JP2001300145A - Network game-fighting system, server device and storage medium stored with communication fighting program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily and effectively perform communication between users. SOLUTION: This server device 30 is connected with the plural number of pieces of user terminal equipment 10 (10-1 and 10-2) through a communication channel such as a public network 12 and provides the game-fighting service of having a game-fight between user terminals. The server device 30 receives requests for a communication timing such as the desire of the communication during the game-fight and the desire of the communication after the game-fight from the terminal equipment 10 and sets the request contents for each terminal equipment 10. The server device 30 connects a channel for voice communication corresponding to the terminal equipment 10 executing a fighting game at a set timing, in the middle of the game-fight or at the end of the game-fight for instance, and enables the voice communication.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a network battle system, a server device, and a storage medium storing a communication battle program for playing a game of a game such as Go or Shogi via a network.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional system for playing a game such as shogi, go, chess or the like via a network is a terminal for displaying and inputting a start, and for exchanging start information by connecting users. Server, a telephone line for connecting the terminal and the server, and communication means such as a modem and a router. Some of the additional functions of the server include user authentication, win / loss record management for the authenticated user, ranking, and downloading of a game record.

In a conventional network battle system, during a battle (game), a so-called chat (conversation) in which text data is input by operating a keyboard and transmitted to and displayed on a terminal of an opponent is displayed. There was something we could do.

[0004]

However, in the conventional network competition system, a chat format based on text input / display is used for a conversation between users. Time, which causes stress, and is particularly inconvenient in situations where conversations are indispensable, such as impression games, and there is a problem in that communication is less realistic than in face-to-face competitions. . Also,
Even if chat is possible, it is necessary to coordinate between the users as to whether to have a conversation during the battle or to perform an impression battle between the users, and to select the player on the server side In the system, communication adjustment work has been complicated due to a situation where one user desires a call and the other user does not desire a call.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has a network battle system, a server device, and a storage storing a communication battle program which enable easy and effective communication between users. The purpose is to provide a medium.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a plurality of user terminals, a server device for providing a battle service connected between the user terminals via communication means and providing a battle game between the user terminals. A network competition system comprising: a setting unit for setting a request for a call timing with an opponent from each user terminal for each user terminal; and a setting unit for setting a request for each of the plurality of user terminals. Connecting means for selectively connecting the communication line of the voice communication means corresponding to the user terminal device playing the battle game among the corresponding voice communication means at the timing set by the setting means. Features.

[0007]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a network battle system according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a (user) terminal device 1
0 (terminal devices 10-1, 10-2) and telephone 12 (12
-1, 12-2) correspond to the host device 1 via the public network 14.
6 and the Go, shogi,
A variety of services can be provided in addition to a battle service in which a battle (play) such as chess can be played with an opponent via a communication line. The terminal device 10 is configured as a dedicated terminal for playing a Go game with an opponent via a communication line, for example, and can play a Go game or the like via the host device 16. Note that it is of course possible to realize the same function as the terminal device 10 of the game dedicated terminal by executing the game program by a personal computer or the like. Hereinafter, a case where a game of Go is played will be described as an example. In addition, telephone 1
2-1 is used by a user using the terminal device 10-1, and the telephone 12-2 is used by a user using the terminal device 10-2. The public network 14 is a packet switching network, for example, ISDN (In
integrated Services Digital Network).

As shown in FIG. 1, a terminal device 10 includes a memory 20, a CPU 21, an LCD 22, a touch panel 23,
The packets TA24 are mutually connected to the bus via I / F circuits.

The memory 20 stores various control programs and data executed by the CPU 21, and includes various data in addition to a game program and a communication control program for realizing a Go game. . In addition, the terminal device 10 includes a magnetic and optical storage medium in which programs, data, and the like are stored in addition to the memory 20;
Alternatively, a storage medium including a semiconductor memory can be provided. The storage medium is either fixedly provided in the storage device or removably mounted. The program, data, and the like stored in the storage medium may be configured to be received and stored from another device connected via a communication line or the like. A storage device provided with a storage medium may be provided on the device side, and a program and data stored in the storage medium may be used via a communication line.

The CPU 21 implements various functions in accordance with various control programs and data stored in the memory 20, and includes functions for executing a Go game and communication. The LCD 22 displays various kinds of information necessary for playing the Go game. The LCD panel displays a go board, a hama display for displaying the number of hooks for each of the black stone and the white stone, a black number and a white number. A plurality of buttons are provided for inputting a time display for displaying time and an instruction for defining an operation (details are shown in FIG. 3). In addition, a segment pattern suitable for displaying a game pattern of a Go game, for example, is provided in an area for displaying the board surface of the LCD 22. Also, the host device 16
When using the mail order service provided by, various information related to mail order is displayed.

The touch panel 23 is used for designating buttons for defining operations on the device and for specifying a position where a stone should be placed during execution of a Go game. Touch panel 2
As described above, the LCD 3 and the LCD 22 are configured as a stack-integrated type to constitute the display input unit 12, and by directly pointing the object displayed by the LCD with a pen or the like, the corresponding coordinates are displayed. You can enter data. The packet terminal adapter (TA) 24 performs communication via the public network 14 and has an interface with a packet switching network. As shown in FIG. 1, the host device 16 includes a server device 30, a packet terminal adapter (TA) 32, and a router. The server device 30 provides various services to the terminal device 10 connected via the public network 14. For example, the server device 30 controls a game of a Go game between terminals and various information on the game (win / loss record, step Class, game record)
And so on. The packet TA32 is transmitted to the router 34.
And an interface with a packet switching network for the server device 30 to communicate via the public network 14. The server device 30 is configured by a computer which reads programs stored in various storage media and whose operation is controlled by the read programs.
A memory 41, a storage device 42, an Ethernet interface (I / F) 43, and a line control unit 44 are mutually connected via a bus.

