JP2009050739A - Game machine controller - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine controller which provides more enhanced musical property thereby allowing a player to more enjoy a game machine. <P>SOLUTION: An instruction object is displayed on a television monitor 90 at intervals matching music rhythm, so that the player can make a hitting tone matching the music by hitting a head 9 with a stick 96 at a timing instructed by the instruction object. A tone color can be instructed by hitting sound instruction information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a music game apparatus and a music game system that generate a musical sound by hitting an object on a screen appearing at intervals according to a music rhythm with another object on the screen.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a ball paddle game apparatus by the present applicant. This will be briefly described.

  FIG. 37 is an overall configuration diagram of the ball paddle game device disclosed in Patent Document 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 37, this ball paddle game device has a game machine 501 connected to a television monitor 500. The game machine 501 is provided with four paddle keys 502-505.

  FIG. 38 is a view showing an example of a game screen displayed by the ball paddle game device disclosed in Patent Document 1. Four paddle figures 602 to 605 are displayed on the game screen of the television monitor 500 corresponding to the four paddle keys 502 to 505. Then, the ball 510 moves along the four ball movement paths A to D corresponding to the four paddle figures 602 to 605. When the paddle keys 502 to 505 are pressed, the corresponding paddle figures 602 to 605 strike back the balls 510 on the corresponding movement paths A to D. If the operation timing of the paddle keys 502 to 505 matches the movement timing of the ball 510, the operation succeeds. Otherwise, the operation fails.

  If the ball 510 appears in time with the music rhythm, the player can enjoy the game together with the music. Therefore, this ball paddle game device can also be called a music game device.

JP 2001-104635 A (0010 to 0017, FIGS. 1 and 2)

  However, in general, a user desires to provide a game device that can be enjoyed more than existing products.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a music game device and a music game system that can further enhance the music and enjoy the music.

  The music game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a hit detection means for detecting a hit strength by a player and outputting hit information representing the hit strength, and a response displayed corresponding to the hit detection means Object image, instruction object image for instructing the timing of hitting to the player, musical score data for automatically playing music, and musical tone instruction information for instructing a musical tone for sound generation according to a trigger based on the hitting information , And a processor capable of accessing storage means for storing.

  The processor automatically plays the music based on the score data, and displays the instruction object image on a screen of a display device at intervals corresponding to the rhythm of the music based on the score data; and In response to the trigger based on the hit information, a tone signal is generated according to the tone instruction information, and the response object image displayed on the screen is changed based on the hit information from the hit detection means. And when the response object image changes, the indication object image is changed when the indication object image exists within a predetermined range from a predetermined reference position.

  Here, “change in response object image” and “change in instruction object image” include a change in shape, a change in color, a change in form, a change in position, or a combination thereof.

  In the music game apparatus according to claim 2, the mode of the pointing object image is determined according to a batting mode instructed to the player.

  In the music game apparatus according to claim 3, the hitting mode instructed to the player is a hitting strength or the number of repeated hits.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the musical tone instruction information indicates either a tone color or a volume, or both.

  In the music game apparatus according to claim 5, a plurality of the hit detection means are provided.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the music game apparatus further includes a hit portion provided in a housing in which the hit detection means and the processor are built.

  The hit part supports a head that receives a hit directly, a vibration transmission plate corresponding to each of the hit detection means, a plurality of elastic bodies corresponding to each of the vibration transmission plates, and all the vibration transmission plates And a support.

  The vibration transmission plate is supported by the support body via the corresponding plurality of elastic bodies, and the support body is disposed inside the housing such that the vibration transmission plate faces the back surface of the head. The surface of the head is fixed and exposed from the housing, and the impact detection element included in the impact detection means is attached to the corresponding vibration transmission plate so as to face the support, and the vibration transmission Each of the plates is supported by the support so as not to contact each other.

  The music game device according to claim 7, wherein the display device is a television monitor.

  A music game system according to claim 8, comprising: the music game device according to claim 1; and a television monitor that displays the response object image and the instruction object image, and the television monitor, the music game device, and the like. Is provided separately.

  A music game system according to claim 9 includes the music game device according to claim 1 and a display device that displays the response object image and the instruction object image, wherein the display device and the music game device are integrated. It is provided as.

  According to the music game device of the first aspect, since the pointing object image is displayed at intervals that match the rhythm of the music, the player hits at the timing indicated by the pointing object image, so that it matches the music. Can produce musical sounds. Thus, the player can participate in automatic music performance while enjoying the game. As a result, it is possible to provide a game device that is less boring and more interesting.

  Further, since the musical sound generated by the player's hitting can be instructed by the musical sound instruction information, various types of musical sounds can be generated. Accordingly, the player can participate in a variety of automatic performances with one music game device. This is very different from conventional percussion instruments.

  According to the music game device of the second aspect, various instructions can be given to the player by changing the mode of the instruction object image. As a result, by devising the type of instruction, it is possible to change the difficulty level of the game or to give the game many variations. Furthermore, by devising the type of instruction, the player can participate in a more varied automatic performance.

  According to the music game device of the third aspect, the player can enjoy the strength of the hit or the continuous hit.

  According to the music game device of the fourth aspect, the player can enjoy various kinds of timbres and volumes.

  According to the music game device of the fifth aspect, it is possible to detect the hitting of a plurality of hitting surfaces by the player in correspondence with the number of hit detecting means. Therefore, it is possible to reflect the hitting of a plurality of hitting surfaces by the player in the game. As a result, a game program with more various contents can be implemented, and more various musical sounds can be generated by hitting.

  According to the music game apparatus of the sixth aspect, each of the vibration transmission plates is supported by the support via the elastic body and is supported so as not to contact each other. For this reason, it can prevent as much as possible that the vibration of a certain vibration transmission plate is transmitted to another vibration transmission plate. That is, it is possible to prevent as much as possible a situation in which the impact detection element attached to a certain vibration transmission plate detects the vibration of another vibration transmission plate and outputs impact information that should not be output. As a result, it is possible to detect as accurately as possible which striking surface the player has struck, and to prevent sound generation due to malfunction and movement of the response object due to malfunction.

  According to the music game device of the seventh aspect, the game can be executed only by connecting the music game device to the television monitor. Furthermore, since television monitors are widely used, many people can enjoy a game simply by purchasing a music game device.

  According to the music game system of the eighth aspect, it is not necessary to provide the image display unit in the music game device, and an inexpensive music game device can be provided. Moreover, a game can be executed only by connecting a music game apparatus to a television monitor. Furthermore, since television monitors are widely used, many people can enjoy a game simply by purchasing a music game device.

  According to the music game system of the ninth aspect, a portable music game system can be provided.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a music game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the music game system includes a music game apparatus 1, a stick 96, and a television monitor 90.

  In the music game apparatus 1, the housing is formed by the housing members 3 and 5. The head 9 is exposed from the opening of the housing member 5. The housing member 5 is provided with a power switch 11. Further, a stand 7 is attached to the housing member 3. The head 7 tilts the head 9 by a predetermined angle from the horizontal plane. However, the stand 7 can be removed, and in this case, the head 9 is horizontal. The player hits the head 9 with the stick 96 and plays the game. The head 9 has a left striking surface 2 and a right striking surface 4.

  The music game apparatus 1 can be equipped with a memory cartridge 95 containing a ROM (read only memory). Therefore, by exchanging the memory cartridge 95, it is possible to play a game while enjoying various types of music.

  The music game apparatus 1 and the television monitor 90 are connected by an AV cable 93. Further, the music game apparatus 1 is supplied with a DC power supply voltage by an AC adapter 94. However, instead of the AC adapter 94, a DC power supply voltage can be applied by a battery (not shown). A screen 91 is provided on the front surface of the television monitor 90.

  FIG. 2 is a plan view of the music game apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 3 is a side view of the music game apparatus 1 of FIG. 2 and 3, the same reference numerals are given to the same parts as those in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the head 9 is inclined by a predetermined angle from the horizontal plane by the stand 7.

  FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the music game apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4 and 5, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts as those in FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the music game apparatus 1 is configured as follows. In this case, the illustration of the stand 7 is omitted.

  A battery box 33 is provided on the bottom surface inside the housing member 3, and a substrate 31 is further installed. A high-speed processor, a ROM, and the like, which will be described later, are mounted on the substrate 31, and other necessary electronic circuits are formed. Further, a connector 29 for mounting the memory cartridge 95 is electrically connected.

  The piezoelectric element 17a is fixed to the lower surface of the vibration transmission plate 13a by a fixing plate 23a and screws 37. In this case, the piezoelectric element 17a is sandwiched between two rubber buffer members 15a and 19a so that the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13a is not directly transmitted to the piezoelectric element 17a. Similarly, the piezoelectric element 17b is also fixed to the lower surface of the vibration transmission plate 13b.

  The vibration transmission plate 13a to which the piezoelectric element 17a is fixed is supported by the support plate 25 via the four cylindrical elastic bodies 21a. In this case, each of the four guides 130a provided on the lower surface of the vibration transmission plate 13a is inserted into the through hole 27a provided in the support plate 25 via the elastic body 21a. The diameter of the through hole 27a is set so that the guide 130a does not contact the inner surface of the through hole 27a. On the other hand, the vibration transmission plate 13a and the vibration transmission plate 13b are separated by a certain distance.

  As described above, the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13a is prevented from being transmitted to the piezoelectric element 17b fixed to the vibration transmission plate 13b as much as possible. With the same structure, the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13b is prevented from being transmitted to the piezoelectric element 17a fixed to the vibration transmission plate 13a as much as possible. The cylindrical elastic bodies 21a and 21b are made of rubber, for example. For example, springs can be used as the elastic bodies 21a and 21b.

  The support plate 25 is fixed to the housing member 5 with screws 35. The vibration transmission plates 13 a and 13 b are covered with the head 9.

