JP2006271786A - Program, character move controlling method, and character move controlling device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a character move controlling device, etc. that can appropriately move a plurality of characters. <P>SOLUTION: A base point information memory section 240 memorizes information of a base point placed on each of the specific positions on a map. A path information memory section 250 regulates unit paths which connect base points and memorizes information of paths including the cost in accordance with the length of the paths, etc. A route searching section 260 searches through the base point information memory section 240 and the path information memory section 250 a plurality of routes that each character should track towards a destination. A character controlling section 270 calculates the passing cost for each character passing each route and selects each route that each character should track based on the calculated passing cost, the number of base points at which characters can stay, and the number of characters subjected to move. The character controlling section 270 moves each character along each route. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, a character movement control method, and a character movement control device.

Conventionally, various games (software or the like) executed on a video game device or the like have been developed. Among them, games collectively called action games are deeply popular and are supported by players of a wide range of ages.
When this action game is a battle game, for example, the player moves the player character while avoiding an obstacle or the like by appropriately operating the player character placed in the virtual space. And it is a type of game which achieves the purpose by fighting and defeating enemy character groups encountered.

In addition, as an example of a technique applied to such an action game, a technique of a video game apparatus that can suppress generation of a waiting time associated with reading of an external storage device is also disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 1). .
JP 2000-308755 A (page 3-5, FIG. 2)

In the action game (battle game) described above, it is common for the player to operate a single character. Still, recently, action games that allow groups to fight each other are being developed.
In such an action game for fighting groups, each character is moved on the map by detecting a shield (such as a place where it cannot move) for each character and avoiding the detected shield. It was.

Therefore, when the number of characters increases, the processing load at the time of movement will become very large, resulting in a problem that the overall movement becomes slow.
Moreover, since each character is moved by the same logic, many characters gathered in the same place, and it was very unnatural.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program, a character movement control method, and a character movement control device capable of appropriately moving a plurality of characters. .

  A program according to a first aspect of the present invention causes a computer (including a game device) to function as a character storage unit, a base storage unit, a pass storage unit, a search unit, a selection unit, and a movement control unit. Constitute.

  First, the character storage unit stores information on a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space. In addition, the base storage unit stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions where each character can move and where a predetermined number of characters can stay. Then, the path storage unit stores information on paths that respectively define predetermined costs and connect the bases.

  On the other hand, the search unit searches for a plurality of routes for each character to pass through an arbitrary base and path and reach a destination to be traveled. In addition, the selection unit selects a route that each character should travel on the basis of the total passage cost required for passing through the searched route and the number of stays at the base in the route. Then, the movement control unit moves each character along the route selected for each character.

As described above, when each character is moved, the character is moved along the selected route, so that the processing load can be reduced. In addition, the route along which each character moves is selected in consideration of the passing cost and the number of stays at the base, and since each character is appropriately distributed to a different route, each character can be moved without stagnation.
As a result, a plurality of characters can be moved appropriately.

  A program according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a computer (including a game device), a map storage unit, a character storage unit, a base storage unit, a pass storage unit, a search unit, a calculation unit, a selection unit, and a move. It is configured to function as a control unit.

  First, a map memory | storage part memorize | stores the information of the map by which a predetermined topographical structure is arrange | positioned in virtual space. Further, the character storage unit stores information on a plurality of characters arranged so as to be movable on the map. The base storage unit stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions on the map, including the number of characters that can stay. The path storage unit defines a unit route connecting the bases, and stores path information including a cost corresponding to at least the distance of the route.

  On the other hand, the search unit searches the base storage unit and the path storage unit for a plurality of routes to the destination to which each character should proceed. Further, the calculation unit calculates the total passage cost required for passing through each searched route. The selection unit selects a route on which each character should travel, based on the calculated passage cost, the number of stays at the base in each route, and the number of characters to be moved. Then, the movement control unit moves each character along the route selected for each character.

As described above, when each character is moved, the character is moved along the selected route, so that the processing load can be reduced. In addition, the route that each character moves is selected in consideration of the passage cost, the number of stayable bases, and the number of target characters, and since each character is assigned to a different route as appropriate, each character can move without stagnation. Can be made.
As a result, a plurality of characters can be moved appropriately.

The base storage unit further stores an occupation state indicating presence / absence of occupation by a predetermined number of characters,
The search unit may search for a route excluding a base where the occupied state is present and a path corresponding to the base.

The path storage unit further stores the number of rows in which characters can move side by side between bases,
The passage cost required for route passage may be calculated including the number of rows.