The CPU 40 realizes various functions in accordance with various control programs and data stored in the memory 41, and includes a function for executing a game service such as a go game.

The Ethernet I / F 43 has a packet TA
This is an interface for connecting to the H.32.

The memory 41 stores various control programs and data executed by the memory 41, and includes various data in addition to a game control program and a communication control program for providing a game service. In the memory 41, flags used in various processes are set. For example, an “interruption flag” indicating whether or not the opponent has requested the interruption of the game, ), A “consideration flag” indicating whether or not a game is in a talking state during a game, and the like. How to use each flag will be described later.

The storage device 42 stores, in addition to various programs executed by the CPU 40, a user database (DB) and a charging database (DB) used for a game service. Details of the user database and the billing database will be described later (FIGS. 4 and 5). Each database is a relational database,
Assume that exclusive control is always performed such that only one process accesses the same record. The storage device 42 is provided with a magnetic or optical storage medium, or a storage medium including a semiconductor memory. The storage medium is either fixedly provided in the storage device or removably mounted. Further, the program, data, and the like stored in the storage medium may be configured to be received and stored from another device connected via a communication line or the like,
Further, a storage device having a storage medium may be provided on another device connected via a communication line or the like, and a program and data stored in the storage medium may be used via the communication line. .

The line control unit 44 performs line control for making a voice call through the public network 14, and can be directly controlled by a command input from a system bus. Switch part 4
4b and a voice response unit 44c. Line I
The / F 44a has a call control function for a plurality of telephone lines, and is electrically connected to the switch unit 44b or connected using a digital stream bus. Voice response unit 44c
Is for transmitting and receiving a voice waveform, and is a DTMF (Dual
Tone Multiplexed Frequency) signal can be detected and is electrically connected to the switch unit 44b or connected using a digital stream bus. Switch part 44
b is for connecting between arbitrary lines or between a line and a call path of the voice response unit 44c, and is constituted by a crossbar switch or a digital stream switch.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 in the present embodiment is configured as a dedicated terminal for a Go game, reads a program stored in various storage media, and is configured by a computer whose operation is controlled by the read program. .

As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 10 is of a portable type, and has a display input unit constituted by an LCD 22 (large monochrome liquid crystal) and a touch panel 23 on the top surface of the housing. The display surface of the LCD 22 and the data input surface of the touch panel 23 are formed in a laminated and integrated manner, and the objects displayed by the LCD 22 (for example, a display pattern indicating a go stone, an intersection position in the display indicating the board surface, various buttons, etc.). Is directly instructed by a pen or the like, and the corresponding coordinate data can be input. In addition, a connector for connecting to a communication network such as a modular jack is provided so that the player can play with a partner connected via a communication line by using a game service provided by the host device 16. In addition, the terminal device 10 is provided with a power button for turning on / off the power.

FIG. 3 shows an LCD in which the terminal device 10 is operating.
An example of a screen displayed by 22 is shown. FIG.
As shown in the figure, as the information required to play the Go game, a board display showing the board of the Go board, a hama display for displaying the number of hooks for each of black stone and white stone, and the holding time of each black number and white number are displayed A key input unit including a plurality of buttons for inputting a time display and an instruction for defining an operation is provided.

The key input unit includes a "connection" button for instructing a line connection with the terminal device 14 to be played via the public network 14, cursor keys for indicating up, down, left, and right directions, and black or white numbers. "Start" to instruct start
Button, a "pass" button for instructing a pass, a "quit" button for instructing termination, a "suspend" button for instructing interruption of the game, and a "game" for notifying the server device 30 of a game request. A "call request" button, a "call request" button for notifying a call request by the telephone 12, a "call request cancel" button for canceling the call request, and a "call request" button for notifying the call request by the telephone 12 after the game is over. A "call after call" button is provided as needed. That is, the buttons are displayed in a predetermined area by the LCD 22, and the processing corresponding to the button is executed when an operation (touch input) is performed on each area. The position of the stone to be placed on the board display indicating the start and the key input are performed by touching the detection surface of the touch panel 23 integrated with the display screen of the LCD 22 with a pen-shaped pointing stick or fingertip.
When the touch panel 23 detects that a touch input has been made, processing corresponding to the touched position is executed. The key input unit is provided with a key for inputting an instruction from a user according to a situation.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a record structure of a user database (DB) (not shown) stored in the storage device 42. The user database is for registering information on users who use the game service for each user, and includes "user ID", "name", and "telephone number".
Fields such as a “call desired status”, a “game status”, and an “inter-process communication channel ID” are provided, and data is registered. FIG. 4 shows a user record for one user.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a record structure of a charging database (DB) (not shown) stored in the storage device 42. The charging database is used to register information relating to charging for the use (transaction) of the game service, and includes “transaction ID”, “user ID”, “product ID”, “price”, “quantity”, “application date”, “settlement date”. "Payment status"
Are provided and data is stored. For example, in addition to charging information for tangible products provided by the game service, charging information for intangible products such as an entrance fee and a game fee is also registered. The server device 30 counts the charging records in the charging database for each “user ID” and performs a charging process for issuing a bill.
The method of using each data registered in each database will be described in detail in the following operation description.