  A signal line from the piezoelectric element 17 a is connected to a right hit detection circuit (described later) of the substrate 31 through a through hole 39 a provided in the support plate 25. Similarly, the signal line from the piezoelectric element 17b is connected to a left impact detection circuit (described later) of the substrate 31.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the music game apparatus 1 of FIG. In FIG. 6, the same parts as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 6, the board 31 built in the music game apparatus 1 includes a high-speed processor 50, a ROM 56, a right hit detection circuit 52, a left hit detection circuit 54, a bus 62, an image signal output terminal 58, and A tone signal output terminal 60 is mounted.

  The right hit detection circuit 52 includes a piezoelectric element 17a and supplies a signal from the piezoelectric element 17a to an A / D converter (described later) of the high speed processor 50. The left hit detection circuit 54 includes a piezoelectric element 17b and supplies a signal from the piezoelectric element 17b to an A / D converter (described later) of the high speed processor 50. Then, the high speed processor 50 performs necessary processing on these signals.

  The high speed processor 50 can access the ROM 56 via the bus 62 and executes a game control program stored in the ROM 56. Then, the image data and music data stored in the ROM 56 are read out, and necessary processing is performed to generate image signals and tone signals. The image signal and the tone signal generated in this way are supplied to the image signal output terminal 58 and the tone signal output terminal 60, respectively, and output to the television monitor 90 through the AV cable 93.

  Further, the high speed processor 50 can also access an external ROM 64 via the bus 62. Therefore, the game control program stored in the external ROM 64 can be executed, and image data and music data can be read out. The ROM 64 is built in the memory cartridge 95 of FIG. 1, and is connected to the bus 62 by the connector 29 of FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of the right hit detection circuit 52 of FIG. In FIG. 7, the same parts as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 7, the right hit detection circuit 52 includes a piezoelectric element 17 a, resistance elements 72, 74, 76, 78, diodes 80, 81, 82, and capacitors 70, 71.

  One end of the resistance element 76 is connected to one end of the piezoelectric element 17 a, one end of the resistance elements 74 and 72, and one end of the capacitor 70. The other end of the resistance element 76 is connected to the other end of the piezoelectric element 17a, the anode of the diode 81, the anode of the diode 80, and the cathode of the diode 82.

  The other end of resistance element 74 is connected to power supply VCC. The other end of resistance element 72 is connected to ground GND. The other end of the capacitor 70 is connected to the ground GND. The cathode of the diode 80 is connected to the power supply VCC. The anode of the diode 82 is connected to the ground GND. The cathode of the diode 81 is connected to one end of the capacitor 71 and one end of the resistance element 78. The cathode of the diode 81 is connected to an A / D converter (described later) of the high speed processor 50.

  The diode 81, the capacitor 71, and the resistance element 78 constitute a peak hold circuit 83.

  Here, the piezoelectric element 17a generates a voltage having a magnitude corresponding to the applied pressure, that is, a voltage having a magnitude corresponding to the strength of striking the vibration transmission plate 13a by the stick 96. The peak hold circuit 83 holds the peak value (peak voltage) of the voltage generated by the piezoelectric element 17a and supplies it to an A / D converter (described later) of the high speed processor 50. As will be described later, the high speed processor 50 obtains the maximum value of the peak voltage input during one frame from the peak hold circuit 83.

  Hereinafter, a voltage signal input from the peak hold circuit 83 to an A / D converter (described later) is referred to as a “blow signal”.

  The circuit diagram of the left impact detection circuit 54 in FIG. 6 is also the same as the circuit diagram of the right impact detection circuit 52 in FIG.

  Here, the contents of the game will be described with reference to an example diagram of the game screen.

  FIG. 8 is a view showing an example of the game screen in the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, a game screen is displayed on the screen 91 of the television monitor 90. Furthermore, music is output from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 90 with the start of the game.

  This game screen includes a score display section 400, a main screen 410, and a life display section 420. In the lower left part of the main screen 410, a response object 170L is displayed corresponding to the left striking surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) of the head 9. In the lower right part of the main screen 410, a response object 170R is displayed corresponding to the right striking surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) of the head 9.

  An instruction object 419L is displayed on the left moving path a in the main screen 410. The instruction object 419L appears at the upper end of the left movement path a, and moves on the left movement path a from the top to the bottom with a predetermined acceleration. Similarly, the instruction object 419R appears at the upper end of the right movement path b, and moves along the right movement path b from the top to the bottom with a predetermined acceleration. Here, the initial speed and the acceleration are the same between the moving speed of the pointing object 419L and the moving speed of the pointing object 419R.

  When the player strikes the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 with a certain strength with the stick 96, in response to this, the response object 170L moves upward on the screen and returns to the home position again. Similarly, when the player strikes the right strike surface 4 of the head 9 with a stick 96 with a certain strength or more, in response, the response object 170R moves upward on the screen and returns to the home position again. Come on.

  Therefore, if the player strikes the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 with the stick 96 at an appropriate timing and a certain level of strength, the response object 170L causes the pointing object 419L to move upward along the left movement path a. You can strike back. Similarly, if the player strikes the right striking surface 4 of the head 9 with an appropriate timing and a certain level of strength with the stick 96, the pointing object 419R is moved up along the right movement path b by the response object 170R. You can strike back in the direction. This point will be described in detail.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the bounce operation of the pointing objects 419L and 419R by the response objects 170L and 170R in FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, when the pointing object 419L enters the best hit range r1, if the player hits the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 with a stick 96 with a certain strength or more, it responds to this. The pointing object 419L can be returned by the response object 170L. If the hit can be made within the best hit range r1, the pointing object 419L moves upward at twice the speed immediately before the hit and disappears on the upper side in the main screen 410.

  Further, when the pointing object 419L enters the hit range r2, if the player strikes the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 with a strength of a certain level or more with the stick 96, the response object 170L responding to the instruction object 419L The object 419L can be hit back. If it is possible to strike back within the hit range r2, the pointing object 419L moves upward at the same speed as immediately before the hit, and depending on the speed at that time, it may reach the upper side in the main screen 410 and disappear. May come back along the way. Note that the pointing object 419L that has returned in the middle can also be returned again by the response object 170L in the same manner.

  Even when the pointing object 419L exists outside the best hit range r1 and the hit range r2, the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 is hit with a certain level of strength and the response object 170L is driven. The object 419L cannot be returned.

  When the pointing object 419L enters the best hit range r1 or the hit range r2, the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 cannot be hit with a certain level of strength and the pointing object 419L reaches the disappearance position P The indication object 419L disappears. In this case, one life 405 displayed on the life display unit 420 in FIG. 8 disappears (extinguishes). When all the lives 405 have disappeared, the game is over.

  Note that the reversing operation of the pointing object 419R by the response object 170R is the same as the reversing operation of the pointing object 419L by the response object 170L, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  As described above, the response objects 170L and 170R do not respond unless the head 9 is hit with a certain strength or more. Also, the strength of the hit is determined. These points will be described in detail.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for determining the strength of hitting the head 9 with the stick 96. As shown in FIG. 10, if the level of the hit signal when hitting the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 exceeds the level L1, it is determined that the hit is made, and the response object 419L responds. In this case, if the level of the hit signal is in the range of level L1 to level L3 (hereinafter referred to as “weak hit range”), it is determined that the hit is weak. If the level of the hit signal is in the range of level L2 to level L4 (hereinafter referred to as “strong hit range”), it is determined that the hit is strong. As described above, the player can drive the response object 170L only after hitting the head 9 so that the hit signal exceeds the level L1.

  Further, when the level of the hit signal when hitting the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 exceeds the level L1, the high speed processor 50 generates a hit sound signal and supplies it to the musical sound signal output terminal 60. Therefore, in this case, a hitting sound is generated from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 90.

  Hereinafter, the level L1 may be referred to as an input acceptance threshold L1. Note that the determination of the strength of striking and the sound of the striking sound with respect to the right striking surface 4 of the head 9 is the same as the judgment of the strength of striking with respect to the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 and the pronunciation of the striking sound.

  In FIG. 10, there is a range where the strong hitting range and the weak hitting range overlap. This is because, if the strong hitting range and the weak hitting range are strictly divided, the determination of strength is too severe for the player, the player cannot play well, and there is a possibility of reducing the fun.

  Returning again to FIG. As described above, the indication object 419L moves downward on the left movement path a with a predetermined acceleration. In this case, the interval between the instruction objects 419L is set to an interval that matches the music rhythm. Therefore, by hitting the indication object 419L within the best hit range r1, a striking sound is generated at a timing that matches the rhythm of the music. When the pointing object 419L is hit within the hit range r2, the sound of the hitting sound slightly deviates from the music rhythm. The instruction object 419R is the same as the instruction object 419L.

  Therefore, when the player strikes back the pointing objects 419L and 419R within the best hit range r1, the hitting sound is generated at a timing that matches the rhythm of the music, and richer music is played.

  Here, an aspect of instruction to the player by the instruction objects 419L and 419R will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 11 is another exemplary view of the game screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the same parts as those in FIG. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 11, the small pointing object 409L instructs the player to hit the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 weakly. On the other hand, the pointing object 411L having a large size instructs the player to hit the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9 strongly. Similarly, the pointing object 409R and the pointing object 411R respectively instruct the player to hit the right hitting surface 4 of the head 9 weakly and hit strongly.

  If the player hits the head 9 with the instructed strength within the best hit range r1, the score is large. Even if the ball is hit within the best hit range r1, if it is not hit with the instructed strength, the score is small. When hit within the hit range r2, the scoring is small regardless of the strength indication.

  In the case of this example, the determination of hitting back and the determination of strength of hitting are the same as those in FIGS. 9 and 10, respectively.

  FIG. 12 is a view showing still another exemplary game screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 12, the same parts as those in FIG. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 12, when the player wants to continuously hit the left hitting surface 2 of the head 9, the number of hits continuously is displayed on the pointing object 413L. When the instruction object 413L reaches the response object 170L, the instruction object 413L is allowed to stay on the response object 170L for a predetermined time. Similarly, when the player wants to continuously hit the right hitting surface 4 of the head 9, the number of hits continuously is displayed on the pointing object 413R (not shown). When the instruction object 413R reaches the response object 170R, the instruction object 413R remains on the response object 170R for a predetermined time.

