JP2010233751A - Program, information storage medium, and image generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program for controlling movements or actions of a non-player character in accordance with a climax of a match, and to provide an image generation system and the like. <P>SOLUTION: The image generation system includes: a player character control unit; a game operation part for performing game operation processing which includes match processing between a player character and an opponent character; a climax parameter operation part for performing operation processing of a climax parameter based on a result of game operation processing; a non-player character control unit for performing control processing of the non-player character; and an image generation part for generating images. The non-player character control unit controls at least either a movement or an action of the non-player character based on the climax parameter thus operated. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, an image generation system, and the like.

  Conventionally, an image generation system (game system) that generates an image viewed from a virtual camera (given viewpoint) in an object space (virtual three-dimensional space) in which an object such as a character imitating a sports player is placed and set Is known and is popular as a place to experience so-called virtual reality. Taking an image generation system that can enjoy a tennis game as an example, a player operates his / her character using an operation unit such as a controller and plays a ball shot by an opponent character operated by another player or a computer. Enjoy the game by hitting it back with a racket. As a conventional technique of an image generation system that can enjoy such a tennis game, for example, a technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known.

  However, no conventional image generation system has proposed a system in which galleries gather for exciting games.

  For example, as a technique for expressing a gallery for watching a game, a technique for arranging a polygon on which a large number of galleries are drawn at the position of a spectator seat can be considered. However, with this method, the position of the gallery is fixed, and it was not possible to produce a sense of excitement with the number of gallery members gathered.

JP 2008-307166 A

  According to some aspects of the present invention, it is possible to provide a program, an information storage medium, an image generation system, and the like that can realize movement and movement control of a non-player character in accordance with the excitement of a battle.

  One aspect of the present invention includes a player character control unit that performs a control process of a player character operated by a player, a game calculation unit that performs a game calculation process including a battle process between the player character and an opponent character, and the game Based on the result of the calculation process, a swell parameter calculation unit that performs swell parameter calculation processing, a non-player character control unit that performs control processing of non-player characters other than the player character and the opponent character, the player character, and the An image generation unit that generates an image for the opponent character to fight against, and the non-player character control unit controls at least one of movement and movement of the non-player character based on the calculated swell parameter Image generation system Related to Temu. The present invention also relates to a program that causes a computer to function as each of the above-described units, or a computer-readable information storage medium that stores the program.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, a game calculation process including a battle process between a player character and an opponent character is performed, and an excitement parameter calculation process is performed based on the result of the game calculation process. Based on the calculated swell parameter, at least one of movement and movement of the non-player character is controlled. In this way, it is possible to realize movement and movement control of the non-player character according to the excitement of the battle.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the game calculation unit performs a battle process in which the player character and the opponent character battle each other on the battle field, and the non-player character control unit performs the battle process on the battle field. Control may be performed to move the non-player character from the movement source position toward the battle field based on the calculated swell parameter.

  In this way, the battle process is performed in which the player character and the opponent character battle each other on the battle field, and the non-player character moves toward the battle field based on the climax parameter calculated in the battle process. become. Accordingly, it is possible to collect non-player characters toward the battle field in accordance with the excitement of the battle, and a sense of excitement due to the gathering of non-player characters can be realized.

  In the aspect of the invention, the non-player character control unit may determine the non-player character based on the distance information between the movement source position of the non-player character and the battle field and the excitement parameter. It may be determined whether or not to move toward the battle field.

  In this way, the movement control of the non-player character in consideration of both the distance information and the excitement parameter of the non-player character can be realized.

  In the aspect of the invention, the non-player character control unit may perform control to move the non-player character to an arrangement position set around the battle field.

  In this way, the control for moving the non-player character toward the battle field can be simplified.

  In the aspect of the invention, the non-player character control unit may increase or decrease the number of the arrangement positions according to at least one of the game result and the excitement parameter.

  In this way, the number of arrangement positions increases or decreases according to the game result and the excitement parameter, and various excitement feelings can be expressed.

  In the aspect of the invention, the non-player character control unit may control the movement of the non-player character after moving to the arrangement position based on the climax parameter.

  In this way, it is possible to improve the feeling of excitement of the battle by controlling the movement of the non-player character even after moving to the arrangement position.

  In the aspect of the invention, the battle field may include a first field for the player character and a second field for the opponent character, and the climax parameter calculation unit may satisfy a plurality of climax determination conditions. Based on this, the non-player character control unit performs the processing for calculating the swell parameter, and if the first swell determination condition among the plurality of swell determination conditions is satisfied, the non-player character control unit Control is performed to move the non-player character to an arrangement position around only one of the fields, and when a second climax determination condition among the climax determination conditions is satisfied, The non-player keys are arranged at positions around both the first and second fields. Rakuta may perform control to move the.

  In this way, when the first excitement determination condition is satisfied, it is possible to collect non-player characters only in one field and excite the battle. On the other hand, when the second excitement determination condition is satisfied, it is possible to collect non-player characters in both the first and second fields and to excite the battle as a whole.

  Also, in one aspect of the present invention, the swell parameter calculation unit performs the swell parameter calculation process based on a plurality of swell determination conditions, and the non-player character control unit performs a calculation based on the plurality of swell determination conditions. The non-player character may be controlled based on the raised parameter.

  In this way, the non-player character can be controlled by calculating the swell parameter using a plurality of swell determination conditions.

  Also, in one aspect of the present invention, the climax parameter calculation unit performs calculation processing of each individual climax parameter of the plurality of individual climax parameters based on each climax determination condition of the plurality of climax determination conditions, and the non-player character The control unit may control the non-player character based on the plurality of calculated individual swell parameters.

  In this way, the non-player character can be controlled by the individual swell parameter corresponding to each swell determination condition.

  Further, in one aspect of the present invention, the climax parameter calculation unit performs an overall climax parameter calculation process based on the plurality of climax determination conditions, and the non-player character control unit calculates the calculated overall climax parameter. Based on this, the non-player character may be controlled.

  In this way, the non-player character can be controlled by the overall swell parameter using a plurality of swell determination conditions.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the game calculation unit performs a battle process in which the player character and the opponent character are battled on a battle field, and the non-player character control unit is a position of a movement source of the non-player character. And determining whether to move the non-player character toward the battle field based on the distance information between the battle field and the overall excitement parameter.

  In this way, the movement control of the non-player character in consideration of both the distance information of the non-player character and the overall excitement parameter can be realized.

  In one aspect of the present invention, the climax parameter calculation unit performs calculation processing of each individual climax parameter of the plurality of individual climax parameters based on each climax determination condition of the plurality of climax determination conditions, and the plurality of climax parameters Based on the climax determination condition, an overall climax parameter calculation process is performed, and the non-player character control unit also determines a non-player character determined not to perform control based on the individual climax parameter based on the overall climax parameter. May be controlled.

  In this way, even when the non-player character is not controlled by the individual climax parameter, the non-player character can be controlled by the overall climax parameter.

  In one aspect of the present invention, at least one of the plurality of climax determination conditions for the Kth (1 ≦ K ≦ N) nonplayer characters of the first to Nth nonplayer characters. And the non-player character control unit may control the K-th non-player character based on a rising determination condition associated with the K-th non-player character.

  Thus, by associating at least one swell determination condition with a non-player character, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the non-player character moves or moves uniformly.

  Also, in one aspect of the present invention, hit calculation processing is performed for hit calculation processing between a possessed object possessed by the player character or a part object constituting the player character and a hit object hit by the possessed object or the part object. The hit calculation processing unit may include a processing unit, and perform the hit calculation processing based on the climax parameter.

  In this way, it is possible to realize hit calculation processing that effectively uses the climax parameter for controlling the non-player character.

  In the aspect of the invention, the hit calculation processing unit may control a hit determination area in the hit calculation processing based on the climax parameter.

  In this way, the size of the hit determination area can be controlled according to the climax parameter.

1 is a configuration example of an image generation system according to the present embodiment. Explanatory drawing of operation of the controller by a player. 3A and 3B are configuration examples of the controller. Explanatory drawing of the rotation angle information around each coordinate axis of a controller. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are explanatory diagrams of coat arrangement and the like. FIGS. 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams of a non-player character control method based on a climax parameter. Explanatory drawing of the non-player character control method based on the non-player character distance information and the climax parameter. Explanatory drawing of the non-player character control method based on the non-player character distance information and the climax parameter. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9C are explanatory diagrams of arrangement positions set around the court. Explanatory drawing of the motion control method of the non-player character after the movement to the arrangement position. Explanatory drawing of the rising judgment conditions. FIGS. 12A to 12C are explanatory diagrams of a non-player character control method based on individual swell determination parameters and overall swell parameters. The flowchart of the detailed process example of this embodiment. 14A and 14B are flowcharts of a detailed processing example of the present embodiment. 15A and 15B show examples of the character's swing motion. An example of the swing motion of the character. FIGS. 17A to 17C are explanatory diagrams of hit calculation processing based on rotation angle information at the time of hit. 18A to 18C are explanatory diagrams of hit calculation processing based on rotation angle information acquired in the hit determination section. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19D are explanatory diagrams of the movement state and the operation state of the ball after the hit. Explanatory drawing of the setting method of the hit strength information of a ball based on acceleration information and a climax parameter. Explanatory drawing of the detection method of a reference | standard position. FIG. 22A to FIG. 22F are explanatory diagrams of a hit determination area setting method.