Next, the operation of the network game system according to the present embodiment will be described. First, an outline of an operation in the terminal device 10 (terminal devices 10-1 and 10-2) will be described. The user operates the terminal device 10 by touching the touch panel 23. The CPU 21 of the terminal device 10 drives the event according to the program stored in the memory 20 in response to the operation on the touch panel 23 and the reception of the start information command of the opponent from the packet TA24.

When an event indicating that a “connect” button provided on the key input section has been touched is detected, the packet T
A24 establishes a data link with the host device 16 via the public network 14. When detecting the event that the inside of the area of the go board has been touched, the CPU 21 calculates the starting coordinates from the touched point and places the stone on the LC.
At the same time as displaying at the corresponding point of D22, the start coordinates are transmitted to the host device 16 through the packet TA24 by the start information command. When another button is touched, the CPU 21 transmits a corresponding command to the host device 16. On the other hand, when an event of receiving the start information command by the packet TA24 occurs,
The CPU 21 acquires the start coordinates of the other party from the start information command, and displays the other party's stone at the corresponding point on the LCD 22.

When the CPU 21 receives the information display command and the information display data of text data or image data as its argument from the host device 16, the CPU 21 displays a text or an image on the LCD 22 based on the data.

In the terminal device 10, a "call request" button,
By specifying the method of voice communication with the opponent by operating the "cancel call request" button and "call after call termination" button, another user who meets the conditions is selected by the host device 16 as the opponent. The line connection is controlled so that the players can communicate with each other at a predetermined timing.

Next, the operation of the server device 30 will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the server main process by the server device 30.
The server device 30 waits for the reception of a connection request packet of a specific TCP port number of TCP / IP, and activates the server main process as a child process every time a connection request is received, and processes the connection. Therefore, the server device 30
Multiple connections can be processed in parallel.

First, when the server device 30 starts the server main process, the server device 30 executes user authentication for the terminal device 10 that has made a connection request, and acquires a user ID unique to the user of the terminal device 10. (Step A1). Hereinafter, the processing for the partner identified by the user ID is executed.

In the server main process (child process), the server device 30 repeatedly reads the received data from the TCP / IP socket and interprets the command (steps A2 and A3), and reads out the inter-process communication channel and reads the inter-process communication channel. Interpret the command (Steps A14, A1
5). Each command and its processing content will be described later. Also,
In the server main process, an inter-process communication channel that can be input and output as a one-to-one bidirectional stream realized by a shared memory space is identified by an inter-process communication channel ID.
It can be used by specifying it by number.

Hereinafter, processing according to each command received by the TCP / IP socket will be described. TCP
Commands received by the / IP socket include (1)
New registration command, (2) call request command, (3) call request after terminal termination, (4) call request cancel command,
(5) game request command, (6) start information command,
(7) There is a suspend command.

(1) When a new registration command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A3), the CPU 4
No. 0 inserts and registers the “user ID” and “name” included in the new registration command in the “user ID” field and the “name” field of the user database (see FIG. 4) (step A4). . Also, the CPU 40
The fields not shown in FIG. 4, for example, the current date in the “enrollment date” field, and “180” as the initial value in the “rating” field indicating the rating value of the user's ability.
"0" is set in other fields, and a new record is inserted. In addition, the CPU 40 sets a new record in which a unique “transaction ID”, a “user ID” newly registered in the user database, a special value “product ID” indicating an enrollment fee, and the like are set in the charging database. Insert

(2) When a call request command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A11), the CPU
40 searches the user database using the "user ID" included in the call request command as a key, and updates the "call request status" field of the corresponding user record to "1". That is, it is set that this user wants to talk with the opponent.

(3) When a call request command after termination is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A12),
The CPU 40 searches the user database using the “user ID” included in the call request command after termination as a key,
The “call desired status” field of the corresponding user record is updated to “2”. That is, it is set whether or not the user desires a call (playback game or the like) after the game with the game partner.

(4) When a call cancellation request command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A13), C
The PU 40 searches the user database using the “user ID” included in the call request cancel command as a key, and updates the “call request status” field of the corresponding user record to “0”. That is, the "call request status" field set by the call request command or the call request command after termination is initialized.

(5) When the game request command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A3), the CPU 4
0 executes the game request process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 (step A8). In the game request process, the user database is searched using the “user ID” included in the game request command as a key, and the “game status” field of the corresponding user record is changed to “1” representing the game request. Update the corresponding DB record (Step B
1, B2).

Subsequently, player selection processing to be described later (FIG. 8)
To select a game partner with reference to a plurality of user records registered in the user database (step B3). As a result of executing the player selection process (returned as a return value), if the opponent is undecided, the “game status” field of the user record of the user who has made the game request is set to “2” indicating waiting for the game. And change to D
The B record is updated (steps B10 and B11).

