JP2006122670A - Game system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system capable of feeding a game item to a player in various feed forms. <P>SOLUTION: In a game system 8, a communication processing part 22 of a game machine 1 sends an ejection instruction to a communication processing part 130 of a figure feeder 6B. Thus, a figure 40 can be fed in various feed forms not only in the case where a figure purchase instruction is accepted from a player to sell the figure 40 but also in the case where a predetermined condition is held on a labyrinth combat game. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a game system capable of playing games using game items such as figures, cards, and cassettes.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, gaming machines that can play games using game items such as figures, cards, and cassettes are known. For example, Patent Document 1 includes means for reading data of a plurality of cards placed on a play field (reading means) and means for displaying an image corresponding to the read data. Further, a card game device is disclosed that can display an image corresponding to a combination of a plurality of cards and simulate team play. In this card game apparatus, a new card is provided to the player after the game (game) is completed.

  However, when the game article is provided after the game is finished in this way, the player who plays with the gaming machine for the first time needs to obtain the game article somewhere in advance before starting the game. . For this reason, the player cannot play a game if he / she does not know how to obtain the game article and where to obtain it.

Therefore, Patent Document 2 discloses a game system in which a game machine (game machine) including a display device and a capsule vendor (game product supply device) are provided side by side. In this game system, a player can purchase a capsule containing a figure (game article) from a game article supply apparatus provided in the gaming machine when playing a game using the game article on a gaming machine. it can.
JP 2002-301264 A JP 2002-153675 A

  However, the conventional game system described above has the following problems. That is, the game article supply device of the conventional game system only sells, and in order for the player to obtain the game article, the player takes the game article from the game article supply device. There was no other way but to buy.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game system that can supply game articles to players in various supply modes.

  A game system according to the present invention has a storage unit for storing game items for storing identification information and a game item supply device having a discharge unit for discharging game items, and reads the identification information from the game items, A game machine capable of playing an image game using a game image corresponding to the game product, the game machine having a transmission means for transmitting a game product discharge instruction to the game product supply device, and the game product The supply device includes a receiving unit that receives a discharge instruction from the gaming machine, and a discharge control unit that causes the discharge unit to discharge the game item when the receiving unit receives the discharge instruction.

  In this game system, the transmission means of the gaming machine transmits a game article discharge instruction to the game article supply device. When the receiving means of the game article supply apparatus receives this discharge instruction, the discharge control means of the game article supply apparatus causes the discharge unit to discharge the game articles. Therefore, for example, when the gaming machine receives a predetermined instruction from the player, or when a predetermined condition for the progress of the game is satisfied, a discharge instruction is transmitted from the transmission means to the gaming article supply device. The game article can be discharged from the game article supply apparatus, and various supply modes of the game article can be realized.

  In addition, the gaming machine further includes a receiving unit that receives a supply instruction for a game article from a player, and the transmission unit of the gaming machine uses a discharge instruction for a game based on the reception unit receiving the supply instruction. It is preferable to transmit to the article supply apparatus. In this way, when a supply instruction is given in the gaming machine, a discharge instruction is transmitted to the gaming article supply device, and gaming articles are supplied.

  The gaming machine further includes a game progress control means for controlling the progress of the image game, and the game progress control means is an instruction that indicates an instruction to supply gaming items based on the fact that a predetermined condition for the game progress is established. It is preferable that information is input to the transmission means, and the transmission means transmits a discharge instruction to the game article supply device based on the instruction information input from the game progress control means. In this way, when the player plays an image game and a predetermined condition for the progress of the game is satisfied, the game article is supplied to the player as a privilege.

  The gaming machine further includes a game progress control means for controlling the progress of the image game, and the game progress control means is configured to play a game based on the fact that a discharge condition for discharging the game article is satisfied while the game is in progress. Including a group code indicating a group to which the game article belongs, and input instruction information indicating an instruction to supply a game article to the transmission means, the transmission means based on the instruction information input from the game progress control means, The discharge instruction is transmitted to the game article supply device, and the game article supply device stores the game article to be discharged to the discharge unit based on the group code included in the discharge instruction received by the receiving means. A game system that further includes a specifying means for specifying the storage unit may be used.

  In this game system, when a discharge instruction including a group code is transmitted from the gaming machine to the game article supply device, the storage unit is specified based on the group code included in the discharge instruction.

  Further, in the case of the above game system, the game progress control means is less likely to be satisfied than the predetermined condition or the discharge condition, and when the specific discharge condition for discharging the game item with high rarity is satisfied while the game is in progress, It is also possible to input instruction information including a group code indicating a group to which a highly rare game item belongs to the transmission means.

  In this way, if the specific discharge condition is satisfied while the game is in progress, the game item with high rarity is discharged.

  Further, in the case of each of the above game systems, the gaming machine further includes wireless communication means for performing wireless data transmission / reception, and the gaming article supply device receives a discharge instruction transmitted from the gaming machine provided with the wireless communication means. Discharging permission data generating means for generating discharging permission data for causing the discharging unit to discharge the game article when the receiving means receives, and wireless communication means for discharging permission data generated by the discharging permission data generating means. Transmission control means for causing the gaming machine to transmit, and when the discharge control means receives the discharge permission data generated by the discharge permission data generation means from the gaming machine equipped with wireless communication means, the discharge control means The product for use can also be discharged.

  In such a case, when a discharge instruction is transmitted from a gaming machine having wireless communication means, the gaming article supply device generates discharge permission data and transmits it to the gaming machine having wireless communication means to supply gaming articles. When the apparatus receives the discharge permission data from the gaming machine having wireless communication means, the apparatus discharges the game article.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the game system which can supply a game article with a various supply aspect with respect to a player is provided.

  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments that are considered to be best for carrying out a game system according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the same or equivalent element, and the description is abbreviate | omitted when description overlaps.

First Embodiment (Overall Configuration of Network System)
FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a network system 100 including a plurality of game machines 1 according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 shows a plurality of game machines 1, a card vending machine 6A, and a figure supply device (game product supply device) 6B. It is a perspective view. The network system 100 includes a plurality of (three in this embodiment) communicably connected via the dedicated line 3 with a total of three store servers 2 installed in the two game stores A and B, respectively. Eight game machines 1, a card vending machine 6 A and a figure supply device 6 B are connected to the in-store router 7 installed in the game stores A and B, the in-store router 7, the communication line 4 a and the Internet 4. And a center server group 5.

  In each game store A, B, the store server 2, the game machine 1, the card vending machine 6A and the figure supply device 6B are connected by a dedicated line 3 to form an in-store LAN (Local Area Network). The internal LAN is connected to the Internet 4 via the in-store router 7. As shown in FIG. 2, a game system 8 according to the present invention is configured by the game machine 1 and the figure supply device 6B that are communicably connected.

(Game machine configuration)
The game machine 1 is a gaming machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, and an image that displays a character image indicating a character (details will be described later) acting as a player's operation as a game image used in the game. It has a display means and is configured to perform an image game that causes the character to perform an action in accordance with the player's operation. In the gaming machine 1 according to the present embodiment, the character moves in the labyrinth along the route selected by the player, while another character (a player character that performs an action according to the selection of another player, a game, A game in which the machine competes (non-player character), scrambles for the character's items (in this embodiment, jewels), collects all the items, and then defeats the final target character (hereinafter referred to as “Maze”) Playable game). In this labyrinth battle game, the score of each character (called “life” in the present embodiment) moves up and down according to the match result and the progress of the game, and the character that has lost the score becomes a loser. ing.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the game machine 1 has a main display 11 having a liquid crystal display device on the front surface of the housing 10. In addition, the upper portion of the main display 11 has a sub-display 12 that is also provided with a liquid crystal display device, and speakers 13L and 13R that output sounds used for game effects are arranged on the left and right sides thereof.

  The main display 11 displays game images (for example, a labyrinth image 160 described later) corresponding to each stage of the game. The sub display 12 displays an image (for example, a battle image 180 described later) at a specific stage of the game.

