JP2010125119A - Game program, game machine, and game control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game for realistically reproducing a play to be performed by a character being under automatic control. <P>SOLUTION: A first character 103 and second characters 101, 102, 104-109 are displayed in an image display part 3 by the program. Then, the second characters 101, 102, 104-109 are automatically controlled, and a second instruction for operating the second characters 101, 102, 104-109 is indicated when the first character 103 is not directly related to the play under progress. Consequently, the operation of at least one among the plurality of second characters 101, 102, 104-109 is changed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a game program, and more particularly to a game program capable of executing a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by a player are automatically controlled. The present invention also relates to a game apparatus that can execute the game program, and a game control method that is controlled by a computer based on the game program.

  Conventionally, various video games have been proposed. These video games are executed in a game device. For example, a general game device has a monitor, a game machine main body separate from the monitor, and an input device such as a controller separate from the game machine main body. The controller has a plurality of input buttons.

  As one of video games realized in such a game device, for example, a baseball game is known (see Non-Patent Document 1). In this baseball game, when the player operates the controller, a command for the player character is issued from the control unit, or a command for the player character is issued from the control unit based on the automatic control program. In this way, the baseball game is executed by causing the control unit to issue a command for the player character.

In such a baseball game, the player can select a battle mode, a training mode, and the like, and can execute the game in the mode selected by the player. For example, in the battle mode, a battle mode in which the player commands all player characters of one team, a battle mode in which the player commands only one player character of one team, and the like are prepared. ing. Here, when the battle mode in which the player directs only one player character of one team is executed, the other player characters are controlled based on the automatic control program.
Professional baseball spirits 5, Konami Co., Ltd., April 1, 2008, PlayStation version

  In a conventional baseball game, when a battle mode in which the player conducts only one player character (target player character) is executed, the player becomes a target player character and enjoys the baseball game. Can do. In this case, the target player character moves when the player operates the controller. The player characters excluding the target player character operate independently of the target player character based on a predetermined automatic control program.

  Here, in order to specifically explain the actions of the player characters excluding the target player character, let us consider a play in which the batter character gives off a light-over blow when the runner character is present at the second base. In this case, when a fielder character other than the target player character catches the ball, the fielder character sends the ball toward a predetermined basket, for example, a home based on the automatic control program. Here, in terms of timing, the runner character cannot be taken out at home, and even if it is more desirable to send the ball to the second base depending on the fielder's catching situation and the runner's running habit, such a situation is considered. The fielder character is automatically sent to the home. As a player, while being dissatisfied with the play, since it is a battle mode in which the player directs only one player character (target player character) in the first place, the player cannot be involved in the play of the fielder character, There was a problem that the game had to be advanced.

  However, in order to solve this problem, a system that always selects a suitable pitching destination under various conditions by combining various factors such as the fielder's catching situation, the runner's scissors, and the position of each fielder. When trying to build, it has to assume a very large number of cases, which is not realistic. Moreover, even if some system is constructed, whether or not the player is satisfied with the play in the end depends on the preference of each player, so that a complete play can be realized in this respect as well. It is difficult. On the other hand, since the present invention is directed to a battle mode in which the player directs only one player character (target player character), the player cannot operate other fielder characters.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to perform automatic control in a battle mode in which the player commands only one player character (target player character). It is in providing the game which can advance a play, without feeling dissatisfied with the play which another character performs.

A game program according to claim 1 is a program for causing a computer capable of executing a game in which a plurality of second characters are automatically controlled, excluding the first character operated by a player, to realize the following functions: It is.
(1) A first character display function for displaying the first character on the image display unit.
(2) A second character display function for displaying a plurality of second characters on the image display unit.
(3) A second character automatic control function for automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for operating the second character.
(4) When the first character is not directly involved in playing the game in progress, the control unit issues a second command for operating the second character based on the input signal from the input unit. Thus, a second character action changing function for changing the action of at least one second character of the plurality of second characters.

  In this game program, the first character is displayed on the image display unit in the first character display function. In the second character display function, a plurality of second characters are displayed on the image display unit. In the second character automatic control function, the second character is automatically controlled by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for operating the second character. In the second character action changing function, when the first character is not directly involved in the playing of the ongoing game, a second command for causing the second character to move based on the input signal from the input unit is issued. By causing the control unit to issue, the action of at least one second character among the plurality of second characters is changed.

  A case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. A first fielder character operated by a player is displayed on the image display unit. A plurality of second fielder characters that are automatically controlled are displayed on the image display unit. Here, the second fielder character is automatically controlled by causing the control unit to automatically issue the first command for operating the second fielder character. Then, when the first fielder character is not directly involved in the playing of the game in progress, the control unit issues a second command for operating the second fielder character based on the input signal from the input unit. Then, the action of at least one second fielder character among the plurality of second fielder characters is changed.

  In this case, when the player operating the first fielder character instructs the second fielder character from the controller during the automatic control of the second fielder character, at least one of the plurality of second fielder characters. The action of one second fielder character is changed.

  Here, in order to explain the present invention specifically, a play in a case where a batter character gives off a light-over blow when two runner characters are present. Here, it is assumed that the first fielder character operated by the player is a first baseman and the second fielder character is a fielder other than the first baseman.

  In this case, if the player who operates the first fielder character at first glance does not perform any controller operation after the second fielder character of light catches the ball, the second fielder character of light returns to the home. The ball throwing operation (ball throwing operation by automatic control) is performed. At this time, the other second fielder characters other than the light second fielder character also form the ball-throw cover and other predetermined formations based on the automatic control program.

  The above is a case where the player is not involved in the fielder's ball throwing. If the player determines that there is a possibility that the runner (batter who has released a light-over hit ball) may be stabbed by throwing the ball, the player can be involved in the movement of the second fielder character that cannot be operated originally.

  That is, here, when the player operates the controller to instruct the second fielder character to give a second baseball throwing command (second instruction), the light second fielder character performs a second baseball throwing action. . The image of the two-ball throwing command is not an image in which the player directly operates the second fielder character of the light, but the first player character operated by the player “throws!” To the second fielder character. It is an image that orders in the form of a voice. At this time, the other second fielder characters other than the light second fielder character form a pitch cover and other formations.

  As described above, the player can play other players who cannot originally operate, for example, in the form of a voice call, in a situation where, for example, his / her operation character cannot directly catch or throw a ball. An instruction can be given indirectly to the character. As a result, conventionally, the player can only watch the movement of other player characters by automatic control, and can be indirectly involved in the play even when he feels dissatisfied. Therefore, regardless of whether the result of the play is out or safe, the player can convince and accept the result. In addition, game options themselves are improved by expanding game options.

A game program according to claim 2 is a program for causing the computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to claim 1.
(5) Command determination for causing the control unit to determine whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command when an input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit. function.

