GB2359394A

GB2359394A - Game image creating device,information distributing device,and information storage medium

Info

Publication number: GB2359394A
Application number: GB0113780A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Masaki Takeda; Seiichi Sato; Hiroyuki Hiraishi
Original assignee: Namco Ltd
Current assignee: Namco Ltd
Priority date: 1999-10-07
Filing date: 2000-09-29
Publication date: 2001-08-22
Anticipated expiration: 2020-09-29
Also published as: JP2001109714A; JP3449953B2; GB2359394B; KR100423628B1; WO2001025944A1; GB0113780D0; HK1036504A1; KR20010080538A

Abstract

An information distributing device by which the user can define a key operation and a response to the key operation. The device includes a transmitting/receiving section (190) for receiving delivery request information transmitted from a mobile telephone (200) by the definition of the correspondence between an operation and its response through a definition screen by the user, a control section (112) for updating user data (122) stored in a storage unit (120) according to the definition information included in the delivery request information, and an image creating section (111) for creating a game image from the user data (122). The image created by the transmitting/receiving section (190) is sent to the mobile telephone (200).

Description

2359394 Akw GAME IMAGE GENERATION DEVICE, INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION DEVICE,

AND INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIUM

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a game image generation device, an information distribution device, and an information storage medium, and, in particular, to a game image generation device, an information distribution device, and an information storage medium for implementing a game on a terminal by the generation and distribution of game information based on a request from that terminal- BACKGROUND ART

Game systems that display a game image on the liquid crystal screen of a portable telephone have been implemented, to enable the playing of games thereon.

In such a game system, game information (such as page data for a game image) is transmitted to the portable telephone from a predetermined information distribution device and the player can make the game progress by pressing numeric and other keys of the portable telephone to cause changes in the image page on the liquid crystal screen of the portable telephone.

in such a case, it would increase the ease of use of the portable telephone if the player could obtain a desired response in answer to any key operation.

With games played on a domestic game machine. a game 1 has been proposed in which the player can select any pattern of correspondence between suggested actions and responses from an option screen or the like, and progress of such a game is based on that pattern.

Since definition information for the correspondence pattern that the player has selected is stored in the game inachine with this method, however, it is necessary to redefine that information anew whenever the game machine or game software is changed. With devices such as portable telephones in particular, where new models are constantly being introduced, it can often happen that users have to re-define the settings every time a new terminal device is brought out.

It is all very well for a machine such as a domestic game machine to have a fixed layout of the keys and buttons of the operating section, but with terminal devices that may have different formats and layouts of keys depending on the model, it is often necessary to define functions appropriate to that model type, and it is also difficult to use a method of providing correspondence patterns beforehand.

With a terminal device that has a limited storage capacity, such as a portable telephone, storing the definition information within the terminal device will put pressure on the storage area and hinder real-time processing.

Since operations on a 2 compact terminal device, such as a portable telephone, are mainly done with the thumb and index finger, there is a limited number of keys that are easy to use and it is important to operate them with accessible fingers, as far as possible.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention was devised in the light of the above described technical problems and has as an objective thereof the provision of a game image generation device, an information distribution device, and an information storage medium that enable the use to define the correspondence between an action such as a key-press and a response to that action.

(1) According to a first aspect of the present is invention, there is provided an information distribution device which generates image information for use in displaying an image on a terminal device, and transmits the image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the information distribution device comprising:

distribution- side reception means which receives distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, based on predetermined definition action information that is part of the 3 distribution request information; image information generation means which generates the image information based on the definition data; and distribution- side transmission means which transmits the image information to the terminal device, wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a user, based on a definition-use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on rhe terminal device and a response to the action.

(2) According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program information for use in displaying an device. and transmitting the image terminal device, based on distribution that includes operating information for generating image image on a terminal information to the request information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the information storage medium comprising a program for implementing on a computer:

means which causes distribution- side reception means to receive distribution request information from the terminal device; control means predetermined storage area, definition action information distribution request information which stores definition data into a based on predetermined that is part of the 4 image information generation means which generates the image information based on the definition data; and means which causes distribution-side transmission means to transmit the image information to the terminal device, wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a user, based on a definition-use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

According to the present invention, the definition action information is stored in a predetermined storage area on the distribution side of the system, and an image is generated such that the defined response is performed.

This enables the user on the information distribution request side to always display an image by pressing an easy-to-use key, increasing the ease of use of the device.

Note that the image information in this case means data, parameters, or a program for displaying an image, or an object in which data and programming are integrated, for example.

(3) The definition-use image may comprise an image for defining a change in a previously assigned correspondence between an action and a response; and the image information generation means may generate the image information based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an action and a response has been changed.

This enables the user to obtain a desired response by an operation that the user finds easy to perform- The user can set settings that make the terminal device easy to use, depending on the model type, when using a network where a number of different models of terminal devices are connected.

(4) The image information generation means may generate the image information for displaying an image that reflects details of a change, based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an action and a response has been changed.

This enables the user to verify that the settings have been customized in an easy-to-use fashion, preventing misoperation by the user.

(5) The image may be a game image used in a game that progresses through predetermined image transitions; the definition-use image may include an image for causing the game image to be displayed in a state in which a number of image transitions have occurred due to an action; and the image information generation means may generate game information for displaying the game image of a state after the number of image transitions has occurred, when an action has been performed to display the game image in a state after the number of image transitions.

This makes it possible to implement linking and short-cut functions, enabling the player to play the game efficiently by reducing the number of game images displayed to the player.

(6) The definition data may include data for validating the response only when the game is in a predetermined state of progress.

This makes it possible to vary the response depending on the state of progress of the game, even though the player is using the same action. The player can therefore progress through the game by using the same action. In other words, the player can display a game start image by pressing the numeric key 6 in a state in which a menu image is displayed, then play the game by pressing the numeric key 6 again in a state in which the game start image is is displayed, and restart the game by pressing the numeric key 6 yet again in a state in which a game-over image is displayed, by way of example.

in this case, the control means may store in the storage area a plurality of groups of actions, responses to 20 those actions, and games states that validate those responses, based on a plurality of items of definition action information.

