JP2002153678A - Information delivery system and information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information delivery system and an information storage medium for supporting a user's input. SOLUTION: A game information delivery apparatus 100 is provided with a game information generating part 111 for generating presentation information for presenting plural alternatives by using at least one of an image and voice by a portable telephone 200, a transmit/receive part 190 for transmitting generated presentation information to the portable telephone 200, and receiving select information showing a selected alternative by the portable phone 200, and a discrimination updating part 116 for updating user data showing the selection existence/absence of plural alternatives stored in a storing part 120. The game information generating part 111 is functioned to generate presentation information in which the already selected alternatives are highlighted relatively to the unselected alternatives.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information distribution system and an information storage medium for supporting user input.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art When inputting a character string such as a user ID or a password, the input is performed using a keyboard or the like. For example, in the number of key presses required when character conversion is performed, or in fingering when a character string is input using a combination of a plurality of keys, the time and effort required for inputting a character string having the same length are different.

In particular, in a portable telephone such as a so-called portable telephone, it is necessary to input a character string with limited keys such as numeric keys, so that the number of times of character conversion and the like is increased, and a character string having the same length is required. But the effort of input is very different.

[0004] In addition, the user can select one of a plurality of games on the menu screen.
Even when playing a game by selecting one game,
It takes time to make a selection.

[0005] In such a case, there is also provided a method of displaying only executable games. However, in a case where an executable game is determined by user registration, it is difficult to display only executable games. However, unregistered games are not displayed, and it is not possible to prompt user registration for unregistered games.

Therefore, it is necessary to display all games including non-executable games. However, if all game options are displayed as they are, it is difficult for the user to select executable game options. Inconvenient.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has as its object to provide an information distribution system and an information storage medium for supporting user input.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an information distribution system according to the present invention selects at least one of a plurality of options at a predetermined communication terminal and performs a process according to the selection. And an information distribution system for transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, wherein the communication terminal generates presentation information for presenting the plurality of options using at least one of an image and a sound. A presentation-side information generation unit, a distribution-side transmission / reception unit that transmits the generated presentation-purpose information to the communication terminal, and receives selection information indicating an option selected by the communication terminal; Means for updating the selection presence / absence data stored in the storage area of the plurality of options, the selection presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of the selection of the plurality of options. Based on data, and generating the presentation information processing performed in which selected choices are relatively exaggerated relative choices unselected.

Further, in the information storage medium according to the present invention, at least one option is selected from a plurality of options in a predetermined communication terminal, a process corresponding to the selection is performed, and information indicating a processing result is sent to the communication terminal. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for transmission toward, the plurality of options in the communication terminal,
A presentation information generation unit for generating presentation information for presentation using at least one of an image and a sound, and causing the transmission unit to transmit the generated presentation information to the communication terminal. A transmitting / receiving means for causing a receiving means to receive selection information indicating the selected option, and a computer as means for updating selection presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of selection of the plurality of options stored in a predetermined storage area based on the selection information And a presentation information generating unit, based on the selection presence / absence data, that performs a process of emphasizing a selected option relative to an unselected option. Is generated.

[0010] According to the present invention, the selected option is emphasized relative to the unselected option, so that a user who makes a selection using the communication terminal can easily select the selected option.

In general, since frequently used options are repeatedly selected, it is desirable that the user can easily select the options.

However, when information is distributed over a network, the same menu screen or the like is distributed to the user at the distribution destination, and the usability for the user cannot be said to be good.

According to the present invention, according to the selection presence / absence data,
The presentation information reflecting the selection of each user can be generated, and the usability of the communication terminal and the like for the user can be improved.

[0014] Further, the information distribution system includes game information generating means for generating game information for playing a game on the communication terminal based on the selection information, wherein the option is a game progressing option. The distribution-side transmission / reception unit may transmit the game information to the communication terminal.

Further, the information storage medium stores a program for causing a computer to function as game information generating means for generating game information for playing a game at the communication terminal based on the selection information. ,
It is a game progress option, and the distribution-side transmitting / receiving means may cause the transmitting means to transmit the game information to the communication terminal.

[0016] According to this, the player who plays the game can easily select the option that he frequently uses, so that the game can proceed more smoothly.

Further, the information distribution system according to the present invention comprises:
At least one option is selected from a plurality of game progress options provided for each game in a predetermined communication terminal, a game process is performed in accordance with the option, and information indicating a processing result is transmitted to the communication terminal. In the information distribution system, the plurality of options in the communication terminal,
Presentation information generating means for generating presentation information for presenting by using at least one of an image and a sound, a delivery-side transmitting / receiving means for receiving selection information indicating an option selected by the communication terminal, and the selection information Game information generating means for generating game information based on the information, wherein the presentation information generating means includes a registration presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of a game corresponding to the plurality of options stored in a predetermined storage area. On the basis of the generated information, the distribution-side transmission / reception unit generates presentation information in which an option corresponding to a registered game is relatively emphasized with respect to an option corresponding to an unregistered game. And transmitting the game information to the communication terminal.