On the other hand, when the player is selected by the player selection process, the user record of the user who has made the game request and the user record selected as the player are displayed in the "game status" field. The value is changed to "3" representing the inside (steps B6 and B7). Further, an empty inter-process communication channel ID is acquired, and the “inter-process communication channel ID” field is changed to the acquired empty inter-process communication channel ID (step B).
8). The CPU 40 outputs a D including the changed fields.
The B record is updated (step B9).

In this way, in the game request processing, if there is a user ("game status" field = "2") registered in the user database as a game wait in response to a game request from the user, this user Is set as the game partner ("game status" field = "3"), and if a user waiting for a game is not registered, it is registered in the user database as a game waiting from another user.

Next, the player selection processing (step B3) executed in the above-mentioned game request processing is executed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in the player selection process, the "player status"
Is retrieved as a set A by retrieving the user record of "2" (step C1), and the value of "call desired status" (own call desired status) of the user record of the user who has made the game request is "t". (Step C
2) A user record having a "call desired status" that matches this "t" is retrieved from the user database and obtained as a set B (step C3). The "call request status" is set by a call request command, a call request command after termination, and a call request cancel command received in response to a user operating a button provided on the key input unit of the terminal. None indicates "0", "1" indicates that there is a call during the game, or "2" indicates that there is a call after the end of the game.

Here, when there is a user record included in both the set A and the set B (step C4), that is, the "game status" is "2" indicating game waiting, and the "call desired status" is set. If a matching user record exists, the user ID of that user record
Is set as the return value (step C5). Here, when there are a plurality of user records, for example, the user record first searched from the user database is selected as the game partner.

When there is no user record included in both the set A and the set B (step C4), and only the user record included in the set A exists (step C4).
6) In other words, if there is a user record whose “game status” indicates a game wait, the user ID of the player record is set as a return value (step C).
7). Here, when there are a plurality of user records, for example, the user record first searched from the user database is selected as the game partner in the same manner as described above.

When there is no user record included in the set A, that is, when there is no user record whose "game status" indicates that the game is waiting for a game,
For example, a special number “−1” is set as a user ID as a return value so as to indicate a player undecided (step C8).

As described above, in the player selection process, instead of simply searching the user database for a user record whose “game status” is “2” (waiting for a game) and selecting the user record, the user record “call request” is made. Users with matching "status" are preferentially selected as game partners. Therefore, for a game application from a user who wants a call (or a call after the end of a game), a user waiting for a game who wants a call (or a call after a call) can be selected as a game partner. Conversely, for a user who does not want to talk, a user who does not want to talk can be similarly selected as a game partner. For this reason, it is possible to maximally cope with communication by telephone calls desired by the users playing the game.

Further, in response to a command received by the user operating the "call request" button, the "call request after termination" button, or the "call request cancel" button in accordance with a change in the situation such as time or surrounding environment. Since calls can be controlled, it is possible to respond to each user's request in detail.

(6) When the start information command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A3), the CPU 4
0 executes the self-side start process shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 (step A10). In the self-start process, first, the user database is searched, and it is determined whether or not the "game status" field of the user record corresponding to the self-user is "3" indicating that the game is being played (step D1). If the “game status” field is not “3”, the process for the start information command is not performed.

If the "game status" field is "3" (step D1), the information indicated by the start information command is interpreted (step D2). The contents of the start information command are transferred to the communication channel (step D9). The start information command includes start coordinates indicating the start position input by the user to the terminal device 10 and various information necessary for the game, such as a pass, a seal, and a termination, as necessary. For example, a command to make the game proceed is notified to the opponent of the game. here,
The CPU 40 executes a voice insertion process for transmitting a sound corresponding to the processing content corresponding to the start information command to the game partner (step D10). The details of the voice insertion process will be described later (FIG. 10).

When the "interruption flag" (not shown) indicating whether or not the opponent has requested the interruption of the game is "false", that is, indicates that the interruption is not requested (step D11). ), The "under consideration flag" (not shown) is cleared ("false") so as to indicate that the user of the own side is not under consideration due to the start of the own side (step D13). On the other hand, when the “interruption flag” is “true”, which indicates that the interruption of the game is requested, after executing the opponent's interruption processing (step D12), the user on the own side is not under consideration. The "under consideration flag" is cleared ("false") to indicate that (step D13). The details of the other party's interruption processing will be described later (FIG. 1).
1).

On the other hand, if the start information command indicates termination (step D2), it is assumed that the player has lost the game, and the terminal-end processing and the game charging processing are called and executed.
The processing at the end of the call includes the "call desired status" (set as "a") set in its own user record and the "call desired status" set in the opponent user record.
(Set as “b”) are both “2” (a = 2, b = 2),
In other words, it is determined whether or not each user who is playing the game has set a call request after the end (step D3).
D4, D5). Here, if both the "calling request status" are not "2" (step D5), the later-described accounting processing is executed, and the contents of the start information command (quit) are transferred to the inter-process communication channel (step D).
9). If both the "call desired status" are "2", the call connection exchange process is executed, and then the game charging process is executed. The details of the call connection exchange process will be described later (FIG. 12).

The game charging process is a process for charging for the use of the game service. A special “product ID” field indicating a game fee prepared as one of the product records in the product database 45 is provided. Is searched, and the "product ID" of the game fee record is set as the target "id" of the product purchase (step D7), and the charging process is executed (step D).
8). The details of the billing process will be described later (FIG. 1).
3).