(7) The definition-use image may include an image for validating the response only when the game is in a predetermined state of progress.

This makes it possible to obtain various different responses to the same action, so that the response can be 7 made to differ in accordance with the state of progress of the game, even if the player performs the same action.

This definition-use image could comprises an image for defining an action, a response to that action, and a 5 game state in which that response is validated.

This makes it possible to perform responses that differ in accordance with the game state, even though the player performs the same action. Assume that the player is playing a role-playing game, by way of example, and has defined an action, response, and validating game state such tha t a character fights (responds) only when a life parameter of the character has reached or exceeded a predetermined value (validating game state). In thar- case, it is possible to make the character fight if the life parameter has reached or exceeded the predetermined value, but escape if it has not reached the predetermined value. This enables the player to progress rapidly through the game, without having to determine whether or not the character should fight. The definition-use image could comprise images for defining a plurality of groups of actions and the responses to those actions, or images for defining a plurality of groups of actions, the responses to those actions, and game states in which those responses are validated. 25 This makes it possible for the player to define a correspondence between an action and a different stages of the game.

8 response for (8) The image information generation means may generate the image information for displaying the definition-use image; and the distribution-side transmission means may transmit the image information for the definition-use image to the terminal device.

This enables control over the definition-use image on the distribution side, so that the user's definitions can be made to conform to the image information that is distributed.

(9) The control means inay update operation history data that has been stored in the storage area, based on the operating information; and the image information generation means may generate is the image information for the definition-use image, based on the history data.

This makes it possible to understand which operations the user performs, by monitoring the operation history, and thus support more efficient operation by the user that conforms to the user's actual operation.

More specifically, the image information generation means can generate advice inage information for improving the ease of operation for the definition-use image, based on the history data, for example.

If is determined from the history data that it is mostly the numeric key 6 that is pressed, but sometimes the numeric key 7 is pressed, by way of example, image 9 information prompting the use of the numeric key 6 of the numeric key 7 is generated and displayed terminal device to enable the user to feel that he can increase the ease of use of the terminal device.

(10) The terminal device may be a portable terminal device comprising:

a plurality of input sections for instead on the or she type of inputting the operating information from the user; means for transmitting the distribution request information which includes the input operating information to the distribution- side reception means and receiving the image information from the distribution- side transmission means; and display means which displays an image based on the received image information.

In an information distribution device that has only a small storage area and downloads data substantially every time it is used, such as a portable terminal device, this configuration makes it possible to display images readily without storing definition information in the terminal itself. by maintaining definition information for distribution on the distribution device side.

Note that the portable terminal device in this case could be a portable information terminal, a portable telephone set, a portable game machine, or a portable personal computer (PC), by way of example- (11) The operating information may be input through at least one of the input sections; and the definition action information may include character information specified by the operation of the input sections.

This makes it possible to display an image of the game of Go by inputting the character string "IGW' by operations an the input section, by way of example.

If the definition is such that images that can only be displayed usually by pressing the keys again 11211 are displayed by pressing 11011 once, 1 9), 31 2 ", and the user can achieve the objective of reducing the number of operations.

If the contents of definition is inputting a character string, the response is easier for the user to understand than if a number or the like was used for the definition.

is Note that character information in this case includes a single character, a character string, a single number, a number string, a single symbol, or a symbol string.

(12) The portable type of terminal device may be a portable telephone set; and the display means may comprise:

a display formed integrally with the telephone set; and a browser section for adjusting and displaying the image on the display.

This enables the player to use a browser to display various images and thus enjoy various games, fortunetelling, and information collection sites. Note that a service such as NTT DOCOMO's i-mode service could be implemented as the service for providing displayable 11 information by using the browser of the portable telephone set - Note also that the portable telephone set in this case could be a portable telephone, a personal handyphone system (PHS) unit. or a portable telephone that employs satellite communications.

(13) The operating information including user identification information may be generated by the terminal device; the definition data may be provided for each user; and the control means may update the definition data for a user based on the user identification information comprised within the distribution request information.

Since definition information is stored for each user, a user can perform similar operations on an ordinary terminal device, even when using a terminal device that differs from the one on which the user performed the definition.

with portable telephones in particular, the layout and format of the keys varies with model type, so it is a burden to have to redo all the definitions when the model changes. This configuration makes it possible to implement a desired function by an operation that is similar to that of the original model when the model type changes.

Note that if the terminal device is a portable telephone set in such a case, the generation of the user identification information may be based on the number of that telephone.

12 This makes it possible to identify the user in a simple manner, since the telephone number is not duplicated on other telephones.

(14) The terminal device may generate the operating information including the user identification information, by displaying an image prompting the input of user identification information and inputting the user identification information.

Since definition information is stoted for each user, this configuration makes it possible for each user to operate in an environment that the user finds easy to use, even when a plurality of users are using a single terminal device. This also makes it possible to create an easy-touse environment regardless of the terminal device, if one is user is using a plurality of terminal devices.

(15) According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game image generation device which generates a game image in accordance with an action of a player; the game image generation device comprising:

game image generation means which generates a definition-use image for definition a correspondence between an action and a response to the action; and control means which stores definition data in a predetermined storage area, based on definition information indicating a definition by the player in a state in which the defirlition- use image is displayed, wherein the definition data includes data for 13 validating the response only when a game is in a predetermined state of progress.

(16) According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program for generating a game image in accordance with an action of a player; the information storage medium comprising a program for implementing on a computer: game image generation means which generates a definition-use image for definition a correspondence between an action and a response to the action; and control means which stores definition data in a predetermined storage area, based on definition information indicating a definition by the player in a state in which the definition-use image is displayed, wherein the definition data includes data for validating the response only when predetermined state of progress.

This aspect of the present invention makes it possible to store definition action information in a predetermined storage area and generate an image such that a defined response is performed. This enables the player to always press an easy-to-press key to display a desired image, increasing the convenience of the device.