In the information storage medium according to the present invention, at least one option is selected from a plurality of game progress options provided for each game in a predetermined communication terminal, and the game is processed according to the option. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, wherein the plurality of options are selected by the communication terminal using at least one of an image and a sound. Presentation information generation means for generating presentation information for presentation, distribution-side transmission / reception means for causing reception means to receive selection information indicating an option selected by the communication terminal, and game information based on the selection information. A program for causing a computer to function as game information generation means to be generated is stored, and the presentation information generation means includes: Based on registration presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of registration of a game corresponding to the plurality of options stored in a fixed storage area, an option corresponding to a registered game is relative to an option corresponding to an unregistered game. The present invention is characterized in that presentation information for which emphasized processing has been performed is generated, and the distribution-side transmission / reception means causes the transmission means to transmit the presentation information and the game information to the communication terminal.

According to the present invention, a player who plays a game can easily select a game option that he or she frequently plays, so that the game can be progressed more smoothly.

Here, the relatively emphasized processing means that an option to be emphasized (selected or registered) is emphasized to an option not to be emphasized (unselected or unregistered). This corresponds to a (conspicuous) process, a process in which a non-emphasized option becomes inconspicuous with respect to an emphasized option, and the like.

Also, in the information distribution system and the information storage medium, the presentation information generating means may perform a font change process, a line drawing process, a size change process on the character string included in the option as the process to be emphasized. At least one of image processing, processing, inversion processing, and color change processing may be performed.

According to this, for example, the player who plays the game can easily select the game option that he or she frequently performs by emphasizing the character string such as the game name included in the option. It can proceed more smoothly.

In the information distribution system and the information storage medium, when the plurality of options are displayed by switching an image or scrolling an image, the option to be emphasized is not emphasized. The presentation information may be generated so as to be displayed earlier than the options.

According to this, the user can easily specify the frequently used option, and can make the selection more smoothly.

Further, in the information distribution system and the information storage medium, the communication terminal transmits an input unit having a plurality of keys and input information input by the input unit to the distribution side transmitting / receiving unit. The game device may include means for receiving the game information from the transmitting / receiving means, and means for displaying a game image based on the received game information.

According to this, when an option is selected on a selection screen or the like that is displayed on the screen of the communication terminal, the player can easily select the frequently used option and can smoothly play the game.

Further, the information distribution system according to the present invention comprises:
In an information distribution system that performs a process corresponding to an input character string that is key-input on a communication terminal by a key input person with respect to a specified character string and transmits information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, A character string generating means for generating the designated character string for presentation by receiving information indicating a key-input character string from the communication terminal, and transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. Means, and a processing means for performing processing according to the input character string input by a key, wherein the character string generation means, the number of key inputs required when inputting the specified character string is less than or equal to the upper limit value Is determined, and the designated character string is generated such that the number of key inputs is equal to or less than an upper limit value.

Further, the information storage medium according to the present invention performs a process corresponding to an input character string which is inputted by a key input person at a communication terminal with respect to a designated character string, and outputs information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for transmission to a user, a character string generating means for generating the specified character string for presentation to a key input person, and a key-input character A means for receiving information indicating a column from the communication terminal, transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, and causing a computer to function as a processing means for performing processing according to an input character string input by a key And the character string generation means determines whether the number of key inputs required for inputting the designated character string is equal to or less than an upper limit value. , And generates the string of the key input number to generate the string so as not to exceed the upper limit.

Further, the information distribution system according to the present invention comprises:
In an information distribution system that performs a process corresponding to an input character string that is key-input on a communication terminal by a key input person with respect to a specified character string and transmits information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, A character string generating means for generating the designated character string for presentation by receiving information indicating a key-input character string from the communication terminal, and transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. Means, and a processing means for performing processing in accordance with a key-input character string, wherein the designated character string includes Japanese characters that need to be converted and input, and the character string generating means Is the character array of Hiragana or Katakana,
A method of making the appearance probability of the upper character relatively higher than the appearance probability of the lower character, a method of using the same non-consonant character in a continuous character string constituting the specified character string, The specified character string is generated by using at least one of a method using characters other than a character and a method using characters without a voiced or semi-voiced point.

Further, the information storage medium according to the present invention performs a process corresponding to an input character string which is input by a key input by a key operator at a communication terminal with respect to a specified character string, and outputs information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for transmission to a user, a character string generating means for generating the specified character string for presentation to a key input person, and a key-input character A means for receiving information indicating a column from the communication terminal, transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal, and causing a computer to function as a processing means for performing processing according to an input character string input by a key And the specified character string includes Japanese characters that need to be converted and input, and the character string generating means includes a hiragana character or a katakana character. In the character arrangement of the above, a method of making the appearance probability of the upper character relatively higher than the appearance probability of the lower character, a method of using the same non-consonant character in a continuous character string constituting the specified character string, The specified character string is generated by using at least one of a method using characters other than a character and a method using characters having no voiced or semi-voiced characters.

Further, in the information distribution system and the information storage medium, the character string generating means determines whether the number of key inputs required when inputting the designated character string is equal to or less than an upper limit value, The designated character string may be generated such that the number of key inputs is equal to or less than an upper limit value.

According to the present invention, a designated character string is automatically generated so that the number of key inputs is reduced,
The user who inputs the designated character string can input the character string with less trouble than usual.

Here, as a method of generating the character string so as to reduce the number of key inputs, for example, in the case of converting and inputting a character, the higher the upper row (the upper row), the higher the appearance probability. , A method that does not use the same consonant in a continuous character string, a method that does not use small characters (ぁ ぃ ぅ ぇ ぉ ゃ ゅ), a method that does not use voiced and semi-voiced points, and the like.