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

1. Configuration FIG. 1 shows an example of a block diagram of an image generation system (game system) of the present embodiment. Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 1 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation data, and functions thereof are direction keys, operation buttons, analog sticks, levers, various sensors (such as an angular velocity sensor and an acceleration sensor), a microphone, or a touch panel display. It can be realized by.

  The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its function can be realized by a RAM (DRAM, VRAM) or the like. Then, the game program and game data necessary for executing the game program are held in the storage unit 170.

  An information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions thereof by an optical disk (CD, DVD), HDD (hard disk drive), memory (ROM, etc.), and the like. realizable. The processing unit 100 performs various processes of the present embodiment based on a program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, in the information storage medium 180, a program for causing a computer (an apparatus including an operation unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, and an output unit) to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute processing of each unit). Is memorized.

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by an LCD, an organic EL display, a CRT, a touch panel display, an HMD (head mounted display), or the like. The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, or the like.

  The auxiliary storage device 194 (auxiliary memory, secondary memory) is a storage device used to supplement the capacity of the storage unit 170, and can be realized by a memory card such as an SD memory card or a multimedia card.

  The communication unit 196 communicates with the outside (for example, another image generation system, a server, or a host device) via a wired or wireless network, and functions as a communication ASIC, a communication processor, or the like. It can be realized by hardware and communication firmware.

  Note that a program (data) for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment is obtained from an information storage medium of a server (host device) via an information storage medium 180 (or storage unit 170, auxiliary storage) via a network and communication unit 196. May be distributed to the device 194). Use of an information storage medium by such a server (host device) can also be included in the scope of the present invention.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs game processing, image generation processing, sound generation processing, and the like based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the storage unit 170 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, GPU, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

  The processing unit 100 includes an operation information acquisition unit 101, a game calculation unit 102, an object space setting unit 104, a hit calculation processing unit 106, a climax parameter calculation unit 108, a character control unit 114, a virtual camera control unit 118, an image generation unit 120, A sound generator 130 is included. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  When the player performs various operations using the operation unit 160, the operation information acquisition unit 101 acquires the operation information. For example, it is assumed that a controller (see FIG. 2) having a sensor (for example, an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor) is used as the operation unit 160. In this case, the operation information acquisition unit 101 rotates around a predetermined coordinate axis (around at least one coordinate axis) based on sensor information from the controller (output signal of the sensor or information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the output signal). Rotation angle information (rotation angle, parameter equivalent to the rotation angle) of the controller is acquired as operation information. For example, it is assumed that the coordinate axis set along the longitudinal direction (long axis direction) of the controller is the third coordinate axis, and the coordinate axes orthogonal to the third coordinate axis are the first and second coordinate axes. In this case, the operation information acquisition unit 101 acquires third rotation angle information that is rotation angle information around the third coordinate axis. Or the 1st, 2nd rotation angle information which is the rotation angle information around the 1st, 2nd coordinate axis is acquired. For example, first, second, and third rotation angle information is acquired based on sensor information of an angular velocity sensor included in the controller. If the controller has an acceleration sensor, acceleration information in a direction along the third coordinate axis is acquired, for example. Alternatively, acceleration information in directions along the first and second coordinate axes may be acquired.

  The game calculation unit 102 performs game calculation processing. Here, as a game calculation, a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for calculating a game result, or a process for ending a game when a game end condition is satisfied and so on.

  In this embodiment, the game calculation unit 102 performs a game calculation process including a battle process between the player character and the opponent character. For example, a battle process is performed in which the player character and the opponent character are battled on the battle field. Here, the player character is a character operated by the player. That is, the character is operated by the operation unit 160 and the operation information is acquired by the operation information acquisition unit 101. On the other hand, the opponent character (opposing character) is a character that is operated by the opponent player or the computer and becomes an opponent of the player character. There may be a plurality of these player characters and opponent characters. As the battle, for example, a battle of various games such as a sports game, a fighting game, a battle game, a board game, or a card game can be assumed. The battle field is a field in which a battle between the player character and the opponent character is developed, and various fields such as a court in a tennis game, a ground in a baseball game, a fight stage in a fight game, and a battle field in a battle game can be assumed.

  Also, the battle process performed by the game calculation unit 102 includes a process of starting a battle between the player character and the opponent character, a process of proceeding the battle between the player character and the opponent character, and a battle result (score) when the battle start condition is satisfied. , Points, etc.) or a process for terminating a match when a match end condition is satisfied.

  The object space setting unit 104 is a display object such as a model object (human, robot, car, fighter, missile, bullet, etc.), map (terrain), building, course (road), tree, wall, etc. A process for arranging and setting various objects (objects configured by primitive surfaces such as a polygon, a free-form surface, or a subdivision surface) in the object space. In other words, the position and rotation angle of the object in the world coordinate system (synonymous with direction and direction) are determined, and the rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, and Z axes) is determined at that position (X, Y, Z). Place the object. Specifically, the object data storage unit 172 of the storage unit 170 stores object data such as object position, rotation angle, moving speed, moving direction and the like in association with the object number.

  The hit calculation processing unit 106 performs hit calculation processing for hit objects and hit objects. For example, based on the rotation angle information acquired by the operation information acquisition unit 101, at least one of the movement state and the operation state after the hit of the hit object hit by the hit body is set.

  Here, the hit body is an object for hitting a hit target, and for example, a possessed object (gripped object) possessed (gripped) by a character or a part object constituting the character can be assumed. As the possessed object of the character, for example, a racket such as tennis, table tennis, or badminton, a baseball bat, a golf club, a weapon such as a sword, an instrument such as a maraca, a drum stick, or the like can be assumed. As a part object of a character, parts such as a hand, a foot, a head, and a torso can be assumed. The hit object is hit by the hit body. Examples of the hit object include a ball, a weapon of another character, a fixed object such as a wall and a floor, a hand, a foot, a head, and a body of another character. Can be assumed.

  The movement state of the hit object after the hit is, for example, the movement direction, the movement speed, or the movement acceleration of the hit object after the hit. The operation state after the hit of the hit object is, for example, the rotation state or the motion state of the hit object after the hit. The rotation state is the rotation direction, rotation speed (angular velocity), or rotation acceleration (angular acceleration) of the hit object, and the motion state is various states when the hit object is operated by motion data or the like.

  In this embodiment, the hit calculation processing unit 106 performs a hit calculation process on the possessed object or part object of the player character and the hit target hit by the possessed object or part object. In this case, the hit calculation processing unit 106 performs hit calculation processing based on the climax parameter. For example, the hit determination area in the hit calculation process is controlled based on the climax parameter. For example, the size of the hit determination area is changed. Alternatively, at least one of the movement state and the operation state after the hit object is hit is changed based on the climax parameter. For example, the movement speed, the rotation speed, the hit strength, and the like after the hit of the hit object are changed according to the climax parameter.

  Further, it is assumed that the operation information acquisition unit 101 acquires third rotation angle information around the third coordinate axis set along the long axis direction of the controller. In this case, the hit calculation processing unit 106 sets at least one of the movement direction and the rotation state after the hit of the hit object based on the third rotation angle information around the third coordinate axis. Further, at least one of the movement direction and the rotation state after the hit of the hit object is changed based on the climax parameter.

  The swell parameter calculation unit 108 performs swell parameter calculation processing. The calculation result (parameter value, flag) of the climax parameter is stored (saved) in the parameter storage unit 178. Here, the excitement parameter is a parameter that represents the excitement degree of the battle between the player character and the opponent character by numerical data or a flag.

  For example, in the present embodiment, a climax determination condition for determining whether or not the battle between the player character and the opponent character has swelled is prepared. The swell parameter calculation unit 108 performs swell parameter calculation processing based on these swell determination conditions. Here, the excitement determination condition is a condition whether or not the battle situation or the battle result becomes a predetermined situation or a predetermined result. When this condition is satisfied, it is determined that the excitement level in the battle has changed. For example, the climax parameter calculation unit 108 determines that the climax determination condition associated with the predetermined situation or the predetermined result is satisfied when the battle situation or the battle result becomes the predetermined situation or the predetermined result, and the climax determination condition The value of the swell parameter associated with is changed (increased or decreased), or the swell parameter flag is set.

  For example, the climax parameter calculation unit 108 performs calculation processing of each individual climax parameter of the plurality of individual climax parameters based on each climax determination condition of the plurality of climax determination conditions. For example, when the first to nth individual climax parameters are associated with the first to nth climax determination conditions, it is determined whether or not the first to nth climax determination conditions are satisfied. , Arithmetic processing such as changing the value of each of the first to nth individual swell parameters or setting a flag is performed.