This aspect of the present invention also makes it possible to vary the progress of the game, a game is in a response depending on the state of even though the player is using the 14 same action. The player can therefore progress through the game by using the same action. In other words, the player can display a game start image by pressing the numeric key 6 in a state in which a menu image is displayed. then play the game by pressing the numeric key 6 again in a state in which the game start image is displayed, and restart the game by pressing the numeric key 6 yet again in a state in which a game-aver image is displayed, by way of example.

(17) According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game image generation device which generates game image information for use in displaying a game image on a terminal device, and transmits the game image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the game image generation device comprising:

distribution- side reception means which receives distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, based on predeternined definition action information that is part of the distribution request information; image information generation means which generates the game image information based on the definition data; and distribution- side transmission means which transmits the game image information to the terminal device.

wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a player, based on a definition-use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

(18) According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program for generating game image information for use in displaying a game image on a terminal device, and transmitting the game image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the information storage medium comprising a program for is implementing on a computer:

means which causes distribution- side reception means to receive distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, definition action information distribution request information; image information generation means which generates the game image information based on the definition data; and based on predetermined that is part of the means which causes distribution-side transmission means to transmit the game image information to the is terminal device, wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a player, based on a definition-use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

This aspect of the present invention makes it possible to store definition action information in a predetermined storage area on the game information generation side, generate an image showing the defined response, and transmit that image to the terminal device operated by the player. The player can therefore display desired images by always pressing an easy-touse key, increasing the convenience of the device.

This aspect of the present invention also makes it possible to vary the response depending on the state of progress of the game, even though the player is using the same action. The player can therefore progress through the game by using the same action. In other words, the player can display a game start image by pressing the numeric key 6 in a state in which a menu image is displayed, then play the game by pressing the numeric key 6 again in a state in which the game start image is displayed, and restart the game by pressing the numeric key 6 yet again in a state in which a game-over image is displayed, by way of example.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

17 Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a game system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is an external view of a portable telephone.

Fig. 3 shows an example of image transitions in a 5 prior-art poker game.

Fig- 4 shows another example of image transitions in a prior-art poker game.

Fig. SA shows an example of a key assignment change screen in accordance with one embodiment of the invention 10 and Fig. 5B shows another example of a key assignment change screen in accordance with one embodiment of the invention- Fig. 6 shows an example of image transitions in a poker game in accordance with one embodiment of the present is invention- Fig. telephone 7 is a functional block diagram of the portable and game information distribution device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention- Fig. 8 shows a key assignment table and a key input history table in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 shows an example of image transitions for short-cut definition in accordance with one embodiment- of the invention.

Fig. 10 shows an example of an image transition after a short-cut has been performed in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

is Fig. 11 shows another example of image transitions for short-cut definition in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12 shows another example of an image transition aft-er a short-cut has been performed in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 13A shows an example of an image before key assignment change in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Pig. 13B shows an example of an image after key assignment change in accordance with the prior art, and Fig.

13C shows an example of an image after key assignment in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Examples of the invention applied to a game system that uses a portable telephone are described below with reference to the accompanying figures. A schematic view of the game system in accordance with this embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. 1. The game system comprises a portable telephone 200, which acts as a terminal device, and a game information distribution device 100, which is an information distribution device that generates game information based on distribution request information that is transmitted 25 from the portable telephone 200 over a transfer path and transmits game information to the portable telephone 200. In this case, the game information distribution

19 device 100 and the portable telephone 200 are connected together by a packet- switching network 300. Thetransfer paths between the game information distribution device 100 and the portable telephone 200 include a wireless transfer path 320 and a wired transfer path 310.

Note that data is transferred between the game information distribution device 100 and the portable telephone 200 in packet format within the packet- switching network 300, via a base station and a packet assembler/disassembler or the like. In practice, a these portable telephones 200 will be connected to the game information distribution device 100 by the packet- switching network 300.

First of all, a player uses the portable telephone 200 to connect to the packet- switching network 300 and the portable telephone 200 transmits distribution request data to the game information distribution device 100, based on the player's action. Game information is generated at the gaine information distribution device 100 in accordance with then is transmitted to the nluralitv of the distribution request, portable telephone 200.

The portable telephone 200 receives the game information from the game information distribution device 100. then displays game images on a screen of the portable 25 telephone 200 to implement a game.

An external view of the portable telephone 200 is shown in Fig. 2- The portable telephone 200 comprises a plurality of keys that function as an operating section 210, a display section 220 having a liquid crystal screen on which characters and images are displayed, and an antenna that functions as a transfer section 290.

The player used the numeric keys of the operating section 210 to input numbers, and also input characters and symbols that have been assigned to the numeric keys, to play a game.

The description below is based on the game of poker, by way of example.

An example of a transition between images in a priorart poker game is shown in Fig. 3.

As shown in an image 400, the player presses the numeric key 6 to draw, after pressing the numeric keys 1, 2, and 3 to hold three cards. This causes the display of another image 402 in which the two remaining cars, which hadn't been held, have been replaced with two new cards.

As a result of the draw shown in the image 402, the player has achieved a full-house. This adds $15, increasing the total to $1537.

If the numeric key 6 is pressed in this winning state, "Bet and Draw" is selected and five new cards are drawn on the payment of an imaginary stake.

If the numeric key 7 is pressed in this winning state, a double-up gamethat offers the chance of doubling the prize money is started, but since the numeric key 6 is 21 pressed at this point, no double-up occurs. Another example of a transition between images in the prior-art poker game is shown in Fig. 4. An image 410 and an image 412 are similar to the 5 images 400 and 402, except that the player presses the numeric key 7 in the image 412 to select double-up. This over the leftmost of the five cards, leaving the remaining four cards hiddenAt this point, the player presses numeric key 3 to turn over the second card from the right. This state is shown in an image 414. The leftmost card is 6 but the card that the player revealed is a Jack (value: 11), which is greater than 6, so the double-up is successful and the points gained are doubled to $30.

The player can select whether or not to play the double-up game again, to double the score. The double-up game is played again by pressing the numeric key 6 for Yes. Pressing the numeric key 7 for No guarantees the score 20 without playing the double-up game.

With this embodiment of the invention, the player presses numeric key 6 to select (6) and play the double-up gaine again.

This turns over the lefzrnost of the five cards again, leaving the remaining four cards in the hidden state.