Here, the designated character string is
For example, a character string for user identification, a character string for authentication, a character string for password, a character string for data identification, a spell or password in a game, a character name, and the like are applicable.

The designated character string is composed of at least one of kanji, hiragana, katakana, numbers, alphabets, symbols, and foreign languages.

Further, in the information distribution system and the information storage medium, the processing means determines whether or not the input character string input by the key is correct based on the designated character string and the input character string. And a game information generating means for generating game information based on the determination result.

According to this, it is determined whether or not the input character string conforms to the specified character string and the game information is generated, so that the user can be authenticated or a predetermined item can be provided to the player only when the specified character string is correct. It becomes possible to provide.

[0038] In the information distribution system and the information storage medium, the character string generating means may include, as the designated character string, a key at a position where a finger of the key input person is arranged in the input means and the input. In the means, a character string that can be input may be generated using at least one of adjacent keys.

According to this, the designated character string is input by generating a designated character string which can be entered by a key at a position which is easy to operate at the time of input or a key which is easy to finger. The user can input a character string more easily than usual.

The communication terminal specifically corresponds to, for example, a portable game device, a portable PC, a portable telephone, or the like.

Here, as the portable telephone, for example, a so-called portable telephone, PHS (Person)
al Handyphone System) and satellite communication telephones.

As a service for providing information that can be displayed on the liquid crystal screen of such a portable telephone, for example, NTT DoCoMo's i-mode service is realized.

[0043]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, taking as an example a case where the present invention is applied to an information distribution apparatus for distributing game information for playing a game using a mobile phone. The embodiments described below do not limit the content of the invention described in the claims. In addition, all of the configurations described in the following embodiments are not necessarily essential as means for solving the invention described in the claims.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a game system according to an example of the present embodiment.

The game system generates game information based on a mobile phone 200 as a communication terminal and distribution request information transmitted from the mobile phone 200 via a transmission path, and transmits game information to the mobile phone 200. And a game information distribution device 100 functioning as a distribution system.

Here, the game information distribution device 100 and the mobile phone 200 are connected via a packet switching network 300. The game information distribution device 100 and the mobile phone 2
The transmission path between 00 and 00 includes a wireless transmission path 320 and a wired transmission path 310.

In the packet switching network 300, a base station for the mobile phone 200, a packet disassembly apparatus, and the like are interposed, and the game information distribution apparatus 1 is in the form of a packet.
00 and the mobile phone 200. Actually, a plurality of mobile phones 200 are connected to the packet switching network 3.
00 and is connected to the game information distribution apparatus 100.

First, a player connects to the packet switching network 300 using the mobile phone 200, and the mobile phone 200
The distribution request information generated based on the operation of the player is transmitted to the game information distribution device 100. The game information distribution device 100 generates game information according to the distribution request,
The message is transmitted to the mobile phone 200.

The mobile phone 200 is a game information distribution device 1
The game information is received from 00 and the game image is displayed on the screen to execute the game.

FIG. 2 is an external view of the mobile phone 200.

The mobile phone 200 is a mobile phone 2 functioning as a plurality of keys, which are input means and function as an operation unit, and a part of the display unit 220 on which images including characters are displayed.
00, a liquid crystal screen which is a display integrally formed with the main body, an antenna functioning as a transmitting / receiving unit 290, a speaker functioning as an audio output unit 222, and a microphone 2
24.

Here, the plurality of keys are a character input key 216 for inputting characters, a direction key 214 for moving a cursor or the like displayed on a liquid crystal screen, and a fixing key for fixing characters after conversion. Key 212.

That is, when a character string is input by a key, at least one or more character input keys 216 are pressed, and the cursor is moved by pressing the direction key 214 in a state where the desired character is obtained, or the enter key 212 is pressed by pressing the enter key 212. Confirm the character and enter the character.

Next, actual character input will be described.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing buttons pressed for character input.

Here, a case where a character string "Potto" is input will be described as an example.

For example, when inputting the character "@", the character input key 216 "6" is depressed five times to change the character to "ha", "hi", "fu", "he", "ho", By pressing "* (actually, * is a character rotated by 90 degrees)" of the input key 216 twice, the character must be transited to "bo" and "@". Input is required.

When the character "tsu" is input,
By pressing “4” of the character input key 216 five times, the character is changed to “ta”, “chi”, “tsu”, “te”, “to”, “tsu”, and the next character is the character of the same “ta” line. Enter key 21
2 must be pressed, and a total of 7 key inputs are required.

Further, when the character "to" is input, the character input key 216 "4" is pressed five times to change the character to "ta""chi""tsu""te""to". The enter key 212 must be depressed because of this character, and a total of six key inputs are required.

Therefore, the key must be depressed 20 times only by inputting the three characters "Potto".

Since the character "@" includes a semi-voiced sound and is a lower stage (stage), the number of conversions increases. Also,
The character “tsu” is a small character (ぁ ぃ ぅ ぇ ぉ ゃ ゅ) and the next character is a consonant on the same line, so that the enter key 212 must be pressed. In addition, since the character “to” is also in the lower stage (stage), the number of conversions increases.

