the second user is given one of a plurality of play modes (battle mode and enjoy mode). A play mode is forcibly assigned.

In this case, in the matching process in step S4, two users are matched from among the plurality of users identified by the user IDs included in each of the plurality of play start requests received by the server device 30. Note that matching is performed based on, for example, the rank included in the user data including the user ID included in the play start request and the play mode assigned to the user identified by the user ID (hereinafter referred to as matching condition). Implemented. Specifically, in the matching process, it is assumed that, for example, two users who have the same rank and are assigned the same play mode are matched.

Although the explanation here assumes that two users with the same rank are matched, it is also possible to match two users with similar ranks, or two users with the same sub-rank that is further subdivided from the rank. Users may be matched.

Further, in this embodiment, users in the same play mode need to be matched, but matching conditions other than the play mode may be changed as appropriate.

In the following description, it will be assumed that the first and second users are matched as two users who play a golf game.

When the process of step S4 is executed, the server device 30 instructs the first user terminal 10 to play the golf game in the play mode assigned to the first user, and also The game data stored in the unit 301 is transmitted to the first user terminal 10 (step S5). In other words, through the process of step S5, game data for playing a golf game with the second user is downloaded from the server device 30 to the first user terminal 10.

When the process of step S5 is executed, the first user terminal 10 is provided with a user interface that allows an operation to instruct the start of playing the golf game.

FIG. 10 shows an example of an operation screen corresponding to a user interface provided on the first user terminal 10. The operation screen 50 shown in FIG. 10 is provided with a rank icon 51, a rank point display area 52, a play start instruction button 53, and the like, as well as a character operated by the first user when playing the golf game.

The rank icon 51 represents the rank of the first user. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the rank icon 51 indicates that the first user's rank is rookie. Note that the rank icon 51 is displayed in different ways depending on the rank included in the user data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10.

The rank point display area 52 displays the rank points acquired by the first user (hereinafter referred to as acquired rank points) and the rank required to raise the rank of the first user (that is, to be promoted to the next rank). Points (hereinafter referred to as target rank points) are displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the rank point display area 52 shows that the acquired rank points are 350 and the target rank points are 400. Note that the acquired rank points and target rank points displayed in the rank point display area 52 differ depending on the rank points and rank included in the user data stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10.

The play start instruction button 53 is a button for instructing to start playing a golf game. In the example shown in FIG. 10, "Competition" is displayed on the play start instruction button 53. That is, FIG. 10 assumes an operation screen displayed on the first user terminal 10 when the play mode assigned to the first user is the battle mode.

Note that the operation screen 50 shown in FIG. 10 is a screen that corresponds to a home screen in a golf game, for example, but the home screen is a screen that allows the first user to use an acquired item or purchase a new item, for example. It may have a user interface that allows transition to .

As mentioned above, FIG. 10 assumes the operation screen displayed on the first user terminal 10 when the play mode assigned to the first user is the battle mode, but the play mode is the enjoy mode. In this case, an operation screen 50 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed. Note that the operation screen 50 shown in FIG. 11 is similar to the operation screen 50 shown in FIG. 10 except that the "competition" displayed on the play start instruction button 53 is "enjoy".

That is, by checking the play start instruction button 53 provided on the operation screen 50 displayed on the first user terminal 10, the first user selects the play mode assigned to the first user (that is, the next You can check the play mode when playing a golf game.

In addition, in this embodiment, the operation screen 50 displayed on the first user terminal 10 is provided with only a play start instruction button 53 corresponding to one play mode, and the operation screen 5
0 (user interface) is configured not to accept operations to change the play mode forcibly assigned to the first user (that is, the first user cannot perform operations to change the play mode). shall be taken as a thing.

Although the operation screen 50 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 has been described here as an example of the user interface (operation screen) provided in the first user terminal 10, the user interface may have a different form.

Returning to FIG. 6 again, the server device 30 instructs the second user terminal 20 to play the golf game in the play mode assigned to the second user, and also stores information in the storage unit 301 included in the server device 30. The stored game data is transmitted to the second user terminal 20 (step S6). In other words, through the process of step S6, game data for playing a golf game with the first user is downloaded from the server device 30 to the second user terminal 20.

When the process of step S6 is executed, the second user terminal 20 is provided with a user interface that allows an operation to instruct the start of playing the golf game. The user interface provided at the second user terminal 20 is the same as the user interface (operation screen) provided at the first user terminal 10 described above, so a detailed explanation thereof will be omitted here.