  In addition, the climax parameter calculation unit 108 performs an overall climax parameter calculation process based on a plurality of climax determination conditions. Here, the overall excitement parameter is a parameter that represents the overall excitement degree of the battle between the player character and the opponent character by numerical data or the like. The overall swell parameter is determined by the total of a plurality of swell determination conditions. For example, when each of the swell determination conditions of a plurality of swell determination conditions is satisfied, the value of the overall swell parameter changes by the amount corresponding to the addition points associated with the satisfied swell determination conditions.

  The climax parameter calculation unit 108 performs calculation processing of each individual climax parameter of the plurality of individual climax parameters based on each climax determination condition of the plurality of climax determination conditions, and the overall climax based on the plurality of climax determination conditions. Parameter calculation processing may be performed. That is, both the individual swell parameter and the overall swell parameter are calculated.

  The character control unit 114 performs character control processing. The character is a moving body such as a person, robot, or animal appearing in the game. Specifically, the character control unit 114 performs a calculation for moving the character (model object). Alternatively, calculation for moving the character is performed. That is, based on the operation information acquired by the operation information acquisition unit 101, a program (movement / motion algorithm), various data (motion data), etc., the character is moved in the object space, or the character is moved (motion, Animation). Specifically, a simulation process for sequentially obtaining character movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) and motion information (part object position or rotation angle) for each frame (1/60 second). Do. A frame is a unit of time for performing movement / motion processing (simulation processing) and image generation processing.

  For example, the character control unit 114 performs character motion processing (motion generation, motion reproduction) based on the motion data stored in the motion storage unit 174. Specifically, motion data including the position or rotation angle (direction) of each part object (bone constituting the skeleton) constituting the character (skeleton) is read from the motion storage unit 174. Then, the character is moved by moving each part object (bone) of the character (by deforming the skeleton shape).

  The character control unit 114 includes a player character control unit 115 and a non-player character control unit 116.

  The player character control unit 115 performs control processing of a player character operated by the player. For example, based on the player operation information acquired by the operation information acquisition unit 101, a process for moving the player character or performing a motion is performed.

  The non-player character control unit 116 performs a control process for a non-player character (NPC) that is a character other than the player character and the opponent character in the battle. For example, according to a predetermined algorithm (program) for controlling the non-player character, a process for moving the non-player character or performing a motion (motion) is performed.

  In this embodiment, when the swell parameter calculation unit 108 calculates the swell parameter, the non-player character control unit 116 performs at least movement and movement of the non-player character based on the calculated swell parameter (parameter value, flag). Control one. For example, when it is determined that the battle between the player character and the opponent character has risen based on the climax parameter, the player character is caused to perform movements and actions for expressing the climax (image expression).

  Specifically, it is assumed that a process in which the player character and the opponent character battle each other on the battle field is performed. In this case, the non-player character control unit 116 performs control to move the non-player character from the movement source position toward the battle field based on the climax parameter calculated in the battle process on the battle field. For example, control is performed to move a non-player character located at a location away from the battle field to the vicinity (around) of the battle field.

  In this case, the non-player character control unit 116 acquires distance information between the position where the non-player character is moved (the place where the non-player character was originally) and the battle field. Then, based on the acquired distance information and the climax parameter, it is determined whether or not to move the non-player character toward the battle field (near or around the battle field). For example, when the distance between the movement source position and the battle field is close, the non-player character is moved toward the battle field even if the value of the climax parameter is small. On the other hand, when the distance between the movement source position and the battle field is far, the non-player character is not moved toward the battle field unless the value of the climax parameter is larger than a predetermined threshold value. That is, as the distance between the movement source position and the battle field increases, the threshold of the climax parameter for moving the non-player character toward the battle field is increased. The distance information is information indicating the distance between the movement source position of the non-player character and the battle field (representative position, arrangement position).

  Further, the non-player character control unit 116 performs control to move the non-player character to an arrangement position set around the battle field. For example, a plurality of arrangement positions are set around the battle field (a place where no battle is performed). Then, any one of the plurality of arrangement positions is selected, and the non-player character determined to be moved toward the battle field is moved to the selected arrangement position. In this case, the number of arranged positions may be increased or decreased according to at least one of the game result (match result) and the excitement parameter. For example, the number of arrangement positions is increased as the game result of the player is higher or the value of the excitement parameter is higher. Specifically, when it is determined that the evaluation value of the game result of the player in a certain battle is higher than a predetermined threshold value, or the value of the climax parameter in that battle is determined to be higher than the predetermined threshold value. In the case of a failure, for example, the number of arrangement positions in the next battle is increased.

  The non-player character control unit 116 may control the movement of the non-player character after moving to the arrangement position based on the climax parameter. For example, the movements of the player characters gathered in the battle field (motion and production operations are changed based on the climax parameters in the battle.

  Further, it is assumed that the battle field has a first field for the player character (for example, a court on the player side) and a second field for the opponent character (for example, a court on the opponent side). In this case, the non-player character control unit 116, when a first climax determination condition among a plurality of climax determination conditions is satisfied, surrounds only one of the first and second fields. Control to move the non-player character to the arrangement position is performed. For example, the non-player character is moved to an arrangement position around the field of the winning character or the character that has performed a predetermined play (predetermined action) such as super play. On the other hand, when the second swell determination condition among the plurality of swell determination conditions is satisfied, the non-player character is moved to the arrangement positions around both the first and second fields. In other words, when it is determined that the player character and the opponent character are excited, both the first and second fields are not distinguished, and the non-player characters are placed at positions around the first and second fields. Move.

  The non-player character control unit 116 controls the non-player character based on the climax parameter calculated based on a plurality of climax determination conditions. For example, when the calculation processing of each individual swell parameter is performed based on each swell determination condition, the non-player character control unit 116 controls the non-player character based on the calculated individual swell parameter. In addition, when the calculation process of the overall climax parameter is performed based on a plurality of climax determination conditions, the non-player character is controlled based on the calculated overall climax parameter. In this case, it is determined whether to move the non-player character toward the battle field based on the distance information between the movement source position of the non-player character and the battle field and the overall excitement parameter. desirable. Further, the non-player character control unit 116 may also control a non-player character determined not to perform control based on the individual excitement parameter based on the overall excitement parameter. That is, when the overall excitement parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold value, control is performed to move the non-player character toward the battle field.

  Further, at least one of the plurality of climax determination conditions is associated with the Kth (1 ≦ K ≦ N) non-player character of the plurality of first to Nth non-player characters. Is desirable. In this case, the non-player character control unit 116 may control the K-th non-player character based on the rising determination condition associated with the K-th non-player character. For example, for each non-player character, it is determined whether or not a climax determination condition associated with the non-player character is satisfied, and if it is satisfied, control is performed to move the non-player character toward the battle field. .

  The virtual camera control unit 118 performs a virtual camera (viewpoint) control process for generating an image that can be seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint in the object space. Specifically, processing for controlling the position (X, Y, Z) or rotation angle (rotation angle about the X, Y, Z axis) of the virtual camera (processing for controlling the viewpoint position, the line-of-sight direction or the angle of view) I do.

  The image generation unit 120 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processing (game processing and simulation processing) performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image and outputting the image to the display unit 190. Specifically, geometric processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, perspective transformation, or light source processing is performed. Based on the processing result, drawing data (the position of the vertex of the primitive surface) Coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) are created. Then, based on the drawing data (primitive surface data), the perspective transformation (geometry processing) object (one or a plurality of primitive surfaces) is converted into image data in units of pixels such as a drawing buffer 176 (frame buffer, work buffer, etc.). Draw in a buffer that can be stored. Thereby, an image that can be seen from the virtual camera (given viewpoint) in the object space is generated. The drawing process may be realized by a vertex shader process or a pixel shader process.

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

2. 2. Method of the Present Embodiment 2.1 Player Character Control Hereinafter, an example of a player character control method will be described with reference to FIGS. However, the player character control method of the present embodiment is not limited to the method shown in FIGS. 2 to 4. For example, the operation and movement of the player character are controlled by operating an operation button, an analog stick, etc. May be.

  For example, in FIG. 2, the player holds the controller 200 (game controller) with one hand and swings the controller 200 as if it were a tennis racket. A player character CH operated by the player is displayed on the display unit 190 on which an image generated by the game apparatus 300 (image generation system) is displayed. When the player swings with the controller 200, the player character CH on the screen also swings according to the player's swing. For example, when the player swings a flat shot, the player character CH also swings a flat shot. When the player swings a top spin shot or slice shot, the player character CH swings a top spin shot or slice shot. . Then, the player character CH on the screen returns the ball BL hit by the opponent character CC, so that the player enjoys the tennis game.

  In the following, a case where the present embodiment is applied to a tennis game will be mainly described as an example. In this tennis game, the hit body becomes a racket, and the hit object becomes a ball. However, this embodiment can be applied to sports games other than tennis games (for example, table tennis, badminton, baseball, soccer, volleyball, etc.) and various games other than sports games (for example, fighting games, battle games, role playing games, etc.).

