JP2008043484A - Program, information storage medium and game system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program, an information storage medium and a game system for attracting the interest of a player by raising amusement in a racing game. <P>SOLUTION: The game system performs processing for playing a time racing game or an arrival order racing game while allowing a plurality of players to perform an operation for each moving object and switching the respective moving objects in a relay race. In particular, the moving object in participating in the race is made to touch the moving object standing by as the object for switching at a baton touch line on a course. Then, the right to participate in a race is relayed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, and a game system.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, there has been a game system that generates an image viewed from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) as a game image for an object such as a character arranged and set in a virtual three-dimensional space (hereinafter referred to as “object space”). It has been put into practical use.

  Such a game system is very popular as a virtual reality experience, and is regarded as important for improving the player's interest in the game.

  Conventionally, in such a game system, for example, in the case of a racing game, a moving body can be operated by a single player or a plurality of players, and it is possible to provide an interest as a race in a pseudo manner. Yes.

In particular, recently, a game system is known in which a race game is played by a plurality of players operated while relaying one moving body (vehicle, machine) in a relay form.
Catalog [online] of game software (sega GT online) manufactured by SEGA CORPORATION, [searched July 12, 2006], Internet <http://sega.jp/x/segagtol/>

  However, in the game system as described above, although a moving body can be selected for each team, all players on the same team must race on the same moving body. I can't feel the pleasure of playing a racing game by operating my favorite moving body.

  The present invention has been made in view of the problems as described above, and an object thereof is to provide a program, an information storage medium, and a game system that can attract the interest of a player by improving the enjoyment of a racing game. There is to do.

  (1) The present invention is a game system for a racing game in which a moving body is moved in an object space based on a player's operation, and the moving body control performs control for moving the moving body in accordance with the operation of the player. And a relay processing unit for performing a process of handing over the race participation right to another mobile body when a predetermined handover condition is established as the mobile body holding the race participation right moves in the object space. When the predetermined handover condition is satisfied, the relay processing unit restricts the other moving body newly participating in the race from the operation restricted state in which the player's operation is restricted. The present invention also relates to a game system characterized in that a process for taking over the right to participate in the race is performed by switching to an operation restriction release state in which is released. It is. The present invention also relates to a program for causing a computer to function as each unit described above and an information storage medium for storing such a program.

  The “operation restriction state” is a state in which some or all of the operations related to the movement of the moving object are not accepted, whereas the “operation restriction release state” is not accepted in the operation restriction state. This means a state in which an operation related to the movement of the moving body can be accepted.

  According to the present invention, when a predetermined handover condition is satisfied when a moving body participating in a race such as a vehicle, a ship, or a flying body moves in the object space, the operation restriction on the other moving body is achieved. By canceling, the right to participate in the race can be transferred from a given mobile body to another mobile body.

  Therefore, according to the present invention, a race game can be performed while taking over the right to participate in a race among a plurality of types of moving bodies selected according to the preference of the player in a relay format.

  As a result, according to the present invention, by preparing a plurality of types of moving bodies having different moving performances and appearances, a plurality of types of moving bodies are reflected while reflecting not only the skill of operation related to the player's moving body but also the individuality of each moving body. Since a new way of enjoying a racing game of transferring a moving body in a relay format can be given, the player's interest can be attracted.

  (2) In the game system, the program, and the information recording medium of the present invention, the relay processing unit has contacted the moving body participating in the race with the other moving body or the moving body participating in the race. It may be determined that the predetermined handover condition is satisfied when at least one of a predetermined relay point in the object space is detected.

  In this way, when a moving body that is participating in the race comes into contact with another moving body that is the target of taking over the right to participate in the race, or because the moving body that is participating in the race has passed a predetermined relay point, You can take over the right to participate.

  Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to take over the right to participate in the race by a novel method in which the moving bodies come into contact with each other, and even if the moving bodies cannot make contact with each other, they can participate in the race. As long as the moving vehicle inside passes the relay point, the transfer of the right to participate in the race can be completed.

  As a result, according to this aspect, relay enjoyment can be provided to a wide range of players from players with high operation skills to players with inexperienced operation skills, and a racing game can be smoothly advanced by accurately completing relays. Can be made.

  (3) In the game system of the present invention, the game system further includes a contact determination unit that determines whether or not the moving bodies have contacted each other, and the contact determination unit sets the other moving bodies to the operation restriction release state. When the switch is made, the moving body that is replaced with the other moving body may be set out of the contact determination target. In the program and information storage medium of the present invention, a computer may function as the contact determination unit.

  By avoiding moving objects that are unrelated to the race as obstacles in this way, extra obstacles occur in the object space due to the inheritance of the right to participate in the race, and the race itself is confused. To prevent the race game from proceeding smoothly.

  (4) Further, in the game system of the present invention, when a race is formed by a mobile body belonging to each team by forming a team for each of a plurality of mobile bodies, it is determined whether or not the mobile bodies are in contact with each other. The contact determination unit further includes a moving body of the same team as the given moving body, which is excluded from the contact determination target, and the movement of the given moving body and another team. You may make it set a body as the object of the said contact determination. In the program and information storage medium of the present invention, a computer may function as the contact determination unit.

  In this way, even if a race is being held by multiple teams, moving objects that are unrelated to the race of at least the same team will no longer be handled as obstacles. It is possible to prevent a race from being confused due to an extra obstacle, and to smoothly advance the race game.

  (5) In the game system, the program, and the information recording medium of the present invention, when the relay processing unit passes a predetermined calling point in the object space when the moving body participating in the race passes Another moving body may be made to wait at a given point in the object space.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent adverse effects on the race, such as a race obstacle, by waiting for a long period of time in the object space for another mobile object to be taken over for the right to participate in the race. This makes it possible for the player to accurately grasp the other mobile object that is the target of taking over the participation right, so that the race game can proceed smoothly.

  (6) In the game system of the present invention, a virtual camera control unit that controls the position and orientation of the virtual camera as the moving body participating in the race moves, and an image of the object space viewed from the virtual camera An image generation unit for generating a virtual vehicle control unit, wherein the virtual camera control unit is configured to perform the operation at a given point in the object space when a moving body participating in the race passes the call point in the object space. You may make it set the virtual camera which makes the other moving body to wait stand by. In the program and information storage medium of the present invention, the computer may function as the virtual camera control unit and the image generation unit.

  In this way, when the moving body participating in the race passes the calling point in the object space, the virtual camera is set at a position where the other moving body that is the target of the race participation right is targeted. .

  Therefore, according to this aspect, for example, another moving body is displayed on a screen visually recognized by a player who operates another moving body, or another moving body is displayed on a part of the screen displaying the race status. For example, it is possible to accurately grasp the standby state of the mobile body that takes over the right to participate in the race, and the operation interface environment of the player can be improved.

  (7) In the game system, program, and information recording medium of the present invention, the relay processing unit takes over the right to participate in the race from the moving body participating in the race based on a predetermined operation of the player. The moving body may be made to wait at a given point in the object space.

  In this way, the takeover timing of the right to participate in the race can be freely controlled while reflecting the player's intention, so that the strategy in the race game can be improved.

  (8) Further, in the game system, program, and information recording medium of the present invention, the relay processing unit is adapted to the situation when the moving body participating in the race takes over the right to participate in the race to the other moving body. The start condition for starting the movement control of the other moving body may be set.

