JP2000325660A - Game system, and information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system and an information storage medium capable of responding to demand of a wide range of players, especially upper grade players, or players desiring competition by their real ability. SOLUTION: In a master mode (first operation mode) A, characters 21, 22, 24-29 other than a character 23 getting into a base cover can be simultaneously moved by a player, while in a normal mode (second operation mode) B, the character 26 close to a ball 10 can only be moved. In the master mode, a character at a ball catching point is not fixed to the ball catching point, but it is fixed in the normal mode. In an easy mode (third operation mode), move to the ball catching point is also performed automatically. In the master mode A, a character's flying and catching direction in fine play action can be operated by the player, but in the normal mode, the flying and catching direction is decided by a computer. In the master mode, a running character is kept stopped till the player makes operation, but in the normal mode, it advances automatically.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system and an information storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A baseball game, which is a game in which a player can enjoy a baseball game while watching a game image displayed on a screen, has been popular.

In this baseball game, when defending,
The player operates the pitcher character to perform pitching, and plays against the opponent player or the batter character operated by the computer. Then, when the batter character hits the ball, the fielder character is operated to catch the ball and send it to a desired base. On the other hand, at the time of an attack, the player operates the batter character to cause a hit, and fights with the opponent player or the pitcher character operated by the computer. Then, when the batter character hits the ball, the runner character is operated to advance or return to the base.

As described above, in a baseball game, a plurality of characters appear, and the player must operate these characters simultaneously. However, the player has only one operation means (lever, button, etc.). . Therefore, usually, only one (or 1 to 3) of the characters appearing in the game is directly operated by the player, and the other characters are automatically operated by the computer according to a given algorithm. I do.

More specifically, when a ball is hit, the computer selects a character to be operated by the player (operation target character). That is, the computer selects the most suitable character for catching the ball. Then, the player can operate only the selected character, and the computer is in charge of other characters (such as characters entering the base cover, cut play, and ball cover). In this way, by receiving computer support (assistance), the player
A plurality of characters required for game play can be operated simultaneously.

[0006] However, some players do not want such undue computer support. For example, suppose that the ball flies between the short and the left, and the computer selects the short instead of the left as the operation target character against the intention of the player. Then, a case is considered in which the player operates the short selected in spite of his / her own intention and cannot catch the ball in time. In such a case, the senior player thinks, "If I was the one who operated the left, I was caught ..." and became dissatisfied with the computer's support functions. You end up losing.

[0007] Particularly, in the case of a game in which players compete against each other, such a support function of the computer causes the game result to not reflect the true ability difference between the players. As a result, the fun of the battle game is reduced by half.

On the other hand, such a computer support function is indispensable for a beginner player who does not have a high operation skill or a player who wants to play comfortably without requiring complicated operations.

[0009] Therefore, it is desired to develop a game system that can meet the needs of players of a wide range of players, from advanced players to elementary players.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its object to meet the demands of players of a wide range of players, especially advanced players having a high level of operation skills and true skills. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game system and an information storage medium which can meet the demands of players who want to compete with each other.

[0011]

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game system for generating a game image, comprising a plurality of operation modes including at least a first operation mode and a second operation mode. Means for selecting an operation mode used by the player, means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode, and a method for selecting the first operation mode Means for operating a larger number of characters simultaneously with a single operation of the player using the operation means than in the case where the second operation mode is selected. An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes information (program) for realizing (executing) the above means. Further, a program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer, and is a program for realizing (executing) the above means.

According to the present invention, when the first operation mode is selected and when the second operation mode is selected,
The number of characters that can be simultaneously moved by a single operation by the player becomes different.

That is, when the first operation mode is selected, many characters move by one operation of the player. Accordingly, the number of operation target characters that can be operated by the player increases, and the player can perform various game operations according to the game situation using these characters. As a result, for example, an operation mode most suitable for an advanced player can be realized.

On the other hand, when the second operation mode is selected, the number of characters that can be operated by a single operation of the player is reduced. Therefore, the character can be operated by a simple operation, and for example, an operation mode optimal for an intermediate player, an elementary player, and the like can be realized.

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to meet the needs of players with a wide range of layers.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium, and the program according to the present invention are characterized in that a character other than the character operated by the operation of the player using the operation means is operated by the operation of the computer. In this way, in the first operation mode, the second operation mode
The number of characters operated by the computer is smaller than in the operation mode of the above. As a result, the player:
A large number of characters can be operated with their own will without relying much on the support of the computer, and the degree of freedom of operation of the player can be increased. On the other hand, in the second operation mode, the number of characters operated by the computer is larger than in the first operation mode. As a result, the player can effectively use the support function of the computer to operate many characters with a simple operation.

In the game system, the information storage medium, and the program according to the present invention, when the first operation mode is selected, a character other than a character to be formed at a given position can be controlled by a player using the operation means. It operates by the operation of. This eliminates the need for the player to operate a character that should be in a given position, thereby reducing the operation burden on the player.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium, and the program according to the present invention are arranged such that when the second operation mode is selected, a character close to a ball operates by operating the player using the operation means. Features.
With this configuration, in the second operation mode, the player only needs to operate the character or the like close to the ball (the object to be played), and the operation of the player can be further simplified.

Further, the present invention is a game system for generating a game image, and means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes. Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode, and, when the first operation mode is selected, the operation after the character enters the catching point. Causes the character to perform an operation in accordance with the operation of the player using the means, and when the second operation mode is selected, after the character enters the ball catching point, the operation of the player using the operation means is performed. Means for fixing or restricting the movement of the character independently of the character. An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes information (program) for realizing (executing) the above means. Further, a program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer, and is a program for realizing (executing) the above means.