An instruction to start playing the golf game is given via the user interface (play start instruction button) provided on the first user terminal 10, and an instruction is given via the user interface (play start instruction button) provided on the second user terminal 20. When the start of playing the golf game is instructed, the playing of the golf game by the first and second users via the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 (that is, the competition between the first and second users) starts. Start (step S7).

In this case, the first user terminal 10 (control unit 102 and display processing unit 103 included in it), the second user terminal 20 (control unit 102 and display processing unit 103 included in it), and the server device 30 (control unit included in it) 303) executes a process of providing a game play environment in which the first and second users can play a golf game (step S8). Note that the game play environment in which the golf game can be played includes, for example, external factors such as the hole (competition area) in which the golf game is played and the direction and strength of the wind that affects the ball hit.

Note that the process executed in step S8 includes the process of defining the game play environment (game space) based on the game data transmitted from the server device 30 in steps S5 and S6, and the first user's operation as described above. from the first user terminal 10 to the second user terminal 20 via the server device 30; relaying the second user's operation from the second user terminal 20 to the first user terminal 10 via the server device 30; This includes processing related to control for advancing the golf game based on the operations of the first and second users at the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20.

In addition, in a golf game, the first and second users alternately hit the balls at each other, but in the process of step S8, each time the first and second users' balls move, the first and second users' balls are hit. It is assumed that the location of is notified to the server device 30 from (at least one of) the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20.

The control unit 303 included in the server device 30 detects the end of the golf game based on the positions of the balls of the first and second users notified from the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20, as described above. .

Here, in the present embodiment, the game data transmitted (downloaded) from the server device 30 to the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 is when the play mode in which the golf game is played is the competition mode. This is common even in the enjoy mode, and is game data for playing a golf game with four holes. It is assumed that these four holes are randomly selected (determined) from among a plurality of holes prepared in advance, for example.

In this case, assuming that the golf game is played in the competitive mode, the end of the golf game is detected when one of the first and second users can be determined as the winning user. shall be On the other hand, when the golf game is played in the enjoy mode, the end of the golf game is detected when the first and second users have completed two of the four holes described above.

When the end of the golf game is detected as described above, the control unit 303 executes processing according to the play mode in which the golf game was played (the play mode assigned to the first and second users). Step S9).

The processing executed in step S9 will be described below. In step S9, different processing is executed depending on whether the first and second users play the golf game in the competition mode or when the first and second users play the golf game in the enjoy mode. Here, the process executed in step S9 when the first and second users play the golf game in the competition mode (hereinafter referred to as the competition mode process), and the process performed when the first and second users play the golf game in the enjoy mode. The process executed in step S9 when the game is played (hereinafter referred to as "enjoy mode process") will be explained.

First, the battle mode processing will be explained. The battle mode is a play mode in which a winning user is given a reward and a losing user is penalized, depending on the result of the golf game played in the battle mode (that is, the result of the battle). In this embodiment, the reward in the battle mode includes an increase in rank points for increasing the rank described above. In other words, "being given a reward" includes increasing the user's rank points. Furthermore, penalties in the battle mode include a reduction in rank points for increasing the rank. In other words, "imposed a penalty" includes reducing the user's rank points (the user loses rank points).

Therefore, in the battle mode process, the control unit 303 determines the winning user and the losing user based on the positions of the balls of the first and second users notified from the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20 as described above. Determine the user.

Next, the control unit 303 determines a reward (hereinafter referred to as increased points) to be given to the winning user and a penalty (hereinafter referred to as decreased points) to be imposed on the defeated user. Note that in the battle mode process, increased points and decreased points are determined by referring to the battle mode point table. It is assumed that the battle mode point table is stored in advance in the storage unit 301 included in the server device 30, for example.

FIG. 12 shows an example of the data structure of the battle mode point table. In the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, increased points and decreased points 1 to 4 are defined in association with ranks.

Increased points are rank points that are increased when a battle is won. Furthermore, in a golf game played in competitive mode as described above, the winner or loser is decided on the first hole (determined by the winning user and the losing user), the winner is decided on the second hole, and the winner is decided on the third hole. In some cases, the winner or loser may be decided by a near-pin showdown (that is, on the 4th hole). The reduction point 1 is a rank point that is reduced when the player loses on the first hole. Decrease point 2 is a rank point that is reduced when the player loses on the second hole. The reduction point 3 is a rank point that is reduced when the player loses on the third hole. The reduction point 4 is a rank point that is reduced when the player is defeated in the near pin match.

That is, according to the competitive mode point table shown in FIG. 12, different reduction points are defined depending on the number of holes in which the game is won or lost (that is, the number of times the result is a draw).