The path storage unit further stores a propriety state that prescribes whether or not movement between bases is possible,
A switching unit for switching the availability state based on a predetermined condition;
The program may further function as a re-searching unit that re-searches the route when the switching state is switched by the switching unit.

  The search unit holds searched information indicating the relationship between each base and a path connecting them when searching for a route, and holds a search when searching for a route including the same base Completed information may be used.

  The program can be recorded on a computer-readable information recording medium such as a compact disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magneto-optical disk, a digital video disk, a magnetic tape, and a semiconductor memory.

  The above program can be distributed and sold via a computer communication network independently of the computer on which the program is executed. The information recording medium can be distributed and sold independently of the computer.

  A character movement control method according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a character storage unit (stores information on a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space), a base storage unit (at a predetermined position where each character can move). Each of which is stored and stores information on the bases where a predetermined number of characters can stay), and a path storage unit (stores information on a path for which a predetermined cost is defined and connects between the bases). The character movement control method to be used includes a search process, a selection process, and a movement control process, and is configured as follows.

First, in the search step, a plurality of routes for each character to pass through an arbitrary base and the path to reach a destination to be traveled are searched. Further, in the selection step, the route to be traveled by each character is selected based on the total passing cost required for passing through the searched route and the number of stays at the base in the route. In the movement control step, each character is moved along the route selected for each character.
As described above, when each character is moved, the character is moved along the selected route, so that the processing load can be reduced. In addition, the route along which each character moves is selected in consideration of the passing cost and the number of stays at the base, and since each character is appropriately distributed to a different route, each character can be moved without stagnation.
As a result, a plurality of characters can be moved appropriately.

  A character movement control device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes a character storage unit, a base storage unit, a pass storage unit, a search unit, a selection unit, and a movement control unit, and is configured as follows.

First, the character storage unit stores information on a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space. In addition, the base storage unit stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions where each character can move and where a predetermined number of characters can stay. Then, the path storage unit stores information on paths that respectively define predetermined costs and connect the bases.
On the other hand, the search unit searches for a plurality of routes for each character to pass through an arbitrary base and path and reach a destination to be traveled. In addition, the selection unit selects a route that each character should travel on the basis of the total passage cost required for passing through the searched route and the number of stays at the base in the route. Then, the movement control unit moves each character along the route selected for each character.
As described above, when each character is moved, the character is moved along the selected route, so that the processing load can be reduced. In addition, the route along which each character moves is selected in consideration of the passing cost and the number of stays at the base, and since each character is appropriately distributed to a different route, each character can be moved without stagnation.
As a result, a plurality of characters can be moved appropriately.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately move a plurality of characters.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In the following, for ease of understanding, an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a game device will be described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to information processing devices such as various computers, PDAs, and mobile phones. it can. That is, the embodiment described below is for explanation, and does not limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art can employ embodiments in which each or all of these elements are replaced with equivalent ones, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a typical game device in which the character movement control device according to the embodiment of the present invention is realized. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The game apparatus 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an interface 104, a controller 105, an external memory 106, and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). ) -ROM drive 107, image processing unit 108, audio processing unit 109, and NIC (Network Interface Card) 110.

  Note that a DVD-ROM storing a game program and data is loaded in the DVD-ROM drive 107, and the game apparatus 100 is turned on to execute the program. Is realized.

  The CPU 101 controls the overall operation of the game apparatus 100 and is connected to each component to exchange control signals and data.

  The ROM 102 records an IPL (Initial Program Loader) that is executed immediately after the power is turned on, and when this is executed, the program recorded on the DVD-ROM is read out to the RAM 103 and execution by the CPU 101 is started. The The ROM 102 stores an operating system program and various data necessary for operation control of the entire game apparatus 100.

  The RAM 103 is for temporarily storing data and programs, and holds programs and data read from the DVD-ROM and other data necessary for game progress and chat communication.

  The controller 105 connected via the interface 104 receives an operation input performed when the user executes the game. For example, the controller 105 accepts input of a character string (message) or the like according to the operation input.

  The external memory 106 detachably connected via the interface 104 stores data indicating the game progress status, chat communication log (record) data, and the like in a rewritable manner. The user can record these data in the external memory 106 as appropriate by inputting an instruction via the controller 105.

  A DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 stores a program for realizing the game and image data and sound data associated with the game. Under the control of the CPU 101, the DVD-ROM drive 107 performs a reading process on the DVD-ROM loaded therein, reads out necessary programs and data, and these are temporarily stored in the RAM 103 or the like.

  The image processing unit 108 processes the data read from the DVD-ROM by the CPU 101 or an image arithmetic processor (not shown) included in the image processing unit 108, and then processes the processed data on a frame memory ( (Not shown). The image information recorded in the frame memory is converted into a video signal at a predetermined synchronization timing and output to a monitor (not shown) connected to the image processing unit 108. Thereby, various image displays are possible.