According to the present invention, in the first operation mode,
The player can freely move the character irrespective of whether or not he or she has entered a ball catching point (regardless of whether or not the player has entered a ball catching position). Therefore, an operation mode most suitable for an advanced player or the like can be realized.

On the other hand, in the second operation mode, after entering the ball catching point, the movement (movement, rotation, or motion reproduction, etc.) of the character is fixed or restricted, so that, for example, the ball can be reliably captured. Become. Therefore, an operation mode most suitable for an intermediate player, a beginner player, and the like can be realized.

Further, in the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention, the plurality of operation modes are set to a third mode.
When the first and second operation modes are selected, the character is moved to the catching point by the operation of the player using the operation means, and the third operation mode is selected. Are characterized by automatically moving a character to a catching point by operating a computer. By providing the third operation mode in which the degree of support of the computer is higher, it is possible to realize an operation mode most suitable for a player having extremely poor operation skill or a player who wants to concentrate on other game operations.

Further, the present invention is a game system for generating a game image, and includes means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes. Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play a game using the selected operation mode, and a direction corresponding to the operation of the player using the operation means when the first operation mode is selected. And means for causing the character to perform a fine play operation that moves in a direction determined by a computer when the second operation mode is selected. An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes information (program) for realizing (executing) the above means.
A program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer, and realizes (executes) the above means.
It is a program for performing

According to the present invention, in the first operation mode,
The player can move the character in a desired direction during the fine play operation. Therefore, an operation mode most suitable for an advanced player or the like can be realized.

On the other hand, in the second operation mode, the character moves in the optimum direction determined by the computer during the fine play operation. Therefore, even if a player who does not have a high operational skill operates, the fine play of the character succeeds with a high probability. Therefore, an operation mode most suitable for an intermediate player, a beginner player, and the like can be realized.

Further, in the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention, the plurality of operation modes may be a third mode.
When the first and second operation modes are selected, the character performs the fine play operation according to the fine play instruction of the player using the operation means, and the third operation mode is selected. In this case, the character automatically performs the fine play operation without depending on the player's fine play instruction using the operation means. By providing the third operation mode in which the degree of support of the computer is higher, it is possible to realize an operation mode most suitable for a player having extremely poor operation skill or a player who wants to concentrate on other game operations.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game system for generating a game image, comprising means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes. Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode, and, when the first operation mode is selected, the player using the operation means after hitting the batter character. If the second operation mode is selected, the runner character is automatically moved to the next base by operating the computer after the batter character is hit, when the runner character advances to the next base until the operation of the runner character is performed. Means for advancing the base. An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes information (program) for realizing (executing) the above means. Further, a program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer, and is a program for realizing (executing) the above means.

According to the present invention, in the first operation mode,
Until the operation of the player is performed, the advance of the character to the next base is stopped. Therefore, overrun of the character can be prevented, and an operation mode most suitable for an advanced player or the like can be realized.

On the other hand, in the second operation mode, the character automatically advances to the next base, and even if a player who does not have a high operational skill operates, the character advances to the next base with a high probability. The base will be successful. Therefore, an operation mode most suitable for an intermediate player, a beginner player, and the like can be realized.

In the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention, when the first operation mode is selected, after hitting the batter character, the computer operates to move from the current base to the next base. It is characterized in that the runner character moves slightly. In this way, it is possible to effectively prevent a situation in which two characters enter the same base, and it is possible to reduce the operation burden on the player in the first operation mode.

[0031]

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a case where the present invention is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to various games.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 shows an example of a block diagram of the present embodiment. In this figure, the present embodiment only needs to include at least the processing unit 100 (or may include the processing unit 100 and the storage unit 140 or the processing unit 100 and the storage unit 140 and the information storage medium 150), and other blocks. (For example, the operation unit 13
0, image generation unit 160, display unit 162, sound generation unit 17
0, sound output unit 172, communication unit 174, I / F unit 176,
The memory card 180 and the like can be optional components.

The processing unit 100 performs various processes such as control of the entire system, instruction of instructions to each block in the system, game calculation, and the like.
PU (CISC type, RISC type), DSP or AS
It can be realized by hardware such as an IC (gate array or the like) or a given program (game program).

The operation section 130 is for the player to input operation information, and its function can be realized by hardware such as levers, buttons, and cross keys.

The storage section 140 includes a processing section 100, an image generation section 160, a sound generation section 170, a communication section 174, and an I / F section 1.
It is a work area such as 76, and its function is RAM
It can be realized by hardware such as.

An information storage medium (a storage medium usable by a computer) 150 stores information such as programs and data.
D, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or semiconductor memory (ROM). The processing unit 100 performs various processes of the present invention (the present embodiment) based on the information stored in the information storage medium 150.
That is, the information storage medium 150 stores various information (programs, data) for realizing (executing) the means (particularly, the blocks included in the processing unit 100) of the present invention (the present embodiment).
Is stored.

A part or all of the information stored in the information storage medium 150 is transferred to the storage unit 140 when the power to the system is turned on. Information storage medium 1
The information stored in 50 is a program code for performing the processing of the present invention, image information, sound information, shape information of a display object, table data, list data, player information,
The information includes at least one of information for instructing the process of the present invention, information for performing a process according to the instruction, and the like.

The image generating section 160 generates various images according to an instruction from the processing section 100 and the like, and
The function is the ASI for image generation.
It can be realized by hardware such as C, CPU, or DSP, a given program (image generation program), and image information.