As described above, when the character string to be input by the user is specified without considering the trouble of inputting by the user,
The time and effort required for the user to input becomes excessive, and the user becomes troublesome in the input itself, and moves away from services provided to the user such as games.

The same applies to a case where one or more options are selected from a plurality of options. In the case where a user provides an option to be selected without considering the user's time and effort to select the option, the time and effort required for the user to select the option is reduced. Could be oversized.

Hereinafter, an example of reducing the trouble of inputting the character string of the user and an example of reducing the trouble of selecting the option of the user will be described.

(Example of reducing user's trouble of inputting a character string) Here, when a character string input by the player using the mobile phone 200 as a specified character string specified in the game is correct, predetermined authorization processing is performed. A case in which a game in which the player proceeds to advance the game will be described as an example.

The character strings include, for example, a character string for user identification, a character string for authentication, a character string for password, a character string for data identification, and a spell in the game. A password, a character name, a character name, and the like are applicable. Here, a case in which a password for obtaining a character item is input during the progress of the game will be described as an example.

First, functional blocks of a game system including the mobile phone 200 and the game information distribution device 100 will be described.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a game system according to an example of the present embodiment.

As described above, the mobile phone 200 transmits the operation section 210 and the transmission / reception section 290 which transmits the distribution request information including the operation information from the operation section 210 and receives the game information from the game information distribution apparatus 100. A storage unit 230 that temporarily stores received game information, a display unit 220 that shapes a game image using a browser based on the game information stored in the storage unit 230, and displays the game image on a liquid crystal screen,
Audio output unit 2 that outputs game audio based on game information
22.

Here, the game information is, for example,
It refers to data, a program for executing the game, an object in which the data and the program are integrated, and the like.
Further, the game information may include only the game image information, but here, it is assumed that the game information also includes the game sound information.

On the other hand, the game information distribution device 100 receives distribution request information including key input information from the mobile phone 200 and transmits and receives game information. And a game information generation unit 111 that generates game information based on the request information.

Further, the game information distribution device 100 determines whether the password input by the mobile phone 200 is correct based on the received distribution request information, and performs a predetermined authorization process on the determination unit 115; And a password generating unit 112 which is a character string generating means for generating a password (designated character string) input by the user.

The password generation section 112 generates a password based on the condition data 121 and the probability data 122 stored in the storage section 120 which is a storage area.

Here, the condition data 121 is data indicating the condition of the password, and corresponds to, for example, the number of characters, the maximum number of key inputs, the condition of the character to be used, and the like.

The probability data 122 is data indicating the probability of occurrence of a character applied in a password, and corresponds to, for example, 40% of the column, 20% of the line, and the like.

The game information generating section 111 includes an image generating section 113 for generating game image information and a sound generating section 114 for generating game sound information.

The game information generation unit 111, the password generation unit 112, and the determination unit 115 are integrated as a processing unit 110 which is a game processing unit, and the functions thereof are realized by, for example, a CPU. More specifically, the image generation unit 113
Is, for example, CGI (Common Gateway)
The game image page is dynamically generated by software using an interface.
The sound generation unit 114 is realized by, for example, a sound generation IC or the like.

The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a RAM or the like, and the transmission / reception unit 190 is realized by, for example, a communication device having a PAD (packet disassembly and assembly) function.
Note that the transmission / reception unit 190 can be configured as a separate unit of the transmission unit and the reception unit.

Further, an information storage medium 180 may be connected to the game information distribution apparatus 100, and the function may be realized by reading a program from the information storage medium 180.

Here, as the program, for example, when the computer functions as the transmission / reception unit 190, the game information generation unit 111, the password generation unit 112, and the determination unit 115, transmission / reception request information from the mobile phone 200 is transmitted / received. Means for causing the unit 190 to receive, determining whether or not a character string input by the mobile phone 200 is correct based on the received distribution request information, and performing predetermined authorization processing; and determining game information based on the authorization processing. And a program for causing a computer to function as character string generating means for generating the character string for performing the authorization processing so that the number of key inputs is reduced.

The program stored in the information recording medium 180 is embodied in a carrier wave (embodie).
d). That is, the game information distribution apparatus 100 can realize the above-described various functions by reading information not from the information storage medium 180 but from, for example, a predetermined host terminal or the like via a network.

In place of the information storage medium, an object for realizing the above-described means (including at least one of a program, data and an object and may be embodied in a carrier wave) is applied. It is also possible.

As the information storage medium 180, for example, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM,
A storage medium using a laser, magnetism, or the like such as an IC card, a ROM, a RAM, and a hard disk can be applied.

Next, the flow of processing when generating a password will be described. Here, an example in which the upper limit of the number of characters and the number of key inputs (the number of steps) is applied as the condition data 121,
An example will be described in which a condition that consonants equal to the number of characters do not overlap is applied as the condition data 121, and data that defines the appearance probabilities of the upper stage, the upper stage, the upper stage, the upper stage, and the lower stage are applied as the probability data 122. .

First, the former example will be described.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of a character string generation process according to an example of the present embodiment.

As described above, the password generation unit 112
Applies the number of characters N and the upper limit S of the number of steps as conditions based on the condition data 121 (step 2).

Next, the password generation unit 112 generates a character string of N characters based on this condition (step 4).

Then, password generating section 112 calculates the number of steps required to input the generated character string (step 6).