In addition, in the example shown in FIG. 8 described above, if the rank is Beginner, the enjoy mode is assigned to all (that is, the golf game is not played in the battle mode), so in the point table for the battle mode, the rank "Beginner" is assigned. The corresponding increase points and decrease points 1 to 4 (that is, rewards and penalties in the battle mode) are not defined.

In addition, in the battle mode point table, in association with the rank "Rookie", increase points are "60", decrease points 1 are "0", decrease points 2 are "0", decrease points 3 are "0", and decrease points are 4 "0". ” is defined. According to this, when the rank of the winning user is Rookie, it is shown that the rank point of the winning user is increased by 60. Furthermore, it is shown that when the losing user's rank is Rookie, the losing user's rank points are not reduced (that is, even if the losing user loses the battle, the losing user does not lose rank points).

In addition, in the point table for battle mode, increase points ``60'', decrease points 1 ``-15'', decrease points 2 ``-13'', decrease points 3 ``-11'', and decrease points corresponding to the rank ``Bronze''. 4 "-10" is defined. According to this, when the winning user's rank is bronze, it is shown that the winning user's rank points are increased by 60. Furthermore, if the rank of the defeated user who lost on the first hole is bronze, it is shown that the rank points of the defeated user are reduced by 15. Furthermore, when the rank of the defeated user who lost on the second hole is bronze, it is shown that the rank points of the defeated user are reduced by 13. Furthermore, if the rank of the defeated user who lost on the third hole is bronze, it is shown that the rank points of the defeated user are reduced by 11. Furthermore, if the rank of the defeated user who lost in the near-pin match is bronze, it is shown that the rank points of the defeated user are reduced by 10.

Here, we have explained the increase points and decrease points 1 to 4 defined in the competitive mode point table in association with ranks "Beginner", "Rookie" and "Bronze", but for other ranks, increase points and decrease points are explained. Since the only difference is the values of points 1 to 4, detailed explanation thereof will be omitted here.

In this embodiment, for example, by referring to the battle mode point table as shown in FIG. can be determined. Specifically, for example, if the ranks of the first and second users are Rookie and the first user wins on the first hole, 60 is determined as the first user's increase point, and the second user's decrease point is determined as 60. 0 is determined as the point.

Note that the increased points and decreased points 1 to 4 defined in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12 are just examples, and other values may be defined.

Specifically, in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, the increased points are the same even for different ranks, but the increased points may have different values for each rank.

In addition, in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, reduction points 1 to 4 are defined so that the number of rank points to be reduced decreases in the order of reduction points 1 to 4, but the reduction points 1 to 4 are defined in such a way that the number of rank points to be reduced decreases in the order of reduction points 1 to 4. The reduction points 1 to 4 may have the same value, or may be defined so that the number of rank points to be reduced increases in the order of the reduction points 1 to 4.

Furthermore, regarding reduction points 1 to 4 in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, the higher the rank, the more rank points are reduced (in other words, if you do not win many battles, you cannot increase your rank). However, the values of reduction points 1 to 4 may be the same between different ranks.

In addition, in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, reduction points 1 to 4 associated with the rank "Rookie" are 0 (that is, if the rank is Rookie, the rank points of the defeated user are reduced). However, reduction points 1 to 4 may be defined so that even if a user is a rookie, his rank points are reduced when he loses a match.

Furthermore, in the battle mode point table shown in FIG. 12, it has been explained that points mainly increase when winning a battle and decrease when losing the battle, but for example, when winning a battle However, there is a clear difference in the points gained when winning the match and losing the match (in other words, the points increase significantly for the winning user). , but losing users only have their points increased by a small amount). Furthermore, even if the points are reduced due to a loss in the match, a predetermined number of points corresponding to, for example, a participation award may be increased.

Next, enjoy mode processing will be explained. Enjoy mode is a play mode in which rewards are given based on the result of the golf game played in the enjoy mode (that is, the score when the golf game is played). Note that the reward in the enjoy mode includes an increase in rank points, similar to the battle mode described above.

Therefore, in the enjoy mode process, the control unit 303, as described above, based on (the transition of) the positions of the first and second users' balls notified from the first user terminal 10 and the second user terminal 20, Obtain the scores of the first and second users.

Next, the control unit 303 determines the rewards to be given to the first and second users (that is, the increased points of the first and second users) based on the acquired scores of the first and second users. do. Note that in the enjoy mode process, the additional points are determined by referring to the enjoy mode point table. It is assumed that the enjoy mode point table is stored in advance in the storage unit 301 included in the server device 30, for example.