The sound generation section 170 generates various sounds according to instructions from the processing section 100 and outputs the generated sounds to the sound output section 172. The function of the sound generation section 170 is as follows.
It can be realized by hardware such as a CPU or a DSP, a given program (sound generation program), and sound information (waveform data and the like).

The communication unit 174 performs various controls for performing communication with an external device (for example, a host device or another game system).
It can be realized by hardware such as an IC or a CPU or a given program (communication program).

Information for realizing the processing of the present invention (this embodiment) is distributed from the information storage medium of the host device (server) to the information storage medium 150 via the network and the communication unit 174. Is also good. Use of the information storage medium of such a host device (server) is also included in the scope of the present invention.

Further, part or all of the functions of the processing unit 100 may be performed by the image generation unit 160, the sound generation unit 170, or the communication unit 1.
74 may be realized. Or,
Image generation unit 160, sound generation unit 170, or communication unit 174
Some or all of the functions may be realized by the function of the processing unit 100.

The I / F unit 176 exchanges information with a memory card (portable information storage device including a portable game machine in a broad sense) 180 in accordance with an instruction from the processing unit 100 or the like. The interface functions as a slot for inserting a memory card, a controller IC for writing and reading data, and the like.
It can be realized by such as. When information exchange with the memory card 180 is realized using wireless communication such as infrared light, the function of the I / F unit 176 can be realized by hardware such as a semiconductor laser and an infrared sensor.

The processing section 100 includes a game calculation section 110.

Here, the game calculation section 110 performs processing for accepting coins (price), setting processing for various modes, processing for proceeding with a game, setting processing for a selection screen, moving objects (characters,
Processing to determine the position and direction of the ball, etc., processing to determine the viewpoint position and line-of-sight direction, processing to reproduce the motion of the moving object, processing to place objects in the object space,
Various game calculation processes such as a hit check process, a process of calculating game results (results and results), a process for a plurality of players playing in a common game space, and a game over process are performed by operating the operation unit 130. This is performed based on information, information from the memory card 180, a game program, and the like.

The game calculation section 110 includes an operation mode selection section 112 and a character movement processing section 114.

Here, the operation mode selection unit 112 selects an operation mode used by the player from a plurality of operation modes (play modes) including the first, second, and third operation modes. Perform processing. More specifically,
For example, a process of displaying an operation mode selection screen, a process of receiving a player's selection instruction on this selection screen, and the like are performed. The game calculation unit 110 performs various game calculations for the player to play a game using the selected operation mode.

The character operation processing unit 114 is provided with the operation unit 1
Various processes for moving (moving, rotating, or playing back motion) the character are performed by the operation of the player using 30 or the operation of the computer.

More specifically, in this embodiment, the number of characters that move simultaneously by a single operation of the player using the operation unit 130 is made different depending on the selected operation mode. That is, when the first operation mode is selected, a larger number of characters are operated by a single operation of the player using the operation unit 130 as compared to when the second operation mode is selected. Become like in this case,
Characters other than the character operated by the operation of the player using the operation unit 130 are operated by the operation of the computer (moved automatically according to a given algorithm).

The character movement processing section 114 includes an operation target character selection section 116, a ball catching processing section 118, a fine play processing section 120, and a base running processing section 122.

Here, the operation target character selection unit 116
Performs a process for selecting the operation target character of the player. That is, for example, when the first operation mode is selected, a character other than a character to be placed at a given position (for example, a character to enter the base cover) is selected as an operation target character, and the selected character is The operation is performed simultaneously by the operation of the player using the operation unit 130. On the other hand, when the second operation mode is selected, a character close to the ball (a character most suitable for catching the ball, a character to catch the ball) is selected as the operation target character, and the selected character is It operates by the operation of the player using the operation unit 130.

The ball catching section 118 performs various processes for causing the character to perform a ball catching operation. More specifically, in the present embodiment, when the first operation mode is selected, even after the character enters a catching point (for example, a ball dropping point), an operation corresponding to the operation of the player is performed. Performed by the character (for example, the character moves in the direction specified by the player). On the other hand, when the second operation mode is selected, the movement of the character is fixed after the character enters the catching point (for example, the character is fixed at the catching point and does not move).

The movement of the character may be simply restricted without completely fixing the movement of the character. When the third operation mode is selected, the character may be automatically moved to the catching point by operating the computer.

The fine play processing section 120 performs various processes for causing the character to perform a fine play operation. More specifically, in the present embodiment, when the first operation mode is selected, the character performs a fine play operation (for example, an operation of jumping in a direction instructed by play) that moves in a direction corresponding to the operation of the player. Do. On the other hand, the second
When the operation mode is selected, the character performs a fine play operation that moves in the direction determined by the computer (for example, the computer determines the direction of the ball and jumps in that direction). When the third operation mode is selected, the character automatically performs the fine play operation at the discretion of the computer regardless of whether or not the player has issued the fine play instruction.

The base running section 122 performs various processes for causing the character to perform a base running operation. More specifically, in the present embodiment, when the first operation mode is selected, the advance operation of the runner character stops after the batter character hits until the player operates (for example, the current base operation). Stop a little further away from). Then, when the player performs an operation, the character runs (bases up or returns) according to the operation. On the other hand, when the second operation mode is selected, the runner character automatically advances to the next base by operating the computer after the batter character is hit.

In the game system according to the present embodiment,
Both game play in a single player mode in which one player plays and game play in a multi-player mode in which a plurality of players play are possible.

When a plurality of players play,
The game image and the game sound to be provided to the plurality of players may be generated using one terminal, or may be generated using a plurality of terminals connected by a network (transmission line, communication line) or the like. Is also good.

2. Features of the present embodiment In the present embodiment, first, a selection screen of an operation mode (play mode, game mode, difficulty setting mode) as shown in FIG. 2A is displayed on the player. The player
While looking at this selection screen, the user selects an operation mode to use. The operator of the amusement facility may select the operation mode.

Here, master mode (first operation mode)
Is an operation mode prepared for an advanced player or a player who wants to compete in real ability, and almost all of the defense and the base run are manually operated.

Normal mode (second operation mode)
Is an operation mode prepared for a player who wants to play with a normal operation, and the defensive and the run are semi-automatic.

Further, a simple mode (third operation mode)
Is an operation mode prepared for a player who wants to concentrate only on pitching and hitting, and almost all of the defensive and running positions are automatic.

More specifically, the operation method in defense mode and base run is as follows in each mode. (1) Defensive (1-1) Easy mode-The character moves automatically until the ball is caught. That is, it automatically moves to the catching point of the fly or goro. During the movement, the character cannot be moved by the operation of the player. -After catching the ball, the player can move the character freely.・ Throwing to each base is a manual operation of the player.・ All fine play is performed automatically. Defensive shifts are all automatically determined to be the most optimal. The defensive shift cannot be changed by the player's input. (1-2) Normal mode-The character closest to the ball is automatically selected, and the player can move only the selected one or more characters. When a character enters a fly catching point (falling point), the character is fixed and does not move. However, other movable characters can be moved by the operation of the player.・ Throwing to each base is a manual operation of the player. When the player inputs the fine play button, the most appropriate fine play (automatically jumps in the direction of the ball) is performed. -The defensive shift remains the normal shift unless the player inputs. (1-3) Master mode • The player must manually operate all fielder characters except the base cover. -Even if a character enters the fly catching point, the character is not fixed.・ Throwing to each base is a manual operation of the player. -If the input of the fine play button and the input of the direction which wants to fly are performed simultaneously, the character will jump in that direction. If there is no input of the direction in which the user wants to fly, the character jumps right above. -The defensive shift remains the normal shift unless the player inputs. (2) When running on a base (2-1) Easy mode-All advance and return decisions are automatically made. In addition, all runners' base stops are automatically performed. However, if the player performs an operation, that operation has priority.・ All runner advance stop input (simultaneous pressing of the advance button and the return button) is not accepted. (2-2) Normal Mode-In the event of a blow, the character automatically advances to the base anyway, but the return to the base is not performed until the return obligation is generated. However, if the player performs an operation, that operation has priority.・ Accept all runner advance stop inputs. (2-3) Master mode-If a blow is made, the batter character advances, but the runner character on another base does not advance until a player inputs, regardless of whether the runner is obliged to advance. . However,
When on the base, the next runner character cannot enter the base, so the runner character automatically moves to a position slightly away from the base.・ Accept all runner advance stop inputs.

As shown in FIG. 2 (B), the player operates the pitcher's character 21 during defense, and moves the ball (play object) 10 against the batter character 20 operated by the computer or the opponent player. Toss. When the character 20 hits the ball 10, the character of the fielder is operated to catch the ball.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 3A, in the expert mode, when the player tilts the lever (or a cross key or the like) 30 in a desired direction, for example, the first character 23 entering the base cover All the characters 21, 22, 24 to 29 other than move in the defeated direction at the same time. For example, when the player tilts the lever 30 to the left, all the characters 21, 22, 24 to 29 move to the left. That is, by one operation of the player,
Many characters work simultaneously. The character 23 entering the base cover (the character to be in a given position) is operated by the computer (CP) and automatically moves regardless of the operation of the player.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3B, in the normal mode, when the player tilts the lever 30 in a desired direction, for example, the short character 2 close to the ball 20
Only 6 moves in the defeated direction (a plurality of characters may be movable). For example, if the player has lever 3
When 0 is tilted rightward, only the character 26 moves rightward. And other characters 21 to 25, 27 to 2
Reference numeral 9 is operated by a computer (CP), and automatically performs necessary operations for a base cover, a cut player, a ball cover, and the like (it may be simply stopped on the spot).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the master mode (first operation mode) is selected, the lever 30 has to be operated once more than when the normal mode (second operation mode) is selected. Operation increases the number of characters that move at the same time. This makes it possible to meet the needs of both advanced players who do not want excessive computer support and those of intermediate and beginner players who want moderate computer support.

That is, when the ball 10 flies between the short character 26 and the left character 27, in the normal mode of FIG. 3B, for example, only the character 26 is selected as the operation target character, and Can only be operated by the character 26. Therefore, it cannot respond to the request of the advanced player who thinks, "I can move the character 27 and catch the ball 20 well."

However, according to the present embodiment, a master mode is prepared for such an advanced player.
Therefore, by selecting the master mode, the advanced player can move his or her desired character as desired. That is, when the ball 10 flies between the character 26 and the character 27, if the player thinks that the character 27 catches up, it is enough to tilt the lever 30 to the lower right, for example. If it is thought that it is in time, the lever 32 may be tilted to the upper left, for example.

As described above, in the expert mode, the degree of computer support is extremely weak, and the degree of freedom of the player's operation is extremely high. Therefore, the player can move the character almost as intended. Therefore, the operation mode is optimal for an advanced player who can perform a complicated and quick operation.

On the other hand, in the normal mode, the degree of freedom of the player's operation is lower than in the master mode. However,
With moderate computer support, it is an optimal mode of operation for intermediate and beginner players.
For example, since the computer selects a player's operation target character without permission, the player does not need to determine which character can properly catch the ball. In addition, characters other than the operation target character automatically enter the cut play or the ball cover under the control of the computer, so that the operation required for the player after catching the ball is simplified. Therefore, the player can enjoy the game without requiring complicated operations.

In this embodiment, the character's movement after entering the ball catching point (ball dropping point) (after entering the ball catching posture) also differs between the master mode and the normal mode. ing.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, in the expert mode, even after the character 28 enters the catching point (after reaching the catching point), the player operates the lever 30 to move the character 28. It can be moved in a desired direction.
That is, the character 28 can be freely moved regardless of whether or not the character 28 has entered the catching point.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4B, in the normal mode, after the character 28 enters the ball catching point, the movement of the character 28 is fixed (it may be merely limited). That is, even if the player operates the lever 30, the character 28 is fixed at the ball catching point and cannot move from the ball catching point.

In the master mode shown in FIG. 4A, even if the character enters the ball catching point, the character is not fixed at that point, so that the player cannot recognize which point is the ball catching point and fails to catch the ball. there is a possibility. However, advanced players with high operational skills tend to prefer the degree of freedom of operation that allows the character to move freely, rather than the unnaturalness that the character is fixed at the ball catching point by the computer. .

In particular, when the characters are fixed at the ball catching point as shown in FIG. 4B when the players battle each other, even a player with inferior operation skill can easily catch the ball. In other words, the true ability difference will not be reflected in the game result. However, FIG.
According to the master mode, the computer support function of fixing the character at the ball catching point after entering the ball catching point does not work. Therefore, the players can compete with each other for their true abilities, and the fun of the competitive game can be remarkably improved.

On the other hand, in the normal mode shown in FIG. 4B, when the character enters the ball catching point, the character is fixed at the ball catching point. You will be able to catch balls. That is, the intermediate player and the beginner player are not so good in the game, and cannot accurately grasp which point is the catching point. Therefore, if the master mode as shown in FIG. 4A is selected, a situation may occur in which the character is erroneously moved to a point different from the ball catching point. However, FIG.
In the normal mode (B), since the character is fixed at the catching point, such a situation does not occur, and the operation mode is optimal for an intermediate player and an elementary player.

When the easy mode is selected, the movement of the character to the catching point is automatically performed as shown in FIG.

That is, the master mode shown in FIGS.
In the normal mode, the character moves to the catching point by operating the lever of the player. On the other hand, in the simple mode shown in FIG. 5, the character automatically moves to the catching point by operating the computer. This allows the character to catch the ball almost automatically,
It is possible to realize a game operation that is optimal for a player who has extremely poor operation skill or a player who wants to concentrate on pitching only.

In this embodiment, the operation method of the character during the fine play operation is also different in each operation mode.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B,
In both the master mode and the normal mode, when the fine play button 32 is pressed, the character 34
A fine play operation jumping to 0 is performed. However, in the expert mode, the character 34 flies in the direction indicated by the lever 30, whereas in the normal mode,
The computer determines the direction of the ball 10 and the character 34 will fly in that direction.

Therefore, by selecting the master mode, the advanced player can select the master mode during the fine play operation of the character.
The character can be freely moved in a direction intended by the user, and the degree of freedom of operation increases. That is, since the character jumps in the direction determined by the player when there is a ball, the sense of unity between the player and the character is enhanced, and the virtual reality of the player can be increased.

Further, in the fighting game with the opponent player, the players can compete with each other for the true judgment ability regarding the catching of the ball, and the fun of the fighting game can be remarkably increased.

On the other hand, by selecting the normal mode, the intermediate player and the beginner player do not need to judge the direction of the ball at the time of the fine play operation of the character. That is, the computer determines the direction of the ball and the character jumps in the optimal direction, so that the ball can be more reliably caught. As a result, intermediate players and beginner players can not catch the ball and do not have to feel frustrated, they can also advance the game, and the optimal operation for intermediate players and beginner players Mode can be realized.

As shown in FIG. 6C, when the easy mode is selected, all the fine play operations are automatically performed. That is, even if the player does not press the fine play button 32, the character 34 automatically starts the fine play operation according to the judgment of the computer. The computer determines the direction in which the character 34 flies during the fine play operation by determining the position of the ball 10.

According to the simple mode, the operation burden on the player is greatly reduced, and the player can leave almost all of the defense to the computer and concentrate on the pitching only.

In the present embodiment, the operation method of the character at the time of running is also different in each operation mode.

That is, at the time of the attack, the player
(B) The batter character 20 is operated to hit the ball 10 thrown by the pitcher character 21 operated by the computer or the opponent player. And character 20
When the player hits the ball 10, the player performs various operations related to the run.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 7A, in the expert mode, the character 40 as the first base runner stops the advance to the second base until the player operates. Then, as shown in FIG.
By pressing 6 (specifying the character to be advanced)
For the first time, the character 40 advances to the second base.
In the present embodiment, the character 20 being the batter is automatically advanced to the first base by the operation of the computer (the base may be advanced by the operation of the player).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, in the normal mode,
The character 40 who is the first base runner automatically advances to the second base by operating the computer without any operation of the player.

Therefore, by selecting the master mode, the advanced player can freely move the character as intended when the character runs.

That is, in the normal mode shown in FIG. 8, when the ball is hit, the runner character advances to the second base arbitrarily regardless of the intention of the player. Therefore, when the player decides to return to home after hitting the ball, the runner character has already overrun far from first base,
A situation occurs in which the return to first base cannot be made in time. Further, since the runner character arbitrarily runs the base regardless of the intention of the player, an unnatural feeling is given to the player.

On the other hand, in the master mode shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the runner character does not advance to the second base without permission, and the above-mentioned overrun does not occur.
The advanced player who can perform a complicated and quick operation can immediately perform the operation of returning to home when it is determined that the base should be returned. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the return to the first base cannot be made in time.

Further, in a fighting game with an opponent player, it becomes possible for the players to compete with each other in the true ability to judge the base run (advance, return), and the fun of the fighting game can be greatly increased. it can.

On the other hand, by selecting the normal mode, the intermediate player and the beginner player do not need to determine whether the runner character should advance or return. That is, in the normal mode of FIG. 8, when the ball is hit, the runner character automatically advances to the second base. Therefore, even if the player does not perform an operation, the runner character immediately advances to the second base, and the probability of being in time for the second base is increased. On the other hand, if the computer determines that the base return obligation has occurred, the runner character automatically returns to the first base. Therefore, although there is some problem of overrun, even if the player's operation skill is low, the return to the first base can be made in time. For this reason, the intermediate player and the elementary player can advance the game to an advantage, and an operation mode most suitable for the intermediate player and the elementary player can be realized.

In the case of the master mode, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7A, after the hit of the ball, the runner character 40 automatically moves to a place slightly away from the first base to the second base. Move and stop at that location. When the runner character 40 is on the first base, the batter character 20
This is because a situation occurs in which the player cannot enter first base.

In this case, a method of causing the player to perform an operation of moving the runner character to a place slightly away from the first base is also conceivable. However, if such a request is made to the player, even a senior player having a quick operation skill becomes too complicated to perform the game smoothly. Therefore, in the present embodiment, such operations are supported by the computer.

3. Next, a detailed example of the selection of the operation target character and the ball catching process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, it is determined whether or not the ball has been hit (step S1). If the ball has been hit, it is determined which operation mode has been selected (step S2).

If the master mode is selected, a character other than the base cover is selected as an operation target character as described with reference to FIG. 3A (step S3). Then, when the player has depressed the lever, the selected characters are simultaneously moved in the direction in which the lever was depressed (step S4). In this case, FIG.
As described in (A), the selected character moves in the direction in which the lever is tilted, regardless of whether or not the character has entered the catching point.

If the normal mode has been selected, for example, a character near the ball is selected as an operation target character as described with reference to FIG. 3B (step S5). Then, the selected character is moved in the direction in which the lever is tilted (step S6). Next, it is determined whether or not the moved character has entered the ball catching point (step S7). If the character has entered the ball catching point, as shown in FIG. (Step S8).

When the simple mode is selected,
As described with reference to FIG. 5, the character is automatically moved to the catching point without receiving a lever input from the player (step S9).

Next, a detailed example of the fine play process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, it is determined which operation mode is selected (step U1).

If the master mode has been selected, it is determined whether or not the fine play button has been pressed (step U2). If the fine play button has been pressed, FIG.
As described above, the character performs the fine play operation in which the character flies in the direction in which the lever is tilted (step U).
3).

If the normal mode has been selected, it is determined whether or not the fine play button has been pressed (step U4). If the fine play button has been pressed, as described with reference to FIG. The character is caused to perform a fine play operation of automatically flying in the direction of the ball (step U5).

When the easy mode is selected,
As described in FIG. 6C, the character is caused to perform a fully automatic fine play operation (step U6).

Next, a detailed example of the running process will be described with reference to FIG.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, it is determined whether or not the ball has been hit (step V1). If the ball has been hit, it is determined which operation mode has been selected (step V2).

When the master mode is selected, as described in FIG. 7A, the batter character is automatically advanced and the batter character is automatically moved to a place slightly away from the base. And stop at that location (steps V3, V4). Next, it is determined whether or not the player has performed an operation (designation of a character, an instruction to advance or return to the base) (step V5). If an operation has been performed, as described with reference to FIG. The runner character is advanced or returned according to the operation (step V6).

When the normal mode is selected, the batter character and the runner character are advanced automatically as described with reference to FIG. 8 (step V7). However, when the player performs an operation, the operation is prioritized.

If the easy mode is selected,
All the advance and return decisions are made automatically. However, when the player performs an operation, the operation is prioritized.

4. Hardware Configuration Next, an example of a hardware configuration that can realize the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the system shown in the figure, a CPU 1000, a ROM 1002, a RAM 10
04, information storage medium 1006, sound generation IC 1008, image generation IC 1010, I / O ports 1012, 1014
Are connected to each other via a system bus 1016 so that data can be transmitted and received therebetween. And the image generation IC 1010
Is connected to the display 1018, and the sound generation IC 10
08 is connected to a speaker 1020, and the I / O port 1
012 is connected to the control device 1022,
A communication device 1024 is connected to the O port 1014.

The information storage medium 1006 mainly stores programs, image data for expressing a display object, sound data, and the like. For example, in a home game system, a DV is used as an information storage medium for storing game programs and the like.
D, a game cassette, a CDROM, or the like is used. In the arcade game system, a memory such as a ROM is used. In this case, the information storage medium 1006 is stored in the ROM 100
It becomes 2.

The control device 1022 corresponds to a game controller, an operation panel, and the like, and is a device for inputting a result of a determination made by a player in accordance with the progress of a game to the system main body.

The program stored in the information storage medium 1006, the system program (initialization information of the system main body) stored in the ROM 1002, the control device 1
CPU 22 according to a signal or the like input by
00 controls the entire system and performs various data processing. R
The AM 1004 is storage means used as a work area or the like of the CPU 1000.
The given contents of the OM 1002 or the calculation results of the CPU 1000 are stored. A data structure having a logical configuration for realizing the present embodiment is constructed on the RAM or the information storage medium.

Further, this type of system includes a sound generation IC 1
008 and an image generation IC 1010 are provided so that game sounds and game images can be suitably output. The sound generation IC 1008 includes the information storage medium 1006 and the RO
This is an integrated circuit that generates game sounds such as sound effects and background music based on information stored in M1002, and the generated game sounds are output by a speaker 1020. Further, the image generation IC 1010 includes a RAM 10
04, an integrated circuit that generates pixel information to be output to the display 1018 based on image information sent from the ROM 1002, the information storage medium 1006, and the like. Note that a so-called head-mounted display (HMD) can also be used as the display 1018.

The communication device 1024 exchanges various kinds of information used inside the game system with the outside. The communication device 1024 is connected to another game system to send and receive given information according to the game program. It is used for transmitting and receiving information such as a game program via a communication line.

The various processes described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 are performed by an information storage medium 1006 storing information such as programs and data, a CPU 1000 operating based on information from the information storage medium 1006, an image generation IC 10
10 or a sound generation IC 1008 or the like.
Note that the processing performed by the image generation IC 1010, the sound generation IC 1008, and the like may be performed by software using the CPU 1000, a general-purpose DSP, or the like.

FIG. 13A shows an example in which the present embodiment is applied to an arcade game system. The player enjoys the game by operating the lever 1102, the button 1104, and the like while watching the game image projected on the display 1100. A CPU, an image generation IC, a sound generation IC, and the like are mounted on a built-in system board (circuit board) 1106. Information for executing (realizing) the processing of the present embodiment (means of the present invention) is stored in the semiconductor memory 1 as an information storage medium on the system board 1106.
108. Hereinafter, this information is referred to as storage information.

FIG. 13B shows an example in which the present embodiment is applied to a home game system. The player enjoys the game by operating the game controllers 1202 and 1204 while watching the game image projected on the display 1200. In this case, the stored information is stored in a DVD 1206, which is an information storage medium detachable from the main system,
It is stored in a memory card 1208, 1209, or the like.

FIG. 13C shows a host device 1300,
A terminal 1304-1 connected to the host device 1300 via a communication line (small network such as LAN or wide area network such as the Internet) 1302.
An example in a case where the present embodiment is applied to a game system including 〜1304-n. In this case, the stored information is stored in the information storage medium 1 such as a magnetic disk device, a magnetic tape device, or a semiconductor memory that can be controlled by the host device 1300.
306. Terminals 1304-1 to 1304-n
Has a CPU, an image generation IC, and a sound processing IC, and can generate a game image and a game sound in a stand-alone manner.
A game program or the like for generating a game sound is transmitted to the terminal 1.
It is delivered to 304-1 to 1304-n. On the other hand, if it cannot be generated stand-alone, the host device 1300 generates a game image and a game sound,
1304-n and output at the terminal.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 13 (C), the processing of the present invention may be performed in a distributed manner between the host device (server) and the terminal. Further, the storage information for implementing the present invention may be distributed and stored in an information storage medium of a host device (server) and an information storage medium of a terminal.

The terminal connected to the communication line may be a home game system or an arcade game system. When the arcade game system is connected to a communication line, a portable information storage that can exchange information with the arcade game system and can exchange information with the home game system. It is desirable to use a device (memory card, portable game machine).

The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, but can be variously modified.

For example, in the invention according to the dependent claims of the present invention, a configuration in which some of the constituent elements of the dependent claims are omitted may be adopted. In addition, a main part of the invention according to one independent claim of the present invention may be made dependent on another independent claim.

The present invention is also applicable to various games other than baseball games (sports games such as soccer games, basket games, American football games, rugby games, fighting games, competition games, robot fighting games, shooting games, role playing games, Music playing games, dance games, etc.).

For example, when the present invention is applied to a soccer game, the following is performed.

That is, in the first operation mode, a plurality of characters other than the character to be set at a given position, such as a keeper, are simultaneously operated by a single operation of the player. On the other hand, in the second operation mode, only the character near the ball (the character holding the ball) or the like is operated by the operation of the player.

As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, when the character 50 passes the ball 52 to the character 54, in the first operation mode, the character 54
After the player enters the ball catching point, the character 54 operates in accordance with the operation of the player. On the other hand, in the second operation mode, after the character 54 enters the ball catching point, the movement of the character 54 is fixed or restricted.

When the enemy ball is captured by fine play, in the first operation mode, the character jumps in a direction corresponding to the operation of the player. On the other hand, in the second operation mode, the character jumps in the direction determined by the computer.

The present invention also provides various games such as arcade game systems, home game systems, large attraction systems in which a large number of players participate, simulators, multimedia terminals, image generation systems, and system boards for generating game images. Applicable to system.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an example of a block diagram of a game system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation mode selection screen, and FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating an example of a battle screen between a pitcher character and a batter character.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams for explaining a method of selecting an operation target character in a master mode and a normal mode.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an operation method at the time of catching a ball in a master mode and a normal mode.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an operation method at the time of catching a ball in the handy mode.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C are expert modes,
It is a figure for explaining the operation method at the time of the fine play operation in the normal mode and the easy mode.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams for explaining an operation method at the time of running in the expert mode.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an operation method at the time of running in a normal mode.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed example of selection of an operation target character and ball catching processing.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed example of a fine play process.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed example of a base running process.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration capable of realizing the present embodiment.

FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C are diagrams illustrating examples of various types of systems to which the present embodiment is applied; FIGS.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams for explaining an application example of the present invention to a soccer game.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 processing unit 110 game calculation unit 112 operation mode selection unit 114 character movement processing unit 116 operation target character selection unit 118 ball catching processing unit 120 fine play processing unit 122 base running processing unit 130 operation unit 140 storage unit 150 information storage medium 160 image Generation unit 162 Display unit 170 Sound generation unit 172 Sound output unit 174 Communication unit 176 I / F unit 180 Memory card

Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Teppei Kusakabe 2-8-5 Tamagawa, Ota-ku, Tokyo Namco Corporation (72) Michio Yamada 2-8-5 Tamagawa, Ota-ku, Tokyo F-term Namco Corporation (Reference) 2C001 AA00 AA04 AA05 AA16 BA00 BA02 BA05 BB00 BB05 BB08 BC00 BC01 BC03 CA01 CA06 CB01 CB03 CC02 CC08

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. A game system for generating a game image, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode; and more when the first operation mode is selected than when the second operation mode is selected. Means for operating the number of characters simultaneously by a single operation of the player using the operation means. 2. The game system according to claim 1, wherein a character other than a character operated by an operation of the player using the operation means is operated by an operation of the computer. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the first operation mode is selected, a character other than a character to be placed in a given position operates by operating the player using the operation means. A game system characterized by the following. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the second operation mode is selected, a character close to the ball operates by operating the player using the operation means. Game system. 5. A game system for generating a game image, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode; and, when the first operation mode is selected, the operation means is used even after the character enters the ball catching point. Causes the character to perform an operation in accordance with the operation of the player who performed the game, and when the second operation mode is selected, after the character enters the ball catching point, the character does not depend on the operation of the player using the operation means. Means for fixing or restricting the movement of the character. 6. The character according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of operation modes include a third operation mode, and when the first and second operation modes are selected, the character is operated by the player using the operation means. And moving the character to the catching point by operating a computer when the third operation mode is selected. 7. A game system for generating a game image, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play a game using the selected operation mode, and a fine moving in a direction corresponding to the operation of the player using the operation means when the first operation mode is selected. Means for causing the character to perform a play operation and, when the second operation mode is selected, causing the character to perform a fine play operation that moves in a direction determined by the computer. 8. The player according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of operation modes include a third operation mode, and when one of the first and second operation modes is selected, a fine play instruction of the player using the operation means. Performs the fine play operation, and when the third operation mode is selected, the character automatically performs the fine play operation without depending on the player's fine play instruction using the operation means. Game system. 9. A game system for generating a game image, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from among a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode, and when the first operation mode is selected, the operation of the player using the operation means is performed after the batter character is hit. Stop the runner character's advance to the next base until there is, and when the second operation mode is selected, automatically advance the runner character to the next base by operating the computer after the batter character is hit. A game system, comprising: means. 10. The method according to claim 9, wherein when the first operation mode is selected, after the batter character is hit, the runner character moves slightly from the current base to the next base by operating the computer. A unique game system. 11. An information storage medium usable by a computer, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from among a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode; and a case where the first operation mode is selected, as compared with a case where the second operation mode is selected. Means for operating a large number of characters simultaneously by a single operation of the player using the operation means; and information for realizing the following. 12. The information storage medium according to claim 11, wherein a character other than a character operated by a player's operation using the operation means is operated by a computer operation. 13. The method according to claim 11, wherein when the first operation mode is selected, a character other than a character to be set in a given position operates by operating the player using the operation means. An information storage medium characterized by the following. 14. The method according to claim 11, wherein when the second operation mode is selected, a character close to the ball operates by operating the player using the operation means. Information storage medium. 15. An information storage medium usable by a computer, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode; and, when the first operation mode is selected, the operation means even after the character enters the ball catching point. Causes the character to perform an operation in accordance with the operation of the player used, and when the second operation mode is selected, after the character enters the ball catching point, regardless of the operation of the player using the operation means. An information storage medium comprising: means for fixing or restricting the movement of a character; 16. The character according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of operation modes include a third operation mode, and when the first and second operation modes are selected, the character is operated by the player using the operation means. An information storage medium characterized by automatically moving a character to a ball catching point by operating a computer when a third operation mode is selected. 17. An information storage medium usable by a computer, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play a game using the selected operation mode; and, when the first operation mode is selected, moving in a direction corresponding to the operation of the player using the operation means Means for causing the character to perform a fine play operation and, when the second operation mode is selected, causing the character to perform a fine play operation that moves in a direction determined by the computer; and information for realizing the following. An information storage medium characterized by the following. 18. The player according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of operation modes include a third operation mode, and when the first and second operation modes are selected, a fine play instruction of the player using the operation means is provided. Performs the fine play operation, and when the third operation mode is selected, the character automatically performs the fine play operation without depending on the player's fine play instruction using the operation means. Information storage medium. 19. An information storage medium usable by a computer, comprising: means for selecting an operation mode used by a player from a plurality of operation modes including at least first and second operation modes; Means for performing a game calculation for the player to play the game using the selected operation mode; and, when the first operation mode is selected, the operation of the player using the operation means after the batter character is hit. When the second operation mode is selected, the runner character is automatically advanced to the next base by operating the computer after the batter character is hit. An information storage medium comprising: means for causing the information to be stored; 20. The method according to claim 19, wherein when the first operation mode is selected, after the batter hits the character, the runner character moves slightly from the current base to the next base by operating the computer. Characteristic information storage medium.