  3A and 3B show configuration examples of the controller 200. FIG. FIG. 3A is a front view of the controller 200 viewed from the front, and FIG. 3B is a right side view of the controller 200 viewed from the right side. The controller 200 has a rod-like shape with a chamfered substantially square cross section, and the player operates the controller 200 with one hand in the manner of gripping the rod.

  Various switches (input devices) such as a direction instruction key 210 and an A button 212 are provided on the front side (operation side) of the controller 200. A trigger button 214 is provided on the back side (back side) of the controller 200.

  The controller 200 includes an image sensor 220, a wireless communication module 222, an acceleration sensor 224, and an angular velocity sensor 230. The controller 200 also includes a controller control unit, a vibrator (vibration mechanism), a speaker, and the like (not shown). The controller control unit includes, for example, a control IC (CPU, ASIC) and a memory, and performs overall control of the controller 200 and various processes. The vibrator generates vibration in accordance with a vibration control signal from the controller control unit, and causes the player's hand holding the controller 200 to feel the vibration. The speaker outputs a sound corresponding to the sound signal output from the controller control unit.

  The image pickup element 220 is realized by a CCD, a CMOS sensor, or the like, and picks up an image of the front side of the controller 200 in the longitudinal direction (long axis direction).

  The wireless communication module 222 is for performing wireless communication (proximity wireless communication) with the game apparatus 300 (game apparatus main body) of FIG. For example, operation information input by the direction instruction key 210, the A button 212, etc., imaging information obtained by the imaging element 220, sensor information (acceleration information, angular velocity information) obtained by the acceleration sensor 224 and the angular velocity sensor 230 are: Wireless communication with the game apparatus 300 is performed by the wireless communication module 222.

  The acceleration sensor 224 is a sensor that detects acceleration information when the user moves (shakes) the controller 200. For example, the acceleration sensor 224 detects each piece of acceleration information in the orthogonal three-axis directions. For example, in FIG. 4, the coordinate axis set along the long side direction of the controller 200 is the Z axis (third coordinate axis in a broad sense), the coordinate axis orthogonal to the Z axis is the X axis, and the Y axis (first in the broad sense is the first axis). , The second coordinate axis). In this case, the acceleration sensor 224 detects, for example, first acceleration information along the X-axis direction, second acceleration information along the Y-axis direction, and third acceleration information along the Z-axis direction, Output as sensor information.

  The angular velocity sensor 230 is a sensor that detects angular velocity information when the user moves (rotates) the controller 200. For example, the angular velocity sensor 230 is a sensor that detects angular velocity information about three orthogonal axes, and detects angular velocity information about the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis of the controller 200. Specifically, in FIG. 4, assuming that the rotation angle around the X axis is α, the rotation angle around the Y axis is β, and the rotation angle around the Z axis is γ, the angular velocities for these α, β, and γ are detected. . Note that the positive and negative directions of the X, Y, and Z coordinate axes and the rotation directions of α, β, and γ are not limited to those in FIG. 4 and can be set as appropriate. The angular velocity sensor 230 can be realized by, for example, a multi-axis angular velocity sensing gyroscope. Specifically, it can be realized by a multi-axis angular velocity sensing gyroscope having a MEMS structure.

  The angular velocity sensor 230 is provided in the extension unit 202 connected to the extension terminal of the main body of the controller 200, but may be provided in the main body of the controller 200. Further, in the following, in order to simplify the description, the controller main body and the expansion unit are illustrated as being integrally formed.

  The controller 200 can be held (gripped and attached) by the player, and preferably has a shape that can be rotated by a coordinate axis along the longitudinal direction, for example, but the shape of FIGS. 3A and 3B ( It is not limited to a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape (the cut surface along the longitudinal direction is a substantially rectangular shape). For example, various modifications may be made such that a part of the shape of FIGS. 3A and 3B is different, or a case in which the controller 200 is stored is provided.

2.2 Non-player character control based on climax parameters In this embodiment, a resort travel feeling can be enjoyed regardless of the number of people, time, and human environment, and it can be enjoyed casually and fully. A tennis game is realized.

  Specifically, in this tennis game, the player enjoys the tennis game on a resort island as shown in FIG. This resort island is a resort for tennis, and there are multiple courts in the resort. The player can play tennis on a court set up in a realistic location on the resort island.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, the player character operated by the player can stroll around the court and enjoy conversation with non-player characters who are spectators and locals. And you can start a tennis game by applying for a match through conversation.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating a state in which the player character CH operated by the player and the opponent character CC are playing a tennis match. The opponent character CC may be a character operated by the opponent player in a multiplayer game, or may be a character operated by a computer in a computer battle.

  In the battle between the player character CH and the opponent character CC in FIG. 6A, it is determined whether or not a climax determination condition to be described later is satisfied, thereby calculating the climax parameter representing the climax of the battle (match). Is done. For example, when a rally continues or a super shot is determined and a predetermined climax determination condition is satisfied, a climax parameter flag is set or the climax parameter value increases. In this embodiment, the movement and movement of non-player characters other than the player character CH and the opponent character CC are controlled based on the excitement parameters in the battle.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 (B), when a game is excited and the climax parameter rises or a predetermined flag for the climax parameter is set, a non-player who is away from the court where the game is played Characters NP1 to NP6 move toward the court. That is, they gather near the court and watch and support the game between the player character and the opponent character as a gallery. That is, the non-player characters that become the gallery gradually gather around the court when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and cheer or applaud. Also, during the game replay (playing the replay image) or during the victory pose, they are happy together at the back.

  In this way, the game will be heated and the number of galleries will increase as the game gets excited. Accordingly, incandescent games become more and more exciting, and the game's game enthusiasm can be increased. That is, the player can visually recognize whether or not the game is exciting based on the number of galleries. And as the game gets hot and the number of galleries increases, it's encouraged and more and more addicted to the game. In this case, as will be described later, the non-player characters that are galleries are gathered on the court of the winning character or the court of the character who has played well, such as a super shot. Thus, the player will concentrate on the play so that more galleries will gather towards his court. Therefore, it is possible to increase the enthusiasm of the player's game and provide a tennis game of an unprecedented type.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a state in which non-player characters who are watching on another court gather on the court of the player.

  In FIG. 7, the player operates the player character CH on the court CT1 to play against the opponent character CC. The non-player characters NP11, NP12, and NP13 are watching the game as a gallery.

  On the other hand, in the other courts CT2 and CT3, the non-player characters NP21 to NP26 and NP31 to NP38 are watching the game as galleries, respectively. In this case, the number of galleries is proportional to the size of the swell parameter in each court, and the number of galleries on the coat CT1 is smaller than those on the other coats CT2 and CT3.

  Then, for example, when the game at the court CT1 is excited and the parameter at the court CT1 is increased, the non-player characters NP21, NP22, and NP25 who were watching at the other court CT2 as shown in FIG. From the position) toward the court CT1, and this time the game of the court CT1 is watched and supported.

  In this case, which non-player characters are gathered depends on distance information (distance, distance, and the like) between the original position of the non-player characters and the position of the court CT1 (for example, the position of the representative position or the arrangement position). Equivalent parameters) are desirable. For example, the non-player characters located closer to the court CT1 are gathered on the court CT1.

  Specifically, as will be described later, the threshold value of the swell parameter is set according to the distance from the coat CT1. In FIG. 7, the threshold value of the climax parameter is, for example, 10 at the distance between the non-player characters NP21, NP22, and NP25. Accordingly, when the value of the climax parameter on the court CT1 becomes 10 or more, the non-player characters NP21, NP22, and NP25 move toward the court CT1.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 8, the threshold value of the climax parameter is 20, for example, at the distance of the non-player characters NP26, NP31, NP32, NP33, NP37. Accordingly, when the value of the climax parameter on the court CT1 becomes 20 or more, the non-player characters NP26, NP31, NP32, NP33, and NP37 move toward the court CT1.

  As described above, as the value of the climax parameter on the court CT1 increases, the non-player characters located further away come to gather on the court CT1. As a result, the game on the court CT1 becomes more and more exciting, and it is possible to increase the game's enthusiasm and concentration.

  Further, for example, in a multiplayer game such as a network game, it is assumed that each player plays a game on a plurality of courts. In this case, the first player plays against the opponent character on court CT1, the second player plays against the opponent character on court CT2, and the third player plays against the opponent character on court CT3. become.