The password generation unit 112 determines whether the number of steps required to input the generated character string is S or less (step 8).

When the number of steps is equal to or smaller than S, the password generation unit 112 applies the character string as a password (step 10).

On the other hand, if the number of steps exceeds S, the password generation unit 112 determines the number of steps from the character string generation (step 4) to apply a new character string instead of the character string (step 8). The process up to is repeated.

By performing the above processing, the character string generated by the password generation unit 112 can always be input in steps of S or less, so that when the player inputs the password, it takes too much time and effort. And the game can be advanced comfortably.

Next, an example in which the probability data 122 is applied, which is the latter example described above, will be described.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of a character string generation process according to another example of the present embodiment.

[0096] The password generation unit 112 transmits the condition data 1
21, the number of characters N is applied as a condition (step 22).

The password generation unit 112 selects a vowel based on the probability data 122 (step 2).
4). Here, the probability data 122 is assumed to be 40% for the upper stage, 30% for the upper stage, 20% for the upper stage, 10% for the upper stage, and 0% for the upper stage. In other words, the higher the upper row, the higher the appearance probability,
The lower stage has a lower appearance probability.
As described with reference to FIG. 3, the upper stage has a smaller number of steps, and the lower stage has a larger number of steps. Therefore, by setting the appearance probability to be higher in the upper row and lowering the appearance probability in the lower row, the trouble of character input is reduced.

After selecting the vowel, the password generation unit 112
Selects a consonant (step 26).

Then, the password generation unit 112 also determines whether or not consonants on the same line after the second character overlap (step 28).

That is, as described with reference to FIG.
When consonants on the same line overlap (consecutive), the number of steps for pressing the enter key 212 increases. Therefore, by generating a character string so that consonants on the same line do not continue, the trouble of character input can be reduced. Become.

If consonants on the same line overlap, the processes of selecting consonants (step 26) and determining the continuation of consonants (step 28) are repeated again.

The password generation unit 112 repeats the processing from vowel selection (step 24) to determination of continuation of consonants (step 28) until N characters are generated (step 30).

When the generation of the N characters is completed, the password generation unit 112 applies the character string as a password (step 32).

By performing the above processing, the number of character strings generated by the password generation unit 112 increases as the upper row (upper row) appears, and consonants on the same line are not continuous. In a few cases, when the player inputs the password, the game can be progressed comfortably without excessive effort.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, a character string is generated such that the number of key inputs is reduced, so that a user who uses input means that needs to input the character string can Character strings can be input with less effort than usual.

Further, when the total number of key inputs becomes equal to or less than a predetermined value, a user using the input means that needs to input the character string can input the character string with a smaller number of inputs than usual. .

When the character input means is configured so that at least one of the characters that can be input is input by a plurality of key operations, the number of key inputs per character is input to the password generation unit 112. Preferably, the character string is generated so as to be equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0108] Also in this case, since the number of key inputs per character is equal to or less than a predetermined value, a user using the input means that needs to input the character string can input the character string with a smaller input number than usual. can do.

The password generation unit 112 may generate a character string that can be input by a key at a position that is easy to press on input means such as the mobile phone 200.

According to this, by generating a character string that can be input using a key at a position where key input is easy, a user who inputs a character string using input means such as the mobile phone 200 can be more easily performed than usual. You can enter a character string.

[0111] Here, the keys at positions that are easy to press include, for example, a key near the end point of the input means, a key near the position where the finger of the dominant arm is arranged, and the like.

Further, the password generation unit 112 may generate a character string that can be input by a combination of keys located at a position where fingering is easy on input means such as the mobile phone 200.

According to this, by generating a character string that can be input by a key combination at a position where fingering is easy at the input means, a user who inputs a character string by using the input means can be more than usual. A character string can be easily input.

Here, examples of key combinations that can be easily fingered include a key combination at a position close to a distance, a key combination at a position close to a finger pressing a key, and the like.

When considering the ease of key input and the ease of fingering, the game information generation unit 111
It is preferable to generate image information for displaying on the liquid crystal screen of the mobile phone 200 a selection screen that allows the player to select an arm (right arm or left arm) for key operation. According to this, optimal input support can be performed according to the player.

In the example described with reference to FIG. 4, the game information distribution device 100 distributes game information and the like to the mobile phone 200, and the game information distribution device 100 authenticates the game information based on the password input by the mobile phone 200. Although the example in which the processing and the like are performed has been described, it is also possible to perform the above-described password generation and the like using a single game device.

In this case, the single game device is the one shown in FIG.
Operation unit 210, display unit 220, audio output unit 22 shown in FIG.
2. Image generation unit 113, sound generation unit 114, determination unit 11
5, a password generation unit 112, a storage unit 120 in which condition data 121 and probability data 122 are stored, and an information storage medium 180.

According to this, it is possible to provide a single game device in which the player can easily input characters. As such a game device, specifically, for example, a portable game device, a portable PC (Personal)
Computer).

Next, a description will be given of an example of reducing the trouble of selecting the above-mentioned options of the user.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of a game system according to another example of the present embodiment.

Mobile phone 200 transmits operation unit 210 and distribution request information including operation information from operation unit 210.
A transmission / reception unit 290 for receiving game information from the game information distribution device 100; a storage unit 230 for temporarily storing the received game information; , And an audio output unit 222 for playing the game information stored in the storage unit 230.