  The game machine 1 has an operation panel 14 below the main display 11, an authentication unit 15 is disposed on the left side of the operation panel 14, and coins (coins, games, etc.) necessary for executing a game on the right side. A coin slot 16 into which a game medium such as a medal is inserted, a card slot 18 into which an ID card 17 is inserted, and an operation unit 19 having operation buttons and the like.

  The authentication unit 15 has a pedestal mounting portion 15a fixed to the surface of the operation panel 14 and a reading portion 15b. This pedestal mounting portion 15a has a thick disc-shaped recess corresponding to the shape of the pedestal portion 41 in the figure 40 (see FIG. 7) to be described later, and the pedestal portion 41 can be fitted and mounted in the recess. It can be done. The reading unit 15b is disposed in a recess of the pedestal mounting unit 15a, and has an IC chip reader (not shown). The recorded information is read. Note that the authentication unit 15 includes an LED, and emits light to the figure during a reading operation of the figure 40 described later.

  Each game machine 1 constituting the network system 100 is assigned a machine ID unique to the game machine 1. This machine ID has a server ID unique to each store server 2 and an ID unique to each game machine 1. For example, in the case of each game machine 1 installed in the store A, A01, A02, A03 ... and so on.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the game machine 1 mainly showing the internal configuration. The game machine 1 has a plurality of components centering on a microcomputer 31.

  The microcomputer 31 includes a main CPU (Central Processing Unit) 32, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 33, and a ROM (Read Only Memory) 34. The main CPU 32 operates in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 34, and inputs signals from each component provided on the operation panel 14 via the I / O port 39, while receiving signals from other components. Input / output is performed to control the operation of the entire game machine 1. The RAM 33 stores data and programs (application data and game data described later in this embodiment) used when the main CPU 32 operates. The ROM 34 stores a control program executed by the main CPU 32 and permanent data.

  The game machine 1 also includes a random number generator 35, a sampling circuit 36, a clock pulse generation circuit 37, and a frequency divider 38. The random number generator 35 operates according to an instruction from the main CPU 32 to generate a certain range of random numbers. The sampling circuit 36 extracts an arbitrary random number from random numbers generated by the random number generator 35 in accordance with an instruction from the main CPU 32, and inputs the extracted random number to the main CPU 32. The clock pulse generation circuit 37 generates a reference clock for operating the main CPU 32, and the frequency divider 38 inputs a signal obtained by dividing the reference clock at a constant period to the main CPU 32.

  Further, the game machine 1 includes a touch panel 11a, a coin sensor 16a, a card reader 18a, a communication control unit 21 and a communication processing unit (transmission means) 22, and further includes an image control circuit 71, a sound control circuit, and the like. 72.

  The touch panel 11 a is provided so as to cover the display screen of the main display 11, detects the position of the place touched by the player's finger, and inputs a position signal corresponding to the detected position to the main CPU 32. The player uses the touch panel 11a to input an operation for determining the character's movement. For example, in the touch panel 11a, a conductive material is applied to the surface of a rectangular transparent plate, a voltage is applied from the electrodes arranged on the squares of the transparent plate, and a slight current change caused by touching a player's finger is applied to the electrodes. Detect and detect the position of the part touched by the player's finger.

  The coin sensor 16a detects a coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 16, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detection to the main CPU 32. The card reader 18 a reads card information such as a player ID recorded on the ID card 17 inserted into the card slot 18 and inputs the read card information to the main CPU 32.

  The communication control unit 21 operates according to an instruction from the main CPU 32 and controls connection and disconnection of a line for communicating with the store server 2. The communication processing unit 22 operates in accordance with an instruction from the communication control unit 21 and executes transmission / reception of data performed via the dedicated line 3.

  The image control circuit 71 controls image display on each of the main display 11 and the sub display 12 to display various images such as an image showing a character on the main display 11 and the sub display 12.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the image control circuit 71 includes an image control CPU 71a, a work RAM 71b, a program ROM 71c, an image ROM 71d, a video RAM 71e, and a VDP (Video Display Processor) 71f. The image control CPU 71a is based on the parameters set in the microcomputer 31 and is stored in the main display 11 and the sub display 12 in accordance with an image control program (related to display on the main display 11 and the sub display 12) stored in advance in the program ROM 71c. Determine the image to be displayed. The work RAM 71b is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control CPU 71a executes the image control program.

  The program ROM 71c stores an image control program, various selection tables, and the like. The image ROM 71d stores dot data for forming an image. The video RAM 71e is configured as a temporary storage unit when an image is formed by the VDP 71f. The VDP 71f has a control RAM 71g, forms images according to the display contents of the main display 11 and the sub display 12 determined by the image control CPU 71a, and outputs the formed images to the main display 11 and the sub display 12. .

  The sound control circuit 72 inputs sound signals for outputting sound from the speakers 13L and 13R to the speakers 13L and 13R. From the speakers 13L and 13R, for example, a sound for exciting the game is output at an appropriate time after the game is started.

(Configuration of store server, card vending machine, in-store router)
As shown in FIG. 6, the store server 2 includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, a communication processing unit (communication means) 204, a communication control unit 205, and a data storage unit 206 that stores application data. The CPU 201 operates while reading / writing data from / to the RAM 203 according to a program stored in the ROM 202, while the communication control unit 205 operates the communication processing unit 204 according to an instruction from the CPU 201. The store server 2 transmits / receives data to / from each game machine 1 via the dedicated line 3 with each game machine 1, card vending machine 6 </ b> A and FIG. The application data is transmitted (downloaded), and data transmission / reception is relayed between the game machines 1 and the center server group 5. The application data includes various data (game image data) used for execution of the labyrinth battle game performed on the game machine 1 and board data (operation buttons provided on the operation unit 19) corresponding to the labyrinth battle game. Configuration program).

  The card vending machine 6A includes an operation unit for a player to input personal information and a card issuing unit, and the card issuing unit performs a game unique to each player by a predetermined input operation using the operation unit. The card information including the person ID is stored and the ID card 17 is issued.

  The in-store router 7 connects the in-store LAN formed in each of the game stores A and B and the LAN formed in the center server group 5 via the communication line 4 a and the Internet 4.

(Figure structure)
Here, prior to the description of the figure supply device 6B, the figure 40 supplied by the figure supply device 6B will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the figure 40. The figure 40 has a pedestal part 41 and a figure main body part 42 representing the three-dimensional shape of each character appearing in the labyrinth battle game.

  The pedestal portion 41 has a size corresponding to the recess of the pedestal mounting portion 15a, and is formed in a hollow thick disk shape. The pedestal portion 41 has a bottomed cylindrical pedestal main body 43 having a zenith portion 43 a and an IC chip 44, and the IC chip 44 is fitted and fixed to the open end of the pedestal main body 43. ing. In addition, a protrusion 43 b is provided at the approximate center of the zenith portion 43 a of the pedestal main body 43. The IC chip 44 stores a figure ID unique to the character corresponding to the figure main body 42. The figure ID is unique to the figure 40 so that each figure can be identified, and includes a group code indicating a figure group A to H as a group to which each figure belongs. For example, the figure IDs of the figures belonging to the figure group A are “A001”, “A002”, “A003”..., And the first one-digit code indicates the figure group, and the last three digits. Is a code to identify the figure.

  The figure main body 42 is formed to have a leg seat 46 having a recess 46a corresponding to the protrusion 43b, and to stand upright with two legs from the leg seat 46, and is a doll shaped like each character appearing in the labyrinth battle game The protrusion 47b is fitted into the recess 46a and is fixed to the zenith 43a of the pedestal 41. Further, the figure 40 expresses the uniqueness of the character by slightly changing the color of the same character or changing the data unique to the character that characterizes each character, thereby promoting the player's desire to collect. The figure 40 is placed in a capsule 57 (to be described later) and stored in a storage unit 53 (to be described later) of the figure supply device 6B (see FIG. 9). The figure 40 containing the capsule 57 stored in the storage unit 53 becomes a stored game item. The figure 40 can be distinguished by the player depending on the shape of the figure main body 42, and the game machine 1 can be distinguished by the figure ID. The figure ID is unique to each figure 40, and multiple registration of the same figure in the network system 100 is prohibited.