  At this time, the number of galleries of each coat changes according to the value of the swell parameter value in each coat CT1, CT2, CT3. Therefore, the first to third players can compete for the number of galleries gathered on their courts by playing high-quality play and incandescent games. A player-type game can be provided. That is, the player becomes motivated by increasing the number of galleries and becomes enthusiastic about game play, and the player's degree of enthusiasm for the game can be increased.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9A, it is desirable to set in advance an arrangement position around the court (the battle field in a broad sense) as the destination location of the non-player character. For example, in FIG. 9A, a plurality of arrangement positions P1 to P8 are set around the court. Among these, the arrangement positions P1 to P4 are, for example, arrangement positions of non-player characters that are galleries on the player character side (arrangement positions around the first field). On the other hand, the arrangement positions P5 to P8 are arrangement positions (arrangement positions around the second field) of the non-player character that is the gallery on the opponent character side. For example, the non-player character arranged at the arrangement positions P1 to P4 supports the player character side, and the non-player character arranged at the arrangement positions P5 to P8 supports the opponent character side.

  In addition, when the climax determination condition (first climax determination condition) such that the player character side unilaterally wins or determines a super shot is satisfied, the arrangement around the player character side court (first field) The non-player character moves relative to the positions P1 to P4. On the other hand, when the climax determination condition (first climax determination condition) such that the opponent character side wins unilaterally or decides a super shot is satisfied, the arrangement around the opponent character side court (second field) The non-player character moves with respect to positions P5 to P8.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9C, it is desirable to increase or decrease the number of arrangement positions based on the game result and the excitement parameter. For example, when the game result is good or the excitement parameter is high, the number of arrangement positions is increased as shown in FIG.

  In this case, the timing for increasing the number of arranged positions may be during a match (during a match) or after the match is over (after a match is ended). For example, if the game result is that the player character has won, and if the number of placement positions of the court on the player character side is increased or if the climax parameter increases due to a super shot of the player character, the court on the player character side Increase the number of placement positions. That is, when one side of the player character and the opponent character has a better game result than the other side, or when it contributes to an increase in the excitement parameter, the increase rate of the arrangement position on one side is compared with the other side. Make it higher. By doing this, the number of galleries on the side where the game results are good or heaped up can be increased, and the player's enthusiasm for the game can be increased.

  In the above, the case where the movement of the non-player character is controlled based on the climax parameter has been mainly described. However, the motion (motion, animation, production operation) of the non-player character may be controlled based on the climax parameter.

  For example, in FIG. 10, the non-player characters NP1 to NP6 gathered on the court perform various actions according to the climax parameters. That is, the movement of the non-player character after moving to the arrangement position of FIG. 9A is controlled based on the climax parameter that changes due to the game development or the like.

  For example, when the non-player character is scoring or winning, the non-player character performs a flicking motion such as jumping and joyful. Also, cheering motions and applause motions are performed. For example, a non-player character cheering on the losing team performs applause motion in the sense of celebrating good health. Alternatively, a motion such as whistling may be performed. Further, when the cheering side scores or releases a super shot, an effect (effect operation) indicating that the non-player character is pleased may be displayed. Alternatively, when the supporting side loses points, an effect indicating that the gallery is dull may be displayed.

  In this way, non-player characters gather due to the excitement of the game and the number of galleries increases, and the gathered non-player characters perform actions according to the excitement parameters, so that A sense of excitement can be further enhanced. As a result, the player can play the game as if integrated with the gallery, and the virtual reality of the player can be improved.

2.3 Increasing Judgment Conditions In this embodiment, the swell parameter calculation process is performed based on a plurality of swell determination conditions. FIG. 11 shows an example of the climax determination condition.

  For example, the excitement determination condition DC1 is a determination condition that is satisfied when the game is one-sided. Specifically, for example, when there is a difference of 3 games or more, this excitement determination condition DC1 is satisfied, and the non-player characters that are galleries are gathered on the court (team) of the winning character. Alternatively, when the excitement determination condition DC1 is satisfied after moving to the court, the non-player character performs a motion (operation in a broad sense) such as cheering or delighting the winning character.

  The rising determination condition DC2 is a determination condition that is satisfied when the rally of points continues. Specifically, when the point rally (game rally) continues, the climax determination condition DC2 is satisfied, and the non-player characters that are galleries gather on the courts of both characters.

  The swell determination condition DC3 is a determination condition that is satisfied when a super shot is determined. For example, when the character decides a super shot, the climax determination condition DC3 is established, and the non-player characters that are galleries gather on the court of the character that decided the super shot. Alternatively, when the climax determination condition DC3 is satisfied after moving to the court, the non-player character performs a motion such as cheering or joying the character who has determined the super shot.

  The swell determination condition DC4 is a determination condition that is satisfied when the ball rally continues. Specifically, when a certain number of rallies occur, the climax determination condition DC4 is satisfied, and non-player characters that are galleries gather on the courts of both characters.

  The swell determination condition DC5 is a determination condition that is satisfied when a point difference is present. Specifically, when it becomes 0-40, the climax determination condition DC5 is established, and the non-player characters that are galleries gather on the winning character's court. Alternatively, after the movement to the court, when the excitement determination condition DC5 is satisfied, the non-player character performs a motion such as cheering or delighting the winning character.

  The swell determination condition DC6 is a determination condition that is satisfied in the case of continuous advantage. Specifically, when the deuce continues three or more times, the climax determination condition DC6 is established, and the non-player characters that are galleries gather on the courts of both characters.

  In FIG. 11, DC1, DC3, and DC5 correspond to the first rising determination condition. When the first swell determination condition is satisfied, the arrangement position around the court of either the player character or the opponent character (one field of the first or second field in a broad sense) is set. The non-player character moves.

  On the other hand, DC2, DC4, and DC6 correspond to the second swell determination condition. When the second climax determination condition is satisfied, the non-player character is placed at a position around the court of both the player character and the opponent character (both fields in the first and second fields in a broad sense). Will move. That is, the non-player characters are gathered without distinguishing between the court on the player character side and the court on the opponent character side.

  In this way, when the climax determination conditions DC1, DC3, and DC5 are satisfied, the court on one side is crowded with galleries. Thereby, it is possible to realize a game effect in which the game is excited about the court on the one side.

  On the other hand, when the climax judgment conditions DC2, DC4, and DC6 are satisfied, both coats are crowded with galleries. Thereby, it is possible to realize a game effect that the game is excited throughout the court.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12A, it is desirable to calculate the individual swell parameters (flags) PR1 to PR6 based on the swell determination conditions of DC1 to DC6. For example, when the climax determination condition DC1 is satisfied, the flag of the individual climax parameter PR1 corresponding to DC1 is set to 1, or the value of the individual climax parameter PR1 is increased. When the climax determination condition DC2 is satisfied, the flag of the individual climax parameter PR2 corresponding to DC2 is set to 1, or the value of the individual climax parameter PR2 is increased. The relationship between the swell determination conditions DC3 to DC6 and the individual swell parameters PR3 to PR6 is the same.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12A, it is desirable to further prepare an overall excitement parameter PAL. Specifically, the overall swell parameter PAL is calculated based on a plurality of swell determination conditions DC1 to DC6. For example, when the climax determination condition DC1 is satisfied, the flag of the individual climax parameter PR1 is set to 1 or the value of PR1 is increased, and an addition point (addition value) corresponding to PR1 is set to the overall climax parameter PAL. Add to. When the climax determination condition DC2 is satisfied, the flag of the individual climax parameter PR2 is set to 1 or the value of PR2 is increased, and an addition point corresponding to PR2 is added to the overall climax parameter PAL. The same applies when the swell determination conditions DC3 to DC6 are satisfied.

  If such an overall excitement parameter PAL is prepared, the overall excitement of the battle can be expressed by PAL. That is, if one character only determines a super shot, the individual swell parameter PR3 increases, but the overall swell parameter PAL does not increase so much. However, if one character decides a super shot, and a point or ball rally continues or becomes a continuous advantage, the overall excitement parameter PAL also increases. Based on this overall excitement parameter PAL, non-player characters that are galleries are gathered and cheering and joyful motions are performed on non-player characters, so that not only individual excitement but also the excitement of the whole game can be achieved. Can express.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12B, it is desirable to associate each climax determination condition of DC1 to DC6 with each non-player character. That is, at least one of the climax determination conditions DC1 to DC6 is associated with the Kth (1 ≦ K ≦ N) nonplayer character of the first to Nth nonplayer characters. Then, based on the climax determination condition associated with the Kth non-player character, the movement and movement of the Kth non-player character are controlled.

  For example, in FIG. 12B, the climax determination condition DC1 is associated with the non-player character NP1, and the non-player character NP1 is controlled based on the individual climax parameter PR1 corresponding to DC1. Specifically, as described with reference to FIG. 11, when the climax determination condition DC1 is satisfied by the unilateral game development, the non-player character NP1 moves to the court. Then, a motion to support the winning character is performed.

  Further, the climax determination conditions DC2 and DC4 are associated with the non-player character NP2, and the non-player character NP2 is controlled based on the individual climax parameters PR2 and PR4 corresponding to DC2 and DC4. Specifically, the non-player character NP2 moves to the court when the point rally continues and the swell determination condition DC2 is satisfied, or when the ball rally continues and the swell determination condition DC4 is satisfied. Then, a motion for supporting both characters is performed.