The image calculation processor can execute a two-dimensional image overlay calculation, a transmission calculation such as α blending, and various saturation calculations at high speed.
In addition, the polygon information arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space and added with various texture information is rendered by the Z buffer method, and a rendering image obtained by overlooking the polygon arranged in the virtual three-dimensional space from a predetermined viewpoint position is obtained. High speed execution of the obtained operation is also possible.

  Further, the CPU 101 and the image arithmetic processor operate in a coordinated manner, so that a character string can be drawn as a two-dimensional image in a frame memory or drawn on the surface of each polygon according to font information that defines the character shape. is there. The font information is recorded in the ROM 102, but it is also possible to use dedicated font information recorded in the DVD-ROM.

  The audio processing unit 109 converts audio data read from the DVD-ROM into an analog audio signal, and outputs the analog audio signal from a speaker (not shown) connected thereto. Further, under the control of the CPU 101, sound effects and music data to be generated during the progress of the game are generated, and sound corresponding to this is output from the speaker.

  The NIC 110 is for connecting the game apparatus 100 to a computer communication network (not shown) such as the Internet, and conforms to the 10BASE-T / 100BASE-T standard used when configuring a LAN (Local Area Network). Therefore, analog modems for connecting to the Internet using telephone lines, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) modems, ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) modems, cables for connecting to the Internet using cable television lines A modem or the like, and an interface (not shown) that mediates between them and the CPU 101 are configured.

In addition, the game apparatus 100 uses a large-capacity external storage device such as a hard disk so that the ROM 102, the RAM 103, the external memory 106, the DVD-ROM attached to the DVD-ROM drive 107, and the like function. It may be configured.
Further, it is possible to adopt a form in which a keyboard for accepting a character string editing input from a user, a mouse for accepting various position designations and selection inputs, and the like are connected.

  Further, instead of the game apparatus 100 of this embodiment, a general computer (general-purpose personal computer or the like) can be used as a character movement control apparatus. For example, a general computer, like the game apparatus 100, includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, DVD-ROM drive, and NIC, and an image processing unit that has simpler functions than the game apparatus 100. In addition to having a hard disk as an external storage device, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, and the like can be used. In addition, a keyboard, a mouse or the like is used as an input device instead of a controller. Then, after the game program is installed, when the program is executed, it functions as a character movement control device.

(Outline configuration of character movement control device)
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the character movement control device according to the present embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

The character movement control device 200 includes a map storage unit 210, a character information storage unit 220, an operation input reception unit 230, a base information storage unit 240, a path information storage unit 250, a route search unit 260, and a character control unit. 270 and an image generation unit 280.
The character movement control device 200 will be described, for example, when applied to an action game (group battle game) in which a plurality of characters (character groups) fighting against each other in a virtual space battle each other. Is.
Then, as will be described below, the character movement control device 200 appropriately moves each of the plurality of characters while reducing the movement load.

First, the map storage unit 210 stores information (map information) of a map in which a predetermined terrain product or the like is arranged in the virtual space.
The map information defines, for example, topography such as mountains, rivers, swamps, and plains, and information on the arrangement positions of buildings such as bridges, villages, and castles (including images), and areas where characters can move Information is also included.
Note that the DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 and the external memory 106 can function as such a map storage unit 210.

The character information storage unit 220 stores information (character information) related to a plurality of characters classified as enemy ally.
In the character information, for example, soldiers such as infantry and mercenary, and characters such as captains who command these soldiers are defined including images. Each character also has a predetermined value such as HP (hit point).
Note that the DVD-ROM mounted on the DVD-ROM drive 107 and the external memory 106 can function as such a character information storage unit 220.

The operation input receiving unit 230 receives various commands issued to the teammate character.
For example, the operation input accepting unit 230 accepts designation of a destination to which each character should proceed.
The controller 105 can function as such an operation input receiving unit 230.

The base information storage unit 240 stores information on bases arranged at predetermined positions on the map.
For example, the base information storage unit 240 stores base information as shown in FIG. This base information includes information such as the location of the base, the number of stays (how many people can stay), the base ID that can be moved next, the number of bases that can be moved next, and the presence or absence of occupation. Yes. Here, the presence / absence of occupancy means occupancy when the number of characters staying at the base reaches the allowable number of stays. In this case, even if another character tries to move to the base, the base cannot be reached. When any staying character moves, the character changes without occupancy, and another character can move to the base accordingly.
The RAM 103 can function as such a base information storage unit 240.