In this case, the player presses the numeric key 3 to turn over the second card from the right. This state is 22 shown in an image 416.

Since the leftmost card is a Queen (value: 12) but the card that the player turns over is 5, the double-up fails and the game ends (game over).

Note that the game can be restarted by pressing the numeric key 6 from the state shown by the image 416, after that game is over- Thus the game progresses by mostly pressing just the numeric key 6. However, it is sometimes necessary to press the numeric key 7, such as for the transition from the image 412 to the image 414. An adventurous player would select double-up with (7); a conservative player would select bet-and-draw with (6). If each player could change the function that is assigned to each key to a preferred function in such a case, that would increase the ease of use of the terminal device.

In general, the keys of the portable telephone 200 are operated by the thumb. For that reason, a player who operates the portable telephone 200 with the right hand will consider different keys to be easy to operate than a player who uses the left hand. A player operating the portable telephone 200 with the right hand would find the numeric keys 3, 6, and 9 easier to press on the portable telephone 200 shown in Fig. 2. On the other hand, so to speak. a player who operates the portable telephone 200 with the left hand would find the numeric keys 1, 4, and 7 easier to press- 23 With this embodiment of the present invention, the configuration is such that each player can define key operations to achieve a desired response.

A typical key assignment change image 420 in accordance with an example of this embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. SA.

The player causes the key assignment change image 420 to appear by means such as selecting the display of the key assignment change image 420 from a menu screen or the like.

When the key assignment change image 420 is displayed, the player selects the blank field to the right of the betand-draw item, assigns the numeric key 7 to it by pressing the numeric key 7, then assigns the numeric key 6 to the double-up item in a similar manner.

After the assignment, the player confirms the assignment by pressing numeric key 1 to select OK, and the menu screen automatically returns. Note that if the numeric key 2 is pressed when the key assignment change image 420 is displayed, the menu screen returns without confirmation of the key assignment.

An example of a transition between images in the poker game in accordance with this embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig- 6.

The player starts the poker game after the key assignment, and an image 430 changes to an image 432 when the numeric key 6 is pressed. As is clear from a comparison of the image 412 of Fig. 4 and the image 432 of Fig. 6, 24 pressing the numeric key 6 in the winning state selects bet-and-draw and pressing the numeric key 7 selects double. up, but after the key assignment, pressing the numeric key 6 selects double-up and pressing numeric key 7 selects bet5 and-draw.

In thi s mariner, game images that ref lect the definitions of the key assignment change image 420 are displayed. In this state, the player starts the double-up game by pressing the numeric key G- Even after the start of the double-up game, pressing the numeric key 6 causes a transition to an image 436 and then to a game restart screen.

It is therefore possible to implement a game system that is more convenient to use from the player's point of view, by making it possible to define a correspondence between a player's action and the response to that action and by generating game images that reflect that definition.

it is also possible to define the correspondence between an action andthe response to that action for each stage of the game.

Another example of a key assignment change image 422 in accordance with an example of this embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. 5B.

To define the correspondence between an action and the response to that action for each stage of the game, using a menu screen or the like, first of all the key assignment change image 422 is displayed on the screen. The player presses the numeric key 7 as the action for obtaining the response for "Next", to input (7) into the blank field. When the player then presses the numeric key 1 to select "(1) Next key assignment", the key assignment change image 420 of Fig. SA appears on the screen. The key operation definition for validating bet-and-draw in the above described winning stage and the key operation definition for obtaining the response "Next" in stages other than the winning stage are clone by pressing the numeric key 1 to select " (1) CW' in the state in which the key assignment change image 420 is displayed.

Note that if the numeric key 2 is pressed in the key allocation change image 422 to select "(2) OK", the key assignment change image 420 is not displayed next and only the key operation definition for obtaining the "Next" response in stages other than the winning stage is done.

If the numeric key 2 is pressed in the key allocation change image 422, the menu screen returns without confirmation of the key assignment- In this manner, the player can define valid key assignments for each game stage. by displaying a plurality of definition-use images.

The description now turns to the functional blocks of the portable telephone 200 and game information distribution device 100 for implementing such a game system.

A functional block diagram of the portable telephone 200 and the game information distribution device 100 in 26 accordance with an example of this embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 7.

As described above, the portable telephone 200 comprises the operating section 210; the transfer section 290, which generates distribution request information comprising operating information from the operating section 210 for transmission and receives game information from the game information distribution device 100; a storage section 230 for temporarily storing the thus received game information; and the display section 220 for adjusting Cle game information stored in the storage section 230, using a browser, and displaying it on a liquid crystal screen.

Note that "game information" in this case means a program or the like for executing a game, by way of example. This game information includes not only game image information, but it could also comprise game sound information that is generated by a predetermined game sound generation means.

The game information distribution device 100 comprises a transfer section 190, which integrates a distribution-side reception means for receiving distribution request information from the portable telephone 200 together with a distribution-side transmission means for transmitting game information, a control section 112 for updating user data 122 that is stored for each player in a storage section 120, and an image generation section 111 that is an image information 27 generation means for generating game image information based on received distribution request information- The image generation section 111 and the control section 112 are integrated as a processing section 110, and the functions thereof could be implemented by means such as a CPU. More specifically, the image generation section ill could be configured in such a manner that game image pages are generated dynamically by software using the common gateway interface (CGI), by way of example.

The storage section 120 could be implemented by means such as RAM and the transfer section 190 could be implemented by means such as a communications device having a packet assembler/disassembler (PAD) function.

Note that it is also possible to have a configuration is in which an information storage medium 180 is connected to the game information distribution device 100, whereby the functions thereof can be implemented by reading information (such as a orogram) from that information storage medium 180.

To implement components such as the transfer section 190, the image generation section 111, and the control section 112 in such a case, programs can be used within the game information distribution device 100 for effecting means for receiving distribution request information from the portable telephone 200 into the transfer section 190 control means for generating in accordance with definition action by the user.