  Further, when the player wants to strike the left striking surface 2 and the right striking surface 4 of the head 9 alternately and continuously, the pointing object 415L and the pointing object 415R are simultaneously moved to the left moving path a and the right moving path b, respectively. And the number of consecutive hits on the indication objects 415L and 415R is displayed. When the instruction object 415L and the instruction object 415R reach the response object 170L and the response object 170R, respectively, the instruction object 415L and the instruction object 415R are allowed to stay on the response object 170L and the response object 170R for a predetermined time, respectively.

  The player must perform the designated number of repeated hits within a predetermined time (while the indication objects 413L, 413R, 415L, and 415R remain). If the designated number of consecutive hits is made within the predetermined time and the points are assigned, and if the designated number of consecutive hits is not made within the predetermined time, no points are assigned. In the case of continuous hits as described above, the strength of hitting only needs to exceed the input acceptance threshold L1 in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is another exemplary view of the game screen according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 13, the same parts as those in FIG. 8 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 13, when the player wants to strike the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 alternately and continuously, the pointing object 409L is alternately placed on the left path a1 and the right path a2 across the left movement path a. Make it appear. In this example, since a small pointing object 409L appears, it is instructed to hit weakly. When instructing to strike strongly, large instruction objects 411L appear alternately.

  Similarly, when the player wants the player to strike the right striking surface 4 of the head 9 alternately and continuously, the left path b1 and the right path b2 sandwiching the right movement path b are instructed according to the strength of the striking instruction. The objects 409R appear alternately or the pointing objects 411R appear alternately.

  In the case of this example, the determination of hitting back and the determination of strength of hitting are the same as those in FIGS. 9 and 10, respectively.

  When the player wants to strike the left striking surface 2 and the right striking surface 4 of the head 9 at the same time, the pointing objects 411L and 411R appear simultaneously on the left moving path a and the right moving path b. Alternatively, the pointing objects 409L and 409R appear at the same time on the left movement route a and the right movement route b.

  Next, details of the operation will be described with reference to the drawings showing details of the electrical configuration of the game apparatus 1.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing details of the high speed processor 50 of FIG. In FIG. 14, the same parts as those in FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 14, the high-speed processor 50 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 201, a graphic processor 202, a sound processor 203, a DMA (direct memory access) controller 204, a first bus arbitration circuit 205, Second bus arbitration circuit 206, internal memory 207, A / D converter (ADC: analog to digital converter) 208, input / output control circuit 209, timer circuit 210, DRAM (dynamic random access memory) refresh control circuit 211, external memory interface Circuit 212, clock driver 213, PLL (phase-locked loop) circuit 214, low voltage detection circuit Path 215, first bus 218, and second bus 219.

  The CPU 201 performs various operations and controls the entire system according to a program stored in a memory (the internal memory 207, the ROM 56, or the ROM 64). The CPU 201 is a bus master of the first bus 218 and the second bus 219, and can access resources connected to the respective buses.

  The graphic processor 202 is a bus master of the first bus 218 and the second bus 219, generates an image signal based on the data stored in the internal memory 207, ROM 56, or ROM 64, and outputs it to the image signal output terminal 58. Output. The graphic processor 202 is controlled by the CPU 201 through the first bus 218. The graphic processor 202 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 to the CPU 201.

  The sound processor 203 is a bus master of the first bus 218 and the second bus 219, generates a tone signal based on the data stored in the internal memory 207, the ROM 56, or the ROM 64, and sends it to the tone signal output terminal 60. Output. The sound processor 203 is controlled by the CPU 201 through the first bus 218. Further, the sound processor 203 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 to the CPU 201.

  The DMA controller 204 manages data transfer from the ROM 56 or the ROM 64 to the internal memory 207. The DMA controller 204 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 to the CPU 201 in order to notify the completion of data transfer. The DMA controller 204 is a bus master for the first bus 218 and the second bus 219. The DMA controller 204 is controlled by the CPU 201 through the first bus 218.

  The internal memory 207 includes necessary ones among a mask ROM, an SRAM (static random access memory), and a DRAM. When it is necessary to hold SRAM data by a battery, the battery 217 is required. When a DRAM is installed, an operation for holding stored contents called refresh is required periodically.

  The first bus arbitration circuit 205 receives a first bus use request signal from each bus master of the first bus 218, performs arbitration, and issues a first bus use permission signal to each bus master. Each bus master is permitted to access the first bus 218 by receiving the first bus use permission signal. Here, the first bus use request signal and the first bus use permission signal are shown as a first bus arbitration signal 222 in FIG.

  The second bus arbitration circuit 206 receives a second bus use request signal from each bus master of the second bus 219, performs arbitration, and issues a second bus use permission signal to each bus master. Each bus master is permitted to access the second bus 219 by receiving the second bus use permission signal. Here, the second bus use request signal and the second bus use permission signal are shown as a second bus arbitration signal 223 in FIG.

  The input / output control circuit 209 performs communication with an external input / output device or an external semiconductor element via an input / output signal. Input / output signals are read / written from the CPU 201 via the first bus 218. The input / output control circuit 209 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 to the CPU 201.

  The timer circuit 210 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 for the CPU 201 based on a set time interval. The time interval and the like are set by the CPU 201 via the first bus 218.

  The ADC 208 converts the analog input signal into a digital signal. This digital signal is read by the CPU 201 via the first bus 218. Further, the ADC 208 has a function of generating an interrupt request signal 220 to the CPU 201.

  The analog hit signals from the right hit detection circuit 52 and the left hit detection circuit 54 are input to the ADC 208 and converted into digital hit signals. Accordingly, the high speed processor 50 performs necessary processing on the digital hit signal.

  The PLL circuit 214 generates a high frequency clock signal obtained by multiplying the sine wave signal obtained from the crystal resonator 216.

  The clock driver 213 amplifies the high frequency clock signal received from the PLL circuit 214 to a signal strength sufficient to supply the clock signal 225 to each block.

  The low voltage detection circuit 215 monitors the power supply voltage VCC, and issues a reset signal 226 of the PLL circuit 214 and other system-wide reset signals 227 when the power supply voltage VCC is equal to or lower than a certain voltage. In addition, when the internal memory 207 is composed of an SRAM and data retention by the SRAM battery 217 is required, the battery backup control signal 224 is issued when the power supply voltage VCC is equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage. .

  The external memory interface circuit 212 has a function for connecting the second bus 219 to the external bus 62 and a function for controlling the bus cycle length of the second bus by issuing a cycle end signal 228 of the second bus 219. Have.

  The DRAM refresh control circuit 211 unconditionally acquires the right to use the first bus 218 at regular intervals and performs a DRAM refresh operation. The DRAM refresh control circuit 211 is provided when the internal memory 207 includes a DRAM.

  FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of programs and data stored in the ROM 56 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, the ROM 56 stores a game control program 300, image data 302, and music data 303. The music data 303 includes first musical score data 305, second musical score data 306, third musical score data 307, and sound source data 308.

  The programs and data stored in the ROM 56 can be stored in the ROM 64 of the memory cartridge 95, and the memory cartridge can be attached to the connector 29 so that these programs and data can be used.

  Now, the first musical score data 305 is data in which melody control information is arranged in time series.

  FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the first musical score data 305 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 16, the melody control information includes a command, note number / standby time information, instrument designation information, velocity, and gate time.

  Note-on is a command for making a sound, and standby is a command for setting a standby time. The waiting time is the time until the next command is read (the time from one note to the next note). The note number is information for designating the pitch (pitch) of the sound. The standby time information is information that specifies a standby time to be set. The instrument designation information is information for designating which instrument tone is used. The velocity is information on the strength of the sound, that is, information on the volume. Gate time is the length of time a sound is produced.

  Now, the second musical score data 306 is data in which the instruction object control information is arranged in time series. The second musical score data 306 is used when the instruction objects 409L to 419R appear on the main screen 410. That is, the first musical score data 305 is musical score data for playing music, while the second musical score data 306 is musical score data for causing the pointing objects 409L to 419R to appear at intervals suitable for music.

  FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the second musical score data 306 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 17, the instruction object control information includes a command, note number / standby time information, and instrument designation information.

  In the second musical score data 306, the musical instrument designation information is not a number indicating a musical instrument (tone color) playing music, but a number indicating a musical instrument in which the instruction objects 409L to 419R appear. Such instrument designation information indicates that the second musical score data 306 is not musical score data for playing music but musical score data for causing the pointing objects 409L to 419R to appear.

  Therefore, note-on is not a command for making a sound, but a command for causing the pointing objects 409L to 419R to appear. The note number is not information that specifies the pitch (pitch) of the sound, but information that indicates which instruction object appears in which movement route. This point will be described in detail.

  FIG. 18 is a relationship diagram between the note number used in the second musical score data 306 in FIG. 17 and the instruction objects 409L to 419R. As illustrated in FIG. 18, for example, the note number “76” means that an instruction object instructing a strong hit appears on the right movement path b of the main screen 410. Further, for example, the note number “77” means that an instruction object that instructs a strong hit appears in the right path b2 of the right movement path b of the main screen 410.

  Further, for example, the note number “72” means that an instruction object for instructing long hitting appears on the right movement path b of the main screen 410. Further, for example, the note number “71” means that an instruction object for instructing long-running strikes appears on the right movement path b and the left movement path a of the main screen 410 at the same time.

  Further, for example, the note number “81” is dummy data arranged at the head of the second musical score data 306 (see FIG. 17), and is not information indicating which instruction object appears on which movement route. In this way, the first musical score data 305 and the second musical score data 306 are aligned at the beginning. For example, the note number “79” is data indicating the end of music, and is arranged at the end of the second score data 306 (see FIG. 17). Note number “79” is not information indicating which instruction object appears in which movement route.

  Now, the third musical score data 307 is data in which the hit sound control information is arranged in time series.

  FIG. 19 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the third musical score data 307 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, the hitting sound control information includes a command, a note number / standby time, and instrument designation information.