  The capsule 57 has two hemispherical shells that can be divided into two and integrated into a spherical body, and when these two hemispherical shells are integrated, a hollow spherical body having a diameter of about 7 cm. The figure 40 can be placed inside.

(Configuration of Fig. Feeder)
Next, the figure supply device 6B will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the figure supply device 6B. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a part of the figure supply device 6B in a cutaway view, and FIG. 10 is a side view schematically showing the main part of the figure supply device 6B. The figure supply device 6B has a configuration in which the capsule 57 containing the figure 40 is discharged and the figure 40 contained in the capsule 57 can be supplied to the player.

  The figure supply device 6B includes a housing unit 53, a storage unit 53 including a plurality of storage units 60 (eight in this embodiment) that store the appropriate number of capsules 57 containing the above-described figure 40, and capsules 57. A discharge unit 54 for discharging from each storage unit 60 is provided. Note that one figure 40 is stored in each capsule 57 stored in the storage unit 60. Each figure 40 is used in the game machine 1 capable of performing an image game that causes the character to perform an action in accordance with the player's operation as described above.

  The housing 52 includes a front panel 52a, side panels 52b and 52c, a back panel 52d, a top panel 52e, and a bottom panel 52f that constitute a front lower portion of the figure supply device 6B. Further, the casing 52 has a transparent panel 61 described later between the upper portion of the front panel 52a and the side panels 52b and 52c and the top panel 52e, and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. And the housing | casing 52 has the operation panel 55 projected on the near side in the part between the front panel 52a and the transparent panel 61 so that it may be arrange | positioned in the up-down direction substantially center. A capsule outlet 56 is formed in the front panel 52a. Further, the casing 52 has a discharge path 66 secured between a back plate 63 described later and a back panel 52d.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the capsule outlet 56 has an opening / closing door 56 a that can be opened and closed by being pulled up toward the front side, and a receiving portion 56 b that receives the capsule 57 discharged from the storage portion 60. The capsule outlet 56 allows the player to take out the capsule 57 stored in the receiving portion 56b by pulling up the opening / closing door 56a from the outside of the housing 52 to the near side.

  The operation panel 55 includes a display 59, and the display 59 includes a liquid crystal display device. The display 59 displays information indicating the operation status of the figure supply device 6B.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the storage unit 53 is roughly divided into two upper and lower stages by a partition plate 62, and a total of eight storage units 60 divided into four are arranged on the left and right sides, four in each stage. ing. Each storage unit 60 is divided into sizes that can store a plurality of capsules 57. Further, the front side portion of each storage unit 60 is made of a transparent material such as acrylic or glass, and is covered with a transparent panel 61 that can be opened and closed by a hinge (not shown), and the capsule 57 accommodated therein is visually recognized from the front side. It is possible. The partition plate 62 is a slope 62a having a downward slope in which a portion near the back panel 52d is lowered toward the back side.

  Each storage unit 60 can perform operations such as replenishment and replacement of the capsule 57 from the front side of the figure supply device 6B by opening the transparent panel 61. In addition, in each storage unit 60, a figure belonging to one of the groups in which each figure 40 is divided into eight groups is stored (in this embodiment, the figure 40 is stored in the game machine 1). 8 types of characters appearing, and FIG. 40 belonging to each group (figure group) has the same character, but has different costumes and weapons. That is, the figures 40 belonging to the same group are stored in the same storage unit 60, and the figures 40 of different figure groups are stored in another storage unit 60. A mark or name indicating the figure group of the stored figure 40 is indicated on the partition plate 62 or the back plate 63, and a staff member of the game hall refers to the mark or name to identify the figure 40 of the corresponding figure 40. It can be refilled and replaced. In the present embodiment, each figure belongs to one of eight figure groups A to H. In particular, the figure group H belongs to a so-called rare figure that is supplied only when a specific discharge condition described later is satisfied (the figure group H indicates a group to which the rare figure belongs). .

  The storage unit 53 has a back plate 63 that stands substantially vertically on the back side of each storage unit 60, and the back plate 63 restricts movement of the capsule 57 in the back direction. The back plate 63 has eight discharge ports 64 corresponding to the storage units 60. Each discharge port 64 is normally closed by a blocking plate 65 to be described later, and when the capsule 57 is discharged, the blocking plate 65 is moved to be opened and connected to the discharge path 66. The discharge path 66 is a common connecting path from the collection path 66a to the capsule outlet 56, which is secured on the back side of the back plate 63 in the housing 52 between the back panel 63 and the back panel 52d. Path 66b.

The discharge unit 54 includes eight blocking plates 65 (65 _{1 to} 65 ₈ ) provided corresponding to the storage units 60, and a driving device 70 (see FIG. 11) that drives each blocking plate 65. ing. Each blocking plate 65 has a size capable of closing each discharge port 64, and is individually slid along a guide rail (not shown) by the driving device 70 to open and close.

  Here, FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the figure supply device 6B mainly showing the internal configuration. The figure supply device 6B has a plurality of components centering on the microcomputer 120.

  The microcomputer 120 has a main CPU 121, a RAM 122, and a ROM 123. The main CPU 121 operates in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 123 to control each component of the figure supply device 6B via the I / O port 124. The RAM 122 stores data and programs used when the main CPU 121 operates. The ROM 123 stores a control program executed by the main CPU 121 and permanent data.

  The figure supply device 6B includes a random number generator 125, a sampling circuit 126, a clock pulse generation circuit 127, and a frequency divider 128. The random number generator 125 operates in accordance with an instruction from the main CPU 121 to generate a certain range of random numbers. The sampling circuit 126 extracts an arbitrary random number from random numbers generated by the random number generator 125 in accordance with an instruction from the main CPU 121, and inputs the extracted random number to the main CPU 121. The clock pulse generation circuit 127 generates a reference clock for operating the main CPU 121, and the frequency divider 128 inputs a signal obtained by dividing the reference clock at a constant period to the main CPU 121.

Furthermore, the figure supply device 6 </ b> B has a drive device 70. The driving device 70 transmits motors M1 to M8 that generate power for sliding the respective blocking plates 65 (65 _{1 to} 65 ₈ ) along the guide rails, and transmits the power of the motors M1 to M8 to the respective blocking plates 65. And a drive control circuit 70a. The motors M1 to M8 are each activated by a drive signal output from the drive control circuit 70a to input power to the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism transmits power inputted from the motor M1~M8 each shield plate ₆₅ 1-65 _8, each shield plate ₆₅ 1-65 ₈ is slid along the guide rail. The drive control circuit 70a outputs a drive signal to the corresponding motors M1 to M8 in accordance with the control signal output from the main CPU 121.

  The figure supply device 6B operates in accordance with instructions from the main CPU 121 and operates in accordance with instructions from the communication control unit 129 and the communication control unit 129 that control connection and disconnection of a line for communicating with the store server 2. And a communication processing unit 130 for performing transmission / reception of data performed via the dedicated line 3.

(Configuration of center server group)
The center server group 5 has a plurality of game servers (two game servers 101 and 102 in FIG. 1) installed corresponding to each game, and a database server 103. Each game server has a dedicated line 104. Are connected to each other to form a LAN, and the LAN is connected to the Internet 4 via a router (not shown).

  The game server 101 is installed to execute a labyrinth battle game, and includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a communication processing unit 304, a communication control unit 305, and a data storage unit 306 as shown in FIG. . In the game server 101, the CPU 301 operates while reading / writing data from / to the RAM 303 according to a program stored in the ROM 302, while the communication control unit 305 operates the communication processing unit 304 according to an instruction from the CPU 301.