28 based on a definition-use image for defining the correspondence between an action displayed on the portable telephone 200 and the response to that action, and storing definition data in a predetermined storage area. based on indicates details of transmitted as part information; means for on the definition data; section 190 to send the the terminal device.

definition action information that that definition that have been of that distribution request generating image information based and means for causing the transfer thus generated image information to The information stored in the information storage medium 180 could also be embodied over carrier waves. In other words, it is possible to implement the above described various functions by having the game information is distribution device 100 read information from a predetermined host terminal over a network, instead of from the information storage medium 180.

Note that a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, IC card, ROM, RAM, or storage medium using a laser or magnetic means, such as a hard disk. could be used as the information storage medium 180.

The description now turns to the user data 122.

Since the storage section 230 of the portable telephone 200 has a small capacity, it could happen that the storage of definition information during the definition of key assignments or the like could place pressure upon the storage area and thus impede the execution of the game- 29 is The format of the operating section 210 of the portable telephone 200 and the layout of the keys will differ with the model, but it is possible to obtain a similar operating feel regardless of the model type by setting the portable telephone 200 as appropriate.

In addition, newer, comparatively inexpensive models of the portable telephone 200 are constantly coming onto the market, to the models change frequently. For that reason, if the user of the portable telephone 200 changes to a new model and wants to obtain a desired response with an operation that is similar to that used with the previous model, the player can continue to feel that the device is easy to use, even after changing model.

This embodiment of the present invention therefore ensures that the user data 122 is provided for each user in the storage section 120 of the game information distribution device 100, and provides a key assignment table 124 for holding the above described key assignment information within the user data 122 and a key input history table 126 for holding a history of key inputs on the portable telephone 200.

Schematic views of the key assignment table 124 and the key input history table 126 in accordance with an example of this embodiment of the invention are shown in Fig. 8.

The key assignment table 124 lists a "Key" to be pressed, a "Function" that indicates the response to that key operation, and the "Validating game state" that indicates the game state in which that operation is valid.

Assume, by way of example, that the key assignment change image 420 of Fig. SA is displayed on the display section 220 of the portable telephone 200. as described below.

if the state of progress of the game is equivalent to a point at which a predetermined definition is enabled, such as an option image display stage. the image generation section 111 generates the key assignment change image information that corresponds to that state of progress, based on the distribution request information from the portable telephone 200.

The portable telephone 200 uses the display section 220 to display the key assignment change image 420, based on the key assignment change image information.

It is possible to generate the key assignment change image information on the terminal device side, but generating the key P--signment change image information at the distribution device side makes it possible not only to generate the optimal key assignment change image information in accordance with the game, but also to generate image information to prompt the player to change the key assignments. as will be described later.

If the player does the definition in a state in which the key assignment change image 420 is displayed, that definition information is transmitted from the transfer 31 section 290 to the transfer section 190 as distribution request information, then is written by the control section 112 into the key assignment table 124. For -instance, the control section 112 writes "C as "Key", "Double-Up,, as "Function", and "Success Scene" as the 'Walidating Game State".

Note that if the key allocation change image 422 of Fig. 5B and the key assignment change image 420 of Fig- SA are to be displayed, these definition-use irnages are generated by the image generation section 111 in sequence then are transmitted by the transfer section 190 to the portable telephone 200 in sequence. By performing the definition action on the portable telephone 200, the definition data is stored in the key assignment table 124. In such a case, the control section 112 stores in the key assignment table 124 11711 for "Key", "Display Next Page" for "Function", and "Non-Success Scene" for the "Validating Game State", based on the definition action information for the key allocation change image 422. The control section 20 112 also stores into the key assignment table 124 "G" for "Key", "Double-Up" for "Function", and "Success Scene', for the "Validating Game State", based on the definition action information for the key assignment change image 420. The display of a plurality of definition-use images in this manner, enabling the player to perform a plurality of definitions, makes it possible for the player to assign keys that are valid for different stages of the game.

32 When definitions have been performed in a state in which the key assignment change image 420 of Fig. 5A was displayed, the image generation section 111 references the key assignment table 124. If it is determined from the distribution request information that the numeric key 6 was pressed at the image 432, by way of example, the Double-up response is assumed so that image information for displaying a Double-up image, such as that of an image 434, is generated. The transfer section 190 transmits that image information to the portable telephone 200. Note that the identification number comprised within the distribution request information can identify each portable telephone 200 that issues a distribution request, even when a plurality of portable telephones is connected to the packet-switching network 300.

A method in which the player deliberately inputs his or her own user ID could be used as this method of identification method. In such a case, a user ID input image is displayed on the display section 220 of the portable telephone 200 as user identification information, based on the game image information sent from the game information distribution device 100, the player inputs his or her own user ID, and distribution request information comprising that user identification information is sent by the transfer section 290 to the game information distribution device 100.

The control section 112 identifies the player from 33 A 1k the user identification information received by the transfer section 190 and can update the user data 122 for that player.

This configuration makes it possible to store information for each player at the game information distribution device 100 by a method in which each player inputs his or her own user ID, even when a plurality of players are using the same portable telephone 200 in common, such as when a family is using one portable telephone 200 in common. This enables the players to play the game with an easy-co- operate setting method.

If a player usually plays a game on a PC but also plays the game on the portable telephone 200 when outside, the same response can be obtained for substantially the same action by enabling use of the keyboard of the PC and the keys of the portable telephone 200 to input the same user ID to the PC and the portable telephone 200. This increases the ease of use of terminal devices, even when a single player uses a plurality of terminal devices.

Note that since an individual telephone number is issued for each user of a portable telephone 200, it is also possible to use a rnethod by which the portable telephone 200 automatically generates the user identification information and transmits it to the game information distribution device 100.

This reduces the burden on the user of inputting the user ID.

34 The history of each "Key" used by the player through the operating section 210 of the portable telephone 200 can be stored in the key input history table 126. More specifically, since the operating information comprises information indicating which keys the player has used, the control section 112 can write the history of keys used by the player to the key input history table 126, based on the operating information.

AS shown in Fig- 8, if the image generation section ill references the key input history table 126 and determines therefrom that the numeric key 6 was mostly used by sometimes the numeric key 7 was also used, it can generate image information for a notice prompting the use of the numeric key 6 instead of the numeric key 7, then transmit that image information by the transfer section 190 to the portable telephone 200.