Next, the voice insertion process (step D10) executed in the above-described self-side start process will be described with reference to FIG.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The voice insertion process performs the following process only when the “calling flag” is “true”. The “calling flag” indicates the telephone line connected to the local user and the telephone line connected to the remote user in the call connection exchange processing, the other party suspending processing, and the local suspend processing described below. Is set to “true” when a line is connected and a call can be made between users.

First, the CPU 40 connects the line via the line I / F 44a with the switch unit 44b to the voice response unit 44c.
(Step J1). Here, the CPU 40 reproduces the sound based on the sound data of the sound file prepared in advance in the storage device 42 and transmits the sound corresponding to the start on the own side to the game partner. For example, a sound effect such as a stone sound (step J2), "white four six, drill"
Start confirmation voice such as “Black 4/8, Tsuku” (Step J
3) In addition to the remaining time confirmation sound (step J4) such as "10 minutes left", "10 seconds", "20 seconds", "white 1"
A win / loss confirmation sound such as "0 and a half win" is prepared, and a necessary sound file is selected and reproduced. After the sound corresponding to the start is played and sent to the opponent,
The CPU 40 controls the switch unit 44b again to connect a call between the telephone line connected to the own user and the telephone line connected to the other user.

As described above, when a start has been made on the own side (own side start processing), the voice response section 44c capable of transmitting voice under the control of the line control section 44 is connected to the line. Sound to read out the sound effect (stone sound) or remaining time associated with the start (countdown, win / loss confirmation)
Can be transmitted to the opponent. Therefore, since the game can be executed not only with the transmission and reception of the command related to the start between the terminal devices but also with the transmission and reception of the voice, it is possible to realize the communication closer to the game in the face-to-face direction of the human being, and the recording clerk can read the countdown. There is a production effect like a professional chess game, especially a TV chess game, and it is possible to give a sense of realism.

Next, a description will be given, with reference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 11, of the partner-side interruption processing (step D12) executed in the above-described self-side start processing. This opponent interruption process is executed when the “interruption flag” is “true” and the opponent of the game requests interruption of the game. The CPU 40 determines the “call desired status” (set as “a”) set in its own user record, and the “call desired status” (set as “b”) set in the opponent user record. And the "calling status" of both the local user and the opponent user are both "2".
(A = 2, b = 2), that is, it is determined whether or not each of the users playing the game is set to have a call request after the termination (steps M1, M2, M3). Here, if both the "call desired status" are "2", the local telephone number is obtained from the telephone number field of the user record (step M4), and the local telephone number is used as an argument with the local telephone number as an argument. A call is made to the public network 14 through the F44a (step M5), the switch unit 44b is controlled to connect the line to the voice response unit 44c, and an event waiting state is set (step M6).

Here, if there is no call establishment event that allows the user to make a call (step M7), the CPU
40 sets the "calling flag" to "true" so as to indicate that the telephone line connected to the own user and the telephone line connected to the other user are connected. Then, the other party's interruption processing ends (step M10).

On the other hand, if there is a call establishment event (step M7), the CPU 40 reproduces the message content of the voice file generated by the message storage process of the self-side interruption process (see FIG. 14) of the opposite party, which will be described later. The message reproduction process is performed. That is, the CPU 40 includes the switch unit 4
Switching to connect the line via the line I / F 44a and the voice response unit 44c by 4b (step M8)
The voice response unit 44c reproduces, for example, an announcement "reproduce a message of interruption from the other party". Further, in the message storage processing executed on the opposite side, the “FILE0123.WA” uniquely generated with the user ID of the own side (for example, “0123”) attached.
A recording file having a file name such as "V" is read out and transmitted as digital stream data to the line as audio (step M9). Then, a "calling flag" is displayed so as to indicate that the telephone line connected to the local user and the telephone line connected to the other user are connected.
Is set to "true", and the other party's interruption processing is ended (step M10).

It is to be noted that the final move is stored as a sealer as a game record file at the present time, and the next time the same user plays a game, the game can be restarted from the middle of the interruption based on the game record file. To afterwards,
Disconnect and release the call.

In this way, by providing a function of voice transmission which is not real time, it is possible to cope with a user who has no time to talk but wants to transmit a message, such as when urgently interrupting the game. In particular, by performing processing after starting, avoiding consideration of each user, natural operation is possible even when used together with sealing processing.

Next, a description will be given, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12, of the call connection exchange processing (step D6) executed in the above-described self-side start processing. This call exchange processing is executed when the "call desired status" is "2" for each user who is playing a game.

In the call connection exchange processing, first, a "telephone number" is obtained from the "telephone number field" of the user record on the own side (step H1), and the telephone number is transmitted to the public network 14 through the line I / F 44a using the telephone number as an argument. A call is made (step H2), the switch unit 44b is controlled to connect the line to the voice response unit 44c, and an event waiting state is set (steps H3 and H4).

Here, when disconnection from the called side due to busy or the like is detected, the local side disconnection event is detected (step H1).
5) Send a disconnection notification command to the other processing process via the inter-process communication channel (step H1).
6) Disconnect and release the call (step H17).

When a disconnection notification command from the opposite party is detected through the inter-process communication channel (steps H18 and H19), the call is disconnected and released (step H21). When the call is already established when disconnecting / releasing the call (step H20), when the disconnection reason is busy, "the other party's telephone is busy", and for any other disconnection reason Sends out an announcement reproduction of "the other party's call has been disconnected" (step H21).