Returning to FIG. 2, the path information storage unit 250 stores path information for defining a unit route connecting between the bases.
For example, the path information storage unit 250 stores path information as shown in FIG. This path information includes information such as a set of path coordinates, the number of movable rows, a path switch, the total length of the path, and the cost.
Here, the number of movable rows defines the number of characters that can move along the path simultaneously (side by side). The pass switch is a switch that indicates whether or not the pass is allowed to pass. For example, when a predetermined event is cleared, the pass switch is opened and the character can move. Furthermore, the cost is a value that serves as a standard for the ease of movement of the path, and is defined according to, for example, the total length of the path, the type of terrain on the path, and the like.
The RAM 103 can function as such a path information storage unit 250.

Returning to FIG. 2, the route search unit 260 searches for a plurality of routes for reaching the destination where the character should travel.
That is, the route search unit 260 searches the base information storage unit 240 and the path information storage unit 250 described above, and searches for a plurality of routes that reach any destination by connecting any base and any path. At that time, the route search unit 260 can search for a route that can be passed at that time in consideration of the occupation of the base information storage unit 240 described above, the path switch of the path information storage unit 250 described above, and the like. It has become.
Specifically, the route search unit 260 specifies a base (start base) closest to the current position of the character, specifies a base (end base) closest to the destination, and selects a plurality of routes connecting both bases. Search for.
For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the route search unit 260 searches for a plurality of routes connecting the start base and the end base. At this time, the route search unit 260 temporarily stores (i.e., caches) information on each searched route in association with both target sites. When a search between the same bases becomes necessary, the cached route information is used.
The CPU 101 can function as such a route search unit 260.

Returning to FIG. 2, the character control unit 270 includes a route selection unit 271 and a movement control unit 272, and controls the movement of each character.
That is, the route selection unit 271 calculates the passage cost (total cost of path information) of each route searched by the route search unit 260, and selects the route that the character should travel based on the calculated passage cost and the like. .
Specifically, the route selection unit 271 selects a route to be traveled by each character based on the relationship between the number of characters to be moved, the passage cost, and the number of possible stays at a base in the route.

Further, the movement control unit 272 moves the character along the route selected by the route selection unit 271.
Specifically, the movement control unit 272 controls each character and sequentially moves each character along the route selected for each character.

In addition, the character control unit 270 re-searches the route in the route search unit 260 described above when the base is occupied or the path switch is changed while each character is being moved. Instruct.
The CPU 101 can function as such a character control unit 270.

The image generation unit 280 generates an image of the terrain or character placed in the virtual space.
For example, the image generation unit 280 generates an image representing the moving state of each character based on the position of the character updated by the map storage unit 210, the character information storage unit 220, and the character control unit 270. And it displays on a monitor etc. as a game image.
Note that the image processing unit 108 can function as such an image generation unit 280.

(Overview of character movement control device operation)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the movement control process executed in the character movement control device 200. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG. This movement control process is started, for example, when an action game (group battle game) is started and a desired destination is instructed by the player from the controller 105.

First, when the movement control process is started, the character control unit 270 specifies the end base closest to the target position (step S301).
The character control unit 270 specifies the starting base closest to the current position of the character (step S302).

The character control unit 270 determines whether or not the two bases are in an unsearched state (step S303). That is, it is determined whether or not the route connecting the start base and the end base has not been searched.
If the character control unit 270 determines that the two bases are not searched (step S303; Yes), the character control unit 270 searches and stores a plurality of routes from the start base to the end base (step S304).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the two sites are not searched yet, that is, searched (step S303; No), the character control unit 270 acquires the cached route (step S305).

  The character control unit 270 calculates the passing cost of each route (step S306).

The character control unit 270 selects a movement route based on the calculated passage cost and the like (step S307).
That is, the route selection unit 271 selects the route that each character should travel on the basis of the relationship between the number of characters to be moved, the passage cost, and the number of possible stays at the base in the route.

The character control unit 270 moves each character along the movement route (step S308).
That is, the movement control unit 272 controls each character and sequentially moves each character along the route selected for each character.

  The character control unit 270 determines whether or not an occupation has occurred at any location on the moving route (step S309). That is, it is determined whether or not the number of characters staying at the base has reached the possible staying number.

  If it is determined that no occupancy has occurred (step S309; No), the character control unit 270 determines whether or not a path switch change (path change) has occurred (step S310).

  If the character control unit 270 determines that the occupation has occurred (step S309; Yes), or if it determines that the change of the pass switch has occurred (step S310; Yes), the character control unit 270 returns the process to the above-described step S302. Perform a route search again.

If it is determined that no pass switch change has occurred (step S310; No), the character control unit 270 determines whether or not the movement has been completed (step S311).
When determining that the movement has not been completed (step S311; No), the character control unit 270 returns the process to step S308 and repeatedly executes the processes of steps S308 to S311 described above.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the movement is completed (step S311; Yes), the character control unit 270 finishes the movement control process.

As described above, when the characters are moved by the movement control process described above, the character is moved along the selected route, so that the processing load can be reduced. In addition, the route along which each character moves is selected in consideration of the passing cost and the number of stays at the base, and since each character is appropriately distributed to a different route, each character can be moved without stagnation.
As a result, a plurality of characters can be moved appropriately.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a plurality of characters can be appropriately moved.

It is a mimetic diagram showing an outline composition of a game device concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure of the character movement control apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating base information. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating path information. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the some route searched. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the movement control process performed in the said character movement control apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

100 game machine 101 CPU
102 ROM
103 RAM
104 Interface 105 Controller 106 External Memory 107 DVD-ROM Drive 108 Image Processing Unit 109 Audio Processing Unit 110 NIC
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 200 Character movement control apparatus 210 Map memory | storage part 220 Character information memory | storage part 230 Operation input reception part 240 Base information memory | storage part 250 Path information memory | storage part 260 Route search part 270 Character control part 271 Route selection part 272 Movement control part 280 Image generation part

Claims (8)

Computer
A character storage unit for storing information of a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space;
A base storage unit that stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions where each character can move and where a predetermined number of characters can stay,
A path storage unit that stores information on paths connecting the respective bases, each of which has a predetermined cost.
A search unit for searching for a plurality of routes for each character to reach a destination to be traveled through an arbitrary base and path.
A selection unit that selects a route that each character should travel based on the total passage cost required to pass the searched route and the number of stays at the base in the route,
A movement control unit that moves each character along the route selected for each character,
A program characterized by functioning as Computer
A map storage unit for storing information of a map in which a predetermined terrain component is arranged in a virtual space;
A character storage unit for storing information of a plurality of characters arranged to be movable on the map;
A base storage unit that stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions on the map, including the number of characters that can stay.
A path storage unit that prescribes a unit route that connects each of the bases, and stores path information including at least a cost according to the distance of the route;
A search unit that searches the base storage unit and the path storage unit for a plurality of routes to a destination to which each character should travel;
A calculation unit for calculating the total passage cost required to pass through each of the searched routes,
A selection unit that selects the route that each character should travel based on the calculated passage cost, the number of stays at the base in each route, and the number of characters to be moved,
A movement control unit that moves each character along the route selected for each character,
A program characterized by functioning as The program according to claim 1 or 2,
The base storage unit further stores an occupation state indicating presence / absence of occupation by a predetermined number of characters,
The search unit searches for a route excluding a base where the occupation state is present and a path corresponding to the base.
It is characterized by that. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The path storage unit further stores the number of rows in which characters can move side by side between bases,
The cost of passing the route is calculated including the number of rows.
It is characterized by that. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The path storage unit further stores a propriety state that prescribes whether or not movement between bases is possible,
A switching unit for switching the availability state based on a predetermined condition;
When the switching of the availability state by the switching unit occurs, it further functions as a re-search unit for re-searching the route,
It is characterized by that. The search unit holds searched information indicating the relationship between each base and a path connecting them when searching for a route, and holds a search when searching for a route including the same base Use completed information,
It is characterized by that. A character movement control method using a character storage unit, a base storage unit, and a pass storage unit, wherein the character storage unit stores information on a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space, and the base storage unit Is stored at a predetermined position where each character can move, and stores information on bases where a predetermined number of characters can stay, and the path storage unit is provided with predetermined costs respectively. Memorize the path information
A search step for searching for a plurality of routes for each character to reach a destination to be traveled through an arbitrary base and path;
A selection step of selecting a route that each character should travel based on the total passing cost required to pass through the searched route and the number of stays at bases in the route;
A movement control step of moving each character along the route selected for each character,
A method characterized by that. A character storage unit for storing information of a plurality of characters arranged in the virtual space;
A base storage unit that stores information on bases that are arranged at predetermined positions where each character can move, and where a predetermined number of characters can stay,
A path storage unit that stores information on paths connecting the respective bases, each of which has a predetermined cost.
A search unit for searching for a plurality of routes for each character to reach a destination to be traveled through an arbitrary base and path.
A selection unit that selects a route that each character should travel based on the total passage cost required to pass through the searched route and the number of stays at the base in the route,
A movement control unit that moves each character along the route selected for each character,
The character movement control apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.

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