This enables the display of an image similar to that of the key assignment change image 420 of Fig. 5 on the portable telephone 200, so that the above described definition information can be written to the key assignment table 124 by the key assignment performed by the player.

In this manner. it is possible to provide support that enables efficient operation by the player, not only from the player's side but also from the system side. This makes it possible to give the player the impression that he or she can increase the ease of use of the portable telephone 200.

The above description concerned examples in which existing key assignments were changed, but it is also possible to assign short-cuts to key operations. Note that a short-cut in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention means a state in which a number of image transitions occur when the game progresses to a predetermined image transition.

An example of image transitions for short-cut definition relating to an example of this embodiment of the 10 invention is shown in Fig. 9.

If a player selects 11(1) Game Republic" from a menu image 440, by way of example, a game selection image 442 appears. If the player selects "(2) Igo Village', from that game selection image 442, a game start image 444 appears.

Three items, 11(1) New Game, (2) Continue, and 1'(3) Record Short-Cut" are displayed as selection choices in the game start image 444. If the player selects "M Record Short-Cut" when the game start image 444 is displayed, a short-cut assignment image 446 appears.

A message "Set a short-cut for lgo Village:

Set, (2) lgo Village" appears on the short-cut assignment image 446.

At this point, the player presses numeric key 0 at the 1111 (underlined portion), to input "0". This transmits that definition information to the game information distribution device 100, where it is written into the key assignment table 124 as definition data by the control section 112.

In this case, "Key" in the key assignment table 124 becomes 110", "Function" becomes "Display Game Start Image", and "Validating Game State" becomes "Menu Stage", as shown in Fig. 8.

The game start image 444 appears if the player subsequently presses the numeric key 1 to select 11(1) Set,,, or the game restarts if the player presses the numeric key 2 to select "(2) Continue"- An image transition during a short-cut in accordance with this example of the present invention is shown in Fig. 10- if the player temporarily disconnects from the packet- switching network 300 then reconnects to the packet- switching network 300 again, a menu image 450 is displayed again on the display section 220.

There are usually four choices when the menu image 450 is displayed, "(1) Shogi Town, (2) Igo Village, (3) Mah-jongg Island, and (4) Information", but since a short- cut has been defined, a selection made by pressing the numeric key 0 is also valid.

The display changes to a game start image 452 when the player presses the numeric key 0 from the menu image 450. In other words, this makes it possible to start a game without displaying the game selection image.

This enabling of short-cuts makes it possible for the player to play the game more efficiently, and the resultant 37 reduction in the number of data transfers and the quantity of data transfers also reduces the communications bandwidth taken up by data, enabling more efficient data transfer.

These examples related to cases in which a single numeric is specified, but it is also possible to specify a numeric string such as I'l2311, a single character such as %$all, a string of characters such as llabc", a single symbol such as 11+11, or a symbol string such as 1. 4. + ". An example of image transitions for short-cut definition in accordance with another example of this embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig. 11. Transitions between a menu image 460, a game selection image 462, a game start image 464, and a shortcut assignment image 466 are similar to previous embodiment, except that "Short-Cut provided for the area for short-cut input on 460. The player inputs the character string "IGO'I when the short-cut assignment image 466 is displayed. The operating 20 section 210 of the portable telephone 200 generally has a function for selecting a predetermined alphabetic character depending on the selected numeric key and the number of times that key is pressed. In other words, it is possible for the player to input alphabetic characters by pressing the numeric keys. When the player inputs "IGW' and selects " (1) Set" when the short-cut assignment image 466 is displayed, that those of the Input is the menu image 38 definition information is transmitted to the game information distribution device 100 where it is written into the key assignment table 124 by the control section 112.

in that case, "Key" in the key assignment table 124 becomes "IG01' (or numeric keys representing that alphabetic character string), "Function" becomes "Display Game Start Image". and 'Walidating Game State" becomes "Menu Stage".

An image transition during a short-cut in accordance with this other example of the present invention is shown in Fig. 12.

The player inputs 111G011 into the short-cut input area when a menu image 470 is displayed. This causes operating information indicating that character string to be is transmitted to the game information distribution device 100.

The image generation section 111 references the key assignment table 124, determines that '11G011 was input at "Menu Stage", and issues the response "Display Game Start Image".

This causes a game start image 472 to appear on the display section 220 of the portable telephone 200, providing a similar effect to the implementation of a short-cut by pressing 11011, as described previously.

If a character string is input to specify a short-cut, the player can specify an easy- to-remember short-cut. This makes it possible to play games conveniently with no confusion if several short- cuts have been defined, by 39 specifying 111G011 for the "Igo Village" game or l'SHOGI" for the I'Shogi Town" game.

The description above dealt with the application of the present invention to embodiments but the present invention is not limited to the thus described embodiments.

For instance, the above embodiments concerned the application of the present invention to a game system that comprises the portable telephone 200 and the game information distribution device 100, but the present invention can equally well be applied to other devices such as an independent game image generation device andan independent information distribution device.

if an arcade or domestic game machine is employed as the independent game image generation device, by way of example, that game machine can be configured to comprises means for implementing the functions of the operating section 210, the display section 220, the processing section 110, and the storage section 120 that were described above This makes it possible to increase the ease of use of the game machine because the player can use any operation to display a desired image, even when the game is applied to a separate game machine.

The present invention can also be applied to an information distribution device that distributes information other than game information. For example, an information distribution device that comprises means for implementing the functions of the previously described operating section 210, display section 220, processing section 110. and storage section 120 could be used to implement an image processing system that enables improvements in the ease of use of terminal devices, by distributing image information to the terminal devices.

The abovementioned user data 122 could be provided for each user, but it is also possible to provided it for each terminal device, and it is further possible to provide it for each game in addition to each user and each terminal device.