  In the third musical score data 307, the instrument designation information is not a number indicating a musical instrument (tone color) playing music. The instrument designation information is a number indicating that the third score data 307 is score data for determining a hitting sound to be generated when the head 9 is hit.

  Therefore, note-on is not a command for making a sound, but a command for instructing a hitting sound that is generated when the head 9 is hit. The note number represents the hitting sound instruction information, not the information specifying the pitch (pitch) of the sound. The batting sound instruction information will be described in detail.

  The latest hitting sound instruction information (note number) read from the third musical score data 307 is registered. The waveform data head address and volume information associated with the registered hitting sound instruction information are read from the ROM 56 and stored in the internal memory 207. In this case, the hitting sound setting table stored in the ROM 56 is referred to.

  FIG. 20 is a view showing an example of an impact sound setting table stored in the ROM 56 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 20, the hitting sound setting table is a table in which hitting sound instruction information, waveform data head address, and volume information are associated with each other. By referring to this impact sound setting table, it is possible to acquire the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the registered impact sound instruction information.

  When the head 9 is hit with a strength exceeding the input acceptance threshold L1, the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the registered hitting sound instruction information are given to the sound processor 203. The sound processor 203 reads the waveform data stored at the position indicated by the waveform data head address from the ROM 56, generates a tone signal corresponding to the waveform data and volume information, and outputs the tone signal to the tone signal output terminal 60. To do. As a result, a musical sound (striking sound) corresponding to the waveform data read from the ROM 56 is generated from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 90 at a volume corresponding to the volume information. The waveform data is included in the sound source data 308 in FIG.

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the CPU 201 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 21, the CPU 201 executes the game control program 300 of FIG. 15 to thereby determine the game state check means 260, the hit sound setting means 262, the maximum hit signal detection means 264, the hit strength determination means 266, and the repeated hit determination. Means 268, hit determination means 270, instruction object display control means 272, response object display control means 274, instruction object registration means 276, impact sound instruction information registration means 278, graphic driver 280, and sound driver 282.

  The game state check means 260 checks the state of the game, and ends the game when the music ends or when the life 405 is completely lost.

  The hitting sound setting unit 262 reads the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the registered hitting sound instruction information from the ROM 56 and stores them in the internal memory 207 (see FIG. 20). This point will be described in detail.

  The hitting sound instruction information is registered corresponding to each of the left hitting surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) and the right hitting surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) of the head 9. Therefore, the striking sound setting means 262 acquires the waveform data head address and volume information for each of the left striking surface 2 and the right striking surface 4 of the head 9. Note that the striking sound setting table in FIG. 20 can be transferred from the ROM 56 to the internal memory 207 in advance before the game is started.

  Returning to FIG. The maximum striking signal detection means 264 has a maximum striking signal among the striking signals input from the left striking detection circuit 54 during the image display period for one frame (hereinafter referred to as “maximum left striking signal”). Is detected. Similarly, the maximum hit signal detection means 264 has the highest hit signal (hereinafter, “maximum right hit signal”) among the hit signals input from the right hit detection circuit 52 during the image display period of one frame. ) Is detected. Here, the maximum left hit signal and the maximum right hit signal may be collectively referred to as “maximum hit signal”.

  The striking strength determination means 266 compares the level of the maximum left striking signal with the input acceptance threshold L1 (see FIG. 10). The striking strength determination means 266 determines that an effective left striking has been performed when the level of the maximum left striking signal is greater than the input acceptance threshold L1, and the striking acceptance flag corresponding to the left striking surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) and Turn on the pronunciation flag. Similarly, the hit strength determination means 266 compares the level of the maximum right hit signal with the input acceptance threshold L1 (see FIG. 10), and when the level of the maximum right hit signal is greater than the input acceptance threshold L1. Assuming that an effective right batting has been performed, the batting acceptance flag and the sound generation flag corresponding to the right batting surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) are turned on.

  Further, the striking strength determination means 266 determines whether or not the level of the maximum left striking signal is within the weak striking range (see FIG. 10). The striking strength determination means 266 turns on the weak striking flag corresponding to the left striking surface 2 when the level of the maximum left striking signal is within the weak striking range. Similarly, the hit strength determination means 266 determines whether the level of the maximum right hit signal is within the weak hit range (see FIG. 10), and the level of the maximum right hit signal is within the weak hit range. If so, the weak hit flag corresponding to the right hit face 4 is turned on.

  Further, the striking strength determination means 266 determines whether or not the level of the maximum left striking signal is within the strong striking range (see FIG. 10). The striking strength determination means 266 turns on the striking flag corresponding to the left striking surface 2 when the level of the maximum left striking signal is within the strong striking range. Similarly, the hit strength determination means 266 determines whether or not the level of the maximum right hit signal is within the strong hit range (see FIG. 10), and the level of the maximum right hit signal is within the strong hit range. If there is, the strong hit flag corresponding to the right hit face 4 is turned on.

  The sound driver 282 generates a sound corresponding to the left striking surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) when the striking signal when striking the left striking surface 2 of the head 9 exceeds the input acceptance threshold L1 (see FIG. 10). When the flag is on, the waveform processor head address and volume information associated with the hitting sound instruction information registered corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 at that time are given to the sound processor 203. Further, the sound driver 282 corresponds to the right hitting surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) when the hit signal when hitting the right hitting surface 4 of the head 9 exceeds the input acceptance threshold L1 (see FIG. 10). When the sound generation flag is turned on, the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the hitting sound instruction information registered corresponding to the right hitting surface 4 at that time are given to the sound processor 203.

  Returning to FIG. The sound processor 203 reads the waveform data stored at the position indicated by the waveform data head address from the ROM 56, generates a tone signal corresponding to the waveform data and volume information, and outputs the tone signal to the tone signal output terminal 60. As a result, a musical sound (striking sound) corresponding to the waveform data read from the ROM 56 is generated from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 90 at a volume corresponding to the volume information. As described above, a striking sound is generated according to the striking of the left striking surface 2, and a striking sound is sounded according to the striking of the right striking surface 4.

  Returning again to FIG. The repeated hit determination means 268 counts the number of effective left hits when there are repeated hit instructions by the pointing objects 413L and 415L (see FIG. 12). The case where there is a repeated hitting instruction is when the pointing objects 413L and 415L remain on the response object 170L. An effective left strike is a left strike that exceeds the input acceptance threshold L1.

  Similarly, the continuous hit determination unit 268 counts the number of effective right hits when there are continuous hit instructions by the pointing objects 413R and 415R (see FIG. 12). The case where there is a repeated hitting instruction is when the pointing objects 413R and 415R remain on the response object 170R. An effective right strike is a right strike that exceeds the input acceptance threshold L1.

  Further, the continuous hit determination means 268 adds points when the instructed objects 413L and 415L (see FIG. 12) perform effective left hits as instructed. Similarly, the continuous hit determination means 268 adds points even when the designated objects 413R and 415R (see FIG. 12) have been instructed to perform a valid right strike.

  The hit determination means 270 indicates that when the effective left batting is performed, that is, when the batting acceptance flag corresponding to the left batting surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) is on, the pointing object 409L or the pointing object 411L It is determined whether or not it exists within the best hit range r1.

  Then, when the instruction object 409L instructing a weak hit is within the best hit range r1, the hit determination unit 270 refers to the weak hit flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 and the instruction object 409L gives an instruction. It is determined whether or not the left strike is made with strength.

  Further, when the instruction object 411L instructing a strong hit exists within the best hit range r1, the hit determination unit 270 indicates the instruction object 411L with reference to the strong hit flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 It is determined whether or not the left strike is made with strength.

  As a result, when an effective left blow is performed, if the pointing object 409L exists in the best hit range r1 and an effective left hit is performed with the strength indicated by the pointing object 409L, Alternatively, when an effective left blow is performed, if the pointing object 411L exists in the best hit range r1 and the effective left hit is performed with the strength indicated by the pointing object 4114L, the hit determination is performed. Means 270 adds the points.

  The hit determination unit 270 determines that when the effective right hit is performed, that is, when the hit acceptance flag corresponding to the right hit surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) is on, the indication object 409R or the indication object 411R It is determined whether or not it exists within the best hit range r1.

  When the instruction object 409R instructing the weak hit is within the best hit range r1, the hit determination unit 270 refers to the weak hit flag corresponding to the right hit surface 4 and the instruction object 409R instructs Determine if the right hit was made by strength.

  Further, when the instruction object 411R instructing a strong hit exists within the best hit range r1, the hit determination unit 270 instructs the instruction object 411R with reference to the strong hit flag corresponding to the right hitting surface 4. Determine if the right hit was made by strength.

  As a result, when an effective right blow is performed, when the pointing object 409R exists in the best hit range r1 and an effective right hit is performed with the strength indicated by the pointing object 409R, Alternatively, when an effective right blow is performed, if the pointing object 411R exists in the best hit range r1 and the effective left batting is performed with the strength indicated by the pointing object 4114R, a hit determination is performed. Means 270 adds the points.

  Here, even if it exists in the best hit range r1 but is not hit with the instructed strength, the point is added, but it exists in the best hit range r1 and has the instructed strength. Compared to the case of hitting, fewer points are added.

  The hit determination means 270 determines whether or not the pointing object 409L or the pointing object 411L exists within the hit range r2 when a valid left hit is made. Similarly, the hit determination means 270 determines whether or not the pointing object 409R or the pointing object 411R exists within the hit range r2 when a valid right hit is made. As a result, if it exists within the hit range r2, the hit determination means 270 adds points. In this case, there are fewer points to be added compared to the case where the player is in the best hit range r1 and is hit with the instructed strength.

  When an effective left hit is made and the pointing object 409L or the pointing object 411L exists within the best hit range r1, the best hit flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is turned on. Similarly, when an effective right hit is made and the pointing object 409R or the pointing object 411R exists within the best hit range r1, the best hit flag corresponding to the right hitting surface 4 is turned on.

  In addition, when an effective left hit is made and the pointing object 409L or the pointing object 411L exists in the hit range r2, the hit flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is turned on. Similarly, when an effective right hit is made and the pointing object 409R or the pointing object 411R exists within the hit range r2, the hit flag corresponding to the right hitting surface 4 is turned on.