FIG. 13 shows an example of the data structure of the enjoy mode point table. In the enjoy mode point table shown in FIG. 13, increased points 1 to 10 are defined in association with ranks.

In this embodiment, when playing a golf game in the enjoy mode, the amount of increase in rank points varies depending on the user's score when playing the golf game on two holes. The increase point 1 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is −4 (or lower). Increase point 2 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is -3. The increase point 3 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is -2. Increase point 4 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is -1. The increase point 5 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is 0. The increase point 6 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is +1. The increase point 7 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is +2. The increase point 8 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is +3. The increase point 9 is a rank point that is increased when the user's score is +4 (or more).

Note that when playing a golf game in enjoy mode, rank points are increased regardless of the scores of other users as described above, but in this embodiment, rank points are increased for the purpose of interacting with other users, etc. Even in the enjoy mode, the golf game is played in the same format as when playing against other users. Therefore, the golf game may be interrupted if, for example, another user retires. Therefore, the point table for enjoy mode in this embodiment is designed so that rank points can be increased (rewards are given) even when the golf game is interrupted due to the above-mentioned retirement of another user, etc. , an increase point of 10 is defined. Note that the increased points of 10 are rank points that are increased when another user retires, but may also be applied when the golf game is interrupted due to a communication failure or the like.

According to the example shown in FIG. 13, in the point table for enjoy mode, increase points 1 "70", increase points 2 "65", increase points 3 "60", increase points 4 " 55'', increased point 5 ``50'', increased point 6 ``45'', increased point 7 ``40'', increased point 8 ``40'', increased point 9 ``40'', and increased point 10 ``50''. According to this, if the score of a user whose rank is Beginner is -4 (or lower), the rank points of the user will be increased by 70, and if the score is -3, the rank points of the user will be increased by 70. 65, and if the score is -2, increase the user's rank points by 60; if the score is -1, increase the user's rank points by 55, and if the score is 0. If the score is +1, increase the rank points of the user by 50; if the score is +1, increase the rank points of the user by 45; if the score is +2, increase the rank points of the user by 40. , if the score is +3, increase the rank points of the user by 40, and if the score is +4 (or higher), increase the rank points of the user by 40, for example, due to the retirement of another user, etc. It is shown that when the golf game is interrupted, the rank points of the user are increased by 50.

Here, we have explained the increase points 1 to 10 defined in the point table for Enjoy mode in association with the rank "Beginner", but since the values of increase points 1 to 10 are different for other ranks, we will not explain them here. The detailed explanation will be omitted here.

In this embodiment, the points to be increased for the first and second users according to their ranks and scores can be determined by referring to the point table for enjoy mode as shown in FIG. 13 described above, for example. Specifically, for example, if the score of the first user whose rank is Rookie is -2, 50 is determined as the increase point for the first user, and the score of the second user whose rank is Rookie is +1. In some cases, 35 points are determined as the additional points for the second user.

Incidentally, the increase points 1 to 10 defined in the point table for enjoy mode shown in FIG. 13 are merely examples, and other values may be defined.

Specifically, the increase points 1 to 10 in the point table for enjoy mode shown in FIG. 13 are defined such that the lower the rank, the more rank points are increased. Values may be the same between different ranks.

In addition, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the points do not decrease in the enjoy mode, but if a predetermined condition such as a specific rank (for example, a high rank such as diamond) is met, the enjoy mode However, a system may be adopted in which points are reduced according to the score.

Returning to FIG. 6 again, the result of the process in step S9 is held within the server device 30 (for example, the control unit 303). Note that when the battle mode process is executed in step S9, the result of the process in step S9 includes the first user's increased points and the second user's decreased points (or the first user's decreased points and the second user's decreased points). User increase points) are included. On the other hand, when the enjoy mode process is executed in step S9, the result of the process in step S9 includes the increased points of the first and second users.

Here, assume that the battle mode process is executed in step S9 described above, and it is determined that the first user is the winning user and the second user is the losing user in the target mode process.

In this case, the server device 30 notifies the first user terminal 10 of the first user's increased points determined in the battle mode process (step S10). When the process of step S10 is executed, the display processing unit 103 included in the first user terminal 10 displays a result screen including the increased points notified in step S10 on the display 15 of the first user terminal 10.

Similarly, the server device 30 notifies the second user terminal of the second user's reduction points determined in the battle mode process (step S11). When the process of step S11 is executed, the display processing unit 103 included in the second user terminal 20 displays a result screen including the reduction points notified in step S11 on the display 15 of the second user terminal 20.