  In this aspect, for example, the moving body participating in the race comes into contact with another moving body that takes over the right to participate in the race at a predetermined speed or more. For example, when the moving bodies come in contact with each other, the player performs a predetermined operation. Depending on the situation when the right to participate in the race changes between moving bodies, various movement performance including the initial speed and acceleration of the moving body when moving control in the object space is started Start conditions can be set. Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the operation when taking over the right to participate in the race between the moving bodies.

  (9) In the game system, the program, and the information recording medium of the present invention, the relay processing unit is configured to change the other moving body according to a contact state between the moving body participating in the race and the other moving body. You may make it set the starting condition at the time of starting movement control of this.

  In this aspect, for example, the initial speed of the moving body when the movement control in the object space is started in accordance with the speed when the moving body participating in the race comes into contact with another moving body that takes over the right to participate in the race. Various start conditions including movement performance such as acceleration and acceleration can be set. Therefore, according to this aspect, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the operation when taking over the right to participate in the race between the moving bodies.

  (10) The present invention is also a game system for a racing game in which a moving body for each player is moved in an object space based on operations of a plurality of players, and each moving body is operated according to the operation of each player. When a predetermined handover condition is established as a moving body control unit that controls the movement of the moving body for a given player who has the right to participate in the race moves in the object space, A relay processing unit that performs a process of handing over the participation right from the mobile unit for the given player to the mobile unit for another player, and the relay processing unit holds the right to participate in the race Based on the positional relationship between the moving body for the player and the moving body for the other player moving in the object space in accordance with the operation of the other player. To determine the success or failure of, the present invention relates to a game system that performs processing in which the predetermined takeover condition takes over the right to participate in the race to the mobile for the other player when a condition is satisfied. The present invention also relates to a program for causing a computer to function as each unit described above and an information storage medium for storing such a program.

  According to the present invention, movement for other players in which a moving body participating in a race, such as a vehicle, a ship, or a flying body, moves in the object space and moves in the object space according to the operation of the other player. The right to participate in a race can be transferred from a given mobile body to another mobile body by touching the body or approaching within a predetermined distance range. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to advance the race game while changing various moving objects in the relay format.

  As a result, according to the present invention, by preparing a plurality of types of moving bodies having different moving performances and appearances, a plurality of types of moving bodies are reflected while reflecting not only the skill of operation related to the player's moving body but also the individuality of each moving body. Since a new way of enjoying a racing game of transferring a moving body in a relay format can be given, the player's interest can be attracted.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Configuration First, the configuration of the game system (image generation system) of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is an example of a functional configuration in the game system of the present embodiment. Moreover, the game system of this embodiment is good also as a structure which abbreviate | omitted a part of component (each part) shown in FIG.

  The operation unit 160 (game controller) is for a player to input operation data, and the function can be realized by a direction key, an analog stick, a button, a lever, a steering, a microphone, a touch panel display, or a housing. .

  The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its function can be realized by a RAM or the like. In particular, the storage unit 170 includes a main storage unit 172 used as a work area by the processing unit 100 and a drawing buffer 174 used when generating an image.

  The information storage medium 180 (computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions as an optical disk (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, and magnetic tape. Alternatively, it can be realized by a memory (ROM).

  The information storage medium 180 stores a program (data) for the processing unit 100 to perform various processes of the present embodiment. That is, the information recording medium 180 stores a program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing a computer to execute processing of each unit).

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), or the like.

  The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, or the like.

  The portable information storage device 194 stores player personal data, game save data, and the like. Examples of the portable information storage device 194 include a memory card and a portable game device.

  The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, a host device or other game system), and functions thereof are hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like. It can be realized by.

  Note that a program (data) for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment is distributed from the information storage medium of the host device (server) to the information storage medium 180 (storage unit 170) via the network and communication unit 196. May be. Use of the information storage medium of such a host device (server) can also be included in the scope of the present invention.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs game processing, image generation processing, sound generation processing, and the like based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 172 of the storage unit 170 as a work area. The function of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), a program, and the like. The processing unit 100 includes a game processing unit 110, an image generation unit 120, and a sound generation unit 130.

  The game processing unit 110 performs game processing based on operation data or a program input from the operation unit 160 or set in the game processing unit 110.

  This game process includes a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for arranging objects such as vehicles and maps, a process for displaying objects, and a process for calculating game results. Alternatively, there is a process for ending the game when the game end condition is satisfied.

  In addition, the game processing unit 110 according to the present embodiment, for example, a race game based on time measurement of a moving object such as a vehicle, a ship, or an airplane (hereinafter referred to as “time racing game”) or the arrival order of the plurality of moving objects. Various processes for executing a race game for competing (hereinafter referred to as an “arrival race game”) are performed.

  The game processing unit 110 according to the present embodiment controls the movement of the above-described moving object based on the player's operation, and executes a race according to a course formed in the object space by a single team or a plurality of teams. Perform various processes.

  In particular, the game processing unit 110 according to the present embodiment enables a plurality of moving objects to be operated by a single player, takes over the right to participate in a race between moving objects in a relay format, or moves a plurality of movements for each team. The body object can be operated by different players, and the process of advancing the time race game or the arrival order race game is performed while taking over the right to participate in the race between the moving body objects in a relay format for each team.

  In addition, the game processing unit 110 is configured such that when a moving body object participating in a race contacts (hits) a moving body object waiting at a predetermined point (relay point) on the course, or the moving body object participating in the race. When the player passes a predetermined point on the course, various processes are performed to take over the right to participate in the race. Various processes for taking over the right to participate in the race may be performed every predetermined round of the course.

  The game processing unit 110 includes an object space setting unit 111 that sets an object group including a moving object in the object space, an input processing unit 112 that performs processing for receiving input data from the operation unit 160, a moving object, And a moving body control unit 113 that performs a movement / motion calculation of the object in the object space.

  The game processing unit 110 also performs a contact determination (hit check) between the moving object and other objects (including other moving objects) during the race, and a race between the moving objects. It includes a relay processing unit 115 that takes over the participation right, a timing control unit 116 that performs various timings in the race game, and a communication control unit 119 that controls transmission and reception of data by the communication unit 196. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  The object space setting unit 111 includes various objects (polygons, free-form surfaces, subdivision surfaces, etc.) representing display objects such as characters, vehicles, ships, buildings, trees, pillars, walls, and maps (terrain). The object is placed and set in the object space.

  That is, the object space setting unit 111 determines the position and rotation angle (synonymous with orientation and direction) of an object (model object) in the world coordinate system, and sets the rotation angle (X, Y, Z) to the position (X, Y, Z). The object is arranged at a rotation angle around the X, Y, and Z axes.

  The input processing unit 112 is linked with the operation unit 160 and performs processing (monitoring and detection processing) for receiving an operation input input by the player operating the operation unit 160.

  Specifically, the input processing unit 112 receives a player's operation input for controlling the movement of the moving object during the race, such as a steering wheel operation, an accelerator operation, or a brake operation in a vehicle, for example.

  The moving body control unit 113 performs a movement / motion calculation (movement / motion simulation) on an object, for example, each moving body object such as a car, a ship, or an airplane.

  That is, the moving body control unit 113 moves the moving body object in the object space based on operation data, a program (movement / motion algorithm) input by the player through the operation unit 160, and various data (motion data). Or moving the moving object (motion, animation).

  Specifically, the moving body control unit 113 according to the present embodiment stores movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) and movement information (part object position or rotation angle) of the moving object in one frame. A simulation process is sequentially performed every (1/60 seconds).

  This frame is a unit of time for performing object movement / motion calculation (simulation processing) and image generation processing.

  In addition, the moving body control unit 113 of this embodiment is configured so that each moving body object participating in the race (hereinafter referred to as “moving body object during racing”) is another moving body object participating in the race (hereinafter referred to as “others”). In the case of contact with an object that becomes an obstacle such as a wall or block of a course (hereinafter referred to as “obstacle object”), the moving object in the race is determined based on the contact situation. Perform simulation processing to move and operate the.

  The contact determination unit 114 performs contact determination (hit check) for detecting contact between mobile objects or between a mobile object and another object.

  Specifically, when the contact determination unit 114 takes over the right to participate in a race between moving objects (hereinafter referred to as “baton touch”), the moving object in the race becomes a relay point in the object space. A contact determination (first contact determination) for determining whether or not the vehicle is in contact with a mobile object that is waiting for a race (a mobile object that takes over the right to participate in a race from the mobile object during the race), A contact determination (second contact determination) is performed to determine whether or not the object has contacted an obstacle object or the like during a race (for example, during running).

  For example, the contact determination unit 114 according to the present embodiment detects whether or not the moving object in the race and the moving object in waiting for the race taking over the right to participate in the race from the moving object in the race come into contact at the relay point. .

  Then, when the moving object in the race comes into contact with the moving object during the race, the contact determination unit 114 moves during the race, such as the speed of the moving object in the race at the time of the contact and the contact position of each moving object. Detects the status of the body object and the moving body object waiting for the race.

In addition, when the moving object in each race is racing with another moving object, an obstacle object, or a plurality of teams while the race is running, the contact determination unit 114 may be the moving object in the race of another team. Detect if it touches an object,
Then, the contact determination unit 114 detects the state of the moving object in the race such as the speed of the moving object in the race or the contact location when the contact is made.

  In the present embodiment, when contact determination (hit check) is performed, a hit volume (hit box, hit area, simple object) that simplifies the shape of each moving object and is represented by a vehicle, A hit volume that simplifies the trajectory drawn by a part of an object such as a bumper can be used.

  The relay processing unit 115 performs processing for taking over the right to participate in the race from the moving object during the race to the moving object during the race during the race. Here, “inherit the right to participate in the race” means that the restriction on the operation of the mobile object to be handed over can be freely moved in the object space, and the mobile object that has inherited the participation right can race. This means that it becomes a control target related to the progress of a forward race, a time race), for example, that a moving object becomes a target of timekeeping control (race time measurement target) by the timepiece control unit 116.

  Specifically, the relay processing unit 115 moves the moving object in the race waiting state to a predetermined relay point when the moving object in the race passes a predetermined calling point on the course where the race is performed. Performs a process of calling and waiting (standby process). When a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit 160 during the race, the mobile object during the race may be called and made to wait at a relay point determined according to the timing at which the operation is performed.

  Further, the relay processing unit 115 determines the right to participate in the race when the moving object in the race comes into contact with the moving object in the race or when the moving object in the race passes the relay point. As a process to be taken over by the object, a process (relay process) is performed to switch the moving object during the race from the operation restricted state in which the player operation is restricted to the operation restriction released state in which the player operation restriction is released.

  Further, the relay processing unit 115 sets a start condition such as a movement performance at the start of movement of the moving object when the moving object that is waiting for the race takes over the right to participate in the race (start condition setting process). I do.

  For example, the relay processing unit 116 sets the start condition of the moving object during the race standby based on the contact speed and the contact state (contact angle, contact location, etc.) between the moving object during the race and the moving object during the race. Perform the process.

  The measurement control unit 116 performs various measurement controls when performing race management such as time measurement when performing a time race game and various processing controls.

  The virtual camera control unit 118 performs a virtual camera (viewpoint) control process for generating an image that can be seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint in the object space. Specifically, a process (viewpoint position or line of sight) that controls the setting of the virtual camera in the object space, the position (X, Y, Z) or the rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, Z axes) of the virtual camera. Process to control the direction).

  The communication control unit 119 performs data and commands (execution necessary for executing each game) when executing the time race game or the arrival order race game with the server device or another communication terminal device such as a game device or a personal computer. Command) is transmitted / received via the communication unit 196.

  The image generation unit 120 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processing (game processing) performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting the image to the display unit 190.

  When generating a so-called three-dimensional game image, the image generation unit 120 of the present embodiment first performs geometric processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, or perspective transformation, Based on the processing result, drawing data (position coordinates of the vertex of the primitive surface, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) is created.

  Then, based on the created drawing data (primitive surface data), the image generation unit 120 draws an object (one or a plurality of primitive surfaces) after perspective transformation (after geometry processing) as a drawing buffer 174 (frame buffer, work buffer). ) To draw. Accordingly, the image generation unit 120 generates an image that can be seen from a given viewpoint (virtual camera) in the object space.

  The sound generation unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 192.

  Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may be a system dedicated to the single player mode in which only one player can play, or may be a system having a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play.

  In addition, when a plurality of players play, game images and game sounds provided to the plurality of players may be generated using one terminal, or connected via a network (transmission line, communication line), etc. It may be generated by distributed processing using a plurality of terminals (game machine, mobile phone).

2. Next, the method of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, a vehicle object (hereinafter referred to as “vehicle object”) will be described as a moving object, and a race of arrival race in which a race is performed by a plurality of teams will be used as the type of race. I will explain.

2.1 Relay Process First, the relay process in the game system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In this embodiment, in principle, as shown in FIG. 2 (A), a vehicle object (hereinafter referred to as “current running vehicle object (corresponding to the above-mentioned moving object during the race)”) P is running. A vehicle object (hereinafter referred to as a “next running vehicle object” (hereinafter referred to as the above-mentioned race-waiting moving body object) that is waiting at a relay point (hereinafter, specifically referred to as “the baton touch line”) B as an object of replacement of the same team. Equivalent) ”)) When N is touched, relay processing is performed in which the vehicle object to be raced is changed from the current running vehicle object P to the next running vehicle object N.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, in the relay process, when it is determined that the current traveling vehicle object P has contacted the next traveling vehicle object N of the same team that has been waiting in advance on the baton touch line B set in the object space, As shown in FIG. 2B, a technique is adopted in which it is determined that a baton touch has been made and the right to participate in the race is handed over from the current running vehicle object P to the next running vehicle object N.

  More specifically, when a baton touch is made from the current running vehicle object P to the next running vehicle object N, as shown in FIG. Is in a state where the movement operation is not possible (hereinafter referred to as “operation restricted state”), as shown in FIG. 2B, a movement operation from the player is accepted and the movement operation is possible (hereinafter referred to as “operation”). "Restricted state").

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, when the current running vehicle object P is baton-touched with the next running vehicle object N, it is excluded from the contact determination target between objects including the vehicle objects of other teams. Switch to semi-transparent display (hereinafter referred to as “ghost display”).

  In the present embodiment, after a predetermined operation, for example, after maintaining the operation restriction release state for several seconds (for example, 3 seconds) from the timing when the vehicle has completely entered the baton touch line B, the current running vehicle object P is changed to the object It disappears from space.

  In the present embodiment, as the contact determination at the time of baton touch, it is only necessary to determine that a part (for example, the front part) of the current traveling vehicle object has contacted a part (for example, the rear part) of the next traveling vehicle object. Detailed determination based on the size and location of the surfaces of the vehicle objects in contact with each other is not executed. However, depending on the speed of the current running vehicle object when the current running vehicle object comes into contact with the next running vehicle object, it is possible to change the movement start condition (start condition) of the next running vehicle object. Yes.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when an image viewed from the virtual camera is generated for each player, for example, for a player operating the current traveling vehicle object, immediately before the baton touch, FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, images of the current running vehicle object, the baton touch line B, and the next running vehicle object are generated. At the time of the baton touch, for example, as shown in FIG. 3B, an image expressing a state in which the current traveling vehicle object and the next traveling vehicle object come into contact with each other is generated.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, after the baton touch, the next runner object can be controlled to move based on the player's operation, and can participate in the race. The race game can be progressed while changing.

  Therefore, according to the method of the present embodiment, if a plurality of types of vehicle objects having different machine settings such as tires, gear ratios, or types of missions when traveling, and different movement performances and appearances of the vehicles themselves are prepared, Not only the skill of operation but also the personality of the vehicle object can be reflected in the racing game.

  As a result, according to the method of the present embodiment, it is possible to give a freshness of a game that adopts a relay format by changing the moving object, so that a race that is performed by transferring one moving object by a plurality of players is performed. It is possible to provide different fun from games.

  If the above-mentioned next-running vehicle object is in an operation-restricted state, for example, the player may be allowed to perform certain operations such as idling of the engine by an accelerator operation, You may be in the operation impossible state which becomes impossible operation. Also, for the current running vehicle object, the current running vehicle object may be set from the operation restriction release state to the operation restricted state immediately after baton touching the next running vehicle object.

  By the way, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, the current vehicle object P contacts the next vehicle object ON due to other current vehicle object OP or other next vehicle object ON and other influences. Even if it is not, as shown in FIG. 4 (B), when the entire current traveling vehicle object P passes through the baton touch line B, a method of determining that the baton is touched is adopted. .

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 4B, the operation restriction state is set from the operation restriction state to the current running vehicle object P in the same manner as when the baton touch is made for the next running vehicle object N. On the other hand, it is eliminated from the object space after a predetermined process.

  As described above, according to the method of the present embodiment, even if the current running vehicle object does not contact (hit) the next running vehicle object that can take over the right to participate in the race, the current running vehicle object does not touch the baton. The vehicle object can be changed by passing through the line.

  Therefore, according to the method of the present embodiment, in addition to providing the player with a new enjoyment of performing relay by bringing moving objects in contact with each other in a racing game, the relay is accurately performed regardless of the player's skill level. Once completed, the race can proceed smoothly.

  According to the example shown in FIG. 4, when the entire current running vehicle object passes through the baton touch line, it is determined that the baton touch line has been reached. When passing, you may determine with the baton touch having been performed.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in order to achieve both a side surface for taking over the right to participate in the race by contacting the vehicle objects and a side surface for smoothly proceeding with the race, a target for contact determination for each vehicle object. The method of setting whether or not to become is adopted.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the contact determination target is set to be outside the contact determination target, based on the timing (baton touch timing) at which each current vehicle object takes over the right to participate in the race to the next vehicle object, or the contact determination For example, the outside of the target is set as the target of the contact determination.

  Specifically, with respect to an arbitrary current runner object P before the baton touch shown in FIG. 5A, the current running vehicle object OP in the other team before the baton touch and the next running vehicle object N of the same team are It is set to a vehicle object (hereinafter simply referred to as “determination target object”) that is a target of contact determination.

  On the other hand, for any current running vehicle object P after the baton touch shown in FIG. 5B, the current running vehicle object OP of another team that has already performed the baton touch, and the next running vehicle object before the baton touch in the other team. ON is set to a vehicle object that is not subject to contact determination (hereinafter simply referred to as “non-determination object”).

  Further, in the present embodiment, for an arbitrary next running vehicle object N before the baton touch shown in FIG. 5A, only the current running vehicle object P of the same team is set as a determination target object for contact determination. Yes.

  On the other hand, with respect to an arbitrary next runner object N after the baton touch shown in FIG. 5 (B), the current running vehicle object OP of the other team after the baton touch, the next running vehicle object ON before the baton touch of the other team, and the after the baton touch The current running vehicle object OP of the other team is set as a non-determination object for contact determination, and only the next running vehicle object ON in another team after the baton touch is set as a determination target object for contact determination.

  In the present embodiment, when an image viewed from a virtual camera prepared for each player is generated, a ghost display is set for a vehicle object set outside the contact determination target. Yes. In this case, an image for each player is generated while determining the presence / absence of a ghost display in association with whether or not the object is a contact determination target on the basis of the vehicle object to be operated by each player.

  For example, when generating an image based on an arbitrary current vehicle object or an arbitrary next vehicle object, an object that is not subject to determination in the contact determination with respect to the current vehicle object or the next vehicle object. A drawing process for displaying the set vehicle object in a ghost for displaying in a translucent manner is performed.

  Then, when switching from the non-judgment object to the judgment target object before and after the baton touch, or when switching from the judgment target object to the non-judgment object, a drawing process for displaying a ghost corresponding to each case is performed. Do.

  However, when an image viewed from a virtual camera is generated for a player or spectator who has already finished the race, an image for displaying all vehicle objects may be drawn without displaying a ghost. Good.

2.2 Standby Processing Next, standby processing in the image generation system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

  In the present embodiment, when a current running vehicle object in a race passes a predetermined point (hereinafter referred to as a “next running vehicle object calling point”) of a course in which the race is performed, a relay that changes the vehicle object. A technique is adopted in which the next vehicle object that is the target of taking over the right to participate in the race is placed on standby at the point, that is, the baton touch line.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 (A), when the current traveling vehicle object travels on the course at the maximum speed, the next run is performed on a predetermined point of the course that takes a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) to the baton touch line B. It is set as a car object calling point C.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the current running vehicle object P passes the next running vehicle object calling point C, the next running vehicle object N of the same team as the current running vehicle object P is displayed as a baton touch line. B is made to wait.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, when the next vehicle object call line is passed, a screen on which a name preset as the next vehicle object is displayed, that is, a screen having a next display T is displayed. It is designed to draw.

  The next running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line is set as a target object only in the hit check determination of the current running car object of the same team until the baton touch is made, that is, until the baton touch is made.

  As described above, an image is generated for the next running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line with the ghost display setting.

  As described above, according to the method of the present embodiment, the next running vehicle object waits for a long time on the baton touch line, so that it is possible to prevent an adverse effect on the race, such as becoming an obstacle to the race, and to accurately race. Since the next running vehicle object to be handed over to the participation right can be made to wait on the baton touch line, the race can be smoothly advanced.

  In addition, when the current vehicle object passes the next vehicle object call point, the next vehicle object is made to wait on the baton touch line, but a predetermined operation of the player who operates the current vehicle object, or The next running vehicle object may be made to wait on the baton touch line based on a preset operation or the like in a player who is scheduled to operate the next running vehicle object. In this way, it is possible to control the standby timing for waiting for the next running vehicle object by the player's operation, so that the waiting time can be lengthened to interfere with other teams or wait for the next running vehicle object. By increasing the number of operations to increase the player's operation difficulty level, it is possible to improve the enjoyment of moving body operation in a race.

2.3 Start condition setting process Next, the start condition setting process in the present embodiment will be described.

  In the present embodiment, when the baton touch from the current running vehicle object to the next running vehicle object, based on the state of the current running vehicle object and the next running vehicle object when the current running vehicle object contacts the next running vehicle object, A method of setting a start condition related to the start of movement when the next running vehicle object is set to the operation restriction release state is adopted.

  For example, based on the speed immediately before the current running vehicle object that has been baton-touched, whether or not rapid acceleration movement at the start of operation of the next running vehicle object, that is, whether or not start dash is possible is set.

  Specifically, when the speed immediately before the current running vehicle object is 200 km / h or more, the rapid acceleration movement in the next running vehicle object is set to be possible, and when the speed is 200 km / h or less, the sudden acceleration movement is set. It is set to be impossible, that is, only movement at normal acceleration is possible.

  If the speed immediately before the current running vehicle object is 200 km / h and the speed when the baton is touched has reached the maximum speed by (1) special operation (commonly known as “nitro operation”), the next running vehicle If the object has a sudden acceleration at the highest level, (2) if it is slower than the maximum speed but above the specified speed, the object in the next vehicle object will have a sudden acceleration at the normal level. The acceleration is set to a low level.

  In this embodiment, the level of each sudden acceleration including whether or not sudden acceleration is possible is set as a flag, for example, and the flag is set based on the player's operation when the next running vehicle object is in the operation restriction release state. Is set to enable rapid acceleration movement.

  In this way, it is possible to increase the player's interest in the operation when changing the vehicle object, and therefore, it is possible to provide freshness of the game incorporating the relay format in the change of the vehicle object. Yes.

  In addition, based on the state of the next running vehicle object as well as the speed immediately before the current running vehicle object at the time of baton touch, the possibility of sudden acceleration at the start of operation of the next running vehicle object or the level of sudden acceleration is set. Also good.

For example, as described above, it is possible to move at a rapid acceleration based on the speed of the current running vehicle object to be baton-touched, and even when the sudden acceleration level is set, the baton touch is made on the next running vehicle object. Simultaneously with the timing (for example, within one second after the baton touch), it may be set so as to accelerate rapidly only when the accelerator operation is performed. In addition, for example, a setting is made such that rapid acceleration is performed only when the contact surface of the current vehicle object is greater than or equal to a predetermined area (for example, 2/3 or more of the rear contactable surface of the next vehicle object) with respect to the next vehicle object. You may make it do. In addition, for example, when a predetermined operation other than the accelerator operation is performed by the player of the current running vehicle object when the baton is touched, whether or not rapid acceleration at the start of the operation of the next running vehicle object and its level may be set. Good.
2.4 Control of Virtual Camera Next, the control of the virtual camera in the image generation system of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the present embodiment, in order to display the progress of the race from various angles, it is possible to display each current running vehicle object during the race by each virtual camera set at a predetermined position in the object space. It is like that.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 8 (A) and 8 (B), a virtual camera (hereinafter referred to as a “following virtual camera”) VC1 that follows the current traveling vehicle object from behind a predetermined current traveling vehicle object. Alternatively, based on a virtual camera (hereinafter, referred to as a “fixed-point virtual camera”) VC2 fixedly set at a predetermined point of the course, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the object space Is generated from each virtual camera.

  In the present embodiment, when the standby process is executed, in addition to the above-described virtual cameras, the next vehicle object is made to wait on the baton touch line, and at the same time, as shown in FIG. Is set to a predetermined position in the object space (hereinafter referred to as “virtual camera for the next vehicle”) VC3.

  When a display means for displaying the race status is prepared for each player, as shown in FIG. 11 (A), as a screen for the next running vehicle for the player who operates the next running vehicle object, An image for displaying the next running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line is provided.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the race status is displayed by a display means common to each player, as shown in FIG. 11B, for the player operating the main screen (or the vehicle object that has already finished the race). The image for displaying the next-running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line is provided as a screen for the next-running vehicle in a part of the watching screen).

  According to the method of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide the waiting state of the next running vehicle object to the player, particularly the player who operates the next running vehicle object. Can be supported.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, after taking over the right to participate in the race (after the baton touch is made), the virtual camera for the next vehicle that was set during the standby process is switched and used as the follower camera. Yes.

  That is, according to the method of the present embodiment, if the right to participate in the race is touched to the next running vehicle object, the next running vehicle object becomes the current running vehicle object. It can be used as a camera.

  Note that, as described above, an image displayed as a ghost (semi-transparent object) is generated for a vehicle object set as a non-determination object in contact determination before and after the baton touch.

2.5 Modification Next, a modification of the image generation system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  In this modification, during standby processing, the next running vehicle object after the baton touch is changed from the operation restricted state to the operation restriction released state, and the right to participate in the race is taken over. When waiting, the movement control of the next runner object may be performed in an area around the baton touch line so as to be able to run. At this time, the run-up of the next runner object may be controlled based on the player's operation, or may be automatically controlled according to a predetermined algorithm.

  Specifically, when the current running vehicle object passes the next running vehicle call line, as shown in FIG. 12A, a predetermined point E from the baton touch line B (hereinafter referred to as “area end line”). In the area A up to (hereinafter referred to as “the baton touch area”), the next traveling vehicle object N is made to wait so that it can travel only in the traveling direction.

In particular, as shown in FIG. 12A, in accordance with the operation of each player, a process for controlling the traveling of the current traveling vehicle object P ₁ and controlling the traveling of the next traveling vehicle object N ₁ (the approaching stage), processing baton processing for determining (baton step) and present car object P ₃ is a ghost view, and which controls the start of the next car object N ₃ between the object P ₂ and the next car object N ₂ ( In each stage (start stage), relay processing is executed in accordance with the player's operation.

  Further, in this modification, on the area end line E where the baton touch area A ends from the baton touch line B, the next vehicle object N is controlled to be movable only in one direction from the baton touch line B toward the area end line E. It is supposed to be.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 12B, when the next runner object N reaches the area end line E before the baton touch, control is performed to stop the next runner object N at the area end line E. You may do it. When the next runner object N reaches the area final line E before the baton touch is made, the next runner object N may wait for the baton touch on the area final line E. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12B, even if the current traveling vehicle object P does not contact the next traveling vehicle object N in the baton touch area A, the current traveling vehicle object P is in the area end line E. If it passes, it may be determined that a baton touch has been performed. Even if the current running vehicle object P does not contact the next running vehicle object N in the baton touch area A, the current running object P and the next running object N have approached within a predetermined distance range, that is, It may be determined that the baton touch has been performed based on the fact that the position of the current runner object P and the position of the next runner object N form a predetermined positional relationship.

  For the contact determination between objects in the present modification, a determination target object and a non-determination target object can be set as in the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, in this modified example, when the next-running vehicle object runs, the next-running virtual camera set for the next-running vehicle object can also follow the run-up.

  Also, in this modification, during standby processing, the next running vehicle object is set to the baton touch line in an inoperable state, and when the current running vehicle object passes a predetermined point, the next running vehicle object is switched so as to be able to make a run-up movement. Alternatively, in the start condition setting process, the start dash may be set in consideration of the speed of the next vehicle object at the time of the baton touch.

  Further, in this modification, the next vehicle object is prohibited from moving beyond the baton touch area, but is not prohibited from moving beyond the baton touch area, and the next vehicle is not touched. When the object passes through the baton touch area, the next running vehicle object may be determined as disqualified.

3. Processing of Present Embodiment 3.1 Race Management Processing of Current Running Car Object Next, management processing in a race from start to goal including relay processing in the present embodiment (hereinafter referred to as “race management processing”) will be described. . FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of race management processing according to the present embodiment.

  This race management process is executed as a process related to the race management of each current running vehicle object, and in particular, a process related to a race that occurs as the current running car object moves.

  For this reason, this race management process is executed independently for each current running vehicle object participating in the race, and basically, during the execution of each race management process, The player can be operated.

  In addition, various processes that occur based on the player's operation, such as contact with another current running vehicle object or contact with an obstacle object, and movement control of the current running vehicle object based on the contact, are appropriately executed.

  In the following description, a given course will be described using an arrival order race game that circulates based on a control line that is a goal line and a baton touch line, and a vehicle object that is already divided into teams and operated by each player. And the order has already been determined.

  Also, in the main process including the process for starting the arrival order race game executed before this race management process, the flag information in the ghost display of all the vehicle objects is reset and displayed as a ghost as an initial setting. A process for setting the ghost not to be displayed is included.

  First, when an instruction to start the race game or start the execution of the race management process in the relay process is detected (step S1), whether or not the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is the first in the race start order. Is determined (step S2).

  At this time, if it is determined that the starting order of the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is first, the process proceeds to step S3. Otherwise, that is, the starting order is second or later. If it is determined that, the process proceeds to step S4.

  Next, when it is determined in step S2 that the starting order of the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is first, the vehicle object is set to the operation restriction release state (step S3).

  At this time, the timing for performing a predetermined button operation in the player set in the operation restriction release state based on the timing set in the operation restriction release state (strictly, the timing when the racing game starts) is detected, Based on the detection result, whether or not the start dash operation is possible is set as a flag including the start dash level.

  Next, when it is determined in step S2 that the starting order of the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is not first, the ghost display setting for the vehicle object is canceled (step S4).

  That is, when the starting order is the second or later, since a flag indicating that the current running vehicle object to be race management is displayed as a ghost in the waiting process described later is set, the flag for the current running vehicle object is set. Set to disable ghost display.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the start dash can be operated (step S5). Specifically, when the start order of the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is first, based on the flag information set in the process of step S3, or the current running car object When the starting order is the second or later, it is determined whether or not the start dash is possible based on a flag set in a start condition setting process described later.

  In the process of step S5, if it is determined that a start dash is possible, the process proceeds to step S6. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S7.

  Next, the level of the start dash is set based on the flag set in the alternation process described later (step S6).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is the last runner in the team to which the current running vehicle object belongs (step S7).

  At this time, if it is determined that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is the last runner, the process proceeds to step S8, and if not, the process proceeds to step S10.

  Next, in the process of step S7, if it is determined that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is the last runner, has it passed the goal line, that is, the control line at every predetermined timing? It is determined whether or not (step S8).

  Next, when it is determined that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management processing has passed the control line, the arrival order of the team to which the current running vehicle object belongs is determined (step S9), and this operation is terminated. .

  When this operation is finished, the teams determine the order of arrival of the teams comprehensively after waiting for the goal of the last vehicle object in all the teams participating in the race game, and perform an effect to display the order of arrival of each team. . Then, an effect relating to the end of the race is executed to end the race game.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S7 that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is not the last runner, the current running vehicle object is called the next running vehicle object at every predetermined timing. It is determined whether or not the line has been passed (step S10).

  At this time, when it is determined that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process has passed the next running vehicle object calling line, an instruction to start execution of a standby process described later is given (step S11).

  Specifically, in order to execute a baton touch with the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process, the next running vehicle object of the same team set in the next starting order of the current running vehicle object is set to the control line, That is, the baton touch line is set.

  Next, at each predetermined timing, it is determined whether or not the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process touches the next running vehicle object of the same team (step S12).

  Specifically, it is determined whether or not the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process has come into contact with the next running vehicle object of the same team or passed through the control line.

  At this time, if it is determined that the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process has touched the next running vehicle object of the same team, the start condition setting process described later is instructed (step S13).

  Next, the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is set as an object for ghost display (step S14).

  For example, at this time, a flag indicating that the object displays a ghost is set. When this flag is set, the current runner object is displayed in a ghost depending on the player screen.

  Finally, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process is set to the ghost display at every predetermined timing (step S15), and the predetermined time has elapsed. In this case, the current running vehicle object is deleted from the object space (step S16), and this operation is terminated.

  In step S16, when the current running vehicle object to be subjected to the race management process disappears from the object space, the following virtual camera that has followed the current running vehicle object is also eliminated.

3.2 Standby Processing Next, standby processing according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of standby processing according to the present embodiment.

  The following processing is executed when a start instruction is given by the race management processing executed for each current running vehicle object described above.

  First, when an instruction to start standby processing is detected (step S101), the start order of the current running vehicle object to be managed is recognized in the race management processing instructed to start the standby processing (step S102).

  For example, in the process of step S102, the starting order is recognized based on the flag or information obtained by counting the vehicle objects that start for each team at the start of the race.

  Next, in the same team as the current running vehicle object to be managed, the vehicle object set in the next starting order of the recognized starting order is set as the next running car object in the control line, that is, the baton touch line ( Step S103).

  At this time, operations other than the operation for moving in the object space in response to the player's operation, for example, the idling operation are set to be operable.

  Next, the next running vehicle object set in the baton touch line is set to be a ghost display (step S104).

  For example, at this time, flag information indicating that the next running vehicle object displays a ghost is set. When this flag information is set, a ghost display is made depending on the player screen.

  Next, a virtual camera for the next vehicle is set behind the set next vehicle object (step S105).

  Finally, an instruction to start drawing an image based on the set virtual camera for the next vehicle is issued (step S106), and this operation is terminated.

  When the processing of step S106 is performed, the next running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line is displayed on the screen (or part of the main screen) provided to the player who operates the next running vehicle object as the next running vehicle screen. An image for display is generated.

3.3 Start condition setting process Next, the start condition setting process of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a start condition setting process according to the present embodiment.

  The following processing is executed when a start instruction is given by the race management processing executed for each current running vehicle object described above.

  First, when a start instruction for the start condition setting process is detected (step S201), the same team in the current running vehicle object (hereinafter referred to as “managed current running car object”) that is the object of management in the race management process. It is determined whether the speed immediately before the baton touch with the next running vehicle object (hereinafter, referred to as “target next running vehicle object”) to be changed is a predetermined speed, for example, 200 km / h or more ( Step S202).

  At this time, if the speed immediately before baton touching with the target next vehicle object in this management current vehicle object is 200 km / h or more, the process proceeds to step S203, otherwise, that is, If the speed is slower than 200 km / h, the process proceeds to step S205.

  Next, the start dash in the target next traveling vehicle object is set to be possible (step S203). For example, a flag indicating that the start dash is possible is set as a flag.

  Next, the level of the start dash is determined based on the speed immediately before the baton touch with the target next vehicle object in the management current vehicle object, and the determined level is set in the flag (step S204).

  For example, as described above, the maximum level, the normal level, or the low level is set based on the maximum speed and a predetermined speed that is a reference of 200 km / h or more.

  Next, the target next running vehicle object is changed from the operation restricted state to the operation restriction released state (step S205), and the next running virtual camera is switched to a following virtual camera that follows the target next running vehicle object that executes the race ( Step S206).

  Finally, the operation start of the race management process as the current running vehicle object is instructed to the target next running vehicle object (step S207), and this operation is finished.

3.4 Modification Next, a modification of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17.

In addition, in this modified example, the waiting next vehicle object is set to be able to run, and the above-described race management process is different from the above-described race management process only in part of the standby process and the start condition setting process. Perform the same process. Accordingly, only the standby process and the start condition setting process of the modification will be described below.
(Standby processing)
FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a variation of the standby process according to the present embodiment.

  First, when an instruction to start standby processing is detected (step S301), the start order of the current running vehicle object to be managed is recognized in the race management processing instructed to start the standby processing (step S302).

  For example, in the process of step S302, it recognizes using the counter for counting the current running vehicle object which started for every team with the flag or the race start.

  Next, in the same team as the current running vehicle object to be managed, the vehicle object set in the next starting order of the recognized starting order is set as the next running car object in the control line, that is, the baton touch line ( Step S303).

  Note that at this time, operations other than the operation for moving in the object space in response to the player's operation, for example, the idling operation, are set to be operable.

  Next, the next traveling vehicle object is changed from the operation restriction state to the operation restriction release state (step S304).

  After this process, basically, the next vehicle object can be moved, but the backward movement in the baton touch area and the movement control beyond the area end line are prohibited.

  Next, the next running vehicle object set in the baton touch line is set to be a ghost display (step S305).

  For example, at this time, a flag indicating that the next running vehicle object displays a ghost is set. When this flag is set, a ghost is displayed depending on the player screen.

  Next, a virtual camera for the next vehicle is set behind the set next vehicle object (step S306).

  Finally, an instruction to start drawing an image based on the set virtual camera for the next vehicle is issued (step S307), and this operation is terminated.

When the processing in step S307 is performed, the next running vehicle object waiting on the baton touch line is displayed as the next running vehicle screen on the screen (or a part of the main screen) provided to the player who operates the next running vehicle object. An image to be generated is generated.
(Start condition setting process)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a modification of the start condition setting process of the present embodiment.

  First, when an instruction to start the start condition setting process is detected (step S401), the same team in the current running vehicle object (hereinafter referred to as “managed current running car object”) that is the object of management in the race management process. It is determined whether the speed immediately before the baton touch with the next running vehicle object (hereinafter, referred to as “target next running vehicle object”) to be changed is a predetermined speed, for example, 200 km / h or more ( Step S402).

  At this time, if the speed immediately before baton touching with the target next vehicle object in this managed current vehicle object is 200 km / h or more, the process proceeds to step S403; When the speed is slower than 200 km / h, the process proceeds to step S405.

  Next, the start next dash in the target next traveling vehicle object is set to be possible (step S403). For example, a flag indicating that the start dash is possible is set as a flag.

  Next, the level of the start dash is determined based on the speed immediately before baton touch with the target next vehicle object in the management current vehicle object, and the determined level is set in the flag (step S404).

  For example, as described above, the maximum level, the normal level, or the low level is set based on the maximum speed and a predetermined speed that is a reference of 200 km / h or more.

  Next, the target next running vehicle object is changed to a movable state that can be moved from the baton touch area (step S405), and the next running virtual camera is switched to a following virtual camera that follows the target next running vehicle object that executes the race. (Step S406).

  Finally, the start of the race management process as the current running vehicle object is instructed to the target next running vehicle object (step S407), and this operation is terminated.

4). Application Example 4.1 Client / Server System The game system according to the present embodiment is configured to execute each game process by a single device. However, a system including a server device and a plurality of client devices (hereinafter, “ It can be applied to a “client / server system”.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 18, the client server system receives operation data from the server device S that performs basic game processing, and each player that participates in the time race game or the arrival order race game, and the server A plurality of client devices C that transmit / receive necessary data and commands to / from the device.

  In this example, the server device S performs a process or a game for starting a game when the game start condition is satisfied as described above by performing data communication with the client device C by, for example, a broadcast method. Various processes necessary for executing the race game, such as a process for causing the game to be performed, are performed.

  Specifically, this server device S transmits / receives data and commands to / from each client device C based on identification data for identifying each client device C during execution of each race game.

  Further, the server device S receives the operation data in each player based on the identification data of each client device C, performs a replacement process for executing each race game, a standby process or a start condition setting process, and Various processes such as transmission of data for displaying an image related to the game on the display unit 190 are performed.

  In particular, the server device S is configured to receive operation data in which player operation data is input to the client device C via the operation unit 160, and the corresponding vehicle object is based on the received operation data. Controls the movement of objects in the object space.

  Further, when executing the relay process, the server device S detects that the baton touch has been made from the current running vehicle object, and operates the client device (hereinafter referred to as “current running vehicle”). A client device is called “client device”.) A command for notifying that the operation has been restricted is transmitted to C, and the client device C (hereinafter referred to as “next vehicle client device”) is used to operate the next vehicle object. A command is sent to notify that the operation restriction has been released.

  On the other hand, when executing the start condition setting process, the server device controls the next vehicle object based on the start condition set when the baton is touched and the operation data transmitted from the next vehicle client device C. I do.

  On the other hand, in order to display an image suitable for each client device C, the server device transmits and receives various data. For example, the server device S displays an image centered on the current traveling vehicle object on the current traveling vehicle client C and an image centered on the next traveling vehicle object on the next traveling vehicle client device C, such as during standby processing. Send data for drawing.

  In this case, for the client device C other than the current running vehicle client device C and the next running vehicle client device C that are not participating in the racing game, the server device S is an image for watching the racing game. Send data for drawing.

  Each client device C transmits the operation data received via the operation unit 160 to the server device S together with the identification data, receives data for drawing various images, and causes the display unit 190 to display the data.

4.2 Peer-to-peer system The game system according to the present embodiment is configured to execute each game process by a single device. However, the game system includes only a plurality of terminal devices, and the game processing is performed in conjunction with each terminal device. It can be applied to a system to be executed (hereinafter referred to as “peer-to-peer system”).

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 19, the peer-to-peer system allows a plurality of controllable controls to link each game process while executing the game process individually while transmitting and receiving necessary data and commands to each other. It is comprised from the terminal device T.

  Each terminal device T is necessary when executing a race game, such as processing for starting a game or processing for advancing a game when the game start condition is satisfied as described above, in conjunction with other terminal devices T. Various types of processing are performed.

  Specifically, each terminal device T exchanges data and commands based on identification data for identifying other terminal devices T during the execution of each race game. Based on the identification data, various operations such as reception of operation data in each player, replacement processing for executing the time race game and the arrival order race game, execution of standby processing and start condition setting processing, and drawing of images related to the game Process.

  In particular, when each player's operation data is input to each terminal device T via the operation unit 160, each terminal device T executes various game processes based on the input operation data, The transmitted operation data is transmitted to another terminal device T.

  In addition, each terminal device T controls the movement of the vehicle object handled by its own device based on the operation data input via the operation unit 160, and uses the operation data transmitted from the other terminal devices T. Based on this, the motion of the corresponding vehicle object in the object space is controlled.

  That is, in the case of a peer-to-peer system, each terminal device T uses other data for operation data of vehicle objects other than the vehicle object (that is, the vehicle object in charge) to which the operation data is input at each terminal device T. Various game processes described above are performed based on the operation data received from the terminal device T and input via the operation unit 160 and the received operation data.

  In the above-described peer-to-peer system, for each terminal device T, various game processes are performed based on the input operation data and the received operation data. Data relating to various types of processing such as processing, standby processing or start condition setting processing (hereinafter referred to as “control data”) may be transmitted and received, and the motion of each vehicle object may be controlled based on the operation data and control data. .

  For example, in the case of the replacement process, each terminal device T transmits / receives data indicating whether or not the current running vehicle object and the next running vehicle object are in contact with each other, and operates the next running vehicle object. The terminal device T may execute a replacement process based on the data.

  Further, in the case of standby processing, each terminal device T transmits and receives data indicating that it has passed the next running vehicle object calling point, and the terminal device T for operating the next running vehicle object includes: The standby process may be executed based on the data.

  Further, in the case of the start condition setting process, each terminal device T transmits and receives data related to the state of the next running vehicle object and the current running vehicle object at the time of contact, and operates the next running vehicle object. The start condition setting process may be executed based on the data.

  The present invention is not limited to the one described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous terms in the description in the specification or drawings can be replaced by broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

  In addition, the relay process, the standby process, and the start condition setting process are not limited to those described in the present embodiment and its modifications, and techniques equivalent to these are also included in the scope of the present invention.

  In the above-described embodiment, the vehicle racing game by a plurality of teams has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is not limited to this. Applicable.

  Further, the present invention can be applied to various games. The present invention is applied to various image generation systems such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, a system board for generating game images, and a mobile phone. Applicable.

The example of a functional block diagram of the game system of this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the relay process in the game system of this embodiment. The example of the image produced | generated in connection with a relay process. FIG. 11 is a diagram (II) for explaining relay processing in the image generation system of the present embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the vehicle object used as the object / object of the contact determination at the time of the relay process of this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating the standby process in the game system of this embodiment. An example of an image generated in connection with standby processing. The figure for demonstrating control of the normal virtual camera in the game system of this embodiment. The example of the image produced | generated based on control of a normal virtual camera. The figure for demonstrating control of the virtual camera for next vehicles in the game system of this embodiment. The example of the image produced | generated based on control of the virtual camera for next runners. The figure for demonstrating the modification in the game system of this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the example of the race management process of this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the example of the race management process of this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the example of the start condition setting process of this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the modification of the standby process of this embodiment. The flowchart which shows the modification of the start condition setting process of one Embodiment. The example of the other system figure (client / server system) in the game system of this embodiment. The example of the other system figure (peer to peer system) in the game system of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

100 processing unit, 110 game processing unit, 111 object space setting unit,
112 input processing unit, 113 moving body control unit, 114 contact determination unit,
115 relay processing unit, 116 timing control unit, 118 virtual camera control unit,
119 communication control unit, 120 image generation unit, 130 sound generation unit,
160 operation unit, 170 storage unit, 172 main storage unit, 174 drawing buffer,
180 information storage medium, 190 display unit, 192 sound output unit,
194 Portable information storage device, 196 communication unit

Claims (13)

A program for a racing game that moves a moving object in an object space based on an operation of a player,
A moving body control unit that performs control to move the moving body according to the operation of the player;
A computer serving as a relay processing unit for performing a process of handing over the race participation right to another mobile body when a predetermined handover condition is established as the mobile body holding the race participation right moves in the object space. Make it work
The relay processing unit
When the predetermined handover condition is satisfied, the other moving body newly participating in the race is switched from the operation restriction state in which the player's operation is restricted to the operation restriction release state in which the restriction of the operation is released. A program for performing a process of taking over the right to participate in the race. In claim 1,
The relay processing unit
Detecting at least one of the contact of the moving body participating in the race with the other moving body and the passing of the moving body participating in the race through a predetermined relay point in the object space A program for determining that the predetermined handover condition is satisfied. In claim 1 or 2,
Further causing the computer to function as a contact determination unit that performs contact determination as to whether or not the mobile objects are in contact with each other;
The contact determination unit is
A program characterized in that, when the other moving body is switched to the operation restriction release state, the moving body that has been replaced with the other moving body is set as the outside of the contact determination target. In claim 1 or 2,
When a team is formed for each of a plurality of moving bodies and the racing game is executed by moving bodies belonging to each team,
The computer further functions as a contact determination unit that performs contact determination as to whether or not the moving objects have contacted each other,
The contact determination unit is
A mobile body of the same team as a given mobile body is set out of the contact determination target,
A program characterized in that the given moving body and a moving body of another team are set as the contact determination targets. In any one of Claims 1-4,
The relay processing unit
When a moving body participating in the race passes a predetermined calling point in the object space, the other moving body is made to wait at a given point in the object space. program. In claim 5,
A virtual camera control unit that controls the position and orientation of the virtual camera according to the movement of the moving body participating in the race;
Further causing the computer to function as an image generation unit that generates an image of the object space viewed from the virtual camera,
The virtual camera control unit is
When a moving body participating in the race passes through the calling point in the object space, a virtual camera is set that focuses on the other moving body that waits at a given point in the object space. A program characterized by In any one of Claims 1-4,
The relay processing unit
A program characterized in that, based on a predetermined operation by a player, the other moving body that takes over the right to participate in a race from a moving body participating in the race is made to wait at a given point in the object space. In any one of Claims 1-7,
The relay processing unit
In accordance with the situation when the mobile body participating in the race takes over the right to participate in the race to the other mobile body, a start condition when the movement control of the other mobile body is started is set. Program. In claim 3 or 4,
The relay processing unit
A program for setting a start condition when movement control of the other moving body is started according to a contact state between the moving body participating in the race and the other moving body. A program for a racing game that moves a moving body for each player in an object space based on operations of a plurality of players,
A moving body control unit that performs control to move each moving body according to the operation of each player;
When a predetermined hand-over condition is established as the moving body for a given player who has the right to participate in the race moves in the object space, the moving body for the given player is given the right to participate in the race. The computer to function as a relay processing unit that performs processing to be taken over from the mobile unit for other players to
The relay processing unit
The predetermined takeover based on a positional relationship between a moving body for a given player who has the right to participate in the race and a moving body for another player moving in the object space in accordance with the operation of another player. A program for judging whether or not a condition is met and performing a process of taking over the right to participate in a race to a moving body for another player when the predetermined handover condition is satisfied.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is stored. A game system for a racing game that moves a moving body in an object space based on an operation of a player,
A moving body control unit that performs control to move the moving body according to the operation of the player;
A relay processing unit for performing a process of handing over the race participation right to another mobile body when a predetermined handover condition is established as the mobile body holding the race participation right moves in the object space. ,
The relay processing unit
When the predetermined handover condition is satisfied, the other moving body newly participating in the race is switched from the operation restriction state in which the player's operation is restricted to the operation restriction release state in which the restriction of the operation is released. A game system characterized by performing a process of taking over the right to participate in the race. A game system for a racing game in which a moving body for each player is moved in an object space based on operations of a plurality of players,
A moving body control unit that performs control to move each moving body according to the operation of each player;
When a predetermined hand-over condition is established as the moving body for a given player who has the right to participate in the race moves in the object space, the moving body for the given player is given the right to participate in the race. Including a relay processing unit that performs processing to be taken over from the mobile unit for other players,
The relay processing unit
The predetermined takeover is based on a positional relationship between a moving body for a given player who has the right to participate in the race and a moving body for another player moving in the object space in accordance with the operation of the other player. A game system characterized by determining whether or not a condition is met and performing a process of taking over the right to participate in a race to a moving body for another player when the predetermined handover condition is satisfied.