Here, the game information is information having at least one of game image information and game sound information, for example, data for executing a game,
It refers to a program, an object in which data and a program are integrated, and the like.

On the other hand, the game information distribution device 100 receives distribution request information from the mobile phone 200 and transmits and receives game information. The transmission / reception unit 190 generates game information based on the received distribution request information. And a unit 111.

The game information distribution device 100 also provides a determination update unit 116 for determining whether the user of the mobile phone 200 has registered a user for each game, and provides user data 124 used for this determination. And a storage unit 120 that is a storage area for game data 123 having game data of a plurality of games.

Further, the determination updating unit 116 stores the
It also functions as an updating unit for updating the user data 124 of the user.

The game information generating section 111 includes an image generating section 113 and a sound generating section 114.
The mobile phone 200 also functions as presentation information generation means for generating presentation information for presenting a plurality of options using images and sounds.

The game information generation unit 111 and the discrimination update unit 116 are integrated as a processing unit 110, and the functions thereof are realized by, for example, a CPU. More specifically, the image generation unit 113, for example, outputs a CGI (Commo)
The game image page is dynamically generated by software using the n Gateway Interface. The sound generation unit 114 is realized by, for example, a sound generation IC or the like.

The storage unit 120 is, for example, a ROM, RA
M, etc., and the transmitting / receiving unit 190
(Packet disassembly and assembly) is realized by a communication device or the like having a function. Note that the transmission / reception unit 190 can be configured as a separate unit of the transmission unit and the reception unit.

[0129] Further, the game information distribution apparatus 100 is connected to an information storage medium 180, and may be configured to realize a function by reading a program from the information storage medium 180.

Here, for example, when the computer functions as the transmission / reception unit 190, the game information generation unit 111, and the determination update unit 116,
Presentation information generating means for generating presentation information for presenting a plurality of options on the mobile phone 200 using at least one of an image and a sound, and a transmission / reception unit 190 for transmitting the generated presentation information to the mobile phone 200 And transmitting / receiving means for causing the transmitting / receiving unit 190 to receive selection information indicating the option selected by the mobile phone 200, and determining whether or not the plurality of options stored in the storage unit 120 have been selected based on the selection information. Selection selection data (user data 12
As a means for updating 4), a program for causing a computer to function can be applied.

The program stored in the information recording medium 180 is embodied in a carrier wave (embodie).
d). That is, the game information distribution apparatus 100 can realize the above-described various functions by reading information not from the information storage medium 180 but from, for example, a predetermined host terminal or the like via a network.

Further, instead of the information storage medium 180, an object including information (including at least one of a program, data, and an object) for realizing each of the above means can be applied. Specifically, such an object corresponds to, for example, a packet or a cell used in an ATM network.

As the information storage medium 180, for example, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a DVD-RAM,
A storage medium using a laser, magnetism, or the like such as an IC card, a ROM, a RAM, and a hard disk can be applied.

Next, the data structure of the game data 123 and the user data 124 will be described.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the game data 123 according to an example of the present embodiment.

The game data 123 is displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the mobile phone 200 and includes game data for playing a game to be provided to the player. Game data 12
3 includes game data of a poker game "Poker Club", game data of a role playing game "Adventure World", and game data of a quiz game "Room of Quiz".

The player can select one of a plurality of options such as “Poker Club”, “Adventure World”, and “Quiz Room” displayed on the liquid crystal screen of the mobile phone 200.
Choose one option and play the game. For example, if the player selects "Poker Club", the game of "Poker Club" is played.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of the user data 124 according to an example of the present embodiment.

The items of the user data 124 include, for example, “user ID”, “user name”, and “registration of game”. "Game registration status"
In addition, "Poker Club", "Adventure World", and "Quiz Room" that indicate whether each game is registered
It is divided into. That is, the user data 124
Has a role as registration presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of game registration according to a plurality of options.

By referring to the user data 124, for example, for a player whose “user name” is “Wanta”, “Poker Club” is registered as “not yet”, “Adventure World” is registered as “unregistered”, and “quiz” It can be seen that the "room" has also been registered. Thereby, the game information distribution device 100 can determine whether the execution permission condition of the game is satisfied.

Each of these games may have a priority. For example, if the priorities are set in the order of "Poker Club", "Adventure World", and "Quiz Room", and if "Poker Club" and "Quiz Room" are registered as "Not", As the linked game information, the linked game information of “Poker Club” is generated. And "Adventure World"
The game of "Poker Club" will be played within the game of.

The discrimination updating unit 116 stores the user data 12
Referring to FIG. 4, information that “Poker Club” has been registered as “not yet”, “Adventure World” has been registered as “completed”, and “quiz room” has also been registered as “completed” are transmitted to the game information generator 111.

The game information generation unit 111 generates image information for displaying a game selection screen on which emphasis processing has been performed so that, for example, a game name of “completed” becomes bold based on the information.

When executing a registered game, the game information generation section 111 generates game information with reference to the game data 123.

As the emphasizing process for executing a registered game, various emphasizing processes can be performed other than simply making the characters bold.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen according to another example of the present embodiment. FIG. 10 (A) shows an example of capitalized letters, and FIG. 10 (B) shows an example of italicized letters. FIG. 10C is a diagram showing an example in which underlining is added.