Here, a case has been described in which the first user is a winning user, but if the first user is a losing user, the server device 30 notifies the first user terminal 10 of the reduced points of the first user in step S10. , a result screen including the reduced points is displayed on the display 15 of the first user terminal 10. Similarly, although the case where the second user is a losing user has been described here, if the second user is a winning user, the increased points of the second user are transferred from the server device 30 to the second user terminal 20 in step S11. is notified, and a result screen including the increased points is displayed on the display 15 of the second user terminal 20.

Furthermore, although the case where the battle mode process is executed in step S9 has been described here, it is assumed that the enjoy mode process is executed in the above-described step S9. In this case, the server device 30 notifies the first user terminal 10 of the first user's increased points determined in the enjoy mode process, and a result screen including the increased points is displayed on the display 15 of the first user terminal 10. . Similarly, the server device 30 notifies the second user terminal 20 of the second user's increased points determined in the enjoy mode process, and a result screen including the increased points is displayed on the display 15 of the second user terminal 20. .

When the processes of steps S10 and S11 described above are executed, the data management unit 302 included in the server device 30 stores the data in the storage unit 301 based on the result of the process of step S9 held in the server device 30. The stored user data of the first and second users is updated (step S12).

When the battle mode process is executed in step S9, and the result of the process in step S9 includes, for example, increased points for the first user and decreased points for the second user, the results are stored in the storage unit 301 in step S12. The increased points of the first user are added to the rank points included in the user data of the first user, and the increase points of the first user are added to the rank points included in the user data of the second user stored in the storage unit 301. The reduction points will be subtracted.

Further, when the battle mode process is executed in step S9, and the result of the process in step S9 includes, for example, the first user's decreased points and the second user's increased points, in step S12, the storage unit 301 is stored. The decrease points of the first user are subtracted from the rank points included in the stored user data of the first user, and the rank points included in the user data of the second user stored in the storage unit 301 are added to the rank points included in the user data of the second user stored in the storage unit 301. The additional points of 2 users are added.

Furthermore, if the result of the process in step S9 includes the increased points of the first and second users due to the execution of the enjoy mode process in step S9, in step S12, the result of the process in step S9 includes the increased points of the first and second users. The increased points of the first user are added to the rank points included in the user data of one user, and the increased points of the second user are added to the rank points included in the user data of the second user stored in the storage unit 301. is added.

That is, the process of step S12 corresponds to the process of reflecting in the user data the reward and penalty based on the result of playing the golf game in the play mode assigned to the first and second users as described above.

Note that when a user's rank increases due to the above-mentioned increase (addition) of rank points, the rank included in the user data of the user is also updated. In this embodiment, it is mainly assumed that the rank will not be lowered (demoted), but the rank may be lowered (demoted) in accordance with the decrease in rank points. In this way, even when a user's rank falls due to a decrease (subtraction) in rank points, the rank included in the user data of the user is similarly updated.

Further, the process of step S12 described above may be executed after the processes of steps S10 and S11 are executed, but for example, updating the user data of the first user is performed when the home screen is displayed on the first user terminal 10. (For example, when the "Go to Home" button provided on the results screen displayed on the first user terminal 10 is specified), the second user's user data is updated at the second user terminal 20. It may be executed at the timing when the screen is displayed (for example, when the "Go to Home" button provided on the result screen displayed on the second user terminal 20 is designated). That is, the update of user data may be set to be executed at a predetermined timing.

When the process of step S12 is executed, the server device 30 transmits the user data of the first user updated in step S12 to the first user terminal 10 (step S13). The user data of the first user transmitted from the server device 30 in step S13 is received by the first user terminal 10 and stored in the storage unit 104 included in the first user terminal 10. The first user can check the rank, rank points, etc. of the first user based on such user data of the first user.

Similarly, the server device 30 transmits the second user's user data updated in step S12 to the second user terminal 20 (step S14). The user data of the second user transmitted from the server device 30 in step S14 is received by the second user terminal 20 and stored in the storage unit 104 included in the second user terminal 20. The second user can check the rank, rank points, etc. of the second user based on such user data of the second user.

Although FIG. 6 shows the process when the first user plays the golf game once, the process shown in FIG. 6 is repeatedly executed every time the first user plays the golf game. . By repeatedly executing the process shown in FIG. 6 in this way, the first user can play golf in play modes that are sequentially selected (forcibly assigned) according to the play mode cycle corresponding to the rank of the first user. can play games.

As described above, in this embodiment, when a user plays a golf game (competitive game), one of the pre-prepared competitive mode and enjoy mode (multiple play modes) is forcibly assigned. , a game play environment is provided in which the golf game can be played in the forcibly assigned play mode. In this case, the play mode forcibly assigned to the user is selected based on the user's rank.

In this embodiment, the above-described configuration makes it possible to suppress a decrease in motivation of a user who plays a golf game.

Specifically, in a case where seven types of ranks (game progress levels) are prepared for a golf game as shown in FIG. Even if a user plays a match against another user, it may be difficult to win the match. Assuming a situation where such a user loses rank points every time he loses a match, the user will not be able to increase his rank and his motivation to play the golf game will gradually decline. Conceivable.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, not only a battle mode in which rank points are increased or decreased based on the results of battles with other users, but also a battle mode in which rank points are increased or decreased based on the results of battles with other users, but also based on the score when the golf game is played. By forcibly assigning Enjoy mode (at a predetermined timing) to increase rank points, even if you lose the battle in competitive mode (rank points decrease), rank points will increase in enjoy mode. This makes it possible to raise the user's rank. In other words, in this embodiment, rank points can be easily adjusted by forcibly assigning the enjoy mode to the user. Increasing the rank in this way can serve as motivation for continuously playing the golf game.

Furthermore, even if a golf game has a mechanism in which the rank is lowered (that is, demoted to a lower rank) by losing (decreasing) rank points, for example, enjoy mode cannot be forcibly assigned. Since it is possible to avoid a situation in which the rank easily drops due to the above, it is considered that it is possible to suppress a decrease in the motivation of the user who plays the golf game.

In addition, since the golf game can be played more easily in the enjoy mode than in the battle mode, it is possible to encourage continuous playing of the golf game.

Furthermore, in Enjoy Mode, the user is not influenced by other users' scores and increases the rank points according to the user's own score, so the user is encouraged to play the golf game to improve the score (skill). It is considered to be. That is, the enjoy mode has the advantage that it can provide an environment for improving golf game proficiency (that is, practicing golf games) without losing rank points.

On the other hand, by forcing players to play not only Enjoy Mode but also Competitive Mode, the game becomes more interesting from the perspective of defeating other users, and as a result, increases the user's motivation to play the golf game. It is possible to do so.

Note that the golf game in this embodiment has a game feature in which one of the objectives is to increase the rank based on the acquired rank points, so the reward is an increase in rank points, and the penalty is rank points. Although the above explanation assumes that the compensation and penalty are a decrease in Specifically, the reward may be the provision of an item, and the penalty may be the disappearance of the item.

Furthermore, the battle mode and the enjoy mode described in this embodiment are examples of a plurality of play modes prepared in advance, and in this embodiment, a plurality of play modes are provided in order to suppress a decrease in the motivation of the user who plays the golf game. Any configuration is sufficient as long as it forcibly assigns one play mode among the play modes. That is, in the present embodiment, a plurality of play modes may be provided in which, for example, rewards given by playing a golf game or penalties imposed by playing the golf game are different. Further, although it can be said that external factors such as the direction and strength of the wind that affect holes and batted balls in the golf game described in this embodiment correspond to the difficulty level of the golf game, in this embodiment, the difficulty level A plurality of play modes with different degrees may be provided. Furthermore, the difficulty level may be a concept that includes the strength of an opponent, the difficulty of operations when playing a golf game, and the like.

In addition, in this embodiment, by having a configuration in which a play mode that is forcibly assigned according to a predetermined play mode cycle for each rank is selected, the ratio at which the enjoy mode is assigned is adjusted according to the rank, and the user A decrease in motivation can be appropriately suppressed.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, for example, if the user's rank is Rookie, Bronze, or Silver (first rank), a different play mode (competition mode) is selected each time the user plays a golf game. or Enjoy mode) and the user's ranks are Beginner, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond (second rank), only the same play mode will be forced each time the user plays the golf game. The configuration may be assigned. That is, in this embodiment, the user's ranks include a rank to which a plurality of play modes are sequentially and selectively assigned according to a cycle, and a rank to which one play mode among the plurality of play modes is fixedly assigned. It may be prepared.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, when one play mode among a plurality of play modes is forcibly assigned, the user terminal used by the user is instructed to play the golf game in that play mode. It is assumed that the user interface provided on the user terminal does not accept operations to change the forcibly assigned play mode. According to such a configuration, the user has to play the golf game in the forcibly assigned play mode, and as a result of the user freely changing (selecting) the play mode, the user's motivation decreases. Such situations can be avoided.

However, it is possible to adopt a mechanism that allows the user to change (select) the play mode when a specific condition is met, such as the user reaching a predetermined rank. In addition, instead of the user directly changing (selecting) the play mode, for example, the configuration may be such that parameters (such as weights) that affect the selection of the play mode in the play mode allocation process are changed in accordance with the user's instructions. is also possible.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the play mode has been described as being forcibly assigned according to the play mode cycle predetermined for each rank. (In other words, the play mode of the next golf game may be determined by lottery). This probability may be set such that, for example, the lower the rank, the more likely the enjoy mode will be selected, and the higher the rank, the more likely the battle mode will be selected.

Further, in the present embodiment, high-rank users often play the golf game in the competitive mode, but it is thought that even such users may want to play the golf game in the enjoy mode. In such a case, for example, a cycle may be prepared in which the player plays in Enjoy mode M times, and then in Competitive mode N times, and some users may be able to select such a cycle regardless of their rank. You can also do this.

By the way, in FIG. 8 described above, it was explained that the battle mode is assigned to all ranks of gold, platinum, and diamond (that is, the golf game is not played in the enjoy mode), but the enjoy mode shown in FIG. According to the point table for 2018, additional points 1 to 10 are defined in association with the rank.

That is, in this embodiment, the play mode cycle shown in FIG. 8 is changed based on the result of playing the golf game in the battle mode (that is, the result of the battle played in the battle mode). Can be done.

Specifically, for example, if a user whose rank is gold loses once in a battle against another user, one enjoy mode is added to the play mode cycle when the rank is gold. You can also do this. Also, for example, if a user with a platinum rank loses twice in a row against another user, one enjoy mode will be added to the play mode cycle when the rank is gold. It's okay. Furthermore, for example, if a user whose rank is Diamond loses three times in a row in a match against another user, one enjoy mode is added to the cycle of play modes when the rank is Diamond. It's okay.

That is, in this embodiment, the play mode that is forcibly assigned based on the user's rank is selected, but in this embodiment, as described above, the play mode is A configuration may be adopted in which a play mode (for example, enjoy mode) is forcibly assigned based on the result of the play. In this case, the play mode may be assigned by considering both the rank and the results of past matches, or the play mode may be assigned by considering only the results of past matches. In other words, in this embodiment, for example, when playing a golf game in one play mode regardless of rank, another play mode is forcibly assigned based on past match results. It's okay. Furthermore, although the explanation has mainly been about ranks and past match results, this embodiment can also be configured such that a predetermined play mode is forcibly assigned when a predetermined condition regarding the game situation is satisfied, for example. good. Note that the "game situation" includes, for example, situations such as a predetermined number of consecutive defeats in competitive mode, and in this case, enjoy mode is added (forcibly) based on the number of consecutive losses. assignment). Further, the "game situation" may be a concept including rank, battle results, and the like.

Furthermore, although the play mode cycle when the ranks are gold, platinum, and diamond has been described here, the play mode cycle when the ranks are rookie, bronze, and silver, for example, may be changed. For example, if the rank is Rookie, Bronze, or Silver, Enjoy mode is already included in the play mode cycle, but if you lose one match in competitive mode, the cycle of that play mode will be added. An enjoy mode may also be added.

Here, FIG. 14 shows an example of changing the play mode cycle when the rank is Rookie. In FIG. 14, for example, when the play mode is sequentially repeated with one cycle of the battle mode and two times of the enjoy mode shown in FIG. 9, if the battle in the battle mode is defeated, the cycle of the play mode An example is shown in which "competition mode once, enjoy mode twice" is changed to "competition mode once, enjoy mode three times".

In addition, after play modes are assigned according to the play mode cycle after the change (competition mode 1 and enjoy mode 3) in which one enjoy mode was added, the play mode cycle before the change (competition mode 1 play mode is assigned according to the number of times and enjoy mode twice). As shown in FIG. 14, by changing the play mode cycle, if you lose one match, you will be forced to play the golf game in Enjoy mode three times in a row before playing the golf game in Competitive mode next time. It is possible to realize a play mode assignment.

It should be noted that although it has been explained here that if you lose one battle in the battle mode, the enjoy mode will be added once, but in this embodiment, the number of consecutive losses in the battle (that is, the number of consecutive losses) It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which if the number exceeds a threshold value, the player is forced to play in the enjoy mode n times in a row before the next battle mode.

In addition, here we have explained a configuration in which Enjoy mode is added to the play mode cycle when a match is lost, but for example, when losing a match, by replacing the match mode in the play mode cycle with Enjoy mode, the corresponding play mode can be added. It is also possible to configure the mode cycle to be changed. Additionally, if the configuration is such that play modes are selected (assigned) according to the probabilities of each play mode predetermined for each rank as described above, when the play mode is defeated, (occurrence rate) may be changed. In this case, it is conceivable to change the probability so that the enjoy mode is selected with a high probability.

Also, here, a play mode for one cycle is assigned according to the cycle of the play mode after the change, and then a play mode is assigned according to the cycle of the play mode before the change (in other words, the cycle of the play mode after the change is one cycle). However, the cycle of the play mode after the change may be applied multiple times.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, the golf game is played in a format where you compete against other users even in the enjoy mode, from the perspective of improving motivation by enjoying the golf game with other users (that is, Although a configuration in which two users play a golf game is adopted, the opponent in the golf game played in the enjoy mode may be a non-player character (NPC). Further, in this embodiment, it is also possible to use a non-player character as an opponent in a golf game played in a competitive mode.

Further, in this embodiment, a golf game has been described as an example of a competitive game, but competitive games to which this embodiment can be applied are not limited to golf games. Moreover, the competitive game to which this embodiment can be applied is not limited to a competitive game in which a one-on-one competition is performed, but may be a competitive game in which a multiple-versus-multiple competition is performed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is only necessary to forcibly allocate one play mode among a plurality of play modes when playing a game based on the viewpoint of suppressing a decrease in user motivation. It may also be applied to games other than games.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements within the scope of the invention at the implementation stage. Moreover, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the plurality of components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1...Game system, 10...First user terminal, 11...Nonvolatile memory, 12...CPU, 13...Main memory, 13A...Game program, 14...Wireless communication device, 15...Display, 16...Touch panel, 20...Second User terminal, 30... Server device, 31... Non-volatile memory, 32... CPU, 33... Main memory, 33A... Game program, 34... Wireless communication device, 40... Network, 101... Operation reception unit, 102... Control unit, 103 ...Display processing section, 104... Storage section, 301... Storage section, 302... Data management section, 303... Control section.

Claims

computer,
Assignment means for forcibly assigning one play mode among a plurality of pre-prepared play modes when a user plays a game;
Function as a providing means for providing a game play environment in which the game can be played in the forcibly assigned one play mode,
The one play mode that is forcibly assigned is selected based on the user's progress in the game.
Each of the plurality of play modes includes at least one of a reward given by playing the game in the play mode, a penalty imposed by playing the game, and a difficulty level when playing the game. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein:
The plurality of play modes include a first play mode and a second play mode,
The first play mode is a play mode in which a user competes against another user, and the user is rewarded or penalized based on the result of the battle,
3. The program according to claim 2, wherein the second play mode is a play mode in which a reward is given based on the score of the user when the game is played.
4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the reward includes an increase in points for increasing the user's game progress, and the penalty includes a decrease in the points.
2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the one play mode that is forcibly assigned is selected according to a play mode cycle that is predetermined for each game progress level.
6. The program according to claim 5, wherein the cycle of the play modes is changed based on a result of a match performed in the one play mode that is forcibly assigned.
2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the one play mode that is forcibly assigned is selected according to a probability of each play mode that is predetermined for each game progress level.
If the user's game progress is a first game progress, the first or second play mode is forcibly assigned each time the user plays the game,
4. The program according to claim 3, wherein when the user's game progress is a second game progress, the first play mode is forcibly assigned each time the user plays the game.
The computer is used as an instruction means for instructing a user terminal used by the user to play a game in the play mode when one of the plurality of play modes is forcibly assigned. make it even more functional,
4. The program according to claim 3, wherein a user interface provided on the user terminal does not accept an operation to change the one play mode to which the one play mode is forcibly assigned.
4. The program according to claim 3, wherein the second play mode is a play mode in which you compete against a non-player character.
computer,
Assignment means for forcibly assigning one play mode among a plurality of pre-prepared play modes when a user plays a game;
Functioning as a providing means for providing a game play environment in which the game can be played in the forcibly assigned one play mode,
The one play mode that is forcibly assigned is a program that is selected based on a result of the game being played in the past.
Assignment means for forcibly assigning one play mode among a plurality of pre-prepared play modes when a user plays a game;
providing means for providing a game play environment in which the game can be played in the forcibly assigned one play mode;
The one play mode that is forcibly assigned is selected based on the user's progress in the game.
Assignment means for forcibly assigning one play mode among a plurality of pre-prepared play modes when a user plays a game;
providing means for providing a game play environment in which the game can be played in the forcibly assigned one play mode;
A system in which the one play mode that is forcibly assigned is selected based on a result of the game being played in the past.