On the other hand, if there is a call establishment event that enables a call with the user on the own side (step H5), the CPU 4
0 obtains the "telephone number" from the "telephone number field" of the user record of the opponent (step H6), and based on the area code of the telephone number of each of the own user and the other user. When a call is made from each of the host devices 16, a call (communication) fee per hour to be paid to the telephone company is calculated (step H7).

Then, the average of the call charge for the user on the local side and the call charge for the user on the other end is calculated, and the announcement “This is the game center. The area code of the player is XXXXX and the call is The fee is $ 3 per 3 minutes. To connect, press 1 on the phone, otherwise press 0. "and send it to the user, and send the response from the user's phone 12. wait. Here, it is assumed that a response is made by a DTMF signal (tone signal) transmitted by a button operation on the telephone 12 (step H9).
In addition, the call fee / yen represents the average value of the call fee of each user.

Here, if the DTMF signal returned from the user is "0", the call is disconnected / released on the assumption that the consent of the connection has not been obtained from the user (step H1).
3, H14). On the other hand, if the DTMF signal returned from the user is "1", it is determined that the consent of the connection has been obtained from the user, and the telephone line connected to the user on the own side by controlling the switch unit 44b; A call is connected to the telephone line connected to the other user (step H11), the "calling flag" is set to "true", and the process returns (step H1).
2).

As described above, the call charge is calculated based on the telephone number of the player, and the call charge is notified to the user to obtain the consent, and then the call connection is made. In such a case, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of payment trouble when the call charge becomes high.

Next, the charging process (step D8) executed in the above-described self-side start process will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The charging process in the own-side start process is executed to charge for using the game service when the start information command indicates termination. At this time, the "product ID" of the game fee record indicating the game fee is set as the product purchase target "id" (step D7), and the product ID set as the product purchase target "id" is charged. It is set as a target (step F1), the user ID currently being processed is set as the "user ID" of the user who purchases the product (step F2), and a new charging record is inserted and added to the charging database 46 (step F1). F3).

(7) When the interrupt command is received by the TCP / IP socket (step A3), the CPU 40
Executes the local-side interruption processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 14 (step A9). In the own-side interruption processing, first, it is determined whether or not the "consideration flag" is "false" to indicate that the other party is waiting to start, and if it is "false", execution of the own-side interruption processing is accepted (step L1). ).

The CPU 40 sends an interruption command to the inter-process communication channel (step L2), and sets the "call desired status" (set to "a") set in its own user record in the user database, and The “call desired status” (set as “b”) set in the user record of the other party is acquired, and both “call desired statuses” are both “2” (a = 2, b = 2), that is, It is determined whether or not each of the users performing the communication has been set to have a call request after the termination (steps L3, L4, L5). here,
If both the "call-desired status" are not "2" (step L5), the local-side interruption processing ends. on the other hand,
If both the "call desired status" are "2", the own telephone number is acquired from the telephone number field of the user record (step L6), and the own telephone number is used as an argument through the line I / F 44a. A call is made to the public network 14 (step L7), the switch unit 44b is controlled to connect the line with the voice response unit 44c, and an event waiting state is set (step L8).

Here, if there is no call establishment event that enables a call with the user on the own side (step L9), the CPU
40 sets the "calling flag" to "true" so as to indicate that the telephone line connected to the own user and the telephone line connected to the other user are connected. Then, the own-side interruption processing ends (step L13).

On the other hand, if there is a call establishment event (step L9), the CPU 40 reproduces the message content of the voice file generated by the message storage process of the self-side interruption process (see FIG. 14) of the opposite party to be described later. The message reproduction process is performed.

That is, the CPU 40 includes the switch unit 44
b through the line I / F 44a and the voice response unit 4
4c (step L10).
The voice response unit 44c reproduces, for example, an announcement of "A message for interruption to the opponent is received" (step L11). Furthermore, the voice from the line is taken in as digital stream data, and the “FILE0123.
A file having a file name such as "WAV" is created (step L12). Then, the "calling flag" is set to "true" to indicate that the telephone line connected to the local user and the telephone line connected to the remote user are connected. The own-side interruption processing ends (step L
13).

Next, processing according to a command received through the inter-process communication channel will be described. Commands received by the inter-process channel include (1)
A start information command and (2) an interruption command can be received.

Next, a process according to a command received through the inter-process communication channel will be described. (1) When the start information command is received via the inter-process communication channel (step A15), the CPU 40 executes the other party start processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 (step A16). In the opponent start process, first, the user database is searched, and it is determined whether or not the "game status" field of the user record corresponding to the opponent user is "3" indicating that the game is being played (step E1). If the “game status” field is not “3”, the process for the start information command is not performed. If the "game status" field is "3" (step E1), the information indicated by the start information command is interpreted (step E2), and if it does not indicate a termination requesting the end of the game, the information is sent to the TCP / IP socket. The contents of the start information command are transferred (step E9). The start information command includes start coordinates indicating the start position input by the user to the terminal device 10 and various information necessary for the game, such as a pass, a seal, and a termination, as necessary. For example, a command to make the game proceed is notified to the opponent of the game. Here, the CPU 40 executes a voice insertion process. Note that the voice insertion processing is executed in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG. Then, the CPU 40
A "consideration flag" (not shown) is set (to "true") to indicate that the user on his side is under consideration (step E11).