  In this game program, in the command determination function, when the input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit, whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command, Determined by the control unit. In the second character motion change function, when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit is a command different from the first command, the second command is issued to the control unit, so that a plurality of second commands The action of at least one second character of the two characters is changed.

  The case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. The second fielder character that the player operating the first fielder character instructs the second fielder character from the controller during the automatic control of the second fielder character. The control unit determines whether or not the command matches the first command for automatic control for the second fielder character. Here, when the second instruction is different from the first instruction, the second instruction is issued from the control unit. Then, the action (action during automatic control) of at least one second fielder character among the plurality of second fielder characters is changed.

  In this case, when the second command given to the second fielder character by the player operating the first fielder character is a command different from the first command for automatic control for the second fielder character, The movement of the second fielder character during automatic control is changed. Generally speaking, in the present invention, when the action instructed by the player to the second character is different from the action of the second character being automatically controlled, the action instructed by the player to the second character has priority. The For this reason, if the player can give a realistic instruction, the play performed by the character under automatic control can be reproduced more realistically.

A game program according to claim 3 is a program for causing a computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to claim 1 or 2.
(6) Command determination that causes the control unit to determine whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command when an input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit. function.
(7) When the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command, the control unit prohibits the issuance of the second command, thereby continuing the automatic control of the second character. 2-character automatic control continuation function.

  In this game program, in the command determination function, when the input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit, whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command, Determined by the control unit. In the second character automatic control continuation function, when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command, the control unit prohibits the second command from being issued. This automatic control is continued.

  The case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. The second fielder character that the player operating the first fielder character instructs the second fielder character from the controller during the automatic control of the second fielder character. The control unit determines whether or not the command matches the first command for automatic control for the second fielder character. Here, when the second command is the same command as the first command, issuance of the second command is prohibited by the control unit, and automatic control of the second character is continued.

  In this case, when the second command given to the second fielder character by the player operating the first fielder character is the same command as the first command for automatic control for the second fielder character, The first command for automatic control has priority, and the movement of the second fielder character during automatic control is continuously executed.

  Here, the advantages of the present invention will be specifically described. In this case, a method of prioritizing the second command (= first command) instructed by the player and a method of prioritizing the first command for automatic control for the second fielder character are conceivable. Here, in the former case, the control unit needs to cancel the first command for automatic control currently being executed and execute the second command (= first command) instructed by the player. On the other hand, in the latter case, the control unit ignores the second command (= first command) instructed by the player and simply executes the first command for automatic control currently being executed. good. Thus, in the latter case, that is, in the case of the present invention, the game can proceed efficiently. Further, in the case of the present invention, the burden on the control unit can be reduced.

A game program according to claim 4 is a program for causing a computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
(8) A moving object display function for displaying a moving object on the image display unit.

  In this game program, the moving object is displayed on the image display unit in the moving object display function. In the second character motion changing function, from the time when the automatic control of each of the plurality of second characters starts until the time when the moving body is sent from the second character that has captured the moving body, Based on the input signal, by causing the control unit to issue a second command for the plurality of second characters, the action of at least one of the plurality of second characters is changed.

  When this game program is applied to a baseball game as an example, the ball returned by the batter character is displayed on the image display unit. Based on the input signal from the input unit from the time when the automatic control of each of the plurality of second fielder characters is started until the time when the ball is sent out from the second fielder character that caught the ball, Commands for a plurality of second fielder characters are issued from the control unit. Then, the action of at least one second fielder character among the plurality of second fielder characters is changed.

  In this case, when the ball is hit back by the batter character, the second fielder character is automatically controlled by the control unit. Then, when the player operating the first fielder character instructs the second fielder character to the second command from the controller within a predetermined time, at least one second of the plurality of second fielder characters is selected. The behavior of the fielder character is changed. Here, the ball is sent from the second fielder character who caught the ball from the time when the automatic control of each of the plurality of second fielder characters is started for a predetermined time during which the movement of the second fielder character can be changed. It is in between.

  Thus, in the present invention, since the time during which the movement of the second fielder character can be changed is defined, the play performed by the character under automatic control while restricting the instruction of the command due to the erroneous operation of the player, It can be reproduced more realistically. Generally speaking, it is possible to more realistically reproduce the play performed by the character under automatic control while restricting the problem of erroneous operation unique to the game.

A game program according to claim 5 is a program for causing a computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
(9) A moving object display function for displaying a moving object on the image display unit.

  In this game program, the moving object is displayed on the image display unit in the moving object display function. Here, the movement of the second character is at least one of the movement of the second character, the movement of the second character catching the moving body, and the movement of the second character sending out the moving body. It corresponds.

  A case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. When a ball returned by a batter character is displayed on an image display unit, a plurality of second fielder characters are displayed in accordance with the moving direction of the ball. Each moving state is displayed on the image display unit. Then, a state where a second fielder character catches the ball is displayed on the image display unit. The state in which the second fielder character throws the ball is displayed on the image display unit.

  In this case, the movement of each of the plurality of second fielder characters, the catching motion of a certain second fielder character, and the ball throwing motion of the ball caught by the second fielder character correspond to the motion of the second fielder character. ing.

  Therefore, in the present invention, each of the plurality of second fielder characters can be moved in order to form a predetermined formation according to each command. For example, when the ball flies to the outfield, the second fielder character can be moved to a backup position, to a relay position, or the like. In addition, it is possible to cause the second fielder character to perform the action of sending the caught ball. Thereby, the play which the 2nd fielder character at the time of defense can reproduce more realistically. In general terms, even when the moving object is displayed on the image display unit, the play performed by the second character can be reproduced more realistically.

A game program according to claim 6 is a program for causing a computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
(10) A first notification for displaying a first notification image for notifying the content of the second command on the image display unit when a second command for operating the second character is issued from the control unit. Image display function.

  In this game program, in the first notification image display function, when a second command for operating the second character is issued from the control unit, a first notification image for notifying the content of the second command is provided. Is displayed on the image display section.

  A case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. When a second command for operating the second fielder character is issued from the control unit, the content of the second command is notified. The first notification image is displayed on the image display unit.

  Here, in order to explain the present invention in detail, a play in a case where the batter character has made a double strike is considered. Here, it is assumed that the first fielder character is a first baseman and the second fielder character is a fielder other than the first baseman.

  For example, after the second fielder character of the left catches the ball, the player who operates the first fielder character of the first point instructs the second fielder character from the controller to the second fielder ball command (second command). , “Notice!” Is displayed on the image display unit.

  In this way, in the present invention, since the command instructed by the player is notified on the screen, the player can visually check whether or not the command instructed by the player has been executed without fail by the control unit.

A game program according to claim 7 is a program for causing a computer to further realize the following functions in the game program according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
(11) When the movement of the second character is changed, the control section executes a process for evaluating the result of the movement of the second character, whereby a second notification image for notifying the evaluation is displayed on the image display section. Second notification image display function to display.

  In this game program, when the movement of the second character is changed in the second notification image display function, the evaluation is notified by causing the control unit to execute a process for evaluating the result of the movement of the second character. The second notification image is displayed on the image display unit.

  A case where this game program is applied to a baseball game will be described as an example. When the movement of the second fielder character is changed, the control unit is caused to execute processing for evaluating the result of the movement of the second fielder character. Thus, the second notification image that notifies the evaluation is displayed on the image display unit.

  Here, in order to explain the present invention in detail, a play in a case where the batter character gives a second stroke when the runner character exists at a glance is considered. Here, it is assumed that the first fielder character is a first baseman and the second fielder character is a fielder other than the first baseman.

  For example, after the second fielder character of the left catches the ball, the player who operates the first fielder character of the first point instructs the second fielder character from the controller to the second fielder ball command (second command). The other second fielder characters other than the left second fielder character form a formation when the left second fielder character sends the ball to the second base. Then, the second fielder character of the left performs a pitching action to the second base. Then, the control unit determines whether or not the runner character is out in the second base. When the runner character goes out at second base, the instruction given by the player is evaluated positively. Then, a positive evaluation (second notification image) is displayed on the image display unit. On the other hand, when the player has instructed a double throwing ball command (second command) and no runner character can be out, the instruction given by the player is evaluated as negative. Then, this negative evaluation (second notification image) is displayed on the image display unit.

  As described above, in the present invention, since the evaluation of the command instructed by the player is displayed on the screen, the player can visually recognize whether the command instructed by the player is good or bad.

  A game device according to an eighth aspect is a game device capable of executing a game in which a plurality of second characters are automatically controlled except for a first character operated by a player.

  The game apparatus operates a first character displaying means for displaying a first character on an image display section, a second character displaying means for displaying a plurality of second characters on an image display section, and a second character. When the first character is not directly involved in playing the ongoing game, the second character automatic control means for automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue the first command Based on the input signal from the input unit, the control unit issues a second command for moving the second character to move at least one second character among the plurality of second characters. And a second character action changing means for changing.

  A game control method according to a ninth aspect is a game control method capable of controlling, by a computer, a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by a player are automatically controlled.

  In this game control method, a first character display step for displaying a first character on an image display unit, a second character display step for displaying a plurality of second characters on an image display unit, and a second character are operated. A second character automatic control step for automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for the first character, and when the first character is not directly involved in playing the game in progress In addition, by causing the control unit to issue a second command for moving the second character based on an input signal from the input unit, the second character of at least one of the plurality of second characters is selected. A second character action changing step for changing the action.

  In the present invention, the player can play other player characters that cannot be operated in the form of, for example, speaking in a situation where, for example, the player's operation character cannot directly catch or throw a ball under predetermined conditions. Indirect instructions can be issued. As a result, conventionally, the player can only watch the movement of other player characters by automatic control, and can be indirectly involved in the play even when he feels dissatisfied. Therefore, even if the result of the play is out or safe, the player can accept and accept the result. In addition, game options themselves are improved by expanding game options.

[Configuration and operation of game device]
FIG. 1 shows a basic configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Here, a home video game device will be described as an example of the video game device. The home video game apparatus includes a home game machine body and a home television. The home game machine body can be loaded with a recording medium 10, and game data is read from the recording medium 10 as appropriate to execute the game. The contents of the game executed in this way are displayed on the home television.

  The game system of the home video game apparatus includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an image display unit 3, an audio output unit 4, and an operation input unit 5, which are connected via a bus 6. Is done. The bus 6 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. Here, the control unit 1, the storage unit 2, the audio output unit 4, and the operation input unit 5 are included in the home game machine body of the home video game apparatus, and the image display unit 3 is included in the home television. It is.

  The control unit 1 is provided mainly for controlling the progress of the entire game based on the game program. The control unit 1 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 7, a signal processor 8, and an image processor 9. The CPU 7, the signal processor 8, and the image processor 9 are connected to each other via the bus 6. The CPU 7 interprets instructions from the game program and performs various data processing and control. For example, the CPU 7 instructs the signal processor 8 to supply image data to the image processor. The signal processor 8 mainly performs calculation in the three-dimensional space, position conversion calculation from the three-dimensional space to the pseudo three-dimensional space, light source calculation processing, and image and audio data generation processing. ing. The image processor 9 mainly performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result and the processing result of the signal processor 8.

  The storage unit 2 is provided mainly for storing program data and various data used in the program data. The storage unit 2 includes, for example, a recording medium 10, an interface circuit 11, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12. An interface circuit 11 is connected to the recording medium 10. The interface circuit 11 and the RAM 12 are connected via the bus 6. The recording medium 10 is for recording operation system program data, image data, audio data, game data including various program data, and the like. The recording medium 10 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) cassette, an optical disk, a flexible disk, or the like, and stores operating system program data, game data, and the like. The recording medium 10 also includes a card type memory, and this card type memory is mainly used for storing various game parameters at the time of interruption when the game is interrupted. The RAM 12 is used for temporarily storing various data read from the recording medium 10 and temporarily recording the processing results from the control unit 1. The RAM 12 stores various data and address data indicating the storage position of the various data, and can be read / written by designating an arbitrary address.

  The image display unit 3 is provided mainly for outputting image data written in the RAM 12 by the image processor 9 or image data read from the recording medium 10 as an image. The image display unit 3 includes, for example, a television monitor 20, an interface circuit 21, and a D / A converter (Digital-To-Analog converter) 22. A D / A converter 22 is connected to the television monitor 20, and an interface circuit 21 is connected to the D / A converter 22. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 21. Here, the image data is supplied to the D / A converter 22 via the interface circuit 21, where it is converted into an analog image signal. The analog image signal is output as an image to the television monitor 20.

  Here, the image data includes, for example, polygon data and texture data. Polygon data is the coordinate data of vertices constituting a polygon. The texture data is for setting a texture on the polygon, and is composed of texture instruction data and texture color data. The texture instruction data is data for associating polygons and textures, and the texture color data is data for designating the texture color. Here, the polygon data and the texture data are associated with the polygon address data indicating the storage position of each data and the texture address data. In such image data, the signal processor 8 coordinates the polygon data in the three-dimensional space indicated by the polygon address data (three-dimensional polygon data) based on the movement amount data and the rotation amount data of the screen itself (viewpoint). Conversion and perspective projection conversion are performed, and the data is replaced with polygon data (two-dimensional polygon data) in a two-dimensional space. Then, a polygon outline is constituted by a plurality of two-dimensional polygon data, and texture data indicated by the texture address data is written in an internal area of the polygon. In this way, an object in which a texture is pasted on each polygon, that is, various characters can be expressed.

  The audio output unit 4 is provided mainly for outputting audio data read from the recording medium 10 as audio. The audio output unit 4 includes, for example, a speaker 13, an amplifier circuit 14, a D / A converter 15, and an interface circuit 16. An amplifier circuit 14 is connected to the speaker 13, a D / A converter 15 is connected to the amplifier circuit 14, and an interface circuit 16 is connected to the D / A converter 15. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16, where it is converted into an analog audio signal. The analog audio signal is amplified by the amplifier circuit 14 and output from the speaker 13 as audio. The audio data includes, for example, ADPCM (Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation) data and PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) data. In the case of ADPCM data, sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above. In the case of PCM data, by converting the PCM data into ADPCM data in the RAM 12, the sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above.

  The operation input unit 5 mainly includes a controller 17, an operation information interface circuit 18, and an interface circuit 19. An operation information interface circuit 18 is connected to the controller 17, and an interface circuit 19 is connected to the operation information interface circuit 18. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 19.

  The controller 17 is an operation device used by the player to input various operation commands, and sends an operation signal according to the operation of the player to the CPU 7. The controller 17 includes a first button 17a, a second button 17b, a third button 17c, a fourth button 17d, an up key 17U, a down key 17D, a left key 17L, a right key 17R, and an L1 button 17L1, L2. A button 17L2, an R1 button 17R1, an R2 button 17R2, a start button 17e, a select button 17f, a left stick 17SL and a right stick 17SR are provided.

  The up direction key 17U, the down direction key 17D, the left direction key 17L, and the right direction key 17R are used, for example, to give the CPU 7 a command for moving a character or cursor up, down, left, or right on the screen of the television monitor 20. .

  The start button 17e is used when instructing the CPU 7 to load the game program from the recording medium 10, or when temporarily stopping the game program being executed.

  The select button 17f is used when instructing the CPU 7 to make various selections for the game program loaded from the recording medium 10.

  The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are stick type controllers having substantially the same configuration as a so-called joystick. This stick type controller has an upright stick. The stick is configured to be tiltable from an upright position around the fulcrum in a 360 ° direction including front, rear, left and right. The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR pass through the operation information interface circuit 18 and the interface circuit 19 with the values of the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate having the upright position as the origin as operation signals according to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the stick. To the CPU 7.

  The first button 17a, the second button 17b, the third button 17c, the fourth button 17d, the L1 button 17L1, the L2 button 17L2, the R1 button 17R1, and the R2 button 17R2 correspond to the game program loaded from the recording medium 10. Various functions are allocated.

  Each button and each key of the controller 17 except for the left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are turned on when pressed from the neutral position by an external pressing force, and return to the neutral position when the pressing force is released. It is an on / off switch that turns off.

  The communication unit 23 includes a communication control circuit 24 and a communication interface 25. The communication control circuit 24 and the communication interface 25 are used for connecting the game device to a server, another game device, or the like. The communication control circuit 24 and the communication interface 25 are connected to the CPU 7 via the bus 6. The communication control circuit 24 and the communication interface 25 control and transmit a connection signal for connecting the game device to the Internet in accordance with a command from the CPU 7. The communication control circuit 24 and the communication interface 25 control and transmit a connection signal for connecting the game device to a server or another game device via the Internet.

  The schematic operation of the home video game apparatus having the above configuration will be described below. When a power switch (not shown) is turned on and the game system is turned on, the CPU 7 reads image data, audio data, and program data from the recording medium 10 based on the operating system stored in the recording medium 10. Is read. Some or all of the read image data, audio data, and program data are stored in the RAM 12. Then, the CPU 7 issues a command to the image data and sound data stored in the RAM 12 based on the program data stored in the RAM 12.

  In the case of image data, based on a command from the CPU 7, first, the signal processor 8 performs character position calculation and light source calculation in a three-dimensional space. Next, the image processor 9 performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result of the signal processor 8. Then, the image data written in the RAM 12 is supplied to the D / A converter 22 via the interface circuit 21. Here, the image data is converted into an analog video signal by the D / A converter 22. The image data is supplied to the television monitor 20 and displayed as an image.

  In the case of audio data, first, the signal processor 8 generates and processes audio data based on a command from the CPU 7. Here, processing such as pitch conversion, noise addition, envelope setting, level setting, and reverb addition is performed on the audio data, for example. Next, the audio data is output from the signal processor 8 and supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is converted into an analog audio signal. The audio data is output as audio from the speaker 13 via the amplifier circuit 14.

[Outline of various processes in game devices]
The game executed in this game device is, for example, a baseball game. In this game apparatus, a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by the player is automatically controlled can be executed. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram for explaining functions that play a major role in the present invention.

  The first player character display means 50 has a function of displaying the first player character on the television monitor 20.

  In this means, the first player character is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the image data for the first player character. For example, when the first player character is a first baseman, a still image and a moving image of the first baseman character are displayed on the television monitor 20 using image data for the first baseman. The operation of the first player character is controlled based on an input signal from the controller 17.

  The image data used here is stored in the RAM 12 when the game program is loaded.

  The second player character display means 51 has a function of displaying a plurality of second player characters on the television monitor 20.

  In this means, the second player character is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the image data for the second player character. For example, when the first player character is a first baseman and the second player character is a plurality of players excluding the first baseman, still images and videos of the plurality of player characters excluding the first baseman are used for each player. The image data is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  Specifically, when the first player character is a first base character, the plurality of second player characters are a pitcher character, a catcher character, a second base character, a third base character, an outfielder character, a batter character, and a runner character. The image data used here is stored in the RAM 12 when the game program is loaded.

  The ball display means 52 has a function of displaying the ball on the television monitor 20.

  With this means, the ball is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the image data for the ball. For example, when a ball thrown from the pitcher character is returned by the batter character, the ball returned by the batter character is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the image data for the ball.

  The second player character automatic control means 53 has a function of automatically controlling the second player character by causing the CPU 7 to automatically issue a first command for operating the second player character.

  In this means, the second player character is automatically controlled by causing the CPU 7 to automatically issue a first command for operating the second player character. For example, based on an automatic control program (AI program, Artificial Intelligence Program) stored in the RAM 12, a first command for operating the second player character is automatically issued from the CPU 7. Then, based on this 1st command, operation of the 2nd player character is controlled automatically.

  Here, when the second player character is a fielder character, the fielder character's movement is at least one of the movement of the fielder character, the movement of the fielder character catching the ball, and the action of the fielder character sending out the ball. Corresponds to one operation. When the second player character is a batter character, the batter character's action corresponds to at least one of a swing action and a running action. Furthermore, when the second player character is a runner character, the runner character's action corresponds to a scolding action.

  It is included in automatic control programs and game programs. This automatic control program is prepared for each of a plurality of player characters. Thereby, a different motion can be executed for each of the plurality of player characters.

  The play involvement determination means 54 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to determine whether or not the first player character is directly involved in the ongoing play.

  In this means, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the first player character is directly involved in the ongoing play. For example, when the first player character is a first-hand character, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the first-hand character is a character that can directly catch a hit ball. Specifically, the fielder character close to the passing course of the hit ball or the hit position of the hit ball is recognized by the CPU 7 as a target character that can catch the hit ball. Then, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the first baseball character is included in the target player character.

  The command issuing means 55 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to issue a command corresponding to the input signal by causing the CPU 7 to recognize the input signal from the controller 17.

  In this means, by causing the CPU 7 to recognize an input signal from the controller 17, a command corresponding to this input signal is issued from the CPU 7. For example, when the controller 17 is operated by the player, an input signal from the controller 17 is recognized by the CPU 7. Then, a command corresponding to this input signal is issued from the CPU 7.

  The correspondence between the input signal from the controller 17 and the command corresponding to the input signal is defined in advance in the game program.

  The first command discriminating unit 56 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to discriminate whether or not the command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the second command when the CPU 7 recognizes the input signal from the controller 17. It has.

  In this means, when the CPU 7 recognizes the input signal from the controller 17, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the second command. For example, when the controller 17 is operated by the player, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the command instructed by the player is the second command.

  The second command determining means 57 determines whether the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the first command when the CPU 7 recognizes the input signal from the controller 17. It has a function to let you.

  In this means, when an input signal from the controller 17 is recognized by the CPU 7, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the first command. Here, for example, when the command instructed by the player is the second command, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the second command is the same as the first command.

  The second fielder character motion changing means 58 is a second command for moving the second player character based on the input signal from the controller 17 when the first player character is not directly involved in the ongoing play. Is issued to the CPU 7, thereby providing a function of changing the action of at least one second player character of the plurality of second player characters.

  Further, when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 is a command different from the first command, the second player character motion changing means 58 makes the CPU 7 issue a second command to The function of changing the motion of at least one second player character among the second player characters is provided.

  With this means, when the first player character is not directly involved in the ongoing play, and the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 is different from the first command, the second command is , Issued from the CPU 7. Thereby, the action of at least one second fielder character among the plurality of second player characters is changed.

  Further, in this means, the controller between the time when the automatic control of each of the plurality of second player characters is started and the time when the ball is sent out from the fielder character that has captured the ball (second command instruction possible period). The input signal from 17 is recognized by the CPU 7. In other words, the player can instruct the second command only during the second command instructable period.

  For example, if the first-handed character is not a character that can directly catch the hit ball in the second command instruction possible period, the fielder characters other than the first-handed character are characters that can directly catch the hit ball. . In this case, when the second command instructed by the player is different from the first command, the second command is issued from the CPU 7. Then, the action of at least one of the fielder characters among the plurality of fielder characters is changed.

  The first notification image display means 59 displays a first notification image for notifying the contents of the second command when the second command for moving the second player character is issued from the CPU 7. 20 is provided.

  In this means, when a second command for operating the second player character is issued from the CPU 7, a first notification image for notifying the content of the second command is displayed on the television monitor 20. . For example, when the second command is a command for instructing the second player character to send a ball to the second base, a first notification image such as “Two bases!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20. This display image shows a situation where the first player character operated by the player speaks to the second player character. Thereby, the player can obtain the satisfaction that he / she has given a command (voice) to the second player character, and can have an interest as a game. Here, simultaneously with the above display, if the sound output unit 4 outputs a sound “2 塁!”, The sense of reality is further increased and the game performance can be further improved.

  The second notification image display means 60 notifies the evaluation by causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of evaluating the result of the movement of the second player character when the movement of the second player character is changed. A function of displaying an image on the television monitor 20 is provided.

  In this means, when the action of the second player character is changed, the CPU 7 executes a process for evaluating the result of the action of the second player character. Thereby, the 2nd alerting | reporting image which alert | reports evaluation is displayed on the television monitor 20. FIG.

  For example, when the movement of the second player character is changed based on the second command instructed by the player, the result of the movement of the second player character is evaluated by the CPU 7. Specifically, when a player who operates the first player character gives an instruction (second instruction) to the second player character that is being automatically controlled and produces a good result, this result is high. Be evaluated. On the other hand, when a bad result is produced by an instruction from the player, this result is evaluated low. When the player's instruction is evaluated in this manner, this evaluation is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the evaluation score.

  Here, even if the evaluation result is low, conventionally, the player can only see the movement of the second player character by automatic control. Since you can be involved in play indirectly, you can accept and accept the results. In addition, game options themselves are improved by expanding game options.

  When the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the first command, the second player character automatic control continuation means 61 prohibits the CPU 7 from issuing the second command, so that the second fielder It has a function to continue automatic character control.

  In this means, when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the first command, the CPU 7 is prohibited from issuing the second command. Then, the movement of the second player character being automatically controlled is not changed, and the movement of the second player character being automatically controlled is continued. For example, when the second command that the player operating the first player character instructs the second player character from the controller is the same command as the first command for automatic control for the second player character, The first command for control is prioritized, and the action of the second player character during automatic control is continuously executed.

[Outline of automatic control change system in baseball game]
Next, specific contents of the automatic control change system in the baseball game will be described. The flow shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 will also be described at the same time. FIG. 7 is a flow for explaining the overall outline of the baseball game, and FIG. 8 is a flow for explaining the system.

  First, when the game machine is turned on and the game machine is activated, the baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored. At this time, various basic game data necessary for executing the baseball game are simultaneously loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored (S1).

  For example, the basic game data includes data related to various images for a three-dimensional game space. The CPU 7 recognizes data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space, such as stadium image data, player character image data, and various object image data. Further, the basic game data includes position coordinate data for arranging data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space in the three-dimensional game space. The basic game data also includes data used in the above system.

  Subsequently, the baseball game program stored in the RAM 12 is executed by the CPU 7 based on the basic game data (S2). Then, the start screen of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20. Then, various setting screens for executing the baseball game are displayed on the television monitor 20. Here, for example, a mode selection screen for selecting a play mode of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (not shown). In the mode selection screen, the player operates the controller 17 to determine the play mode (S3). The play mode includes, for example, a battle mode in which a team is selected from 12 teams to enjoy a match of one team, a pennant mode in which a team is selected from 12 teams to play a pennant race, and the team is played by the player as a manager. A training mode for training a player character, a growth experience mode for experiencing a baseball game in the position of a player character with a player, and the like are prepared.

  Subsequently, various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4). The various events executed here are, for example, events automatically controlled by the CPU 7 based on an automatic control program (AI program, Artificial Intelligence Program), or manually controlled by the player based on an input signal from the controller 17. There are events. In addition, the player character is controlled by automatic control for automatically instructing the player character based on an automatic control program or manual control for directly instructing the player character based on an input signal from the controller 17. Etc. Thus, in this baseball game, an event is controlled or an instruction is instructed to the player character in accordance with an instruction from the controller 17 or an instruction from the automatic control program.

  Note that the automatic control program shown here is a program for automatically controlling a command for an event and a command for a player character on behalf of a player. This automatic control program is prepared in advance in the game program.

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the selected play mode is finished (S5). Specifically, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a command indicating that the play mode has ended is issued. If the CPU 7 determines that an instruction indicating that the play mode has ended has been issued (Yes in S5), the CPU 7 executes a process of storing the game continuation data in the RAM 12. When the game continuation data is stored in the RAM 12, a selection screen for selecting whether or not to end the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S6). When an item indicating the end of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (Yes in S6), the CPU 7 executes a process for ending the baseball game ( S7). On the other hand, when an item indicating continuation of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (No in S6), the mode selection screen in Step 3 (S3) is displayed on the television monitor. 20 is displayed again.

  Unless the CPU 7 determines that an instruction for ending the play mode has been issued (No in S5), various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4).

  Next, an automatic control change system for executing a game in which a first player character is controlled based on an input signal from the controller 17 and a plurality of second player characters are automatically controlled based on a command from the CPU 7. This will be described in detail.

  Here, an example is shown in which the present system is executed when a battle mode is selected and a game event is executed in a baseball game. Here, an example in which the first player character is a first base character and the plurality of second player characters are a plurality of player characters excluding the first base character is shown. In other words, in the present embodiment, the first-hand character is controlled by the CPU 7 based on an input signal from the controller 17, and the other player characters excluding the first-hand character are controlled by the CPU 7 based on the automatic control program.

  First, in a state where a game event is started and a game event is being executed, a plurality of fielder characters and batter characters are displayed on the television monitor 20 using image data for each character (S401). Further, depending on the situation, the runner character is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the image data for the runner character. The image data used here is stored in the RAM 12 when the game program is loaded.

  For example, FIG. 3 shows an example in which a plurality of fielder characters, batter characters, and second runner characters are displayed on the television monitor 20. In FIG. 3, each of the fielder characters 101 to 109 is displayed using a circle symbol, the batter character 201 is displayed using a square symbol, and the runner character 301 is displayed using a triangle symbol.

  Here, the plurality of fielder characters correspond to a pitcher character 101, a catcher character 102, a first base character 103, a second base character 104, a third base character 105, a short character 106, a right character 107, a center character 108, and a left character 109. Yes.

  In the following, the present system will be described by taking as an example the case where the batter character 201 has hit the double hitting ability through the right middle in a situation where the runner character 301 exists in two bases.

  When the ball 401 thrown from the pitcher character 101 is hit back in the middle right direction by the batter character 201, as shown in FIG. 4, the ball 401 flying to the middle right uses the image data for the ball. Is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S402).

  When the ball 401 thrown from the pitcher character 101 is hit back in the middle right direction by the batter character 201, the first-hand character 103 (first player character) is changed based on the automatic control program stored in the RAM 12. A first command for automatically operating each of the removed player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 (second player character) is issued from the CPU 7. Then, based on this 1st command, automatic control of each player character 101,102,104-109 is started (S403). Then, the actions of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during the automatic control are displayed on the television monitor 20 (S404).

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, when the ball 401 thrown from the pitcher character 101 is returned to the right middle direction by the batter character 201, the home pitching command (first command) is automatically sent from the CPU 7. publish. Then, based on this home pitching command, the actions of the outfielder characters 107 to 109 chasing the ball 401 rolling in the right middle are displayed on the television monitor 20.

  In addition, the movement of the second-hand character 104 toward the relay position between the right middle ball 401 and the first and second bases is displayed on the television monitor 20. In addition, the action of the pitcher character 101 toward the backup of the catcher character is displayed on the television monitor 20. In addition, the action of the short character 106 that moves twice is displayed on the television monitor 20. The action of the third-handed character 105 moving to the third base is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  In this way, a formation (first formation) when the fielder character sends the ball 401 from the right middle to the home based on the home pitching command is formed by the plurality of fielder characters 101, 102, 104-109. The As shown here, the home pitching command includes a command to move each fielder character.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 5, for the runner character 301, a home entry command (first command) is automatically issued from the CPU 7. Then, based on the home entry command, the action of the runner character 301 that goes around the third base toward the home is displayed on the television monitor 20. Further, for the batter character 201, the CPU 7 automatically issues a two-step advance command (first command). Then, based on this double-step advance command, the action of the batter character 201 that goes around the base and heads to the second base is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  The first command is issued from the CPU 7 in accordance with the play situation. Specifically, when the CPU 7 recognizes a play situation such as a hit ball situation or a hitting situation, the CPU 7 issues a predetermined command (first instruction) corresponding to the play situation. Here, the correspondence between the play status and the first command is defined in advance in the automatic control program.

  Subsequently, when the ball 401 thrown from the pitcher character 101 is bounced back in the middle right direction by the batter character 201, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the first baseball character 103 is directly involved in the ongoing play. It is determined (S405). For example, a fielder character close to the passing course of the hit ball or the hit position of the hit ball is recognized by the CPU 7 as a target character that can catch the hit ball. More specifically, the fielder character positioned within a predetermined distance from the liner trajectory, the goro trajectory, and the hit ball falling position is recognized by the CPU 7 as a target character capable of catching the hit ball. Then, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the first-hand character 103 is included in the target player character. Here, since the direction in which the hit ball flew is in the middle right, the first-hand character 103 is not included in the target player character. For this reason, here, the first-handed character 103 is recognized by the CPU 7 as a character that cannot directly hit the ball (No in S405).

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a predetermined button of the controller 17 has been operated in order to change the motion of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 being automatically controlled (S406). In other words, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a second command for changing the motion of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during automatic control is instructed.

  Here, the L1 button 17L1 and any one of the first button 17a, the second button 17b, the third button 17c, and the fourth button 17d are assigned to the predetermined button. For example, the L1 button 17L1 is a trigger button of this system. The second button 17b is a button corresponding to the first base, the first button 17a is a button corresponding to the second base, the fourth button 17d is a button corresponding to the third base, and the third button 17c is a button corresponding to the home.

For this reason, when the second button 17b is pressed in a state where the L1 button 17L1 is pressed, a single ball throwing command (second command) is issued from the CPU 7. Similarly, when the first button 17a is pressed in a state where the L1 button 17L1 is pressed, a double throwing ball instruction (second command) is issued from the CPU 7. Similarly, when the fourth button 17d is pressed in a state where the L1 button 17L1 is pressed, a three-ball throwing command (second command) is issued from the CPU 7. Similarly, when the third button 17c is pressed while the L1 button 17L1 is pressed, a home pitching command (second command) is issued from the CPU 7.

Here, for example, when the L1 button 17L1 and the first button 17a are pressed at the same time (Yes in S406), this input timing starts the automatic control of each of the plurality of player characters 101, 102, 104-109. The CPU 7 determines whether or not it is from the time point to the time point when the ball 401 is sent out from the fielder character that has captured the ball 401 (second command instruction possible period) (S407).

  If this input timing is the second command instructable period (Yes in S407), it is determined whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17, for example, the double throwing command, matches the first command. The CPU 7 discriminates (S408). In other words, when the command instructed by the player is a double-ball throwing command (second command), the CPU 7 determines whether or not the double-ball throwing command is the same as the first command.

  Then, if the two-ball throwing command is different from the first command (No in S408), the double-ball throwing command is issued from the CPU 7 (S409). Here, as described above, since the first command is the home pitching command, the double pitching command has priority over the home pitching command, and this double pitching command is issued from the CPU 7. Then, this two-ball throwing command is instructed to the player character during the automatic control of the own team.

  Then, the movements of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109, which have been automatically controlled based on the home pitching command so far, are changed to those based on the double pitching command (S410). That is, the operations of the player characters 101, 102, and 104 to 109 that are automatically controlled are changed on the basis of the time when the two-ball throwing command is issued from the CPU 7. Specifically, until a two-ball throw command is issued from the CPU 7, a plurality of player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 (second player characters) are automatically controlled based on the home pitch command. Then, when a two-ball throw command is issued from the CPU 7, the automatic control of these player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 is interrupted, and the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 perform actions based on the two-ball throw command. Be changed.

  Here, when a double throwing instruction (second instruction) is issued from the CPU 7, as shown in FIG. 6, a first notification image 501 for notifying the contents of the double throwing instruction is displayed on the television monitor 20. (S411). For example, when a two-ball throwing instruction is instructed by the player, a first notification image 501 such as “Two-ball!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20. More specifically, a character 501 “Two base!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20 in the vicinity of the first base character 103 operated by the player.

  Note that when the two-ball throwing command (second command) is issued from the CPU 7, the specific example is that the player is based on the whereabouts of the hit ball, the catching situation of the fielder, the running situation of the runner, etc. For example, when the player character 107 catches a ball, the player character 107 is instructed to throw the ball to the second base when it is considered that the runner cannot be stabbed even if the ball is sent to the home base. The player character who catches the ball changes variously depending on the situation at that time, and the player character who catches the ball catches the ball twice according to the player's two-ball throwing command (second command).

  Similarly, when the player has instructed a single-ball throwing command, a first notification image such as “Glance!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20. Further, when a two-ball throw command is instructed by the player, a first notification image such as “Two-ball!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20. Further, when a home pitching command is instructed by the player, a first notification image such as “Home!” Is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  By displaying such a character image 501 in the vicinity of the first-hand character 103 operated by the player, the player gives an instruction regarding play to the other player character by the first-hand character 103 operated by the player. Can be visually recognized. In addition, by enabling the player to give this instruction, the player can participate in the baseball game while having the consciousness that he is a member of the team.

  Subsequently, when a two-ball throwing instruction is issued from the CPU 7 based on an instruction from the player, formation of a formation (second formation) for throwing the ball 401 from the right middle to the second base is performed in each fielder character 101, 102. , 104 to 109 (S412). That is, on the basis of the time when the two-ball throw command is issued from the CPU 7, the movement of each player character 101, 102, 104 to 109 is changed from the movement for forming the first formation to the movement for forming the second formation. The A second formation is formed by each fielder character 101, 102, 104-109.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the motion of the second-handed character 104 toward the relay position between the right middle ball 401 and the second base is displayed on the television monitor 20. In addition, the movement of the third baseball character 105 toward the second base backup is displayed on the television monitor 20. Then, an action in which a certain fielder character catches the ball 401 and this fielder character throws the ball 401 to the second base is displayed on the television monitor 20. For example, when the light character 107 catches the ball 401, a state in which the light character 107 sends the ball 401 to the second base is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  Subsequently, the result when the second ball is sent based on the second ball sending command (second command) is evaluated by the CPU 7 (S413), and this evaluation result (not shown) is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S414). ). For example, when the runner character (batter character 201) goes out at second base, the instruction from the player is highly evaluated by the CPU 7. In this case, a plus point, for example, a numerical value “50 (points)” is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  On the other hand, when the runner character (batter character 201) becomes safe at second base, the result when the ball is sent to the home based on the home pitching command (first command) is evaluated by the CPU 7. If the runner character 301 (second runner character) goes out by throwing the ball to the home, the instruction from the player is not appropriate, and the instruction from the player is evaluated low by the CPU 7. In this case, a numerical value such as minus point “−50 (points)” is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  Note that if the runner character (batter character 201) is safe at second base and the runner character 301 (second base runner character) is safe even at home, no special evaluation is given to the instruction from the player. In this case, a numerical value “0 (point)” is displayed on the television monitor 20.

  In the above, an example in which the batter character 201 hits the double hitting ability that passes through the middle right in the situation where the runner character 301 exists in two bases is shown. However, as an example different from the above example, when the batter character 201 releases the first base, in step 405 (S405), the first base character 103 (first player character) directly plays the ongoing play. The CPU 7 recognizes that the character is involved (Yes in S405). In other words, the first-handed character 103 is recognized by the CPU 7 as a character that can directly catch the hit ball.

  In this case, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a command is instructed to the first-hand character 103 by the player operating the controller 17 (S415). When a command for the first-hand character 103 is issued from the CPU 7 based on the input signal from the controller 17 (Yes in S415), the first-hand character 103 performing an action corresponding to this command is sent to the television monitor 20. It is displayed (S416). It should be noted that, based on the input signal from the controller 17, if the instruction for the first-hand character 103 is not issued from the CPU 7 until this play is finished (No in S 415), the movement of the first-hand character 103 is not changed, The next play is executed.

  Here, in step 406 (S406), when a predetermined button of the controller 17 is not operated to change the movement of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during automatic control (No in S406), automatic control is performed. The actions of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 are continuously displayed on the television monitor 20. In other words, the process of step 404 (S404) is continuously executed by the CPU 7. When this play ends, the next play is executed.

  Here, in step 407 (S407), when the input timing when the L1 button 17L1 and the first button 17a are pressed is outside the second command instructable period (No in S407), this input Is not accepted by the CPU 7 until this play is finished, and the actions of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 being automatically controlled are continuously displayed on the television monitor 20. For example, when this input is executed after the fielder character who has captured the ball 401 sends out the ball 401, this input is not accepted by the CPU 7, and the processing of step 404 (S404) is continuously executed by the CPU 7. Is done. When this play ends, the next play is executed.

  Further, here, in step 408 (S408), when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the controller 17 matches the first command (Yes in S408), the issue of the second command is restricted by the CPU 7. The Then, the movements of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 under automatic control are not changed, and the movements of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 under automatic control are continued. For example, the second command that the player operating the first-hand character 103 instructs the other player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 from the controller is for automatic control of the other player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109. If the command is the same as the first command (home pitching command), the first command for automatic control is prioritized, and the movement of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during the automatic control continues. Executed. That is, the process of step 404 (S404) is continuously executed by the CPU 7. When this play ends, the next play is executed.

  In step 405 (S405), if the first baseball character (first player character) is recognized by the CPU 7 as a character that cannot directly hit the ball (No in S405), the flow is illustrated. However, the player can always instruct the first-hand character 103 by operating the controller 17. This instruction is valid until one play is completed.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the player can change the actions of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 that are automatically controlled. For this reason, the play performed by the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during the automatic control can be reproduced more realistically. In the present embodiment, when the action instructed to the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 being automatically controlled by the player is different from the action being performed by the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 being automatically controlled. The action given to the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 being automatically controlled by the player is given priority. Therefore, if the player can give a realistic instruction, the play performed by the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during the automatic control can be reproduced more realistically. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the time during which the movement of the player characters 101, 102, 104 to 109 during the automatic control can be changed is defined, it is possible to prevent an instruction from being issued due to an erroneous operation by the player.

[Other Embodiments]
(A) In the above embodiment, an example in which the first base character is the first player character is shown. However, the first player character is not limited to the above embodiment, and any player character may be used. good. In other words, the present invention can also be applied when the first player character is a player character different from the above embodiment. Also in this case, the same effect as described above can be obtained.
(B) In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a development video game apparatus is used as an example of a computer to which a game program can be applied has been described. The present invention can be similarly applied to a game device configured in a body, a game device in which a monitor is integrated, a personal computer functioning as a game device by executing a game program, a workstation, and the like.
(C) The present invention includes a program for executing the above-described game and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded. Examples of the recording medium include a computer-readable flexible disk, a semiconductor memory, a CD-ROM, a DVD, an MO, a ROM cassette, and the like in addition to the cartridge.

The basic composition figure of the game device for development by one embodiment of the present invention. The functional block diagram as an example of the said game device. The figure which shows arrangement | positioning of each player character as an initial condition. The figure which shows the flying direction of a ball | bowl. The figure for demonstrating operation | movement of each player character which forms a 1st formation. The figure for demonstrating operation | movement of each player character which forms a 2nd formation. Flow for explaining the overall outline of the baseball game The flow which shows the automatic control change system in a baseball game. The flow which shows the automatic control change system in a baseball game.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Control part 3 Image display part 5 Operation input part 7 CPU
12 RAM
17 controller 20 television monitor 50 first player character display means 51 second player character display means 52 ball display means 53 second player character automatic control means 54 play participation determination means 55 command issuing means 56 first command determination means 57 second Command discriminating means 58 Second fielder character motion changing means 59 First notice image display means 60 Second notice image display means 61 Second player character automatic control continuation means 101, 102, 104 to 109 Fielder characters excluding the first base character 103 First base character 201 Batter character 301 Runner character 401 Ball 501 First notification image

Claims (9)

A computer capable of executing a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by the player are automatically controlled,
A first character display function for displaying the first character on an image display unit;
A second character display function for displaying a plurality of the second characters on an image display unit;
A second character automatic control function for automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for operating the second character;
Causing the control unit to issue a second command for operating the second character based on an input signal from the input unit when the first character is not directly involved in the playing of the ongoing game. A second character action changing function for changing an action of at least one second character of the plurality of second characters,
Game program to realize. In the computer,
Command discriminating function for causing the control unit to discriminate whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command when an input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit ,
To be realized,
In the second character motion change function, when the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit is a command different from the first command, by causing the control unit to issue the second command, The action of at least one second character of the plurality of second characters is changed,
The game program according to claim 1. In the computer,
Command discriminating function for causing the control unit to discriminate whether or not the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command when an input signal from the input unit is recognized by the control unit When,
When the second command corresponding to the input signal from the input unit matches the first command, the control unit prohibits the second command from being issued, thereby continuing the automatic control of the second character. A second character automatic control continuation function;
The game program according to claim 1 or 2 for further realizing. In the computer,
Mobile object display function for displaying the mobile object on the image display unit,
Further realized,
In the second character motion changing function, from the time when the automatic control of each of the plurality of second characters is started to the time when the moving body is sent from the second character that has captured the moving body, Based on an input signal from the input unit, by causing the control unit to issue second commands for the plurality of second characters, the action of at least one second character among the plurality of second characters is performed. ,Be changed,
The game program according to any one of claims 1 to 3. In the computer,
Mobile object display function for displaying the mobile object on the image display unit,
Further realized,
The movement of the second character is at least one of the movement of the second character, the movement of the second character catching the moving body, and the movement of the second character sending out the moving body. It corresponds to the movement,
The game program according to claim 1. In the computer,
When the second command for operating the second character is issued from the control unit, a first notification image for displaying on the image display unit a first notification image for notifying the content of the second command. Image display function,
The game program according to claim 1, for further realizing the above. In the computer,
When the movement of the second character is changed, the control section executes a process for evaluating the result of the movement of the second character, whereby a second notification image for notifying the evaluation is displayed on the image display section. A second notification image display function for displaying;
The game program according to claim 1, for further realizing the above. A game device capable of executing a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by a player are automatically controlled,
First character display means for displaying the first character on an image display unit;
Second character display means for displaying a plurality of the second characters on an image display unit;
A second character automatic control means for automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for operating the second character;
Causing the control unit to issue a second command for operating the second character based on an input signal from the input unit when the first character is not directly involved in the playing of the ongoing game. A second character action changing means for changing the action of at least one second character of the plurality of second characters,
A game device comprising: A game control method capable of controlling a game in which a plurality of second characters excluding the first character operated by a player are automatically controlled by a computer,
A first character display step of displaying the first character on an image display unit;
A second character display step of displaying a plurality of the second characters on an image display unit;
A second character automatic control step of automatically controlling the second character by causing the control unit to automatically issue a first command for operating the second character;
Causing the control unit to issue a second command for operating the second character based on an input signal from the input unit when the first character is not directly involved in the playing of the ongoing game. A second character action changing step of changing the action of at least one second character of the plurality of second characters,
A game control method comprising:

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