  The instruction object registration means 276 reads and interprets the instruction object control information in FIG. 17 while incrementing the musical score data pointer for instruction object registration. Here, the musical score data pointer for registering the pointing object is a pointer indicating the reading position of the second musical score data 306.

  If the command included in the read instruction object control information is note-on, the instruction object registration unit 276 registers the note number included in the instruction object control information. This is a process of newly registering an instruction object.

  The hitting sound instruction information registration means 278 reads out and interprets the hitting sound control information of FIG. 19 while incrementing the score data pointer for registering the hitting sound instruction information. Here, the musical score data pointer for registering the hitting sound instruction information is a pointer that indicates the reading position of the third musical score data 307.

  If the command included in the read impact sound control information is note-on, the impact sound instruction information registration unit 278 registers the note number included in the impact sound control information. This is a process of registering the hitting sound instruction information.

  The instruction object display control unit 272 performs control when the instruction objects 409L to 419R are displayed on the main screen 410. Specifically, it is as follows. The display control of the instruction object 409L is taken as an example.

  When a new pointing object 409L is registered, the pointing object display control unit 272 stores the coordinate data indicating the appearance position of the pointing object 409L and the storage position data of the image data of the pointing object 409L in the internal memory. Stored in 207. The graphic driver 280 supplies the data to the graphic processor 202 during the vertical blanking period.

  The graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the pointing object 409L from the ROM 56 based on the given storage position data, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and outputs an image signal output terminal. 58. As a result, a new instruction object 409L appears on the main screen 410.

  Further, the indication object display control unit 272 calculates coordinates for the indication object 409L being displayed based on a predetermined acceleration and a predetermined initial velocity. Then, the graphic driver 280 supplies the graphic processor 202 with the storage position data of the image data of the pointing object 409L and the coordinate data calculated by the pointing object display control means 272 during the vertical blanking period.

  The graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the pointing object 409L from the ROM 56 based on the given storage position data, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and outputs an image signal output terminal. 58. As a result, the moved instruction object 409L is displayed on the main screen 410.

  Further, when the hit acceptance flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is on (when a valid left hit is made), if the pointing object 409L exists within the best hit range r1, the pointing object display control means 272 performs coordinate calculation so as to move at a speed twice that of the pointing object 409L at that time. In this case, the acceleration is zero. Then, the graphic driver 280 supplies the graphic processor 202 with the storage position data of the image data of the pointing object 409L and the coordinate data calculated by the pointing object display control means 272 during the vertical blanking period.

  The graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the pointing object 409L from the ROM 56 based on the given storage position data, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and outputs an image signal output terminal. 58. As a result, the pointing object 409L that is hit back at twice the speed is displayed on the main screen 410.

  Also, when the hit acceptance flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is on (when a valid left hit is made), if the pointing object 409L exists within the hit range r2, the pointing object display control means 272 Performs coordinate calculation using the speed of the pointing object 409L at that time (at the time of hit) as the initial speed. In this case, the direction of acceleration is the same as the acceleration when the pointing object 409L is dropped. Then, the graphic driver 280 supplies the graphic processor 202 with the storage position data of the image data of the pointing object 409L and the coordinate data calculated by the pointing object display control means 272 during the vertical blanking period.

  The graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the pointing object 409L from the ROM 56 based on the given storage position data, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and outputs an image signal output terminal. 58. As a result, the pointing object 409L returned at the hit speed is displayed on the main screen 410. Since the direction of acceleration is the same as the acceleration when the pointing object 409L falls, the pointing object 409L falls again depending on the speed at the time of hit.

  The graphic driver 280 can also supply the identification data of the pointing object 409L and the coordinate data calculated by the pointing object display control means 272 to the graphic processor 202 during the vertical blanking period. That is, for the pointing object 409L that is already displayed, the graphic processor 202 already holds the storage position data of the image data of the pointing object 409L. To the processor 202. Accordingly, in this case, the graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the pointing object 409L indicated by the given identification data from the ROM 56, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and Output to the signal output terminal 58.

  When the pointing object 409L reaches the disappearance position P (see FIG. 9), the graphic driver 280 receives the instruction from the pointing object display control means 272, and the graphic driver 280 makes a graphic blanking period to the graphic processor 202. Then, an instruction to disappear the instruction object 409L is issued. In response to this, the graphic processor 202 causes the instruction object 409L to disappear from the game screen.

  When the pointing object 409L reaches the disappearance position P (see FIG. 9), the pointing object display control means 272 causes one life 405 to disappear.

  Note that the control when displaying the instruction objects 411L to 419L and 409R to 419R on the main screen 410 is the same as the display control of the instruction object 409L. However, the indication objects 413L, 413R, 415L, and 415R are not hit back, but remain in the response objects 170L and 170R for a predetermined time, and then disappear.

  The response object display control means 274 moves the response object 170L upward by a fixed distance when an effective left hit is made (when the hit acceptance flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is on). That is, when an effective left strike is performed, the response object display control unit 274 performs coordinate calculation at a constant speed in which the direction is upward.

  Further, the response object display control means 274 displays the response object 170L when the best hit flag corresponding to the left hitting surface 2 is on or the hit flag is on, or when the response object 170L moves upward by a certain distance. In order to return to a fixed position, coordinate calculation is performed at a constant speed with the direction downward.

  The graphic driver 280 supplies the graphic processor 202 with the storage position data of the image data of the response object 170L and the coordinate data calculated by the response object display control means 274 during the vertical blanking period.

  The graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the response object 170L from the ROM 56 based on the given storage position data, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and outputs an image signal output terminal. 58. Accordingly, the moved response object 170L is displayed on the main screen 410.

  The graphic driver 280 can also supply the identification data of the response object 170L and the coordinate data calculated by the response object display control means 274 to the graphic processor 202 during the vertical blanking period. That is, since the response object 170L has already been displayed and the graphic processor 202 has already stored the storage position data of the image data of the response object 170L, the identification data is displayed as a graphic instead of the storage position data of the image data. To the processor 202. Therefore, in this case, the graphic processor 202 reads the image data of the response object 170L indicated by the given identification data from the ROM 56, generates an image signal based on the image data and the given coordinate data, and generates an image signal. Output to the signal output terminal 58.

  Now, when the repeated hitting instruction is given (when the pointing object 413L or the pointing object 415L remains on the response object 170L), the response object 170L remains at the fixed position and does not move.

  The display control of the response object 170R is the same as the display control of the response object 170L, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  Here, the reproduction of the melody will be described. Melody reproduction is performed by interrupt processing. The sound driver 282 in FIG. 21 reads and interprets the melody control information in FIG. 16 while incrementing the score data pointer for melody reproduction. Here, the musical score data pointer for melody reproduction is a pointer indicating the reading position of the first musical score data 305.

  If the command included in the read melody control information is note-on, the sound driver 282 reads the pitch (pitch) indicated by the note number included in the melody control information and the instrument (indicated by the instrument designation information). The head address where the waveform data corresponding to the tone color is stored is given to the sound processor 203. Furthermore, if the command included in the read melody control information is note-on, the sound driver 282 gives the head address where necessary envelope data is stored to the sound processor 203.

  Furthermore, if the command included in the read melody control information is note-on, the sound driver 282 includes pitch control information corresponding to the pitch (pitch) indicated by the note number included in the melody control information, and The volume information included in the melody control information is given to the sound processor 203.

  Here, the pitch control information will be described. The pitch control information is used for pitch conversion performed by changing the period for reading waveform data. That is, the sound processor 203 reads and accumulates pitch control information at regular intervals. Then, the sound processor 203 processes this accumulated result to obtain an address pointer for waveform data. Therefore, if the pitch control information is set to a large value, the address pointer is incremented quickly, and the waveform data frequency is increased. If the pitch control information is set to a small value, the address pointer is incremented slowly. Therefore, the frequency of the waveform data is lowered. In this way, the sound processor 203 performs the pitch conversion of the waveform data.

  Now, the sound processor 203 reads the waveform data stored at the position indicated by the given head address from the ROM 56 while incrementing the address pointer based on the given pitch control information. The sound processor 203 multiplies the sequentially read waveform data by envelope data and volume information to generate a tone signal. In this way, musical tone signals of the tone color, pitch (pitch), and volume of the musical instrument indicated by the first musical score data 305 are generated and output to the musical tone signal output terminal 60.

  On the other hand, the sound driver 282 manages the gate time included in the read melody control information. Therefore, the sound driver 282 instructs the sound processor 203 to end the sound generation of the corresponding musical sound when the gate time has elapsed. In response to this, the sound processor 203 ends the sound generation of the instructed musical sound.

  As described above, a melody is reproduced based on the first musical score data 305 in FIG. 16 and is generated from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 90.

  Next, an example of the flow of processing by the game apparatus 1 will be described using a flowchart. In this case, the indication objects 419L and 419R in FIG. 8 are not taken as an example.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the overall processing flow of the game apparatus 1. As shown in FIG. 22, in step S1, the CPU 201 executes initial setting of the system.

  In step S2, the game state check means 260 checks the game state.

  In step S3, the striking sound setting means 262 refers to the striking sound setting table (see FIG. 20) in the ROM 56, and acquires the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the registered striking sound instruction information. .

  In step S4, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 detects the maximum value (maximum hit signal) during one frame of the hit signal.

  In step S5, the striking strength determination means 266 compares the maximum striking signal with the input acceptance threshold L1, and determines whether or not a valid striking has been performed. Further, the striking strength determination means 266 determines whether the maximum striking signal is within the strong striking range and whether it is within the weak striking range.

  In step S6, the hit determination means 270 determines whether or not a hit has been made within the best hit range r1, and whether or not a hit has been made within the hit range r2. Further, the hit determination means 270 determines whether or not a hit has been performed with the instructed strength.

  In step S7, the repeated hit determination means 268 counts the number of repeated hits by the player when there is a repeated hit instruction, and determines whether the specified number of repeated hits has been made.