  The game server 101 exchanges data with each store server 2 via the Internet 4. Then, entry data, which will be described later, transmitted from each game machine 1 is received, the player's participation (entry) entry into the labyrinth battle game is received and the player's participation information is updated, and the player who becomes the opponent is determined. The result is transmitted to the database server 103.

  The game server 102 is installed to execute another game, and has the same configuration although the stored data and programs are different from those of the game server 101.

  The database server 103 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, a communication processing unit 404, a communication control unit 405, and a data storage unit 406. In the database server 103, the CPU 401 operates in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 402 while reading / writing data from / to the RAM 403, while the communication control unit 405 operates the communication processing unit 404 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 401. Data is transmitted and received via the server 2 and the Internet 4. The data storage unit 406 stores a player ID, a password used for player authentication, a game type, and game data. The player ID is read from the ID card 17 by the game machine 1 and transmitted.

  As will be described later, in the database server 103, each player sets the figure 40 used by the player in the game machine 1 in the authentication unit 15, and reads the figure ID. The figure ID corresponding to is transmitted from the game machine 1. In the database server 103, an ID management file capable of storing a plurality of corresponding figure IDs in association with one player ID transmitted from the game machine 1 is formed in the data storage unit 406. This ID management file manages the player and the figure used by the player. This ID management file is used for player authentication and figure authentication described later.

  The game data is the data unique to each character that characterizes each character that appears in the labyrinth battle game (cost, character color, defense ability, attack parameter, attack range, character ability value, special ability of each character, etc.) And the like, hereinafter referred to as “figure information”), and data indicating the history of the labyrinth battle game by each player. This game data is transmitted from the database server 103 to the game machine 1 and used in the labyrinth battle game.

(Game machine operation details)
Next, the operation content of the game machine 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the following description, a case where four players out of the eight game machines 1 installed in the game store A are operated by the respective players to play the same labyrinth battle game is taken as an example. explain.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of game processing from the start to the end of the game in each game machine 1. Note that step is abbreviated as S in FIG. 13 and FIGS. In the following description, one game machine 1 out of four players is described as an example.

  The game machine 1 transmits a download request for application data to the store server 2 when power is turned on (step 100 to be described later). On the other hand, when the store server 2 receives the download request, the game machine 1 transmits the download request to the game machine 1 that has transmitted the download request. Application data is transmitted (see FIG. 20).

  When the game machine 1 receives the application data, the game machine 1 stores the application data in the RAM 33. In the game machine 1, when the main CPU 32 reads the application data, the game machine 1 operates as the game progress control means in the present invention, and advances the labyrinth battle game in accordance with the player's operation input. Each game machine 1 displays a game image on the main display 11 while synchronizing with each other via the store server 2 and the center server group 5.

  At this time, when the game process is started, each game machine 1 proceeds to step 1 and performs a game start process described later including coin insertion, ID card insertion, and character generation process. In Step 2, it is determined whether or not predetermined data is set in a figure present flag (set), which will be described later, from the result of the game start process, and the process branches to Steps 3 and 4 according to the determination result. (Step 3 if the figure flag is set, Step 4 if not), perform any processing, clear the figure flag in Step 5 following Step 3, and then proceed to Step 6 to play While displaying game results (match results) such as results and determining success / failure of specific discharge conditions described later, the database server 103 sends data indicating match results via the store server 2 in order to update the game data. Then, post-processing to be transmitted to the database server 103 is performed, and the processing is terminated.

  As described above, the gaming machine 1 can play the labyrinth battle game in either the figure-with mode or the figure-free mode. However, in the mode with the figure, the game content is more beneficial to the player than in the mode without the figure (details will be described later).

(Game processing with figure)
The game machine 1 performs a game process with a figure and a game process without a figure according to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are flowcharts showing the operation procedure of the game process (figure-equipped game process) in the figure-with-figure mode and the game process (figure-free game process) in the FIG.

  When the game machine 1 starts the game process with a figure, the game machine 1 proceeds to step 11 shown in FIG. 14, waits until game data is received from the store server 2, and when the game data is received, the game data is temporarily stored in the RAM 33, Proceeding to step 11, the main CPU 32 extracts figure information corresponding to the figure ID of the figure 40 used by the player. In this way, the game processing in the figure presence mode is performed using the extracted figure information. Then, it progresses to step 12 and performs selection processes, such as a costume and a dungeon.

  Here, the main CPU 32 sets a selection range for the following items on the main display 11 wider than the game processing without a figure. In this case, a selection screen (not shown) is displayed on the main display 11 so that the player can select the following items. That is, the player uses the attributes of the character corresponding to the figure 40 newly set and authenticated (or already authenticated) (a costume worn by the character in this embodiment) and the dungeon used in the labyrinth battle game. It can be selected.

  When the player touches the main display 11 to select a desired costume and dungeon, information indicating the selection is input to the main CPU 32 from the touch panel 11a. Since step 12 is processing in the figure-equipped mode, a costume can be selected from a plurality of types (for example, three types), and a dungeon can be selected from a normal shape and a special shape. On the other hand, in the game process without figure, there is no process corresponding to step 12, the former is set only for the default costume determined for each character, and the latter is set only for the normal shape.

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to step 13 to perform right holder determination processing. Here, one of the players participating in the labyrinth battle game (four players in the present embodiment) is determined as a player who can perform labyrinth shifting described later (shift right holder). Each player is determined in turn as a right holder.

  In the subsequent step 14, a shift phase process is performed. The shift phase process is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. When the shifting phase process is started, the main CPU 32 proceeds to step 31 to instruct the image control circuit 71 to display a labyrinth image 150 as shown in FIG. The labyrinth image 150 includes a player display unit (Player 1, 2, 3, 4) 150a that displays the presence / absence of shifting rights of four players, the priority of attack, and the like, and a plurality of walls. A maze display unit 150b for displaying a maze image, and images of a plurality of characters 51 are displayed in the maze. Further, the input promotion image includes a display of the remaining time using the set time and a first elapsed time described later, and has a timer display unit 150c for prompting the player to input an operation, and further, a life display unit 150d. And an explanation display unit 150e for explaining the method of moving the wall part. The timer display unit 150c is displayed on the main display 11 by the main CPU 32, and the displayed numerical value decreases as the first elapsed time increases.

  Next, proceeding to step 32, the main CPU 32 starts measuring the first elapsed time. The first elapsed time is the time at which an operation input (progression operation input or determination operation input) indicating that the player has determined the wall portion (shift wall portion) whose position is to be shifted on the screen can be performed. The time elapsed from the (input start time) until the player touches the desired arrow a and performs a progress operation input or a decision operation input is shown. In the following step 33, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the shift wall portion is determined. If the shift wall portion is determined, the process proceeds to step 36. If not, the process proceeds to step 37. In step 36, the main CPU 32 shifts the determined wall portion to set the wall portion, and determines the character action (shifting the wall).

  On the other hand, when proceeding from step 33 to step 37, it is determined whether or not the first elapsed time is within the shift determination time limit (15 seconds in the present embodiment), and the first elapsed time is determined to be shifted. If it is within the time limit, the process returns to step 33. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step 38, where one of the walls is randomly shifted and set to the wall by using a random number extracted from the sampling circuit 36. Then, when the process proceeds to step 39 and the labyrinth image after the shift is displayed, the shift phase process ends.

  Subsequently, the process proceeds to step 15 where a movement phase process is performed. The movement phase process is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. In addition, this movement phase process is a process performed simultaneously with all the game machines 1 which perform the same labyrinth battle game.

  When the movement phase process is started, the main CPU 32 proceeds to step 41 and instructs the image control circuit 71 to display the labyrinth image 160 of the movement phase as shown in FIG.

  Next, proceeding to step 42, the main CPU 32 starts measuring the second elapsed time. The second elapsed time is the time when the player designates the destination from the time when the player can input an operation (designation of the destination) for designating the destination of his / her character. A time elapsed from when the destination designation display unit 160e is touched to perform an operation input (progression operation input or determination operation input) for advancing the game is shown. In the following step 43, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the destination is designated. If the destination is designated, the process proceeds to step 44. If not, the process proceeds to step 48. When the process proceeds to step 44, an image (not shown) in which the display color of the floor surface up to the movement destination is changed is displayed to clarify the movement destination, and the process proceeds to step 45. Then, it is determined whether or not the player has touched the decision button of the destination designation display section 160e (determines the destination), and if touched, the process proceeds to step 49, and if not touched, the process proceeds to step 48.

  In step 48, it is determined whether or not the second elapsed time is within the time limit for determining the destination (30 seconds in the present embodiment), and the second elapsed time is within the time limit for determining the destination. If so, the process returns to step 43; otherwise, the movement phase process ends after waiting for an instruction from the store server 2 (to be described later) (in this case, the character waits in the original location without moving). In step 49, the action of the character (movement in the maze) is determined according to the determination in the previous steps, and an image in which the character is moved is displayed. Then, the movement phase process ends. In the movement phase process in the figure-equipped mode, special cards (such as teleport cards that can move randomly and wall removal cards that can escape through walls) can be used as rewards that cannot be obtained in the figure-free mode. Yes.

  Here, returning to FIG. 14 and proceeding to step 16 following the movement phase process, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a battle has occurred. Here, if a battle occurs (if there are a plurality of characters within the possible attack range on the labyrinth), the process proceeds to step 17, but if no battle occurs, the process proceeds to step 20.

  In step 17, a battle selection phase process is performed. Here, the main CPU 32 instructs the image control circuit 71 to display a battle selection image 170 as shown in FIG. While referring to this battle selection image 170, each player (four in this embodiment) selects an attacking opponent, and selects whether or not to use a technique card indicating a character technique and a technique card to be used. The order of attack by each character is based on the right holder.

  In the following step 18, a battle process is performed. That is, each character has its attack power and defense power specified by the figure information, and the attack range is also set. Therefore, the attack parameter and the defense parameter of the character to fight against are compared to determine the victory or defeat of each character. In this case, as shown in FIG. 27, the sub-display 12 displays a battle image 180 showing how the characters 181a and 181b battle each other.

  In step 19, the battle is completed and the points are calculated. Here, life is added or subtracted according to the result of the battle process in step 18 (the type of the opponent's character and the winning / losing result), and a title, a jewel is given or removed from the character (figured mode). Then, depending on the character's action, various titles such as “the champion”, “the main”, “the master” are given). In the next step 20, whether or not the end condition is satisfied is determined. If the end condition is satisfied (having a score of 0 or less), the game process with the figure is ended, otherwise (pointing> 0), the process proceeds to step 13. Return and repeat the above process. For a player who has 0 points or less, the labyrinth battle game ends, and instead, the main CPU 32 participates as another character. Although not shown in the figure, a player whose life is lost recovers a certain amount of life by using a recovery card or inserting coins.

(Game processing without figure)
In the game process without a figure shown in FIG. 15, the process is performed according to a flowchart that is substantially the same as the game process with a figure shown in FIG. The game process without figure is different from the game process with figure in that there is no step 12.

  In the no-figure mode, the game proceeds without using the figure, but when the game data is received and stored in the RAM 33 and the response signal includes the figure ID (when there is an authenticated figure), the figure is displayed. The figure information corresponding to the ID is extracted.

  Also, since step 12 is not executed, there is no room for selection of costumes and dungeons, as described above, and the game content is limited compared to the labyrinth battle game in the mode with figure. It has become. Furthermore, the selection range of the various cards that can be selected in step 15 and the technique card that can be selected in step 17 is also limited.

  In step 19, a title is assigned to the character according to the battle result. In the no-figure mode, only the title “Ronin” is given even if the battle result is good.

  Thus, in the game machine 1, the game can be advanced not only when the figure 40 is used but also when the figure 40 is not used. In addition, the use of figure 40 provides benefits that cannot be obtained when it is not used, so it can be motivated to collect figures, and offers an interesting feature that makes use of the original characteristics of the labyrinth battle game. can do. In particular, when a labyrinth battle game is performed using the figure 40, the points of the character corresponding to the figure increase, the attack power and the defense power are increased, and a title is given depending on the progress of the game. Therefore, it is possible to give the player a feeling of satisfaction by using the figure repeatedly.

(Game start process)
The game start process of step 1 is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the game start process, and FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of the character generation process.

  When the main CPU 32 starts the game start process, the main CPU 32 proceeds to step 61, performs a message output process, instructs the image control circuit 71 to send a predetermined message (coin insertion request, ID card insertion request, and password input request) to the main display 11. ) Is displayed. Subsequently, steps 62 and 63 and processing are executed.

  In order to start the game, the player inserts a coin from the coin insertion slot 6, inserts the ID card 17 into the card slot 18, and inputs a password using the operation unit 19. Then, a detection signal of the inserted coin is input from the coin sensor 16a to the main CPU 32, and card information stored in the ID card 17 is input from the card reader 18a. Further, when the password is input from the operation unit 19 and all these inputs are made, the process proceeds to step 63, the main CPU 32 instructs the communication control unit 21 to operate the communication processing unit 22, and the read card information and the input The password is transmitted to the store server 2.

  In the following step 64, the process waits until a response signal described later is received from the center server 5, and proceeds to step 65 when the response signal is received. In step 65, an instruction to display on the main display 11 a selection screen for selecting one of various selectable characters is distinguished from the presence or absence of the figure and whether or not authentication (registration) is completed from the response signal. In the next step 66, the process waits until the touch on the touch panel 11a is detected. If there is a touch, the process proceeds to step 67, and it is determined whether or not the figure is selected in step 65. If the figure is selected, the process proceeds to step 68; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 69. In step 68, a character generation process to be described later is performed. In step 69, character generation instruction (non-figure character generation instruction) data by non-use of the figure is set in entry data to be described later. . Specifically, in step 67, when the figure is used for the first time and there is an already figure that has been authenticated, and when using a figure other than the figure that has already been authenticated, the player selects that figure is present, Proceeding to step 68, character generation processing is performed. Further, when the figure is not used from the beginning, or when there is an already authenticated figure and the figure is not used, the process proceeds to step 69 when the player selects no figure.

  In step 68, the main CPU 32 performs character generation processing according to the flowchart shown in FIG. When this process is started, the process proceeds to step 81 to perform a figure set request message output process. Here, the main CPU 32 instructs the image control circuit 71 to attach the figure 40 to the authentication unit 15 on the main display 11 and to request a setting for reading the figure ID (for example, “A figure base is displayed on the operation panel”). When the figure authentication starts, the authentication unit will light up brightly, so do not remove the figure until the light goes off. ”) Is displayed, and in step 82, the figure ID is read. Wait until it finishes. When the figure 40 is set in the authentication unit 15 according to the message displayed by the player, the authentication unit 50 reads the figure ID stored in the IC chip 44 of the figure 40 and inputs it to the main CPU 32. Then, the process proceeds to step 71 where the character generation instruction data including the figure ID read by the main CPU 32 is set in the entry data, and in the subsequent step 84, the figure ID of the figure 40 is read (setting of the figure) by the authentication unit 15. When predetermined data (in this embodiment, “1”) is set in the figure presence flag indicating that the character has been broken, and step 84 is executed, the character generation process ends.

  In step 70, the main CPU 32 instructs the communication control unit 21 to operate the communication processing unit 22 and transmits entry data to the store server 2. When step 70 ends, the game start process ends.

  As described above, the game machine 1 sets predetermined data in the figure presence flag when the figure is set. Once the figure is set, the entry data including the character generation instruction data is transmitted to the database server 103 via the store server 2, and the player ID unique to the player who has set the figure ID in the database server 103. It is stored in the ID management file in association with the ID, and is used to determine whether or not the figure has been authenticated. Further, the determination result of whether or not the figure has been authenticated by the ID management file is transmitted as a response signal from the database server 103, so that the player can select the character corresponding to the authenticated figure and play the labyrinth battle game. . However, if the figure is not set, the figure flag is not set. Therefore, even if the figure is already authenticated, the figure 40 is set in the authentication unit 15 in order to play the labyrinth battle game in the figure-equipped mode. It is necessary to read the figure ID.

  Then, when the setting is performed, the figure information corresponding to the read figure ID is generated by the database server 103 so that the labyrinth battle game can be played without repeating the setting of the figure 40.

  On the other hand, in the game machine 1, the store server 2, and the center server group 5, the processing is executed in the order shown in FIG. 20 corresponding to the above-described processing. FIG. 20 is a sequence chart showing an operation sequence performed between the game machine 1, the store server 2, and the center server group 5.

  In the game machine 1, in step 100, a download request is transmitted to the store server 2 to download application data, and the card information and the like are transmitted in step 63 as described above. Then, in the center server group 5, the process proceeds to step 301, where the CPU 401 in the database server 103 uses the card information and password transmitted from the game machine 1 and refers to the ID management file to register players and figures. An authentication process is performed to determine whether or not it has been registered. If it has been registered, the process proceeds to step 302 as being authenticated, and a response signal indicating the authentication result is transmitted to the game machine 1. In this case, the database server 103 performs the same authentication process for eight game machines 1 installed in each store A and B.

  In addition, the game machine 1 transmits the entry data shown in step 68 described above. Then, in the center server group 5, the process proceeds to step 303, and the game server 101 accepts entry of the player using the entry data from each game machine 1. Further, in the subsequent step 304, a figure ID corresponding to the update of the player's participation information and the character generation instruction data (both the figure ID that has not been authenticated and the figure that has been authenticated and re-authenticated). The figure is registered or updated in the ID management file and the figure information is generated or updated, and in step 305, the players who are opponents (four in this embodiment) To decide. In step 306, the database server 103 extracts game data of each player who becomes an opponent and proceeds to step 307, and the extracted game data is transmitted to the store server 2. When the store server 2 receives the game data, it transmits it to each game machine 1.

  During the operation of the game machine 1 described in detail above, the main CPU 32 determines that the predetermined condition (discharge condition for discharging the figure 40 to the figure supply device 6B) in the game progress of the labyrinth battle game is satisfied (the discharge condition is (Established during the progress of the labyrinth battle game), the instruction information indicating the supply instruction of the figure 40 is input to the communication processing unit 22. When the instruction information is input to the communication processing unit 22, the communication processing unit 22 transmits a discharge instruction of the figure 40 to the figure supply device 6B at the timing when the instruction information is input. Here, the predetermined condition in the game progress is, for example, winning a specific battle opponent, obtaining a predetermined number of jewels, or the game progress such as the score obtained in the game and the achievement degree of the game above a certain level It is to become. The instruction information indicating the supply instruction of the figure 40 includes the above-described group code as storage unit identification information, and a discharge instruction including the group code is sent from the game machine 1 to the figure supply device 6B.

  Then, the main CPU 32 issues a discharge instruction including the group code of the figure group H when a specific discharge condition (a condition for discharging the rare figure which is harder to be satisfied than the discharge condition) is satisfied during the labyrinth battle game. It transmits to the figure supply device 6B. Here, the specific discharge condition is a specific discharge condition that is extremely difficult to acquire if the player defeats the final target character in a very short time (for example, within 3 minutes). When the number of points (for example, 1000 points) is reached, the game is established when the number of times the game has been repeated until the final target character is defeated is extremely small (for example, 3 times).

(Operation details of the Fig. Feeder)
When the figure supply device 6 </ b> B receives a discharge instruction from the game machine 1, the main CPU 121 discharges one capsule 57 from the discharge unit 54.

More specifically, with reference to FIG. 21, when the figure supply device 6B first receives a discharge instruction from the game machine 1 by the communication processing unit (reception unit) 130 in step 401, the main CPU 121 executes step 402. In step 403, the storage unit 60 corresponding to the group code is specified from the eight storage units 60 (the storage unit 60 specified here is the group code). Stores the figure of the group identified (identified) by the code). In step 404, the main CPU 121 operates as a discharge control means in the present invention, and the blocking plate 65 (for example, the target storage unit 60) of the target storage unit 60 is discharged so as to discharge the stored figure of the specified target storage unit 60. in the discharge group code is "B", and outputs an opening control signal for opening the case of the blocking plate 65 ₂₎ to the drive control circuit 70a. Then, the drive control circuit 70a is a motor corresponding to the opening control signal (e.g., a motor M2) to open the shut-off plate ₆₅₂ to drive the. Then, the capsule 57 which is located closest to the shielding plate ₆₅₂ in the slope 62a is rolling out from the discharge port 64, as shown in FIG. 10, and is discharged to the outlet 56 preparative capsule through the discharge passage 66.

  As described in detail above, in the game system 8 (that is, the game machine 1 and the figure supply device 6B), the main CPU 32 of the game machine 1 is configured to play a game machine when a predetermined condition for the progress of the labyrinth battle game is satisfied. 1 communication processing unit 22 transmits a discharge instruction of figure 40 to figure supply apparatus 6B. When this discharge instruction is received by the communication processing unit 130 of the figure 40, the main CPU 121 (discharge control means) of the figure 40 discharges the capsule 57 containing the figure 40 from the discharge unit 54. That is, since the game system 8 can provide the player with the figure 40 when a predetermined condition in the labyrinth battle game is established, the supply system of the figure 40 is different from the conventional game that can only be sold. Realized. In this way, by supplying the figure 40 when a predetermined condition of the labyrinth battle game is established, the figure 40 can be provided to the player as a game privilege.

  In particular, when the specific discharge condition is satisfied during the execution of the labyrinth battle game, a discharge instruction including the group code of the figure group H is transmitted and the rare figure is discharged from the figure supply device 6B, so that the player becomes the final goal. When a character wins a labyrinth battle game, such as defeating a character in a very short time, rare figures are provided as a bonus for that. A rare figure is a rare figure that can only be obtained in a labyrinth battle game, and it is a kind of status for a player. Therefore, the game system 8 can give the player a willingness to acquire a rare figure, and can enhance the interest of the game.

  Note that the discharge instruction is sent from the game machine 1 to the figure supply device 6B not only when a predetermined condition in the game progression of the labyrinth battle game is established, but also when the player uses the game machine 1 to issue the discharge instruction. Also sent when purchasing. More specifically, in a predetermined step during the game start process shown in FIG. 18, the game machine 1 accepts a figure purchase instruction (supply instruction) from the player by the touch panel (accepting means) 11a. When the figure purchase instruction is accepted by the touch panel 11a, the figure 40 discharge instruction is immediately transmitted from the communication processing unit 22 of the game machine 1 to the figure supply device 6B. In this way, the game system 8 can also provide the figure 40 to a player who wishes to purchase the figure 40 in addition to when the predetermined condition is satisfied. The figure purchase instruction and the discharge instruction include the group code of the figure 40 in the same manner as the supply instruction described above, and the figure 40 of the group desired by the player is selected from the discharge unit 73 of the figure supply device 6B. Are exhausted.

  As described above, in the game system 8, the figure 40 is received by receiving the figure purchase instruction from the player by transmitting the discharge instruction from the communication processing part 22 of the game machine 1 to the communication processing part 130 of the figure supply device 6B. The figure 40 can be supplied in various supply modes, such as when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the labyrinth battle game as well as when the game is performed. And as above-mentioned, when a group code is included in the discharge | emission instruction | indication, the figure supply apparatus 6B can selectively provide the figure 40 of a specific group to a player.

  In the embodiment described above, the mode in which the group code is included in the discharge instruction is shown, but the discharge instruction does not necessarily include the group code. More specifically, with reference to FIG. 22, when the figure supply apparatus 6B first receives a discharge instruction that does not include a group code from the game machine 1 in the communication processing unit 130 in step 501, the main CPU 121 executes step 502. The random number generator 125 operates to instruct the random number generator 125 to generate random numbers (1 to 80 in the present embodiment) and to instruct the sampling circuit 126 to select among the random numbers generated by the random number generator 125. A random lottery to extract an arbitrary random number is performed. In the subsequent step 503, the main CPU 121 operates as specifying means, and specifies the storage unit 60 based on the result of random number lottery. That is, the main CPU 121 sets the random number extracted in step 502 as a search key, and searches a group code table (stored in the ROM 123) that stores the random number and group code shown in FIG. The group code corresponding to the random number is acquired, and the storage unit 60 corresponding to the acquired group code is specified. Subsequently, the capsule 57 stored in the specified storage unit 60 is discharged from the capsule outlet 56 in the same manner as in Step 404 described above.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 30, a step 505 is provided between the step 401 and the step 402, and the processing is branched according to the determination result of the step 505, and is executed sequentially with the steps 402, 403 and 404, or the steps 502 and 503 , 504, 404 may be executed sequentially. In step 505, it is determined whether or not the discharge instruction received by the communication processing unit 130 includes a group code. If the discharge instruction includes a group code, the process proceeds to step 402. If not included, the process proceeds to step 502. In this way, when the group instruction is included in the discharge instruction, the main CPU 121 that operates as the specifying means identifies the storage unit 60 according to the group code. However, when the group instruction is not included in the discharge instruction, the main CPU 121 operates. The storage unit 60 is specified based on the random number lottery result by the CPU 121.

  In the game system 8, the figure 40 is described as an example of the game article, but the present invention is also applicable to the case where a game article different from the figure 40 is used. For example, a card-like game article such as a game card (also referred to as a trading card) on which a bar code storing ID information and the like is drawn together with a picture and a pattern corresponding to the character may be used. A cassette may be used. Further, although the game machine 1 capable of playing the labyrinth battle game has been described as an example, the present invention is also applicable to game machines capable of performing other image games. For example, in a game in which a plurality of players such as baseball and soccer appear, a game machine that can simulate team play using a figure or cassette corresponding to each player. Further, the game machine 1 includes the main display 11 and the sub display 12 for displaying game images, but the main display 11 and the sub display 12 may be provided separately. Furthermore, the number of storage units is not limited to eight, and can be increased or decreased as appropriate.

Second embodiment (configuration of game system)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 28 is a system configuration diagram of the game system 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the mobile phone 111 configuring the game system 200 together with other main components. It is. In addition to the same configuration as the network system 100 described above, the game system 200 further includes a mobile phone 111, a base station 110, and a consumer game machine 112.

  The mobile phone 111 has a wireless connection environment to the Internet 4 and communicates with the game server 101 and the store server 2 via the base station 110 so that substantially the same operation as the game machine 1 described above can be realized. It has become. Since the mobile phone 111 has a wireless connection environment to the Internet 4, unlike the gaming machine 1, a labyrinth battle game can be played at a place other than the game stores A and B.

  The mobile phone 111 is located in a wireless zone covered by a base station 110 installed in a general call area under the control of a control station (not shown), and is a mobile communication system together with other mobile phones (not shown). And can perform voice communication with each other while performing wireless communication via the base station 110.

  As shown in FIG. 29, the mobile phone 111 has a CPU 501, ROM 502, RAM 503, operation input unit 504, and liquid crystal display unit 505. The mobile phone 111 includes a data storage unit 506, a voice conversion processing unit 507, a communication control unit 508, a wireless communication unit 509, a speaker 510, and a microphone 511. The CPU 501 operates according to a program stored in the ROM 502, and controls operation of the entire mobile phone 111. The ROM 502 stores a program executed by the CPU 501, for example, a communication control program for the mobile phone 111 to perform wireless communication. The RAM 503 stores a game control program for controlling the execution of the labyrinth battle game and data necessary for the execution of the program by the CPU 501 such as the game data described above.

  The operation input unit 504 has a plurality of operation input buttons, and inputs data input by an input operation of each operation input button to the CPU 501. For example, the operation input unit 504 includes a plurality of character input buttons, a call button, an incoming button, a received mail confirmation operation button, an Internet 4 connection operation button, and the like. The liquid crystal display unit 505 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and a driving unit thereof, and is an image display unit that displays an image of characters, figures, symbols, and the like. For example, the telephone number of the other party when making a call, current time, incoming call history, received mail, standby image, and images such as game execution screens when playing various games provided from the game server 101 are displayed. indicate.

  The data storage unit 506 stores various data. Since the mobile phone 111 does not have the authentication unit 15, the coin insertion slot 16, and the card slot 18 unlike the game machine 1, the coin insertion, the insertion of the ID card 17, and the IC chip 44 of the FIG. Cannot read. Therefore, in order to be able to play a labyrinth battle game without inserting coins, the payment information based on the deposit processing performed in advance by the player is managed by the game server 101, and the balance information of the deposit information is data. Stored in the storage unit 506. The data storage unit 506 also reads card information stored in the ID card 17 and information corresponding to figures that have been read using the game machine 1 and have been used in labyrinth battle games (corresponding figure information). Is remembered. The corresponding figure information includes figure image information for causing the liquid crystal display unit 505 to display a figure image indicating the figure ID and figure 40 (particularly the doll part 47) stored in the IC chip 44 of the figure 40. The mobile phone 111 stores such information in the data storage unit 506, so that the labyrinth battle game can be used without using the ID card 17 or the figure 40 itself as when the labyrinth battle game is executed on the game machine 1. Can be done.

  Since the corresponding figure information stored in the data storage unit 506 is information corresponding to the figure that has been used in the labyrinth battle game, the labyrinth battle is performed using the mobile phone 111 under the same conditions as those in the above-described FIG. In order to play a game, it is necessary to play a labyrinth battle game by, for example, authenticating the figure 40 with the game machine 1 at the game stores A and B, and to store necessary information in the ID management file of the database server 103. is there. After the necessary information is stored in the ID management file, even in places other than the game stores A and B, even if the figure itself is not used by using the corresponding figure information by the mobile phone 111, it is equivalent to the mode with the figure. Under these conditions, you can play a labyrinth battle game. The database server 103 performs predetermined processing in response to access from the mobile phone 111 and stores necessary information in the ID management file so that the player authenticates the figure 40 with the game machine 1. Even if the labyrinth battle game is not performed, the labyrinth battle game may be performed by the mobile phone 111 without using the figure 40.

  The voice conversion processing unit 507 decompresses the voice data and outputs it to the speaker 510, while converting and compressing the analog voice signal input from the microphone 511 into digital voice data and inputs the digital voice data to the wireless communication unit 509. A communication control unit 508 operates in response to an instruction from the CPU 501 and controls connection and disconnection of a line for communicating with the base station 110. A wireless communication unit 509 is a wireless communication unit that performs data transmission / reception wirelessly under the control of the communication control unit 508. That is, the information to be transmitted to the base station 110 is converted into a signal handled by the mobile communication network, and then transmitted while being superimposed on the radio wave, while the radio wave is received from the base station 110 and superimposed on the received radio wave. Information is extracted from the signal. The speaker 510 is a voice output means for outputting voice of the other party's conversation or playing the game, and the microphone 511 inputs voice such as the conversation contents of the user and converts it into an electric signal.

  The home-use game machine 112 is a home-use game machine that is owned or borrowed by an individual player having an operation environment connectable to the Internet 4. This home-use game machine 112 has a configuration substantially similar to that of the game machine 1 so that substantially the same operation as the above-described game machine 1 can be realized.

(Operation details of the game system)
Next, the operation content of the game system 200 will be described mainly focusing on the operation of the mobile phone 111. The mobile phone 111 performs game processing basically in the same manner as the game machine 1 described above. However, unlike the game machine 1, the mobile phone 111 does not have the authentication unit 15, the coin slot 16, and the card slot 18, and therefore the step 62 in the game start process is different (for coin insertion and card information input). The corresponding data processing is performed). Since the touch panel 11a is not provided, in step 66, the process waits until a button operation using the operation input unit 504 is performed. Further, different processes are performed in steps 81 and 82 in the character generation process (a message output process for receiving the corresponding figure information and a process for waiting until the reception of the corresponding figure information is performed). In addition, the mobile phone 111 performs a game process while referring to the balance information, card information, and corresponding figure information of the deposit information stored in the data storage unit 506.

  Then, the CPU 501 instructs the communication control unit 508 to operate the wireless communication unit 509 at a timing when a predetermined condition in the game progress of the labyrinth battle game is established, and instructs the base station 110, the Internet 4 and the store to discharge the figure 40. The data is transmitted to the figure supply device 6B via the server 2. When the figure supply device 6B receives the discharge instruction from the mobile phone 111, the figure supply device 6B performs the same processing as in the first embodiment and discharges the capsule 57 containing the figure 40. Therefore, the game system 200 can supply the figure 40 to the player when a predetermined condition on the labyrinth battle game is established, similarly to the game system 8 described above. Therefore, the game system 200 realizes a supply mode of the figure 40 different from the conventional game system which can only be sold, and can realize various supply modes of the figure 40.

  However, since the mobile phone 111 can communicate with the store server 2 wirelessly and can play a game outdoors, the player does not always play the labyrinth battle game in the game stores A and B, but rather at home. It is considered that there are many places other than game stores A and B such as restaurants, coffee shops and station platforms. In this case, when the figure supply device 6B discharges the capsule 57 containing the figure 40 in the absence of the player himself by transmitting the discharge instruction from the mobile phone 111, the other person other than the person obtains the figure 40 in advance. There is a risk that.

  Accordingly, when the communication processing unit 130 receives the discharge instruction transmitted from the mobile phone 111, the figure supply device 6B may perform the following without immediately discharging the figure 40. That is, the main CPU 121 operates as a discharge permission data generating unit to generate discharge permission data for discharging the figure 40, while operating as a transmission control unit to instruct the communication control unit 129, and the generated discharge It is desirable that the permission data be transmitted to the mobile phone 111 by the communication processing unit 130.

  When the discharge permission data is transmitted, the mobile phone 111 receives the discharge permission data, and stores the discharge permission data received by the CPU 501 in the data storage unit 506. When the player carries the mobile phone 111 and goes to the game stores A and B and performs a predetermined operation, the CPU 501 activates the wireless communication unit 509 to store the discharge permission data stored in the data storage unit 506. Is transmitted to the figure supply device 6B. On the other hand, in the figure supply device 6B, when the discharge permission data is received from the mobile phone 111, the main CPU 121 that operates as the discharge control means causes the discharge unit 54 to discharge the figure 40. By doing so, the player himself can acquire the figure 40, and the possibility that another person will acquire the figure 40 can be eliminated.

  In the above-described embodiment, the mode in which the main CPU inputs the instruction information to the communication processing unit at a timing when the predetermined condition in the game progress is satisfied is shown. In consideration of the above, it is possible to provide a predetermined time lag such as a game end timing or a timing after other predetermined conditions are satisfied. Similarly, the timing at which the communication processing unit transmits the discharge instruction to the figure supply device is not limited to immediately after the input of the instruction information, and a predetermined time lag can be provided in consideration of game characteristics, effects, and the like. . In addition, when the game machine receives the figure purchase information from the player through the touch panel, the timing at which the communication processing unit transmits the discharge instruction to the figure supply device also takes into account a predetermined time lag in consideration of game characteristics and effects. Can be provided.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, one figure supply device 6B is provided in each game store and is shared by a plurality of game machines 1, but each game machine 1 may be provided individually.

1 is a system configuration diagram of a network system including a plurality of game machines according to the present invention. It is a perspective view showing a plurality of game machines, a card sales machine, and a figure supply device. It is a perspective view which shows the whole structure of a game machine. It is a block diagram of the game machine which mainly shows an internal structure. It is a block diagram which shows an example of an internal structure of an image control circuit. It is a block diagram which shows a store server. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the structure of a figure. It is a perspective view which shows the whole structure of a figure supply apparatus. It is a perspective view which fractures | ruptures and shows a part of figure supply apparatus. It is a side view which shows typically the principal part of a figure supply apparatus. It is a block diagram of the figure supply apparatus which mainly shows an internal structure. It is a block diagram which shows a game server and a database server. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the game process from the start of a game in a game machine to completion | finish. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a game process with a figure. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a game process without a figure. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a shift phase process. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a movement phase process. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a game start process. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of a character production | generation process. It is a sequence chart which shows the operation | movement sequence performed among a game machine, a shop server, and a center server. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement content of a figure supply apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement content of a figure supply apparatus. It is the figure which showed the group code table. It is a figure which shows a labyrinth image. It is a figure which shows another labyrinth image. It is a figure which shows a battle selection image. It is a figure which shows a battle | competition image. It is a system configuration figure of the game system concerning a 2nd embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the mobile telephone which comprises the game system shown in FIG. 28 with another main component. It is a flowchart which shows another operation | movement content of a figure supply apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 2 ... Store server 6B ... Figure supply apparatus, 8 ... Game system 11a ... Touch panel, 12 ... Sub-display 21,129 ... Communication control part 22,130 ... Communication processing part 31 ... Microcomputer, 32 ... Main CPU
33 ... RAM, 34 ... ROM, 40 ... Fig. 57 ... Capsule, 53 ... Storage unit 54 ... Discharging unit, 100 ... Network system 111 ... Mobile phone, 121 ... Main CPU
501 ... CPU, 509 ... Wireless communication unit

Claims (6)

A gaming article supply device having a storage unit for storing gaming items for storing identification information and a discharging unit for discharging the gaming articles, and reading the identification information from the gaming articles and corresponding to the gaming articles A gaming machine capable of playing image games using gaming images
The gaming machine is
Transmission means for transmitting an instruction to discharge the gaming article to the gaming article supply device;
The game article supply device includes:
Receiving means for receiving the discharge instruction from the gaming machine;
A game system comprising: a discharge control unit that causes the discharge unit to discharge the game article when the receiving unit receives the discharge instruction. The gaming machine further includes a receiving unit that receives a supply instruction of the gaming article from a player,
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit of the gaming machine transmits the discharge instruction to the game article supply device based on the reception unit receiving the supply instruction. The gaming machine further includes a game progress control means for controlling the progress of the image game,
The game progress control means inputs instruction information indicating an instruction to supply the gaming article to the transmitting means based on the fact that a predetermined condition for game progress is established,
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the discharge instruction to the game article supply device based on the instruction information input from the game progress control unit. The gaming machine further includes a game progress control means for controlling the progress of the image game,
The game progress control means includes a group code indicating a group to which the game article belongs based on the fact that a discharge condition for discharging the game article is established while the game is in progress, and provides an instruction to supply the game article. Indicating instruction information to the transmission means,
The transmission means transmits the discharge instruction to the game article supply device based on the instruction information input from the game progress control means.
The game article supply device includes a specifying unit that specifies a storage unit that stores the game article to be discharged by the discharge unit based on the group code included in the discharge instruction received by the receiving unit. The game system according to claim 1, further comprising:   The game progress control means is less likely to be satisfied than the predetermined condition or the discharge condition, and when the specific discharge condition for discharging the game item having a high rarity is satisfied while the game is in progress, the game with a high rarity 5. The game system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the instruction information including a group code indicating a group to which an article for sale belongs is input to the transmission means. The gaming machine further includes wireless communication means for performing wireless data transmission / reception,
The gaming article supply device is configured to allow the discharging unit to discharge the gaming article when the receiving unit receives the discharging instruction transmitted from the gaming machine including the wireless communication unit. Emission permission data generating means for generating
Transmission control means for transmitting the discharge permission data generated by the discharge permission data generation means to the gaming machine provided with the wireless communication means;
The discharge control means causes the discharge unit to discharge the gaming article when receiving the discharge permission data generated by the discharge permission data generation means from the gaming machine provided with the wireless communication means. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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