On the other hand, if the start information command indicates termination (step E2), it is assumed that the player has won the game, and the terminal-end processing and the charging processing are called and executed. On the other hand, if the start information command indicates termination (step E2), it is determined that the own side has won the game, and the terminal end processing and the game charging processing are called and executed. The final processing is
The "call desired status" (set as "a") set in the user record of the own side and the "call desired status" (set as "b") set in the user record of the other party are both " 2 "(a = 2, b = 2), that is, it is determined whether or not each of the users playing the game is set to have a call request after termination (steps E3, E4, E5). Here, if both the "call desired status" are not "2" (step E5), the later-described accounting processing is executed, and a start information command (quit) is sent to the TCP / IP socket.
Is transferred (step E9). If both the "call desired status" are "2", the call connection exchange process is executed, and then the game charging process is executed. Note that the call connection exchange processing is executed in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG.

The game charging process is a process for charging for using the game service, and includes a special “product ID” indicating a game fee prepared as one of the product records in the product database. A search is made for a game charge record having a field, the "product ID" of the game charge record is set as a target "id" for product purchase (step E7), and a charging process is executed (step E).
8). Note that the billing process is performed in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG.

(2) When the interruption command is received by the inter-process communication channel (step A15), the CPU 4
0 sets the "interrupt flag" to "true", checks the interrupt flag after the user's next move, and prepares to execute the opponent's interrupt process (step A17).

In the server main process described above, the command reception is checked, for example, every 300 msec (step A).
4) When there is no new command received (step A2,
A14) If the "game status" is "3" (step A18), a timeout process is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. In the time-out process, the "call desired status" (set as "a") set in the user record of the own side from the user database and the "call desired status" set in the user record of the other party
(Set as “b”) (steps G1, G
2), execute processing according to the status of each status.

Here, the "calling request status" of both the user and the other party is "1" (b = 1, a =
If it is 1) (steps G3 and G4), a call connection exchange process is called (step G5). In other cases, only the "calling request status" of the other party is "1" (b =
In the case of 1) (steps G3 and G4), an information display command for instructing execution of information display and text data for displaying on the user terminal 10 are displayed. Touching the call request button starts a call "to the TCP / IP socket (step G6). In other cases, only the “calling status” of the opponent is “2” (b =
If the answer is 2) (steps G3 and G8), the information display command and the text data to be displayed on the user terminal 10 are displayed. Touching will automatically initiate a call at the end of the call "is sent to the TCP / IP socket (step G7). Note that the call connection exchange processing in step G5 is performed in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG.

As described above, when a new command is not received for a predetermined time during the game, a call can be prompted by notifying an announcement according to the state of the "call desired status" of both parties by timeout processing.

On the other hand, when the communication of the TCP / IP socket is disconnected (step A5), the CPU 40 calls the call termination processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 17, and after executing the processing, terminates the main processing. In the call termination process, if the "call flag" is "false", the main process is terminated as it is (step K1), and if "true", a disconnection event of "false" is waited for (step K2). Release (step K3). Further, in order to charge the user with the call charge, the charge is created from the "user ID" in the user record, the "product ID" of the call charge, and the price calculated by multiplying the call time by the average call charge (step K4). . Then, it is set as the target “id” of the product purchase (step K5),
The accounting process is executed to insert the accounting record into the accounting database (step K6). Note that the billing process is performed in the same manner as the flowchart shown in FIG.

In this way, by providing the host device 16 with a line interface and a line switching function and linking it with the game service, it becomes possible for a user who is playing a game to make a voice call at a predetermined timing. To enable voice communication between the players, thereby enabling fine-grained communication. For example, by setting the call after the end of the call, the automatic connection of the voice call is performed immediately after the end of the call, which is useful for so-called impression battles (examination of reflection after the exchange between the opponents), and work for the user The procedure is smooth without burden.

Although the above description has been made on the assumption that circuit switching is performed, an Internet telephone can also be used. There are two main types of Internet telephones, one using voice telephone lines at both ends and using Internet telephone technology as a relay line by a gateway device.
Some packet terminals have voice input / output functions and do not use voice lines at all. The latter has a voice input / output function as an alternative to an interface with a voice line, and both have a packet switch by a packet network as an alternative to a stream switch circuit. By arranging the host device 16 at a main base in the whole country and connecting it with an Internet telephone, it is possible to reduce the call cost of the user.

In the above description, the host device 16
From the user to the telephone 12 used by the user, but the user telephone calls the representative number of the host device 16 and the host device 16 calls the caller telephone provided by the communication carrier. The user may be identified and connected by using a service such as a number notification. Further, although the ISDN packet function is used for connecting the terminal device 10 and the public network 14, it may be connected by a modem or the like. Even if there is only one telephone line, the above-mentioned call connection after the termination is possible. Also, a case has been described in which a game between users connected via the public network 14 is performed. However, a switch to an extension interface is prepared to play a game with a partner in the host station, or a game software having a thinking routine. The game may be played by a voice response function. In this case, the extension and voice response function can be fixedly connected to the office line (no exchange function).
Circuit switching for call connection between players may be realized by issuing a switching command directly to a switching device of a communication carrier instead of providing a call control or switching circuit inside the host. .