  In step S8, the pointing object display control means 272 controls the movement of the pointing objects 409L, 409R to 415L, 415R on the main screen 410.

  In step S9, the response object display control unit 274 controls the movement of the response objects 170L and 170R on the main screen 410.

  In step S10, the CPU 201 determines whether to wait for a video synchronization interrupt. In the present embodiment, the CPU 201 supplies image data to the graphic processor 202 after the start of the vertical blanking period in order to update the display screen of the television monitor 90. Therefore, when the calculation process for updating the display screen is completed, the process is not allowed to proceed until there is a video synchronization interrupt.

  If “YES” in the step S10, that is, if the video synchronization interruption is awaited (no interruption by the video synchronization signal), the process returns to the same step S10. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S10, that is, if not waiting for a video synchronization interrupt (if there is an interrupt due to a video synchronization signal), the process proceeds to a step S2.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial setting process in step S1 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 23, in step S10, the CPU 201 initializes a musical score data pointer for melody.

  In step S11, the CPU 201 sets the execution standby counter for melody to “t”.

  In step S12, the CPU 201 initializes the musical score data pointer for registering the pointing object.

  In step S <b> 13, the CPU 201 sets an execution standby counter for instruction object registration to “0”.

  In step S14, the CPU 201 initializes a musical score data pointer for registering the hitting sound instruction information.

  In step S15, the CPU 201 sets an execution standby counter for registering the hitting sound instruction information to “0”.

  In step S16, the CPU 201 initializes various flags and various counters.

  In step S17, the CPU 201 sets the timer circuit 210 as an interrupt source for sound generation, and proceeds to step S2 in FIG.

  Here, the reason why the execution standby counter for melody is set to “t” and the execution standby counter for instruction object registration is set to “0” is as follows.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 11, it takes a certain time for the pointing object 411R to appear within the best hit range r1 after appearing at the upper end of the right movement path b on the main screen 410. This is because the pointing object 411R needs to appear earlier by a fixed time in order to eliminate the problem. That is, in order to register the instruction object, the musical score data is read earlier than the melody by a predetermined time (count value t). Note that the execution standby counter for registering the instruction object, the execution standby counter for the melody, and the execution standby counter for registering the hitting sound instruction information are counted down.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the game state check process in step S2 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 24, in step S20, the game state checking means 260 of FIG. 21 checks the number of remaining lives 405.

  If the number of remaining lives 405 is “0”, the game state check means 260 ends the game (step S21). On the other hand, if the number of remaining lives 405 is not “0”, that is, if the life 405 still remains, the game state checking means 260 proceeds to step S22 (step S21).

  In step S22, the game state checking means 260 refers to a music end flag to be described later and checks whether the music has ended.

  If the music has not ended, the game state checking means 260 advances the process to step S3 in FIG. 22 (step S23). On the other hand, if the music has ended, the game state check means 260 proceeds to step S24 (step S23).

  In step S24, the game state checking unit 260 adds the points P1 and P2 to obtain the score P. This score P is displayed on the score display part 400 of FIGS.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the game ends when all the lives 405 have disappeared or when the music ends.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the flow of the hitting sound setting process in step S3 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 25, the process of step S30 to step S33 is repeated twice between step S29 and step 34. Here, when “i” is “1”, it means that the process corresponds to the left striking surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17 b), and when “i” is “2”, the right striking surface 4 ( This means that the process corresponds to the piezoelectric element 17a).

  In step S30, the hitting sound setting means 262 checks the hitting sound instruction information H [i] currently registered.

  If the hitting sound instruction information H [i] has not been changed, the hitting sound setting unit 262 advances the process to step S34 (step S31). On the other hand, if the batting sound instruction information H [i] has been changed, the batting sound setting means 262 proceeds to step S32 (step S31).

  In step S <b> 32, the striking sound setting unit 262 refers to the striking sound setting table (see FIG. 20) stored in the ROM 56.

  In step S <b> 33, the hitting sound setting unit 262 reads the waveform data head address and volume information associated with the currently registered hitting sound instruction information H [i] from the ROM 56 and stores them in the internal memory 207. Specifically, the waveform data head address is stored in the array A [i], and the volume information is stored in the array V [i].

  The striking sound setting means 262 advances the process to step S4 in FIG. 22 after step S34 ends.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the flow of the maximum hit signal detection process in step S4 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 26, the process of step S40 to step S46 is repeated twice between step S39 and step 47. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  In step S40, the maximum hit signal detection means 264 clears the previous maximum hit signal value MAX [i].

  In step S41, the maximum hit signal detection means 264 substitutes “1” for “M”.

  In step S42, the maximum hit signal detection means 264 compares the current maximum value MAX [i] of the hit signal with the latest hit signal value. When “M” is “1”, the value of the hit signal at that time is set to the maximum value MAX [i].

  When the value of the latest hit signal is equal to or less than the current maximum value MAX [i] of the hit signal, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 proceeds to step S45 (step S43). On the other hand, when the value of the latest hit signal is larger than the current maximum value MAX [i] of the hit signal, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 proceeds to step S44 (step S43).

  In step S44, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 updates the maximum hit signal value MAX [i] to the latest hit signal value.

  In step S45, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 increments “M” by one.

  When “M” is smaller than the specified value m, the maximum hit signal detecting means 264 proceeds to step S42 (step S46). On the other hand, when “M” is not smaller than the specified value, the maximum hit signal detection means 264 advances the process to step S47 (step S46).

  Here, the specified value m is the number of times of input of the hit signal to the ADC 208. This number of inputs is the number of inputs per frame. Therefore, by executing the above processing, the maximum value (maximum hit signal) of the hit signal input during one frame can be detected.

  The maximum hit signal detection means 264 advances the process to step S5 in FIG. 22 after step S47 is completed.

  FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the flow of the striking strength determination process in step S5 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 27, between step S49 and step 59, the processing from step S50 to step S58 is repeated twice. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  In step S50, the striking strength determination means 266 compares the maximum striking signal MAX [i] with the input acceptance threshold L1.

  If the maximum hit signal is not greater than the input acceptance threshold L1, the hit strength determination means 266 advances the process to step S59 (step S51). On the other hand, if the maximum hit signal is greater than the input acceptance threshold L1, the hit strength determination means 266 proceeds to step S52 (step S51).

  In step S52, the striking strength determination means 266 turns on the striking acceptance flag AF [i] and the sound generation flag SF [i].

  In step S53, the striking strength determination means 266 determines whether the value MAX [i] of the maximum striking signal is within the weak striking range.

  The striking strength determination means 266 proceeds to step S56 if the maximum striking signal value MAX [i] is not within the weak striking range (step S54). On the other hand, if the maximum hit signal value MAX [i] is within the weak hit range, the hit strength determination means 266 proceeds to step S55 (step S54).

  In step S55, the striking strength determination means 266 turns on the weak striking flag F1 [i].

  In step S56, the striking strength determination means 266 determines whether or not the maximum striking signal value MAX [i] is within the striking striking range.

  If the maximum hit signal value MAX [i] is not within the strong hit range, the hit strength determination means 266 advances the process to step S59 (step S57). On the other hand, if the maximum hit signal value MAX [i] is within the strong hit range, the hit strength determination means 266 proceeds to step S58 (step S57).

  In step S58, the striking strength determination means 266 turns on the strong striking flag F2 [i] and advances the process to step S59.

  The striking strength determination means 266 advances the process to step S6 in FIG. 22 after step S59 ends.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the flow of hit determination processing in step S6 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 28, the process from step S61 to step S76 is repeated twice between step S60 and step 77. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  In step S61, hit determination means 270 checks consecutive hit flag CF [i]. Here, the continuous hit flag CF [i] is a flag that is turned on when an instruction for continuous hitting is given, and is turned off when released. Specifically, the continuous hit flag CF [i] is on while the instruction objects 413L, 413R, 415L, and 415R instructing the continuous hit remain in the response objects 170L and 170R.

  If the continuous hit flag CF [i] is on, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S77 (step S62). On the other hand, if the continuous hit flag CF [i] is off, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S63 (step S62).

  In step S63, hit determination means 270 checks hit acceptance flag AF [i].

  If the hit acceptance flag AF [i] is off, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S77 (step S64). On the other hand, if the hit acceptance flag AF [i] is on, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S65 (step S64).

  In step S65, the hit determination means 270 determines whether or not the designated object exists within the best hit range r1.

  If the instruction object exists within the best hit range r1, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S67 (step S66). On the other hand, if the instruction object does not exist within the best hit range r1, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S73 (step S66).

  In step S67, the hit determination means 270 refers to the weak hit flag F1 [i] and the strong hit flag F2 [i] to determine whether or not the indicated object has been hit with the indicated strength.

  If it is as instructed, the hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S69, and otherwise, proceeds to step S70 (step S68).

  In step S69, hit determination means 270 adds 100 points to point P1. On the other hand, in step S70, the hit determination means 270 adds 50 points to the point P2.

  In step S71, hit determination means 270 turns on best hit flag BF [i].

  In step S72, the hit determination means 270 turns off the weak hit flag F1 [i] and the strong hit flag F2 [i].

  Now, in step S73, the hit determination means 270 determines whether or not the instruction object exists within the hit range r2.

  The hit determination means 270 proceeds to step S72 when it does not exist within the hit range r2, and proceeds to step S75 when it exists within the hit range r2 (step S74).

  In step S75, hit determination means 270 adds 50 points to point P2.

  In step S76, hit determination means 270 turns on hit flag HF [i].

  The hit determination means 270 advances the process to step S7 in FIG. 22 after the end of step S77.

  FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the flow of the repeated hit determination process in step S7 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 29, the process from step S79 to step S87 is repeated twice between step S78 and step 88. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  In step S79, the continuous hit determination means 268 checks the continuous hit flag CF [i].

  The continuous hit determination means 268 proceeds to step S87 if the continuous hit flag CF [i] is off, and advances to step S81 if the continuous hit flag CF [i] is on (step S80). In step S87, the continuous hit determination means 268 sets C [i] = 0.

  On the other hand, in step S81, the continuous hit determination means 268 checks the hit acceptance flag AF [i].