As shown in a screen 410 of FIG. 10A, the size of the character is increased, as shown in a screen 412 of FIG.
Can be underlined as shown in the screen 414 of FIG.

In addition to the above, for example, changing the color of characters, changing the background color of characters, inverting characters, adding characters such as “registered”, In the case of outputting each game name by voice, the sound can be increased or the voice of a male can be replaced with the voice of a female.

According to this, for example, a player who plays a game can easily select a game option that he or she frequently performs by emphasizing a character string such as a game name included in the option. It can proceed more smoothly.

The game information generation section 111 performs the emphasis processing when the plurality of options are displayed by switching images or scrolling images.
The presentation information may be generated such that the emphasized option is displayed earlier than the non-emphasized option.

According to this, the user can easily specify frequently used options, and can make selections more smoothly.

It should be noted that such an emphasizing process may be a relative emphasizing process. For example, an unregistered game option may be processed so as to be inconspicuous with a registered game option.

More specifically, for example, processing such as changing the color of the characters of the unregistered game options or reducing the size of the characters of the unregistered game options may be performed. In addition, it is possible to perform emphasis processing on images other than characters.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen 420 according to another example of the present embodiment.

In menu screen 420, menu screen 4
The number of games is larger than 10 to 414. In the example of the menu screens 410 to 414, the number of games is three, but in the example of the menu screen 420, the number of games is ten.
Individual.

As a result, the mobile phone 2
The game is selected by scrolling the menu using the 00 scroll key or the like. In such a case, an emphasis process is performed to bring the registered game name up. Also,
If there are a plurality of registered games, the most recently played game or the game with the most game executions is brought up.

As a result, the player can easily select a game he frequently plays and can play other games within the game, so that he can enjoy games that he does not normally play.

[0158] Examples of the emphasizing process of an image other than a character include a process of adding an image to an option, changing an image of the option, and changing the option to a position where the option can be easily selected.

Such a function can be realized by applying, for example, the following as the above-mentioned user data.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the data structure of user data 125 according to another example of the present embodiment.

The user data 125 is different from the above-mentioned user data 124 in that each game item such as “Poker Club” has “registration status”,
Includes “last execution date and time” and “execution count”.

By including the “last execution date and time” and the “number of executions”, an emphasis process is performed to bring the most recently played game to the menu or bring the most frequently executed game to the menu. Can be.

That is, emphasis processing can be performed based not only on user registration but also only on the number of selections of options.

For example, when playing a role-playing game, a player plays a game by selecting commands such as "fight", "speak", "search", and "examine" on a command selection screen. By generating and displaying a command selection screen in which commands to be executed are arranged at positions that are easy for the player to select, the game can proceed more smoothly. In this case, the above-described user data 125 as the registration presence / absence data functions as the user data 125 as the selection presence / absence data.

The screen 420 explained with reference to FIG.
In the case of horizontal scrolling from left to right instead of vertical scrolling from top to bottom in, the game name that has undergone the emphasis processing may be brought to the left of the screen.

According to the method of emphasizing a predetermined option as described above, for example, a selected option is emphasized relatively to an unselected option, so that a communication terminal can be used. The user making the selection makes it easier to select the selected option.

In general, since frequently used options are repeatedly selected, it is desirable that the user can easily select the options.

However, when the information is distributed over the network, the same menu screen and the like are distributed to the destination user, and the usability for the user cannot be said to be good.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to generate presentation information reflecting each user's selection based on the selection presence / absence data, and to improve the usability of the communication terminal and the like for the user.

[0170] Further, since the player who plays the game can easily select the options of the game he frequently plays, the game can be made to proceed more smoothly.

Even when a desired option is selected by inputting characters from a plurality of options, a method of generating a designated character string of a plurality of options by using the above-described method of reducing the number of key inputs is used. By applying, it is possible to support the input of the user.

The game system based on game information distribution to which the present invention has been applied has been described above. However, playing a plurality of games in this manner is not limited to a network-type game, and may be performed by a single arcade game device or the like. ing.

In the above-described embodiment, the game data 123 and the user data 124 are stored in the storage unit 120 in the game information distribution device 100. However, the game data 123 and the user data 124 are distributed to a predetermined storage area such as a plurality of server devices. It is also possible to memorize.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the mobile phone 200 is applied as a communication terminal for playing a game. However, in addition to the mobile phone 200, a mobile phone such as a PHS ( Persona
l Handyphone System) or a satellite communication telephone (such as an iridium telephone) can be applied. In addition to the portable telephone, for example, a portable PC (Personal Computer), a portable information terminal, a portable game device having a communication function, a pager (so-called pager), and the like can be applied. .

In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a packet switching network is applied as a network mode has been described. For example, various network modes such as a line communication network such as an ISDN and a broadband communication network such as an ATM network are used. The present invention can be applied. Actually, the game information distribution device 100 and the mobile phone 200 are connected not only to a packet switching network but also to the Internet.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a game system according to an example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an external view of a mobile phone.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating buttons pressed for character input.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a game system according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a character string generation process according to an example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a character string generation process according to another example of the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of a game system according to another example of the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a data structure of game data according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a data structure of user data according to an example of the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen example of a menu screen according to another example of the embodiment; FIG. 10 (A) shows an example capitalized; FIG. 10 (B) shows an example italicized; FIG.
(C) is a figure which shows the example which added the underline.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen according to another example of the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a data structure of user data according to another example of the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 game information distribution device 111 game information generation unit 112 password generation unit 113 image generation unit 114 sound generation unit 115 determination unit 116 determination update unit 120 storage unit 121 condition data 122 probability data 123 game data 124, 125 user data 180 information storage medium 200 mobile phone

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. An information distribution system for selecting at least one option from a plurality of options in a predetermined communication terminal, performing a process according to the selection, and transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. A presentation information generating unit configured to generate presentation information for presenting the plurality of options by using at least one of an image and a sound in the communication terminal; and transmitting the generated presentation information to the communication terminal. A delivery-side transmitting / receiving unit that receives selection information indicating an option selected by the communication terminal; and, based on the selection information, selection presence / absence data indicating presence / absence of selection of the plurality of options stored in a predetermined storage area. Means for updating, wherein the information-for-presentation generating means emphasizes a selected option relative to an unselected option based on the selection presence / absence data. Information distribution system and generates a process the presentation information that went that. 2. The game device according to claim 1, further comprising: game information generation means for generating game information for playing a game on the communication terminal based on the selection information, wherein the option is a game progress option, The information distribution system, wherein the distribution-side transmitting / receiving means transmits the game information to the communication terminal. 3. At least one option is selected from a plurality of game progress options provided for each game in a predetermined communication terminal, a game process is performed in accordance with the option, and information indicating a processing result is transmitted to the communication terminal. In an information distribution system for transmitting to a terminal, a presentation information generating unit that generates presentation information for presenting the plurality of options at the communication terminal using at least one of an image and a sound, A delivery-side transmitting / receiving unit that receives selection information indicating a selected option; and a game information generation unit that generates game information based on the selection information. Based on the registered presence / absence data indicating whether or not the game corresponding to the plurality of options has been registered, the option corresponding to the registered game has not been registered. Generating presentation information that has undergone processing that is relatively emphasized with respect to the option corresponding to the game, wherein the distribution-side transmitting / receiving unit transmits the presentation information and the game information to the communication terminal. Characteristic information distribution system. 4. The display information generating unit according to claim 1, wherein the presentation information generating unit performs a font change process, a line drawing process, and a size change process on a character string included in the option as the process to be emphasized. An information distribution system that performs at least one image processing among a reversing process and a color changing process. 5. The option according to claim 1, wherein the presentation information generating unit is configured such that when the plurality of options are displayed by switching an image or scrolling an image, an option that is emphasized is not emphasized. An information distribution system, wherein the presentation information is generated so as to be displayed earlier than in (1). 6. The communication terminal according to claim 2, wherein the communication terminal transmits an input unit having a plurality of keys to the distribution-side transmitting / receiving unit, and the input information input by the input unit. An information distribution system comprising: means for receiving the game information from a side transmitting / receiving means; and means for displaying a game image based on the received game information. 7. A program for selecting at least one option from a plurality of options at a predetermined communication terminal, performing a process according to the selection, and transmitting information indicating a processing result to the communication terminal. A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the communication terminal generates presentation information for presenting the plurality of options by using at least one of an image and a sound, and A transmitting-side transmitting / receiving unit that causes the transmitting unit to transmit the information for presentation to the communication terminal, and causes the receiving unit to receive the selection information indicating the option selected by the communication terminal; based on the selection information, A program for causing a computer to function as means for updating the stored selection presence / absence data indicating the presence / absence of selection of the plurality of options is recorded. The presenting information generating means generates the presenting information in which the selected option is subjected to a process of being emphasized relative to the unselected option based on the selection presence / absence data. Information storage medium. 8. The program according to claim 7, wherein a program for causing a computer to function as game information generating means for generating game information for playing a game on the communication terminal based on the selection information is stored, An information storage medium, being an option for advancing a game, wherein the distribution-side transmitting / receiving means causes the transmitting means to transmit the game information to the communication terminal. 9. A predetermined communication terminal selects at least one option from a plurality of game progress options provided for each game, performs a game process according to the option, and transmits information indicating a processing result to the communication. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for transmission to a terminal, wherein the communication terminal generates presentation information for presenting the plurality of options using at least one of an image and a sound. A transmitting-side transmitting / receiving unit that causes a receiving unit to receive selection information indicating an option selected by the communication terminal; and a computer as a game information generating unit that generates game information based on the selection information. A program for causing the program to function, and the presentation information generating means stores the program for Based on the registration presence / absence data indicating the presence / absence of a game corresponding to the number of choices, for the presentation in which the option corresponding to the registered game is emphasized relatively to the option corresponding to the unregistered game An information storage medium, wherein information is generated, and the distribution-side transmission / reception unit causes the transmission unit to transmit the presentation information and the game information to the communication terminal. 10. The display information generating means according to claim 7, wherein the emphasis processing includes, as the emphasis processing, a typeface change processing, a line drawing processing, and a size change processing for a character string included in the option. An information storage medium, which performs at least one of image processing of inversion processing and color change processing. 11. The option according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein, when the plurality of options are displayed by switching an image or scrolling an image, the option to be emphasized is not emphasized. An information storage medium, wherein the presentation information is generated so as to be displayed earlier than in (1).