In addition, it is also possible to group together a plurality of keys as "Key" in the key assignment table 124 of Fig. 8, such as "123" or "#123#"_ In general, the portable telephone 200 has ten numeric keys, so that if key definitions are done for single numeric keys alone, only ten "Key" definitions can be done. It is possible to define a larger number of different settings by defining "Key" as a group of a plurality of keys. 20 In addition to an action and a response to that action, the key assignment change image that is the above described definition-use image could also comprise an image for defining a game state in which that response is validated. An example of an image before key assignment in accordance with this embodiment of the invention is shown in Fig - 13A, an example of an image af ter key assignment in 41 accordance with the prior example of an image after the present invention is The portions of a pre-key- assignment image 480 that can be changed when in a displayedstate are the portions within a variable frame 490 shown in Fig. 13B. As can be seen from a comparison of Pigs. 13A and 13B, the "Look, Look, Attack" group that was originally assigned to a key A is re- assigned to a key B, and the group "Rest, Speak, DefenC that was originally assigned to key B is reassigned to key A. With the prior-art method, key assignments can be changed only in integral blocks. irrespective of the game stage such as "Outdoors, Town, Combat".

With this embodiment of the present invention. variable frames 492-1 to 492-3 are provided for each game stage, as shown in Fig. 13C, to enable changes for each stage. In other words, "Look, Rest, Unused" can be changed sequentially by pressing the predetermined buttons and keys when the cursor is at the variable frame 492-1 for "Outdoors"- In the example shown in Fig. 13C, the cursor is moved to the variable frame 492-2 for the "Town" stage, leaving the variable frame 492-1 for "Outdoors" alone, the predetermined button is pressed once to move the cursor to "Enter Shop" at the top, then to "Look" in the middle, then to "Speak" at the bottom. Each movement is one step- The art is shown in Fig. 13B, and an key assignment in accordance with shown in Fig. 13C.

42 cursor is then moved to the variable frame 492.3 for "Combat", the button is pressed twice to move to "Defendll at the top, then to "Escape', in the middle, and then to "Attack" at the bottom.

In this case, records are stored in groups in the key assignment table 124 of Fig- 8 in such a manner that a certain record has '[A" for "Key", "Look" for "Function" and "outdoors" for "Validating Game State", and the next record has "B" for "1<ey", "Rest" for "Function" and "Outdoors" for 'Walidating Game State".

Since definitions this manner, the player enabling a reduction in In addition, this each game stage means responses for different In a roleplaying game, are done f or each game stage in can assign keys freely as preferred, the stress of operation.

method of separate definitions for that the player can set different game states, using the same action. by way of example, assume that the player makes a character fight by pressing the A button on the controller, and has also defined an action, response, and validating game state such that the character fights only when a life parameter of that character has reached or exceeded a predetermined value. This makes it possible to ensure that the character fights when the life parameter has reached or exceeded the predetermined value, but escapes when the life parameter is below that predetermined value.

In another example based on the poker game described 43 above, assume that pressing the numeric player has selected numeric key 6 and has the initial setting is such that key 6 selects Bet-and-Draw, but the Double-UP for the pressing of the also defined an action, response, and validating game state such that double-up is done only when the current stake in the game has reached or exceeded a predetermined value. In such a case, it is possible to set double-up if the current stake in the game has reached or exceeded the defined predetermined value, but bet-and-draw if it has not reached the predetermined value.

In this manner, the player can progress rapidly through the game without stopping to determine whether or not to fight or whether or not to select bet-and-draw, by defining a group of action, response, and validating game state. From the point of view of a player who wants to progress through the game without paying too much attention to it, the ease of use can be increased because the game can be made to move forward by repeating the same action.

In particular, image information for definition-use images that enable a plurality of different definitions is generated by the image generation section 111 and those that definition-use images are displayed by the portable celephone 200 so thar the player can define the correspondence between an action and a response for different stages of the game.

Note that although the above embodiments of the present invention were described as relating to examples of 44 the use of the portable telephone 200 as a terminal device, the present invention can equally well be applied to portable telephone sets other than the portable telephone 200, such as a PHS or satellite communications telephone.

It is also possible to apply the present invention to devices other than portable telephones, such portable information terminals. domestic game having communications having communications having communications The above embodiments were described with reference to application to a packet-switching network, but the present invention can equally well be applied to other network formats including a wired communications network such as ISDN or a wide-band communications network such as an ATM network. In practice, the game information distribution device 100 and the portable telephone 200 are not necessarily connected by a packet- switching network; they could equally well be connected over the Internet or by a public telephone network (PSTN).

functions, functions, functions.

as PCS, machines portable game machines or arcade game machines

Claims

1 - An information distribution device which generates image information for use in displaying an image on a terminal device, and transmits the image information to the terminal device. based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the information distribution device comprising:

distribution-side reception means which receives distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, based definition action information that distribution request information; image information generation rneans which generates the image information based on the definition data; and clistribution-side transmission means which transmits the image information to the terminal device, wherein the definition action inf orinati on is generated by a definition action performed by a user, based on a definition-use linage for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

011 predetermined is part of the 2. The information distribution device as defined in claim 1, wherein:

46 the definition-use image comprises an image for defining a change in a previously assigned correspondence between an action and a response; and the image information generation means generates the image information based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an action and a response has been changed.

3. The information distribution device 10 claim 2, wherein the image information generation means generates the image information for displaying an image that reflects details of a change, based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an is action and a response has been changed.

as def ined in 4. The information distribution device as defined in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: the image is a game image used in a game that progresses through predetermined image transitions; the definition-use image includes an image for causing the game image to be displayed in a state in which a number of image transitions have occurred due to an action; and the image information generation means generates game information for displaying the game image of a state after the number of image transitions has occurred, when an 47 action has been performed to display the game image in a state after the number of image transitions.

5. The information distribution device as defined in claim 4, wherein the def inition data includes validating the response only when the game predetermined state of progress.

data for is in a 6. The information distribution device as defined in claim 4, wherein the definition-use image includes an image for validating the response only when the game is in a predetermined state of progressis 7. The information distribution device claim 4, wherein: the image information generation means generates the image information for displaying the definition-use image; and the distribution- side transmission means transmits the image information for the definition-use image to the terminal device- as defined in 8. The information distribution device as defined in claim 7, wherein:

the control means updates operation history data that 48 has been stored in the storage area, based on the operating inf ormation; and the image information generation means generates the image information for the definition-use image, based on the history data.