  Further, the climax determination condition DC3 is associated with the non-player character NP3, and the non-player character NP3 is controlled based on the individual climax parameter PR3 corresponding to DC3. Specifically, when one character decides a super shot and the rising determination condition DC3 is satisfied, the non-player character NP3 moves to the court. Then, a motion or the like is performed to support the character who has decided the super shot. The same applies to the non-player character NP4.

  As described above, if each swell determination condition is associated with each non-player character, the image expression becomes monotonous because all non-player characters move or move uniformly. The situation can be prevented. That is, each non-player character moves and moves according to each swell determination condition, so that the player can feel as if the non-player character is moving with the intention, and the player's virtual reality can be given. Can be increased.

  In FIG. 12B, the non-player character is controlled not only based on the individual swell parameter but also based on the overall swell parameter PAL. In this way, a non-player character that is determined not to perform control based on the individual climax parameter can be controlled based on the overall climax parameter PAL.

  For example, the non-player character NP1 does not move to the court in principle unless the excitement determination condition DC1 of unilateral game development is satisfied. However, if the non-player character NP1 is controlled based on the overall climax parameter PAL, even if the climax determination condition DC1 is not satisfied, the overall climax parameter PAL becomes high and the non-player character NP1 is increased when the entire game is swelled. The character NP1 also moves to the court and performs a motion such as cheering. The same applies to the non-player characters NP2 to NP4. By controlling based on the overall excitement parameter PAL in this way, it is possible to efficiently express the overall excitement of the game.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, when the non-player character is controlled based on the non-player character distance information and the climax parameter, as shown in FIG. It is desirable to control by setting a threshold value of the swell parameter.

  Specifically, in FIG. 12C, threshold value VT1 is set for distance range 0 to L1, threshold value VT2 is set for distance range L1 to L2, and VT2> VT1. ing. A threshold value VT3 is set for the distance ranges L2 to L3, and VT3> VT2.

  For example, when the distance L between the non-player character (representative point) and the court (representative point, arrangement position) belongs to the distance range 0 to L1, the threshold value of the climax parameter is VT1. Therefore, the non-player character does not move toward the court when L <VT1, but moves toward the court when L ≧ VT1.

  When the distance L between the non-player character and the court belongs to the distance range L1 to L2, the threshold value of the climax parameter is VT2. Therefore, the non-player character does not move toward the court when L <VT2, but moves toward the court when L ≧ VT2.

  In this way, as described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, for non-player characters that are close to the court, even if the climax parameter on the court is small, the player moves toward the court. The non-player character with a long distance is not moved. When the climax parameter on the court increases, the non-player character that is far from the court also moves toward the court. Therefore, as the swell parameter increases, the non-player characters in a wide range move to the court, and the effect of swaying feeling can be further improved.

2.4 Detailed Processing Next, a detailed processing example of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 13 to 14B.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the climax parameter calculation process. First, it is determined whether or not game points have been determined (step S21). Taking a tennis game as an example, if one character decides a shot or the other character makes a mistake, it is determined whether one character has earned points. When the point is determined, n = 1 is set, and it is determined whether or not the climax determination condition DCn described with reference to FIG. 11 is satisfied (steps S22 and S23).

  If the climax determination condition DCn is satisfied, the flag of the individual climax parameter PRn corresponding to the climax determination condition DCn is set to 1 (step S24). Alternatively, the parameter value of PRn may be increased. Then, an addition point corresponding to the individual swell parameter PRn is added to the overall swell parameter PAL, and n is incremented by 1 (steps S25 and S26). Then, it is determined whether or not n> 6 (the number of individual determination conditions) (step S7). If n ≦ 6, the process returns to step S23, and processing for the next swell determination DCn is performed. On the other hand, when n> 6, the process for calculating the swell parameter is terminated.

  FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are flowcharts of non-player character control processing based on the climax parameter.

  In FIG. 14A, the non-player character process is repeated until the processes for all the non-player characters are completed (steps S31 and S32). Then, each non-player character performs the process of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not the flag of the individual climax parameter associated with the non-player character is set to 1 (step S41). That is, in step S24 of FIG. 13, it is determined whether or not the corresponding individual swell parameter flag is set to 1. If it is set to 1, the non-player character is moved to the placement position of the destination court (step S42).

  On the other hand, if the individual climax parameter flag is not set to 1, the overall climax parameter PAL is compared with the threshold value VT obtained from the distance between the non-player character and the movement destination court (step S43). . That is, as described with reference to FIG. 12C, a threshold value is acquired from the distance range to which the distance between the non-player character and the court belongs, and the threshold value is compared with the overall climax parameter PAL. Then, it is determined whether or not PAL ≧ VT. If PAL ≧ VT, the non-player character is moved to the placement position of the destination court (steps S44 and S45).

  As described above, each non-player character can be controlled based on the corresponding individual climax parameter and also based on the overall climax parameter.

2.5 Hit calculation process based on rotation angle information of controller Next, a detailed example of the hit calculation process of this embodiment will be described. In addition, the hit calculation process of this embodiment is not limited to the process demonstrated below, Various deformation | transformation implementation is possible.

  FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 16 show the motion (reference) of the player character CH (hereinafter referred to as the character CH as appropriate) operated by the controller 200 described with reference to FIGS. An example of motion) is shown. FIG. 15A shows an example of the motion (posture) of the character CH at the reference position. FIG. 15B shows an example of motion during takeback, and FIG. 16 shows an example of motion when a ball hits (impact). When the player holds the controller 200 as shown in FIG. 2 and swings by swinging the controller 200 like a tennis racket, the character CH on the screen also swings as shown in FIGS. Do. Here, the character CH performs a flat shot swing. That is, as shown in FIG. 16, at the moment of impact of the ball (hit object in a broad sense), the surface of the racket RK (hit body in a broad sense) is in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane (the ground surface). Since the ball hits at a right angle, the ball will fly in a flat shot trajectory without rotating.

  In real-world tennis, there are various shots such as top spin and slice other than the flat shot shown in FIG. For example, in the top spin shot, compared to the flat shot of FIG. 16, the direction of the racket surface is downward when the ball impacts (the angle with respect to the horizontal plane is smaller than 90 degrees), and the forward rotation with respect to the ball Take it. On the other hand, in the slice shot, compared to the flat shot in FIG. 16, the racket surface is directed upward at the time of impact of the ball (the angle with respect to the horizontal plane is greater than 90 degrees), and the ball rotates in the opposite direction. .

  However, in conventional tennis games, it has been difficult to realize such various shots such as topspin and slice by an operation that does not make the player feel uncomfortable. For example, a method of performing top spin and slice classification by operating a direction instruction key or a button can be considered. Specifically, when the lower side is instructed by the direction instruction key, the top spin shot is selected, and when the upper side is instructed, the slice shot is selected. However, such an operation is different from the sense of tennis swing in the real world, and such an operation may give the player a virtual reality that the player is actually playing tennis. difficult.

  In particular, as shown in FIG. 2, when the player swings the controller 200 like a tennis racket and the character CH on the screen swings and hits the ball BL, a shot using such a direction instruction key or the like is used. In this arrangement, the virtual reality of the player cannot be improved. That is, the operation of swinging the controller 200 is the same as in the real world tennis, but the top spin and slice allocation is different from the real world, meaning that the game operation as shown in FIG. 2 is realized. It will fade.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, rotation angle information about a predetermined coordinate axis of the controller 200, for example, rotation angle information about the Z axis (third coordinate axis) is acquired. Then, based on the obtained rotation angle information, the movement state and movement state (movement direction and rotation state) of the ball BL (hit object in a broad sense) hit by the racket RK (hit in the broad sense) are set. Perform hit calculation processing.

  For example, in FIGS. 17A to 17C, the movement state and operation state of the ball BL are set based on the rotation angle information of the controller 200 at the hit timing of the ball BL by the racket RK.

  Specifically, in FIG. 17A, the rotation angle γ around the Z axis of the controller 200 at the hit timing TH is set to γ = 0 when the initial value at the reference position is set to 0 (degrees), for example. It has become. As described above, when the rotation angle around the Z-axis at the hit timing TH is γ = 0, it is determined that the surface of the racket RK is perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and the ball BL Set the movement direction and rotation state. For example, the movement calculation process of the ball BL is performed so that the ball BL flies on a flat shot trajectory at a relatively high speed with almost no rotation.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 17B, the rotation angle of the controller 200 at the hit timing TH is γ = γA. Accordingly, the angle formed by the racket surface and the horizontal plane is smaller than 90 degrees, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is downward, and for example, the movement direction and the rotation state of the ball BL are set so as to be a top spin shot. Set. For example, the movement calculation process of the ball BL is performed so that the ball BL flies in the top spin shot orbit by forward rotation.

  In FIG. 17C, the rotation angle of the controller 200 at the hit timing TH is γ = −γB. Therefore, the angle formed by the racket surface and the horizontal plane is larger than 90 degrees, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is upward, and for example, the moving direction and rotation state of the ball BL are set so as to become a slice shot. To do. For example, the movement calculation process of the ball BL is performed so that the ball BL flies in the path of the slice shot with the rotation in the reverse direction.