  The continuous hit determination means 268 proceeds to step S88 when the hit acceptance flag AF [i] is off, and proceeds to step S83 when it is on (step S82).

  In step S83, the continuous hit determination means 268 increments the counter by one (C [i] = C [i] +1).

  If the count value C [i] is equal to the number K of consecutive hits by the pointing object, the continuous hit determination means 268 proceeds to step S85, and otherwise proceeds to step S88 (step S84).

  In step S85, the continuous hit determination means 268 adds 100 points to the point P1.

  In step S86, the continuous hit determination means 268 sets C [i] = 0.

  The continuous hit determination means 268 advances the process to step S8 in FIG. 22 after step S88 ends.

  As described above, the number of consecutive hits by the player is counted, and points are added when the player has made the specified number of consecutive hits.

  FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the flow of the instruction object display process in step S8 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 30, the processes in steps S180 to S185 are repeated twice between steps S179 and S186. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  The instruction object display control unit 272 proceeds to step S181 when the best hit flag BF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S182 when it is off (step S180).

  In step S181, the instruction object display control unit 272 sets the initial speed of the corresponding instruction object to twice that of the hit. As a result, the pointing object hit within the best hit range r1 is returned at twice the speed at the time of hit.

  The instruction object display control unit 272 proceeds to step S183 when the hit flag HF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S184 when it is off (step S182).

  In step S183, the pointing object display control unit 272 sets the initial speed of the corresponding pointing object as the hit speed. Thereby, the pointing object hit within the hit range r2 is returned at the hit speed.

  When the pointing object reaches the disappearance position P (see FIG. 9), the pointing object display control unit 272 proceeds to step S185, and otherwise proceeds to step S186 (step S184).

  In step S185, the designated object display control unit 272 causes one life 405 to disappear.

  In step S187, the pointing object display control unit 272 performs processing for updating the position of the pointing object. Specifically, the pointing object display control unit 272 sets coordinates based on the speed obtained in step S181 or step S183, or issues a disappearance instruction for the pointing object that has reached the disappearance position P to the graphic driver 280. The instruction object display control means 272 sets the coordinates of the instruction object during exercise.

  In step S188, the instruction object display control unit 272 checks whether or not a new instruction object is registered.

  The instruction object display control means 272 advances the process to step S9 in FIG. 22 when no new instruction object is registered (step S189). On the other hand, if there is a registration of a new instruction object, the instruction object display control unit 272 proceeds to step S190 (step S189).

  In step S190, the indication object display control unit 272 executes appearance processing such as the coordinate setting of the new indication object, and advances the processing to step S9 in FIG.

  FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the response object display process in step S9 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 31, the processing from step S290 to step S299 is repeated twice between step S289 and step S300. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  The response object display control means 274 proceeds to step S297 when the hit acceptance flag AF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S291 when it is off (step S290).

  If the response object is moving, the response object display control unit 274 proceeds to step S292, otherwise proceeds to step S300 (step S291).

  The response object display control means 274 proceeds to step S293 when the best hit flag BF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S295 when it is off (step S292).

  The response object display control means 274 proceeds to step S293 when the hit flag HF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S296 when it is off (step S295).

  The response object display control means 274 proceeds to step S293 when the moving response object reaches the vertex, and proceeds to step S300 otherwise (step S296).

  In step S293, the response object display control unit 274 sets coordinates so that the response object moves to a fixed position. That is, when the response object hits or reaches the vertex, a process of returning to the home position is performed.

  In step S294, the response object display control unit 274 turns off the best hit flag BF [i] and the hit flag HF [i].

  The response object display control means 274 proceeds to step S299 when the continuous hit flag CF [i] is on, and proceeds to step S298 when it is off (step S297).

  In step S298, the response object display control unit 274 sets coordinates to move the response object. That is, when a valid hit is made, the response object is moved in response to the hit.

  In step S299, the response object display control means 274 turns off the batting acceptance flag AF [i].

  The response object display control means 274 advances the process to step S10 in FIG. 22 after step S300 ends.

  FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the flow of interrupt processing. As shown in FIG. 32, in step S500, the sound processor 203 reproduces a melody.

  In step S600, the instruction object registration unit 276 executes instruction object registration processing.

  In step S700, the striking sound instruction information registration unit 278 performs a striking sound instruction information registration process.

  In step S800, the sound processor 203 performs a sound generation process triggered by the hit of the head 9.

  FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the flow of the melody reproduction process in step S500 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 33, in step S501, the sound driver 282 checks the execution standby counter for melody.

  If the value of the execution standby counter for melody is “0”, the process proceeds to step S503, and if it is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S510 (step S502).

  In step S510, the sound driver 282 decrements the execution standby counter for melody.

  In step S503, the sound driver 282 reads and interprets the command indicated by the musical score data pointer for melody.

  If the command is note-on, the process proceeds to step S505 (step S502). On the other hand, if the command is not note-on, that is, if it is standby, the process proceeds to step S511.

  In step S511, the sound driver 282 sets a standby time in the execution standby counter for melody.

  In step S505, the sound driver 282 causes the sound processor 203 to generate a note.

  In step S506, the sound driver 282 increments the musical score data pointer for melody.

  In step S507, the sound driver 282 checks the remaining pronunciation time of each note.

  If the remaining sound generation time is “0”, the process proceeds to step S509; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S600 in FIG. 32 (step S508).

  In step S <b> 509, the sound driver 282 causes the sound processor 203 to execute a sound generation end process for the remaining sound generation time “0”. Then, the process proceeds to step S600 in FIG.

  FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the flow of the instruction object registration process in step S600 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 34, in step S601, the instruction object registration unit 276 checks an execution standby counter for instruction object registration.

  If the value of the execution standby counter for registering the instruction object is “0”, the process proceeds to step S603, and if it is not “0”, the process proceeds to step S609 (step S602).

  In step S609, the instruction object registration unit 276 decrements the execution standby counter for instruction object registration.

  In step S603, the instruction object registration unit 276 reads and interprets the command indicated by the musical score data pointer for instruction object registration.

  If the command is note-on, the process proceeds to step S605 (step S604). On the other hand, if the command is not note-on, that is, if it is standby, the process proceeds to step S610.

  In step S610, the instruction object registration unit 276 sets a waiting time in the execution object counter for instruction object registration.

  If the note number indicates the end of music, the process proceeds to step S611. If not, the process proceeds to step S606 (step S605).

  In step S611, the instruction object registration unit 276 turns on the music end flag.

  If the note number indicates the start of music, the process proceeds to step S608; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S607 (step S606).

  In step S607, the instruction object registration unit 276 newly registers an instruction object.

  In step S608, the instruction object registration unit 276 increments the musical score data pointer for instruction object registration. Then, the process proceeds to step S700 in FIG.

  FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the flow of the hitting sound instruction information registration process in step S700 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 35, in step S701, the hitting sound instruction information registration unit 278 checks the execution standby counter for registering the hitting sound instruction information.

  If the value of the execution standby counter for registering the hitting sound instruction information is “0”, the process proceeds to step S703, and if not “0”, the process proceeds to step S707 (step S702).

  In step S707, the striking sound instruction information registration unit 278 decrements the execution standby counter for striking sound instruction information registration.

  In step S703, the hitting sound instruction information registering unit 278 reads and interprets the command indicated by the score data pointer for registering the hitting sound instruction information.

  If the command is note-on, the process proceeds to step S705 (step S704). On the other hand, if the command is not note-on, that is, if it is standby, the process proceeds to step S708.

  In step S708, the striking sound instruction information registration unit 278 sets a waiting time in the execution standby counter for striking sound instruction information registration.

  In step S705, the hitting sound instruction information registration unit 278 registers the hitting sound instruction information. Specifically, the hitting sound instruction information for the left striking surface 2 (piezoelectric element 17b) is stored in the array H [1], and the striking sound instruction information for the right striking surface 4 (piezoelectric element 17a) is stored in the array H [2]. ].

  In step S706, the hitting sound instruction information registration unit 278 increments the score data pointer for registering the hitting sound instruction information. Then, the process proceeds to step S800 in FIG.

  FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the flow of sound generation processing by the hit in step S800 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 36, the processing from step S801 to step S803 is repeated twice between step S800 and step S804. Here, the meaning of “i” is the same as in FIG.

  If the sound generation flag SF [i] is off, the process proceeds to step S804, and if it is on, the process proceeds to step S802 (step S801).

  In step S802, the sound driver 282 causes the sound processor 203 to generate an impact sound based on the impact sound instruction information H [i].

  In step S803, the sound driver 282 turns off the sound generation flag SF [i].

  As described above, when the sound generation flag SF [i] is on, that is, when an effective hit is made on the head 9, a hitting sound is generated using that as a trigger.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the pointing object image is displayed at an interval that matches the rhythm of the music. Therefore, the player hits at the timing indicated by the pointing object image, so that it matches the music. It can produce easy sounds. Thus, the player can participate in automatic music performance while enjoying the game. As a result, it is possible to provide a game device that is less boring and more interesting.

  Further, since the musical sound generated by the player's hitting can be instructed by the musical sound instruction information, various types of musical sounds can be generated. Accordingly, the player can participate in a variety of automatic performances with one music game device. This is very different from conventional percussion instruments.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to give various instructions to the player by changing the mode of the pointing object image. As a result, by devising the type of instruction, it is possible to change the difficulty level of the game or to give the game many variations. Furthermore, by devising the type of instruction, the player can participate in a more varied automatic performance.

  In the above example, the strength of hitting is instructed according to the size of the pointing object, and the number of consecutive hits is displayed on the pointing object. However, the mode of the pointing object is not limited to these. For example, it is possible to change the color or shape of the pointing object.

  In the present embodiment, two piezoelectric elements for detecting the impact are provided. As described above, by providing a plurality of piezoelectric elements, it is possible to detect the hitting of a plurality of hitting surfaces by the player in accordance with the number of piezoelectric elements. Therefore, it is possible to reflect the hitting of a plurality of hitting surfaces by the player in the game. As a result, a game program with more various contents can be implemented, and more various musical sounds can be generated by hitting. As the piezoelectric element, for example, a piezo element can be used.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, each of the vibration transmission plates 13a and 13b is supported by the support plate 25 via the elastic bodies 21a and 21b and is supported so as not to contact each other. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13a from being transmitted to the vibration transmission plate 13b as much as possible. That is, the situation where the piezoelectric element 17b attached to the vibration transmission plate 13b detects the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13a and outputs a signal that should not be output can be prevented as much as possible. Conversely, it is possible to prevent the vibration of the vibration transmission plate 13b from being transmitted to the vibration transmission plate 13a as much as possible. As a result, it is possible to detect as accurately as possible which striking surface the player has struck, and to prevent sound generation due to malfunction and movement of the response object due to malfunction.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the game can be executed only by connecting the music game apparatus 1 to the television monitor 90. Furthermore, since the television monitor 90 is widely used, many people can enjoy the game simply by purchasing the music game apparatus 1.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the television monitor 90 and the music game apparatus 1 are provided separately. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the image display unit in the music game apparatus 1, and an inexpensive music game apparatus 1 can be provided.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

  (1) In the above description, hits on the two striking surfaces 2 and 4 are detected by the two piezoelectric elements 17a and 17b. However, the numbers of the piezoelectric elements and the striking surface are not limited to this. Each of the piezoelectric element and the striking surface may be one, or three or more. In this case, it is preferable to display the same number of response objects as the piezoelectric elements. Similarly, the number of movement paths of the pointing object is preferably the same as the number of piezoelectric elements.

  (2) In the above description, two response objects 170L and 170R are displayed, and two movement paths a and b are provided correspondingly. These numbers are not limited to two, but may be one or three or more. However, it is not always necessary to match the number of response objects with the number of piezoelectric elements that detect a hit.

  (3) In the above, the two piezoelectric elements 17a and 17b are built in one housing. However, each of the piezoelectric elements 17a and 17b can be incorporated in separate housings. That is, the hit | damage part can be comprised with a separate housing.

  (4) Based on the percussion sound instruction information of FIG. 20, not only the tone of a percussion instrument, but also the tone of a stringed instrument, the tone of a keyboard instrument, the tone of a wind instrument, the sound, the noise sound, the sound of an animal, the sound that exists in nature, etc. Various tones can be specified.

  (5) In the above description, the strength of hitting indicated by the pointing object has two levels of strong and weak. However, it is not limited to this. Three or more stages may be used.

  (6) In the second musical score data 306 and the third musical score data 307, it is preferable not to use the note number used in the first musical score data 305. In the second musical score data 306 and the third musical score data 307, it is preferable not to use the instrument designation information used in the first musical score data 305.

  (7) As an example of game play, one player can hold the stick 96 in both hands and hit the head 9 to play a game. Also, for example, two players enjoy the game by holding the stick 96 in both hands so that one player strikes the left striking surface 2 and the other player strikes the right striking surface 4. You can also.

  (8) As another example of the game screen, a screen on which the computer (high-speed processor 50) plays a game (for example, a screen obtained by reducing the screen of FIG. 8 in half) and a screen on which a player plays a game (for example, FIG. The screen can be displayed on a single screen 91 so that the player can play against the computer.

  (9) In the above description, the third musical score data 307 is used for setting the hitting sound. However, for example, it is possible to set the sound of the impact directly according to the time, such as setting a certain sound for a certain time from the start of music, and then setting another sound for a certain time. it can. Further, the hitting sound can be fixed until the end of the music, and the volume can be fixed.

  (10) In the above, the music game apparatus 1 is not provided with a display unit. However, the music game device 1 may be provided with an integrated display unit. In this way, a portable music game device can be provided. For example, a liquid crystal display unit can be adopted as the display unit.

  (11) Although any type of processor can be used as the high-speed processor 50 in FIG. 6, it is preferable to use a high-speed processor (trade name: XaviX) that has already been applied for a patent by the present applicant. This high speed processor is disclosed in detail, for example, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-307790 and US Pat. No. 6,070,205 corresponding thereto.

The figure which shows the whole structure of the music game system in embodiment of this invention. The top view of the music game device of FIG. The side view of the music game device of FIG. FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the music game apparatus of FIG. 1. Sectional drawing by the AA line of FIG. The figure which shows the electrical structure of the music game device of FIG. FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of the right hit detection circuit of FIG. 6. The illustration figure of the game screen in the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an operation of returning an indication object by the response object of FIG. Explanatory drawing of the strength judgment of head hitting with a stick. The other illustration figure of the game screen in embodiment of this invention. The further another illustration figure of the game screen in embodiment of this invention. The further another illustration figure of the game screen in embodiment of this invention. The block diagram which shows the detail of the high speed processor of FIG. The conceptual diagram of the program and data which are stored in ROM of FIG. The conceptual diagram which shows an example of the 1st score data of FIG. The conceptual diagram which shows an example of the 2nd score data of FIG. FIG. 18 is a relationship diagram between a note number used in the second musical score data of FIG. 17 and a pointing object. The conceptual diagram which shows an example of the 3rd score data of FIG. FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram of a batting sound setting table stored in the ROM of FIG. 6. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the CPU in FIG. 14. The flowchart which shows the flow of the whole process of the game device of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the initial setting process of step S1 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the game state check process of step S2 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the striking sound setting process of step S3 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the maximum impact signal detection process of step S4 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the striking strength determination process of step S5 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the hit determination process of step S6 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the continuous hit | judging determination process of FIG.22 S7. The flowchart which shows the flow of the instruction | indication object display process of FIG.22 S8. The flowchart which shows the flow of the response object display process of step S9 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of an interruption process. The flowchart which shows the flow of the melody reproduction | regeneration process of step S500 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the instruction | indication object registration process of FIG.32 S600. The flowchart which shows the flow of the striking sound instruction information registration process of step S700 of FIG. The flowchart which shows the flow of the sound generation process by the hit | damage of step S800 of FIG. The whole block diagram of the conventional ball paddle game device. FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of a game screen by a conventional ball paddle game apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Music game device, 2 ... Right striking surface, 3, 5 ... Housing member, 7 ... Stand, 9 ... Head, 11 ... Power switch, 13a, 13b ... Vibration transmission plate, 15a, 15b, 19a, 19b ... Buffer member 17a, 17b ... piezoelectric elements, 21a, 21b ... elastic bodies, 25 ... support plates, 27a, 27b, 39a, 39b ... through holes, 29 ... connectors, 31 ... substrates, 33 ... battery boxes, 35, 37 ... screws, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 50 ... High-speed processor, 52 ... Right hit detection circuit, 54 ... Left hit detection circuit, 56, 64 ... ROM, 58 ... Image signal output terminal, 60 ... Music signal output terminal, 62 ... Bus, 70, 71 ... Capacitor, 72 74, 76, 78 ... resistive elements, 80, 81, 82 ... diodes, 83 ... peak hold circuit, 90, 500 ... television monitor, 91 ... screen 93 ... AV cable, 94 ... AC adapter, 95 ... memory cartridge, 96 ... stick, 130a, 130b ... guide, 201 ... CPU, 202 ... graphic processor, 203 ... sound processor, 204 ... DMA controller, 205 ... first bus arbitration Circuit 206 206 Second bus arbitration circuit 207 Internal memory 208 ADC (A / D converter) 209 Input / output control circuit 210 Timer circuit 211 DRAM refresh control circuit 212 External memory interface circuit 213, clock driver, 214, PLL circuit, 215, low voltage detection circuit, 216, crystal oscillator, 217, battery, 218, first bus, 219, second bus, 260, game state check means, 262, blow Sound setting means, 264 ... Maximum impact signal Output means 266... Impact strength determination means 268. Continuous hit determination means 270 ... Hit determination means 272 ... Instruction object display control means 274 ... Response object display control means 276 ... Instruction object registration means 278 ... Impact sound instruction Information registration means, 280 ... graphic driver, 282 ... sound driver, 501 ... game machine, 502 to 505 ... paddle key.

Claims (9)

A hit detection means for detecting the hit strength by the player and outputting hit information indicating the hit strength;
Responding to a response object image displayed corresponding to the hit detection means, an instruction object image for instructing the player at the timing of hit, musical score data for automatically playing music, and a trigger based on the hit information A processor capable of accessing storage means for storing musical sound instruction information for directing musical sounds for pronunciation,
The processor automatically plays the music based on the musical score data, displays the instruction object image on a screen of a display device at intervals according to the rhythm of the music based on the musical score data, and In response to the trigger based on the hit information, a tone signal is generated according to the tone instruction information, and the response object image displayed on the screen is changed based on the hit information from the hit detection means. And a music game device that changes the pointing object image when the pointing object image is within a predetermined range from a predetermined reference position when the response object image changes. The music game device according to claim 1, wherein a mode of the pointing object image is determined according to a hitting mode instructed to the player. The music game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the hitting mode instructed to the player is a hitting strength or the number of consecutive hits. The music game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the musical tone instruction information indicates either a tone color or a volume, or both. The music game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of hit detection means are provided. A hit portion provided in a housing in which the hit detection means and the processor are built; and
The hit part is
A head that is directly hit,
A vibration transmission plate corresponding to each of the hit detection means;
A plurality of elastic bodies corresponding to each of the vibration transmission plates;
A support for supporting all the vibration transmission plates,
The vibration transmission plate is supported by the support via the corresponding elastic bodies,
The support is fixed inside the housing such that the vibration transmission plate faces the back surface of the head,
A surface of the head is exposed from the housing;
The impact detection element included in the impact detection means is attached to the corresponding vibration transmission plate facing the support,
The music game device according to claim 5, wherein each of the vibration transmission plates is supported by the support so as not to contact each other. The music game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display device is a television monitor. A music game device according to claim 1;
A television monitor for displaying the response object image and the instruction object image,
A music game system provided separately from the television monitor and the music game device. A music game device according to claim 1;
A display device for displaying the response object image and the instruction object image,
A music game system in which the display device and the music game device are provided as a unit.

Images