Although the communication process for each user is a child process, a thread (light weight process) may be used. Alternatively, loop processing may be performed in a single process. Also,
The server device 30 is not limited to a single server device, and a plurality of server devices 3
The functions may be distributed to zero. In particular, the line controller 44 may be an independent exchange or exchange server. Further, the sharing of functions between the terminal device 10 and the server device 30 is not limited to the case described above. For example, instead of storing the user telephone number in a database in the host device, the terminal device 10
May be referred to from the host device 16 each time. In the system configuration shown in FIG.
And the public network 14 are connected by wire.
A configuration in which packet communication is performed using a wireless telephone network such as an HS (personal handyphone system) network or a mobile telephone network may be employed. In the configuration shown in FIG.
Is configured as a device separate from the corresponding terminal device 10, but may be configured such that the function of the telephone 12 is mounted on the terminal device 10.

[0085]

As described above, according to the present invention, a user who is playing a game is connected to a battle service so as to be able to make a voice call at a predetermined timing so that a call is connected. Voice conversation can be easily and effectively performed, and detailed communication can be performed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a network game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a terminal device 10;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed by the LCD 22 when the terminal device 10 is operating.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a record structure of a user database stored in a storage device 42.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a record structure of a charging database stored in a storage device 42.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of server main processing by the server device 30.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a game request process.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining player selection processing.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a self-side start process;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining voice insertion processing.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a partner-side interruption process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a call connection exchange process.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a billing process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining a local-side interruption process.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining a counterpart start process.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining a timeout process.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a call termination process.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10-1, 10-2 ... Terminal device 12 ... Telephone 14 ... Public network 16 ... Host device 20 ... Memory 21 ... CPU 22 ... LCD 23 ... Touch panel 24 ... Packet TA 30 ... Server device 32 ... Packet TA 34 ... Router 40 ... CPU 41 memory 42 storage device 43 Ethernet I / F 44 line control unit 44a line I / F 44b switch unit 44c voice response unit

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04M 15/00 101 H04M 15/00 101 (72) Inventor Masanori Kikuchi 3-2-1 Sakaemachi, Hamura-shi, Tokyo No. Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Hamura Technical Center (72) Inventor Masahiro Kakuda 3-2-1 Sakaemachi, Hamura City, Tokyo Casio Computer Co., Ltd. Hamura Technical Center F term (reference) 2C001 AA00 AA01 AA14 AA17 BA00 BA04 BA05 BA07 BB08 BC00 BC10 CA00 CA01 CA09 CB01 CB08 CC03 CC08 5K024 CC01 CC09 DD01 DD04 GG01 5K025 AA08 BB10 CC07 EE19 JJ02 JJ08 JJ12 JJ18 5K101 KK18 MM07 NN18 NN48 9A001 BB04 BB06 CC02 JJ62 JJ12 JJ27

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A network comprising: a plurality of user terminals; and a server connected to the user terminals via communication means and providing a battle service for performing a battle game between the user terminals. A battle system, comprising: a setting unit for setting a request for a call timing with an opponent from each user terminal for each user terminal; and a competition among voice communication units corresponding to each of the plurality of user terminals. A network battle system comprising: a connection unit for selectively connecting a communication line of a voice communication unit corresponding to a user terminal device playing a game at a timing set by the setting unit. 2. A server device connected to a plurality of user terminals via communication means and providing a battle service for playing a battle game between the user terminals, the server device comprising: Setting means for setting a request for each user terminal; and a communication line of a voice communication means corresponding to a user terminal device playing a battle game among voice communication means corresponding to each of the plurality of user terminals. A connection unit for selectively connecting at a timing set by the setting unit. 3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein said setting means performs a setting for making a call after the end of the match. 4. The server device according to claim 2, wherein the connection unit connects the call line when the call timing set by the setting unit matches between the user terminals playing the competitive game. . 5. A receiving means for receiving a match request from each user terminal, and a call timing set by the setting means from the user terminal receiving the match request by the receiving means, wherein the call timing is determined. 3. The server device according to claim 2, further comprising: a battle setting means for preferentially selecting matching user terminals and setting the selected user terminal as an opponent. 6. A charge calculating means for calculating a communication charge required for voice communication by a communication line connected by the connecting means, and a communication charge calculated by the charge calculating means, wherein the communication charge is Confirmation means for transmitting a confirmation notice, and reception means for receiving a response indicating whether or not connection to the notice by the confirmation means is possible, wherein the connection means, when a response indicating that connection is possible is received by the confirmation means, 3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein a communication line is connected. 7. A sound transmitting means for generating a sound according to the situation of the battle game and transmitting the sound to the voice communication means when a communication line is connected by the connection means. 3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein: 8. A recording means for recording a sound received from a voice communication means corresponding to a user terminal device playing a competition game, and a user of an opponent of the competition game recording the sound recorded by said recording means. 3. The server device according to claim 2, further comprising: a second sound transmitting unit that transmits to a voice communication unit corresponding to the terminal device. 9. A storage medium storing a program for operating a computer connected to a plurality of user terminals via communication means and providing a battle service for playing a battle game between the user terminals, Setting means for setting, for each user terminal, a request for call timing with an opponent from each user terminal; and playing a competitive game among voice communication means corresponding to each of the plurality of user terminals. A computer-readable program storing a communication battle program for causing the communication line of the voice communication means corresponding to the user terminal device to function as the connection means for selectively connecting at the timing set by the setting means. Storage medium.