9. The information distribution device as defined in claim 4. wherein the terminal device is a portable type of terminal device comprising:

a plurality of input sections for inputting the operating information from the user: means for transmitting the distribution request information which includes the input operating information to the distribution- side reception means and receiving the image information from the distributionside transmission means; and display means which displays an image based on the received image information.

10. The information distribution device as defined in claim 9, wherein:

the operating information is input through at least one of the input sections; and the definition action information includes character information specified by the operation of the input sections.

49 The information distribution device as defined in claim 9. wherein: the portable type of terminal device is a portable set; and display means comprises: a display formed integrally with the telephone set; telephon the and a browser section for adjusting and displaying the image on the display.

is 12. The information distribution device as defined in claim 4, wherein:

the operating information including user identification information is generated by the terminal device; the definition data is provided for each user; and the control means updates the definition data for a user based on the user identification information comprised within the distribution request information.

13. The information distribution device as defined in claim 12, wherein the terminal device generates the operating information including the user identification information, by displaying an image prompting the input of user identification information and inputting the user identification information.

so 14. A game image generation device which generates a game image in accordance with an action of a player; the game image generation device comprising: game image generation means which generates a definition-use image for definition a correspondence between an action and a response to the action; and control means which stores definition data in a predetermined storage area. based on definition information indicating a definition by the player in a state in which the definition-use image is displayed, wherein the definition data includes validating the response only when a game predetermined state of progress.

data for is in a 15. A game image generation device which generates game image information for use in displaying a game image on a terminal device, and transmits the game image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the game image generation device comprising:

distribution-side reception means which receives distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, based on definition action information that is 51 predetermined part of the distribution request information; image information generation means which generates the game image information based on the definition data; and distributionside transmission means which transmits the game image information to the terminal device, wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a player, based on a def inition- use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

16. A computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program for generating image information for use is in displaying an image on a terminal device, and transmitting the image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transf er path; the information storage medium comprising a program for implementing on a computer:

means which causes distribution.. side reception means to receive distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data predetermined storage area, based on predetermined definition action information that is part of the distribution request information; 52 image information generation means which generates the image information based on the definition data; and means which causes distribution- side transmission means to transmit the image information to the terminal device, wherein the def inition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a user, based on a definition-use image for defining a correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

17. The information storage medium as defined in claim 16, wherein: the definition-use image comprises an image for defining a change in a previously assigned correspondence between an action and a response; and the image information generation means generates the image information based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an action and a response has been changed.

is- The information storage medium as defined in claim 17, wherein the image information generation means generates the image information for displaying an image that reflects details of a change, based on the definition data indicating the fact that the correspondence between an action and a response has been changed.

53 19. The information storage medium as defined claims 16 to 18. wherein:

in any of the image is a game image used in a game that progresses through predetermined image transitions; the definition-use image includes an image for causing the game image to be displayed in a state in which a number of image transitions have occurred due to an action; and the image information generation means generates game information for displaying the game image of a state after the number of image transitions has occurred, when an action has been performed to display the game image in a state after the number of image transitions.

The information storage medium as defined in claim 19, wherein the definition data includes data for validating the response only when the game is in a predetermined state of progress.

21. The information storage medium as defined in claim 19, wherein the definition-use image includes an image for validating the response only when the game is in a predetermined state of progress.

22. The information storage medium as defined in claim 19 wherein:

54 the image information generation means generates the image information for displaying the definition-use image; and the distribution- side transmission means transmits the image information for the definition-use image to the terminal device.

23. The information storage medium as defined in claim 22, wherein: the control means updates operation history data that has been stored in the storage area, based on the operating information; and the image information generation means generates the image information for the definition-use image, based on the history data.

is 24. The information storage medium as defined in claim 19, wherein the terminal device is a portable type of terminal device comprising: 20 a plurality of input sections for inputting user operating information; means for transmitting the distribution request information which includes the input operating information to the distribution- side reception means and receiving the image information from the distribution. side transmission means,- and display means which displays an image based on the received irnage information.

25. The information storage medium as defined in claim 24, wherein: the operating information is input through at least one of the input sections; and the definition action information includes character information specified by the operation of the input sections- 26. wherein: the portable type of terminal device is a portable telephone set: and the display means comprises: a display formed integrally with the telephone and a browser section for adjusting and displaying the image on the display.

The information storage medium as defined in claim 24, 27. The information storage medium as defined in claim 19.

wherein:

the operating information including user identification ir.formation is generated by the terminal device; the definition data is provided for each user; and the control means updates the definition data for a 56 user based on the user identification information comprised within the distribution request information.

28. The information storage medium as defined by claim 27, wherein:

the terminal device generates the operating information including the user identification information, by displaying an image prompting the identification information identification information; the definition data is provided for each user; and the control means updates the definition data for a user based on the user identification information included in the distribution request information.

input of and inputting the user user is 29. A computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program for generating a game image in accordance with an action of a player; the information storage medium comprising a program for implementing on a computer: 20 game image generation means which generates a definition-use image for definition a correspondence between an action and a response to the action: and control means which stores definition data in a predetermined storage area, based on definition information indicating a definition by the player in a state in which the definition- use image is displayed, wherein the definition data includes data for 57 validating the response only when a game is in a predetermined state of progress.

A computer-usable information storage medium which stores a program for generating game image information for use in displaying a game image on a terminal device,and transmitting the game image information to the terminal device, based on distribution request information that includes operating information from the terminal device transmitted over a transfer path; the information storage medium comprising a program for implementing on a computer:

means which causes distribution- side reception means to receive distribution request information from the terminal device; control means which stores definition data into a predetermined storage area, based on predetermined clef inition action information that is part of the distribution request information; image information generation means which generates the game image information based on the definition data; and means which causes distribution-side transmission means to transmit the game image information to the terminal device, wherein the definition action information is generated by a definition action performed by a player, based on a definition-use image for defining a 58 correspondence between an action displayed on the terminal device and a response to the action.

59