  Note that switching of each shot in FIGS. 17A to 17C can be realized by determining an angle range to which the rotation angle γ belongs, for example. As an example, when -γ1 ≦ γ ≦ γ1, it is determined that the shot is a flat shot, and when γ1 <γ <γ2, it is determined that it is a top spin shot, and −γ2 <γ <−γ1. In some cases, a slice shot may be determined.

  In FIG. 18A to FIG. 18C, the movement state and the operation state after the hit of the ball BL are set based on the rotation angle information of the controller 200 in the hit determination period. Specifically, based on the change information of the rotation angle information in the hit determination period, the movement state and the operation state after the hit of the ball BL are set. For example, the movement state and the operation state of the ball BL are set based on the rotation angle information at the first timing and the rotation angle information at the second timing.

  For example, in FIG. 18A, the rotation angle around the Z-axis at the first timing TM1 before the hit timing TH is γ = 0, and the racket surface is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. To be judged. Further, at the hit timing TH, the rotation angle is γ = γA, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is downward compared to the timing TM1. Further, at the second timing TM2 after the hit timing TH, the rotation angle is γ = γB> γA, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is further downward compared to the hit timing TH. . As described above, when the direction of the racket surface changes downward before and after the hit timing, for example, the moving direction and rotation state of the ball BL are set so as to be a top spin shot. When the change in the rotation angle before and after the hit timing is large, for example, the rotation speed (rotation amount) of the top spin may be increased.

  In FIG. 18B, the rotation angle around the Z axis at the first timing TM1 before the hit timing TH is γ = 0, and the racket surface is perpendicular to the horizontal plane. To be judged. Further, at the hit timing TH, the rotation angle is γ = −γA, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is upward compared to the timing TM1. Further, at the second timing TM2 after the hit timing TH, the rotation angle is γ = −γB <−γA, and it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is further upward than the hit timing TH. Is done. As described above, when the direction of the racket surface changes upward before and after the hit timing, for example, the moving direction and rotation state of the ball BL are set so as to be a slice shot. When the change in the rotation angle before and after the hit timing is large, the slice rotation speed (rotation amount) may be increased.

  In FIG. 18C, it is determined that the direction of the racket surface is upward in the timings TM1, TH, and TM2. Further, for example, based on the rotation angle β around the Y axis, it is determined that the position of the racket RK is gradually moving upward. Therefore, in this case, the movement direction, rotation state, and the like of the ball BL are set so that the ball BL is a lob shot that flies upward.

  Thus, in FIGS. 17A to 17C, only the rotation angle at the hit timing TH is used, whereas in FIGS. 18A to 18C, the hit timing TH is used. The movement direction, rotation state, etc. of the ball BL are set by reflecting the rotation angles at the timings TM1, TM2 before and after. In this way, the trajectory of the ball BL after the hit can be brought closer to the trajectory of the real world, and the player's virtual reality can be further improved. In addition, not only the hit timing but also the rotation angle of the controller at the timing before and after it is reflected, so that it is possible to make a shot reflecting the angle of the racket surface in follow-through or takeback.

  FIGS. 19A to 19D show setting examples of the rotation direction and movement direction of each shot of flat, top spin, slice, and lob. As shown in the figure, in the flat or lob, the ball BL flies almost without rotation, the top spin rotates in the forward direction, and the slice spin rotates in the reverse direction. On the other hand, in the flat, the ball BL flies horizontally, whereas in the lob, it flies upward. The setting of the rotation direction and the movement direction of the ball BL is not limited to FIGS. 19A to 19D, and various modifications can be made. For example, a top spin lob that flies upward while rotating in the forward direction may be reproduced. Further, the trajectory of the shot of the ball BL after the hit may be obtained by performing a physical simulation process based on the movement state and the motion state set at the time of the hit, or is set at the time of hitting from a plurality of shot trajectories. Alternatively, it may be obtained by selecting a shot trajectory according to the moving state or the operating state.

  As described above, in this embodiment, hit calculation processing is executed using rotation angle information about the predetermined coordinate axis of the controller 200. In this way, for example, the control of the tennis racket surface can be realized by the rotation operation of the controller 200 around the predetermined coordinate axis. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an operation interface environment that is difficult to realize in a conventional sports game and the like, and the operation of the controller 200 matches the movement of the character, so that the virtual reality of the player can be improved.

  For example, conventionally, an acceleration sensor 224 provided in the controller 200 is used to detect that the player has shaken the controller 200. In such a method using only the acceleration sensor 224, it is difficult to accurately obtain an absolute rotation angle around each coordinate axis. Further, in the acceleration sensor 224, it is difficult to obtain the rotation angle around the Z axis along the longitudinal direction of the controller 200.

  On the other hand, in the present embodiment, for example, the angular velocity sensor 230 is used to obtain the rotation angle around each coordinate axis of the controller 200, and the hit calculation processing is realized using this rotation angle. Therefore, more intelligent and accurate hit calculation processing can be realized as compared with the conventional method using only the acceleration sensor 224. It should be noted that a sensor other than the angular velocity sensor 230 may be employed as a sensor for obtaining the rotation angle around each coordinate axis of the controller 200.

  In the present embodiment, hit calculation processing is performed based on the climax parameter. For example, when the game is excited and the excitement parameter is increased, the rotational speed and moving speed of the top spin and slice shots in FIGS. 19B and 19C are increased. As a result, so-called nice shots and super shots can be easily determined, and the game can be further excited. Alternatively, as described with reference to FIG. 11, when the climax determination condition that one character is advantageous is satisfied, the rotation speed, movement speed, etc. of the top spin or slice shot of the one character are increased. By doing so, it becomes easy to determine the shot of one character, and it becomes possible to further increase the one character side.

2.6 Setting the Hit Strength As described above, in this embodiment, the angular velocity sensor 230 of the controller 200 is used to obtain the rotation angle around a predetermined coordinate axis, and the hit calculation process is executed. At this time, the hit strength (hit force, hit acceleration) of the ball BL may be set using the acceleration obtained by the acceleration sensor 224, for example.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the acceleration sensor 224 detects the acceleration AV in the direction along the Z axis (direction along the third coordinate axis). This acceleration AV is an acceleration corresponding to a centrifugal force (precisely, a resultant force of centrifugal force and gravity) generated in the Z-axis direction by swinging the controller 200. Then, based on the detected acceleration AV, the strength of the hit when the ball BL is hit by the racket RK is set.

  For example, when the player swings the controller 200 at a high speed, the acceleration AV corresponding to the centrifugal force in the Z-axis direction increases. Therefore, in this case, the ball BL is strongly hit. For example, the acceleration in the hit direction of the ball BL is set to a large value. On the other hand, when the player swings the controller 200 at a slow speed, the acceleration AV corresponding to the centrifugal force in the Z-axis direction also decreases. Accordingly, in this case, the ball BL is hit weakly. For example, the acceleration in the hit direction of the ball BL is set to a small value.

  In this way, the swing speed and the strength of the hit are proportional, and the shot of the real world ball BL can be reproduced more faithfully. That is, the angular velocity sensor 230 and the acceleration sensor 224 can be used properly to realize the hit calculation processing of the ball BL by the racket RK. Note that the strength of hitting the ball BL may be set by reflecting, for example, the rotational speed around the X axis. For example, when the rotational speed around the X axis is fast, the strength of hitting the ball BL is also increased.

In this embodiment, hit calculation processing is performed based on the climax parameter. For example, the hit strength of the ball BL is also set based on the climax parameter. Specifically, when the game is exciting and the exciting parameter is high, the strength of hitting the ball BL is also increased. As a result, the shot of the character becomes a strong shot and is easily determined, and the game can be further excited. Alternatively, when the climax judgment condition that one character is advantageous is satisfied, the shot strength of the one character is increased. In this way, it becomes easy to determine the shot of one character, and it becomes possible to further increase the one character side. 2.7 Reference Position Information obtained from the sensor when the angular velocity sensor 230 is used. Becomes angular velocity. Therefore, when an absolute rotation angle is obtained, it is desirable to set an initial value of the rotation angle because an angular velocity integration process or the like is performed. Therefore, in this embodiment, the reference position detection unit 108 detects the reference position of the controller 200. This reference position is a position for setting initial values of the rotation angles α, β, γ around the X, Y, Z axes of the controller 200, for example.

  Various methods can be considered as the method for detecting the reference position. In this embodiment, the reference position is set when the player performs a predetermined operation notifying that the controller 200 has been set to the reference position. Judging. Specifically, in FIG. 21, the player holds the controller 200 corresponding to the racket on the front side of the body and takes the posture of the reference position similar to that of tennis. Then, by pressing the trigger button 214, the game apparatus 300 is informed that the controller 200 has been set to the reference position. Then, the rotation angles α, β, γ of the controller 200 are set to initial values (for example, 0 degrees). Thereafter, when the player swings with the controller 200 regarded as a racket, the rotation angles α, β, and γ are changed from the initial values based on the angular velocities detected by the angular velocity sensor 230, and the rotation from the reference position is performed. An angle is obtained. Then, the character CH performs a swing as shown in FIGS. 15A to 16 to make a shot of the ball BL.

  In this way, the player repeats the action of pushing the trigger button 214 and swinging after holding the controller 200 corresponding to the racket on the front side of the body in the same manner as in actual tennis, so that the opponent character CC You can enjoy the rally. Therefore, it is possible to enjoy the tennis game with an operation in which the player does not feel uncomfortable.

  The reference position detection method is not limited to the method shown in FIG. For example, the operation of a button other than the trigger button 214 may be used to notify the reference position. Alternatively, the reference position may be detected by detecting a light emitting element or the like attached to the display portion 190 by imaging with the imaging element 220 in FIG. For example, the reference position is detected when the player points the image sensor 220 toward the screen side of the display unit 190.

2.8 Setting Hit Determination Area In this embodiment, the angle of the surface of the racket RK is set based on the rotation angle γ of the controller 200 acquired by the angular velocity sensor 230. On the other hand, the hit determination area may be set based on the rotation angles α and β of the controller 200 acquired by the angular velocity sensor 230.

  For example, in FIG. 22A, the controller 200 is rotated by α = αi around the X axis with respect to the reference direction DR (direction in the case of the reference position). In this case, as shown in FIG. 22B, the hit determination area HA is also set to a position rotated by α = αi with respect to the reference direction. For example, assuming that there is a racket RK at a predetermined radial position from the center of the character CH, a hit determination area HA (hit volume) including this racket RK (racquet surface) is set. Then, whether or not the ball BL is hit by the racket RK is determined by performing a hit check process between the hit determination area HA and the ball BL.

  In FIG. 22C, the controller 200 rotates by β = βj around the Y axis with respect to the reference direction DR. In this case, as shown in FIG. 22D, the hit determination area HA is also set to a position rotated by β = βj with respect to the reference direction.

  In this way, when the player swings the controller 200 like a racket, the racket RK is arranged at a position corresponding to each position when the controller 200 is swung, and the hit determination area HA and the ball BL including the racket RK The hit check process is performed. Therefore, the player can shot the ball BL by swinging the controller 200 like in actual tennis, and can realize a tennis game faithful to the real world.

  In setting the hit determination area HA, the rotation angle γ around the Z axis may be reflected. For example, when the hit determination area HA has a plate shape, the angle of the plate-shaped surface may be set by a rotation angle γ around the Z axis.

  In this embodiment, the hit determination area HA in the hit calculation process is controlled based on the climax parameter. For example, the size of the hit determination area HA is changed according to the climax parameter.

  For example, in FIG. 22E, since the game is not so exciting and the value of the exciting parameter is small, the size of the hit determination area HA set on the racket RK (racquet surface) is reduced. This makes it difficult for the ball to hit the racket when the character swings.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 22F, since the game is exciting and the value of the exciting parameter is large, the size of the hit determination area HA is also increased. This makes it easier for the ball to hit the racket when the character swings. Accordingly, the number of shot mistakes is reduced, the rally continues and the nice shot is easily determined, so that the game can be further excited.

In addition, when the climax determination condition that one character is advantageous is satisfied, the size of the hit determination area HA of the racket of the one character may be increased. By doing this, it becomes easier to determine the shot of one character, and it is possible to further increase the one character side. Although the present embodiment has been described in detail as described above, Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many variations are possible that do not materially deviate from the matters and effects. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the present invention. For example, a term (racket, ball, etc.) described together with a different term (hit body, hit object, etc.) in a broader sense or the same meaning at least once in the specification or drawing is used anywhere in the specification or drawing. It can be replaced by that different term. Further, the non-player character control processing, hit calculation processing, and the like are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, and techniques equivalent to these are also included in the scope of the present invention. The present invention can be applied to various games. The present invention is also applicable to various image generation systems such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, a system board for generating game images, and a mobile phone. it can.

100 processing unit, 101 operation information acquisition unit, 102 game calculation unit,
104 object space setting unit, 106 hit calculation processing unit,
108 swell parameter calculation unit, 114 character control unit,
115 player character control unit, 116 non-player character control unit,
118 virtual camera control unit, 120 image generation unit, 130 sound generation unit,
160 operation unit, 170 storage unit, 172 object data storage unit,
174 Motion storage unit, 176 drawing buffer, 178 parameter storage unit,
180 information storage medium, 190 display unit, 192 sound output unit, 194 auxiliary storage device,
196 communication unit, 200 controller, 202 expansion unit,
210 Direction instruction key, 212 A button, 214 Trigger button, 220 Image sensor,
222 wireless communication module, 224 acceleration sensor, 230 angular velocity sensor

Claims (17)

A player character control unit that performs control processing of a player character operated by the player;
A game calculation unit for performing a game calculation process including a battle process between the player character and the opponent character;
Based on the result of the game calculation process, a climax parameter calculation unit that performs a climax parameter calculation process;
A non-player character control unit that performs control processing of non-player characters other than the player character and the opponent character;
As an image generation unit that generates an image for the player character and the opponent character to play against each other,
Make the computer work,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling at least one of movement and movement of the non-player character based on the calculated swell parameter. In claim 1,
The game calculation unit
Performing a battle process in which the player character and the opponent character are battled on the battle field;
The non-player character control unit
A program for performing control for moving the non-player character from a movement source position toward the battle field based on the climax parameter calculated in the battle process on the battle field. In claim 2,
The non-player character control unit
Determining whether to move the non-player character toward the battle field based on distance information between the movement source position of the non-player character and the battle field, and the excitement parameter; A featured program. In claim 2 or 3,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling the non-player character to move to an arrangement position set around the battle field. In claim 4,
The non-player character control unit
A program for increasing or decreasing the number of the arrangement positions according to at least one of a game result and the climax parameter. In claim 4 or 5,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling an action of the non-player character after moving to the arrangement position based on the swell parameter. In any one of Claims 4 thru | or 6.
The battle field has a first field for the player character and a second field for the opponent character,
The climax parameter calculation unit
Based on a plurality of swell determination conditions, the swell parameter is calculated,
The non-player character control unit
When the first swell determination condition among the plurality of swell determination conditions is satisfied, the non-player character is moved to an arrangement position around only one of the first and second fields. Control
Control is performed to move the non-player character to an arrangement position around both the first and second fields when a second rising determination condition among the plurality of rising determination conditions is satisfied. A program characterized by being performed. In any of claims 1 to 7,
The climax parameter calculation unit
Based on a plurality of swell determination conditions, the swell parameter is calculated,
The non-player character control unit
A program that controls the non-player character based on the swell parameter calculated based on the plurality of swell determination conditions. In claim 8,
The climax parameter calculation unit
Based on each swell determination condition of the plurality of swell determination conditions, perform processing of each individual swell parameter of a plurality of individual swell parameters,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling the non-player character based on the plurality of calculated individual swell parameters. In claim 8 or 9,
The climax parameter calculation unit
Based on the plurality of climax determination conditions, the overall climax parameter is calculated,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling the non-player character based on the calculated overall swell parameter. In claim 10,
The game calculation unit
Performing a battle process in which the player character and the opponent character are battled on the battle field;
The non-player character control unit
Determining whether or not to move the non-player character toward the battle field based on distance information between the movement source position of the non-player character and the battle field and the overall excitement parameter; A program characterized by In claim 8,
The climax parameter calculation unit
Based on each of the plurality of climax determination conditions, the individual climax parameters are calculated based on the individual climax determination conditions. ,
The non-player character control unit
A non-player character that is determined not to be controlled based on the individual climax parameter is also controlled based on the overall climax parameter. In any one of Claims 8 thru | or 12.
The Kth (1 ≦ K ≦ N) non-player characters of the first to Nth non-player characters are associated with at least one of the plurality of climax determination conditions,
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling the K-th non-player character based on a swell determination condition associated with the K-th non-player character. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 13.
As a hit calculation processing unit that performs a hit calculation process on a possessed object possessed by the player character or a part object constituting the player character and a hit target hit by the possessed object or the part object,
Make the computer work,
The hit calculation processing unit
A program that performs the hit calculation process based on the climax parameter. In claim 14,
The hit calculation processing unit
A program for controlling a hit determination area in the hit calculation process based on the climax parameter.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 15 is stored. A player character control unit that performs control processing of a player character operated by the player;
A game calculation unit for performing a game calculation process including a battle process between the player character and the opponent character;
Based on the result of the game calculation process, a climax parameter calculation unit that performs a climax parameter calculation process;
A non-player character control unit that performs control processing of non-player characters other than the player character and the opponent character;
An image generation unit that generates an image for the player character and the opponent character to fight against each other;
The non-player character control unit
A program for controlling at least one of movement and movement of the non-player character based on the calculated swell parameter.
An image generation system comprising: