JP2011160867A - Server system, game device and charging method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a mechanism for achieving a new sales method of a game device adopting desires of both of a game maker side and a game device purchaser side (shop side, for instance). <P>SOLUTION: In the game system 1, there are two kinds of (a) a lump-sum payment system and (b) a charging system as the sales systems of the game device 30 from the game maker side to the shop side, and they can be selected on the shop side. In the charging system, charging corresponding to the number of times of play is performed during a predetermined charging object period from the first operation date after purchase. After the end of a series of game play, the game device 30 transmits play data including the number of times of the play to the server system. In the server system 10, a charge is calculated on the basis of the received play data for the game device 30 sold by the charging system. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a charging method or the like in a game system in which a game device and a server system are communicably connected.

  In stores such as game centers where arcade game machines are installed and operated for business use, game machines are generally purchased from game makers by paying a predetermined purchase price. In addition, as described in Patent Document 1, a game device may be rented from a leasing company under a lease contract. According to the lease contract described in Patent Document 1, the store side (game device manager) pays the leasing company a charge according to the game usage status.

JP 2007-268237 A

  However, in the above-mentioned lease contract, since the leasing company purchases the game device from the game maker, the game maker still sells the game device in a lump sum payment method.

  By the way, arcade game devices are much more expensive than home or portable game machines. On the other hand, an arcade game device can usually only play one type of fixed game, and the popularity of the game does not necessarily increase. Since the game price paid by the player becomes the revenue of the store, if the popularity of the purchased game device increases, more revenue can be expected, but conversely, the popularity may not be as expected and the revenue may be less than the purchase amount possible. Therefore, the store side cannot easily decide to purchase an expensive game device. In addition, even for a leasing company, it is necessary to purchase and lend a game device by predicting the degree of popularity in the future because it earns profits by charging a store that lends the game device. However, the actual degree of popularity of the game can be understood only after the game is actually sold.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a purpose of the present invention is to provide a new game device that incorporates the wishes of both the game maker side and the game device purchaser side (for example, the store side). It is to provide a mechanism that enables the sales method of

The first form for solving the above problem is
Communication with a game device (for example, the game device 30 in FIG. 1) installed in the store via the communication device installed in the store, and a play indicating that the game play has been performed from the game device A server system (for example, server system 10 in FIG. 1) that receives information,
A storage unit (for example, the game device of FIG. 15) that associates and stores ID information given to a legitimate game device and sales method information indicating whether or not the game device is sold by a chargeable sales method. Management table 230),
Receiving means for receiving the ID information of the game device together with the play information from the game device (for example, the communication unit 140 in FIG. 13);
Charge-based sales determining means (for example, determining whether or not the game device corresponding to the ID information is sold by the charge-based sales method by checking the ID information received by the receiving means with the storage contents of the storage means) , Charging unit 122) of FIG.
When it is determined by the chargeable sales determining means that the game is sold by the chargeable sales method, a charge charge calculating means (for example, a charge charge to the game apparatus is calculated based on the play information received from the game apparatus (for example, , Charging unit 122) of FIG.
Is a server system.

As another form,
A game device that is installed in a store and performs a series of play operations including a series of game play until a game is over by detecting payment of a predetermined play price and starting the execution of the game or continuing the previous game. For example, the game device 30) of FIG.
ID information storage means (for example, game device ID 420 in FIG. 12) for storing ID information indicating that the game device is a legitimate game device;
When the series play is finished, the play information including at least the total number of times of the first play and the continue play executed in the series play, together with the ID information stored in the ID information storage means, the first to the fifth Play information transmitting means (for example, the communication unit 360 in FIG. 12) for transmitting to any form of server system;
You may comprise the game device provided with.

As another form,
A billing method in a game system configured to be communicably connected to a game device installed in a store and a server system that receives play information indicating that the game play has been performed from the game device,
The game device includes ID information storage means for storing ID information indicating that the game device is a legitimate game device,
The server system includes storage means for storing the ID information given to a legitimate game device and sales method information indicating whether or not the game device is sold by a chargeable sales method in association with each other. ,
A play information notification step (for example, steps A33 and A37 in FIG. 18) in which the game device notifies the server system of the play information and the ID information of the game device;
The server system checks the ID information notified in the play information notification step with the stored contents of the storage means, and determines whether or not the game device corresponding to the ID information is sold by the chargeable sales method. Charge-based sales determination step (for example, step B19 in FIG. 19);
Billing for calculating a billing fee for the game device based on the play information notified from the game device when the server system determines that the game is sold by the billing system sales method in the billing-based sales determination step A charge calculation step (for example, step B27 in FIG. 19);
A charging method including the above may be configured.

  According to the first embodiment and the like, as a charging method in a game system configured such that a game device installed in a store and a server system are communicably connected, a game device sold by a charging system sales system A method for calculating the charging fee based on the play information received from the game device is realized. At this time, in the server system, the ID information given to the legitimate game device and the sales method information indicating whether or not the game is sold by the chargeable sales method are stored in association with each other and played from the game device. Based on the ID information received together with the information, it is determined whether or not the game device has been sold by a chargeable sales method.

  As a result, if the store purchases the game device, it is possible to select from a plurality of sales systems including a chargeable sales system. For example, sales that are predicted to be advantageous by predicting the future popularity of the game. It is possible to select a method. In the server system, the game device sold by the chargeable sales method is distinguished from the game device sold by the other sales method, and the game sold by the chargeable sales method based on the received play information. A charging method for a new game device, such as calculating a charging fee for the device, is realized.

As a second form, in the server system of the first form,
First reception detection means (for example, the game management unit 121 in FIG. 13) for detecting that the first reception of ID information has been made by the reception means;
Billing start date storage means (for example, billing detailed data 260 in FIG. 17) for storing the date of initial reception detected by the first reception detection means in association with the ID information as the billing start date;
Further comprising
The charging fee calculation means checks the storage contents of the charging start date storage means to obtain a charging start date corresponding to the ID information received by the receiving means, and when a predetermined period has elapsed from the charging start date. The charge fee for the game device corresponding to the ID information is set free of charge or a predetermined reduction amount. If the charge fee is within a predetermined period, the charge fee is calculated based on the play information received by the receiving means (for example, Steps B21 to B27 in FIG.
A server system may be configured.

  According to the second mode, in the server system, the date of the first reception of the ID information from the game device is stored as the charging start date for the game device sold by the charging system, and the predetermined date from the charging start date is stored. If it is within the period, the charging fee is calculated based on the received play information, and if the predetermined period has elapsed, the charging fee is free or reduced.

As a third form, in the server system of the second form,
The charging fee calculation means variably calculates a charging fee according to the number of days elapsed from the charging start date within the predetermined period from the charging start date (for example, the charging rate table 250 in FIG. 16).
A server system may be configured.

  According to the third aspect, when the billing start date is within a predetermined period, the billing fee is variably set according to the number of days elapsed from the billing start date.

As a fourth form, in the server system of the second or third form,
The charging fee calculation means variably calculates the charging fee according to the total number of charges from the charging start date or the accumulated charging amount within the predetermined period from the charging start date (for example, the charging fee in FIG. 16). Rate table 250),
A server system may be configured.

  According to the fourth aspect, in a predetermined period from the charging start date, the charging fee is variably calculated according to the total number of charges from the charging start date or the accumulated charging amount.

As a 5th form, in the server system of the 1st-4th form,
Installation location information storage means (for example, FIG. 15) that stores the ID information of the game device in association with the communication device installed in the store where the game device is installed or installation location identification information indicating the store. Game device management table 230),
The receiving means further receives the installation location identification information of the game device when receiving the play information,
The ID information received by the receiving means and the installation location information are checked against the stored contents of the installation information storage means to authenticate whether or not the game device is installed at a properly registered location. It further comprises authentication means (for example, the game management unit 121 in FIG. 13),
A server system may be configured.

As another form,
A game device that is installed in a store and performs a series of play operations including a series of game play until a game is over by detecting payment of a predetermined play price and starting the execution of the game or continuing the previous game. For example, in the game apparatus 30) of FIG.
A communication device (for example, the communication device 50 in FIG. 1) that is communicatively connected to the server system of the fifth embodiment, and when the data is transmitted to the server system, the communication device or the store where the communication device is installed Via a communication device installed in the store to send together the installation location identification information shown, is a game device that can communicate with the server system,
ID information storage means (for example, game device ID 420 in FIG. 12) for storing ID information indicating that the game device is a legitimate game device;
ID information transmitting means (for example, the communication unit 360 of FIG. 12) for transmitting the ID information stored by the ID information storage means to the server system via the communication device;
An approval notification receiving unit (for example, the communication unit 360 in FIG. 12) that receives an approval notification when the server system authenticates based on the ID information transmitted by the ID information transmission control unit;
When the series play is performed while the approval notification is not received by the approval notification means, the total number of unapproved plays is cumulatively stored for the total number of times of the first play and the continue play executed in the series play. Storage means (for example, the number of times of unapproved play 430 in FIG. 12);
When the approval notification is received by the approval notification means, the play information including at least the number of plays stored in the non-approved play count accumulation storage means, together with the ID information stored in the ID information storage means, Unapproved cumulative play information transmission means (for example, the communication unit 360 in FIG. 12) to be transmitted to the server system;
You may comprise the game device provided with.

  According to the fifth aspect and the like, the server system can authenticate whether or not the game apparatus is a game apparatus installed in a properly registered place from the ID and installation location identification information received together with the play information. .

In this case, as an eighth form,
Unauthorized execution count allowable detection for detecting that the number of plays stored in the unapproved play count cumulative storage means exceeds a predetermined unapproved execution allowable count (for example, “specified number M” in FIG. 9). Means (for example, step A13 in FIG. 18);
A game execution inhibiting means (for example, step A15 in FIG. 18) for inhibiting the execution of a new game play when the unapproved execution frequency tolerance detecting means is detected;
You may comprise the description game device provided with.

  According to the eighth embodiment, in the game device, the total number of times played while the game device is not authenticated as a game device installed in a properly registered location exceeds the predetermined unapproved execution allowable number. In this case, execution of a new game play is suppressed.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of a game system. An example of an installation configuration of a communication device and a game device in a store. Explanatory drawing of the sales method of a game system. Explanatory drawing of a lump sum payment system and a charge system. Explanatory drawing of the transmission timing of play data. Explanatory drawing of a series of game play. Explanatory drawing of transmission of the play data via a communication apparatus. Explanatory drawing of the transmission timing of the play data when the approval of the game device is not possible. Explanatory drawing of the restriction | limiting of the frequency | count of play when the approval of a game device is impossible. Explanatory drawing of the transfer of the game device between stores. Explanatory drawing of the charge at the time of game device transfer. The functional block diagram of a game device. The function block diagram of a server system. The data structural example of a communication apparatus management table. The data structural example of a game device management table. The data structural example of a charging rate table. The data structural example of billing detail data. The flowchart of a game process. The flowchart of a server process. Another example of a billing rate table.

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

[Constitution]
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a game system 1 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 is a network game system in which a server system 10 and a plurality of game devices 30 are connected to be communicable via a communication line N. Here, the communication line N is meant to include a communication network such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet in addition to a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection, a LAN using Ethernet (registered trademark), and the like. The communication method may be wired / wireless.

  The game apparatus 30 is an arcade game apparatus that is installed in a store such as a game center and is used by a player to play a game. In the game device 30, a game that can be executed by the device alone (for example, an action game in which a plurality of stages are sequentially cleared) is performed. In this game, a single game play is possible by inserting a predetermined number of coins (for example, three 100 yen coins) as a game consideration. After the game, in the case of so-called bad ending, a predetermined number of coins (for example, two 100 coins) are reinserted within a predetermined time, so that the game can be played continuously from the end of the game or from the stage. So-called “continue” is possible. This continuation can be repeated any number of times until the game ends with a so-called good ending.

  The game device 30 is connected to the communication line N via the communication device 50 installed in the store. In FIG. 1, one communication device 50 is installed in one store, and all the game devices 30 installed in the store are connected to the communication device 50. FIG. Thus, for example, as in the first floor and the second floor of the same store, a plurality of (two in FIG. 2) communication devices 50 are installed in one store, and the game device 30 is connected to each. good.

  The server system 10 is installed and managed on the operating system (game maker) side of the game system 1 and is configured using a known server computer. The server system 10 functions as a game server that controls execution of the game in the game system 1 and also functions as a billing server that charges each store where the game apparatus 30 is installed. The server system 10 may be composed of a plurality of server computers connected to each other that function as a game server and a billing server, or a single server computer.

  The game system 1 of this embodiment is constructed and managed by a game maker. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the game maker manufactures the server system 10 and the game device 30, installs and manages the server system 10 in-house, and sells the game device 30 to the store side. The game device 30 sold and installed on the store side is registered on the game maker side together with the installed store on the assumption that the game device 30 has been properly sold. The game apparatus 30 installed in the store can play a game when it is authenticated that the game apparatus 30 has been registered by communication with the server system 10.

  Here, there are two types of sales methods for the game device 30 from the game maker to the store side: (a) a lump sum payment method and (b) a charge system, and the purchase side (store side) can select. Yes.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the sales method. In the lump sum payment method, the store side pays a predetermined purchase price to the game maker side when purchasing the game apparatus 30. On the other hand, in the charging system, a predetermined initial purchase price is paid to the game maker at the time of purchase of the game apparatus 30, and the initial purchase price at this time is set cheaper than the collective payment system. After the purchase, a billing fee corresponding to the game play on the game device 30 is paid to the game maker for a predetermined billing target period. It should be noted that after the billing target period has passed, no billing is made regardless of whether or not the game is played. Here, the billing target period is a predetermined period (for example, three years) starting from the day when the store side first operates the purchased game device 30 (operation start date).

  That is, in the lump sum payment method, the expense paid by the store to the game maker is only the purchase price paid at the time of purchase, and is constant. On the other hand, in the billing system, the initial purchase price is cheaper than the one-time payment method, but for a certain period after purchase, the pay-as-you-go system is charged according to the game play, so the total amount paid to the game maker is finally Costs are not constant.

  The billing fee in the billing system is calculated based on the number of times the game device 30 is played. That is, play data including the number of times of play in the own device is transmitted from the game device 30 to the server system 10. Then, the server system 10 calculates a charging fee for the game device 30 based on the number of times of play included in the play data received from the game device 30.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining play data transmission timing in the game apparatus 30. As shown in FIG. 5, after a series of game play is completed in the game apparatus 30, play data of the play is transmitted to the server system 10. Here, “a series of game play” means from the first game play (first time play) to the last game play (continuous play) continued by continuation. The “number of times of play” is the number of times that each of the first play and the continuous play is made once. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, the number of times N of a series of game play is the sum (1 + n times) of the number of times of the first play (1 time) and the number of times of continuous play (n times).

  At this time, “authentication” of the game apparatus 30 by the server system 10 is performed prior to transmission of the play data. That is, when an authentication request is transmitted from the game device 30 to the server system 10 and an “approval notification” indicating confirmation that the game device 30 is properly registered is received from the server system 10, the game device Play data is transmitted from 30 to the server system 10. Here, the “regular registration” of the game apparatus 30 means that the game apparatus 30 is installed in a store registered on the game maker side.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating transmission of play data from the game apparatus 30 to the server system 10. As shown in FIG. 7, the game device 30 transmits play data including the number of times of play to the server system 10 after the end of the series of game play. At this time, the play data sent from the game device 30 is transmitted to the server system 10 via the communication device 50 installed in the store where the game device 30 is installed. The communication device 50 adds the device ID (communication device ID) of the communication device 50 to the play data from the game device 30 and transmits the play data to the server system 10.

  Accordingly, the data received by the server system 10 is data in which the communication device ID is added to the play data sent from the game device 30. Then, the server system 10 specifies the store where the communication device 50 indicated by the communication device ID is installed from the communication device ID added to the received play data, and the game device ID included in the play data The game device 30 of the transmission source is identified from the above. It is determined that the game apparatus 30 is properly registered depending on whether the specified store matches the store where the game apparatus 30 is registered in advance.

  As described above, when play data is transmitted from the game apparatus 30 to the server system 10, the server system 10 first authenticates the game apparatus 30, and the play data is transmitted when the game apparatus 30 is approved. However, when the communication between the game device 30 and the server system 10 is disconnected for some reason, or when it is not confirmed that the game device 30 is properly registered, the game device 30 cannot be approved and the play data Cannot be sent. The transmission of play data in this case will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating transmission of play data when the game apparatus 30 is not approved. FIG. 8 shows a case where communication between the game device 30 and the server system 10 is disconnected. As shown in FIG. 8, in a state where communication between the game device 30 and the server system 10 is connected, when a series of game play ends in the game device 30, an authentication request is sent from the game device 30 to the server system 10. After being transmitted and receiving the approval notification from the server system 10, the play data is transmitted from the game device 30 to the server system 10.

  On the other hand, in a state where the communication between the game device 30 and the server system 10 is disconnected, an authentication request from the game device 30 is not transmitted to the server system 10 after a series of game play ends in the game device 30. The game apparatus 30 does not receive an approval notification and cannot transmit play data. Thus, when the game apparatus 30 is not approved, the play data to be transmitted is accumulated and stored as “unapproved play data”. Thereafter, communication between the game apparatus 30 and the server system 10 is restored, and after the first series of game play is completed, the unapproved play data stored and stored together with the play data of the play (current play data) is stored. Is transmitted to the server system 10. The same applies not only when the communication is disconnected, but also when an approval disapproval notification is received indicating that the communication is connected but that the regular registration is not confirmed.

  Further, in the game apparatus 30, a limit is set for the number of plays that can be performed in an unapproved state, and when the number of plays in an unapproved state (the number of unapproved plays) exceeds a specified number M, Game play on the device 30 becomes impossible.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the limit of the number of times of play in a state where approval is not possible. As shown in FIG. 9, in the game apparatus 30, after the power is turned on, first, an authentication request is transmitted to the server system 10, and in response to this, an approval notification from the server system 10 is received and approved. In the game device 30, “game play is possible”. At this time, if unapproved play data is stored in the game apparatus 30, the unapproved play data is transmitted to the server system 10.

  Thereafter, after a series of game play ends, the play data of the play is transmitted to the server system 10. At this time, each time the play data is transmitted, the game device 30 is authenticated, and the play data is transmitted when it is approved. However, if the approval notification is not received due to disconnection with the server or the like, Play data that is not transmitted is accumulated as unapproved play data, and the number of play times of the series of game play is counted as the unapproved play number. When the number of unapproved plays reaches a predetermined prescribed number M, thereafter, game play on the game device 30 becomes impossible.

  Note that the number of unapproved plays is the sum of the number of plays continuously performed in an unapproved state, and is reset to zero when the game apparatus 30 is approved and play data is transmitted. Further, the specified number M of times that is the upper limit of the number of times of play in a state where approval is not possible is set, for example, as the number of times of play for one day assumed in the game apparatus 30.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 10, the game apparatus 30 may be moved or resold from the current installation store to another store. In this case, the transfer source store side ("Store A" in FIG. 10) and the transfer destination store side ("Store B" in FIG. 10) install the game device 30 to the game maker side. It is necessary to apply for the change. Unless the installation store is changed, when the game apparatus 30 is turned on or when play data is transmitted, an approval disapproval notice is received from the server system 10 and approval is not possible, and the number of times of play since the store relocation is the prescribed number. When M is reached, “game play is impossible”.

  By the way, the play data transmitted from the game device 30 is considered to have been played at the store where the game device 30 was installed at the time of transmission, and is charged for the store. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, in the game apparatus 30 installed in the store A, play data is transmitted to the server system 10 every time a series of game play ends. In the server system 10, this play data is regarded as a game play in the store A that is the installation store at the time of transmission, and the store A is charged.

  However, when the game device 30 is moved / registered from the store A to the store B in a state where the play data is not transmitted due to disconnection with the server system 10 and the unapproved play data is stored, When the power is turned on for the first time after installation at the store B, authentication by the server system 10 is performed and if it is approved, unapproved play data stored in the game device 30 is transmitted to the server system 10. The play data transmitted at this time is actually game play play data made at the store A, but the server system 10 regards it as play data at the store B which is the installation store at the time of transmission. B is charged.

  FIG. 12 is a functional configuration diagram of the game apparatus 30. According to FIG. 12, the game apparatus 30 functionally includes an operation input unit 310, a coin detection unit 320, a processing unit 330, an image display unit 340, an audio output unit 350, a communication unit 360, The storage unit 400 is provided.

  The operation input unit 310 receives an operation instruction from the player and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the processing unit 330. This function is realized by, for example, a button switch, a lever, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, and various sensors.

  The coin detection unit 320 detects the type and number of coins (coins) that are inserted as game consideration, and outputs a detection signal to the processing unit 330.

  The processing unit 330 performs various arithmetic processes such as overall control of the game apparatus 30, game progress, and image generation based on programs and data read from the storage unit 400, operation signals input from the operation input unit 310, and the like. This function is realized by, for example, an arithmetic device such as a CPU (CISC type or RISC type), an ASIC (gate array or the like), or a control program thereof. The processing unit 330 mainly includes a game calculation unit 331 that performs calculation processing related to the execution of the game, an image generation unit 332 that generates a game image based on various types of data obtained by the processing of the game calculation unit 331, And a sound generation unit 333 that generates game sounds such as sound effects and BGM.

  The game calculation unit 331 performs game processing according to the game program 410. Specifically, when the coin detection unit 320 detects that a predetermined number of coins have been inserted as a game consideration, the first game play (first play) is started. In the game play, the progress of the game is controlled in accordance with an operation instruction of the player input from the operation input unit 310. When a predetermined number of coins are inserted within a predetermined time limit after the game ends and a continuation is instructed, the game play (continuous play) is resumed from the end of the previous game play or the end stage. If continue is not instructed, it is determined that a series of game play from the first play to the previous game play has been completed.

  When a series of game play is completed, the game operation unit 331 transmits an authentication request to the server system 10 and receives an approval notification from the server system 10 within a predetermined time limit from the transmission of the authentication request. As a result, the play data is transmitted to the server system 10. At this time, if unapproved play data is stored, the unapproved play data is transmitted to the server system 10 together with the current play data. When the unapproved play data is transmitted, the stored unapproved play data and the unapproved play count are reset to zero. On the other hand, if the approval notification is not received within the predetermined time limit from the transmission of the authentication request, or if the approval disapproval notification is received, it is determined that the own device is not approving, and the play data is played when it is not approved. While being stored as data, the number of plays of a series of game play is added to the number of unapproved plays.

  Further, when the number of unapproved plays reaches a predetermined prescribed number M, the subsequent game play is disabled and a predetermined error notification for notifying that the game play is impossible is performed. Specifically, for example, a predetermined error screen is displayed on the image display unit 340 or a predetermined error sound is output from the audio output unit 350 as notification for the manager of the store where the apparatus is installed.

  The image display unit 340 displays the game screen while redrawing an image of one frame every 1/60 seconds, for example, based on the image signal from the image generation unit 332. This function is realized by a display device such as a CRT, LCD, ELD, or PDP. The sound output unit 350 outputs game sound such as BGM and sound effects based on the sound signal from the sound generation unit 333. This function is realized by a speaker, for example.

  The communication unit 360 is connected to the communication line N in accordance with a control signal from the processing unit 330, and performs data communication with an external device (mainly the server system 10). This function is realized by a wireless communication module, TA, router, wired communication cable jack, control circuit, and the like.

  The storage unit 400 stores a system program for realizing various functions for causing the processing unit 330 to control the game apparatus 30 in an integrated manner, a program and data for realizing various functions in the present embodiment, and the like. , Which is used as a work area of the processing unit 330, temporarily stores calculation results executed by the processing unit 330 according to various programs, input data from the operation input unit 310, and the like. This function is realized by, for example, various IC memories, hard disks, MO, ROM, RAM, and the like. In the present embodiment, the storage unit 400 stores a game program 410 as a program, and stores unapproved play data 440 and unapproved play count 430 as data.

  FIG. 13 is a functional configuration diagram of the server system. According to FIG. 13, the server system 10 is functionally configured to include an operation unit 110, a processing unit 120, a communication unit 140, and a storage unit 200.

  The operation unit 110 receives an operation instruction from the administrator of the server system 10 and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation instruction to the processing unit 120. This function is realized by, for example, a button switch, lever, keyboard, mouse, touch panel, various sensors, and the like.

  The processing unit 120 is based on programs and data stored in the storage unit 200, operation signals input from the operation unit 110, data received from an external device (mainly, the game device 30) via the communication unit 140, and the like. Thus, overall control of the server system 10 is performed. This function is realized, for example, by an arithmetic device such as a CPU (CISC type or RISC type), ASIC (gate array, etc.) or a control program thereof. In the present embodiment, the processing unit 120 includes a game management unit 121 and a charging unit 122.

  The game management unit 121 manages a game executed in the game system 1. For example, “authentication” of the game apparatus 30 is performed. That is, when an authentication request is received from the game device 30, the game device 30 and the store that are the transmission source of the authentication request are specified. In other words, the game device 30 as the transmission source is specified from the game device ID added to the authentication request, and the communication specified from the communication device ID added to the authentication request with reference to the communication device management table 240. The store where the device 50 is installed is identified as the store from which the authentication request is sent.

  Then, with reference to game device management table 230, it is determined whether the identified store matches the identified store where game device 30 is installed. If they match, an “approval notification” is transmitted to the game device 30 assuming that the specified game device 30 is normally registered, and if they do not match, an “approval disapproval notification” is sent to the game device as not being normally registered. 30.

  Here, the communication device management table 240 is a management table for the communication device 50 installed in each store. FIG. 14 shows the data structure of the communication device management table 240. As shown in FIG. 14, the communication device management table 240 stores a communication device ID 241 and an installed store 242 in association with each other for each communication device 50 installed in each store.

  The game device management table 230 is a management table for the game device 30 sold to the store side. FIG. 15 shows the data structure of the game device management table 230. As shown in FIG. 15, the game device management table 230 stores a game device ID 231, an installed store 232, a sales method 233, and an operation start date 234 in association with each sold game device 30. Yes.

  The charging unit 122 charges the game device 30. In other words, when play data is received from the game apparatus 30 whose sales method is the charge system, the play date and time included in the play data is determined. Then, the elapsed days from the charging start date to the play date are calculated, and it is determined whether or not the play date is within the charge target period. If the play date and time is within the charging target period, the charging fee is calculated based on the charging rate determined in the charging rate table 250, and the corresponding charging detailed data 260 is updated as the charging to the game apparatus 30.

  The billing rate table 250 is a table that defines billing rates for game play. FIG. 16 shows the data structure of the accounting rate table 250. As shown in FIG. 16, the billing rate table 250 stores billing conditions 251 and billing fees 252 in association with each other.

  FIG. 17 shows the data structure of the billing details data 260. As shown in FIG. 17, the billing details data 260 is generated for each game device 30 whose sales method is the billing system, and the device ID 261, billing start date 262, and billing end scheduled date 263 of the corresponding game device 30. And a play date 264, a play store 265, the number of times of play 266, and a charge fee 267 are stored in association with each other for each series of game play performed on the game device 30. . As the charging start date 262, the operation start date of the game apparatus 30 is set. Then, the scheduled end date 263 is set to a date after a predetermined accounting target period (for example, 3 years) has elapsed from the accounting start date 262.

  Returning to FIG. 13, the display unit 130 displays a display screen based on the display signal from the processing unit 120. This function is realized by a display device such as a CRT, LCD, ELD, or PDP.

  The communication unit 140 is connected to the communication line N in accordance with a control signal from the processing unit 120, and performs data communication with an external device (mainly, the game device 30). This function is realized by a wireless communication module, TA, router, wired communication cable jack, control circuit, and the like.

  The storage unit 200 stores a system program for causing the processing unit 120 to control the server system 10 in an integrated manner, a program and data for realizing various functions in the present embodiment, and the work area of the processing unit 120. And temporarily stores the calculation results executed by the processing unit 120 according to various programs, input data from the operation unit 110, and the like. This function is realized by, for example, an IC memory, hard disk, MO, RAM, VRAM, CD-ROM, or the like. In the present embodiment, the storage unit 200 stores a game management program 210 and a billing program 220 as programs, and a game device management table 230, a communication device management table 240, and a billing rate table 250 as data. Billing statement data 260 is stored.

[Process flow]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of game processing in the game apparatus 30. This game process is started when the game apparatus 30 is turned on. As shown in FIG. 18, in the game apparatus 30, when the power is turned on, first, an authentication request is transmitted to the server system 10 (step A1). In response to this, when an approval notification is not received from the server system 10 within a predetermined time limit, or when an approval disapproval notification is received (step A3: NO), a predetermined indication indicating that the approval has not been made. Error notification is performed (step A5).

  On the other hand, if an approval notification is received from the server system 10 within a predetermined time limit (step A3: YES), the presence / absence of unapproved play data is determined, and if there is any (step A7: YES), it is stored. The unapproved play data is transmitted to the server system 10 (step A9), and the unapproved play data and the unapproved play count are cleared (step A11).

  Subsequently, the current unapproved number of plays and the prescribed number M are compared. If the unapproved number of plays is equal to or greater than the prescribed number M (step A13: NO), the subsequent game play is set to “impossible” A predetermined error notification indicating that play is impossible is performed (step A15).

  Thereafter, when a predetermined number of coins necessary for the first game play are inserted (step A17: YES), the game calculation unit 331 executes the first game play (first play) (step A19). If the predetermined number of coins necessary for the continuous play are reinserted within the predetermined time limit after the first play is completed (step A21: YES), the continuous play is executed assuming that the continue is selected ( Step A23). When the continuous play ends, the process returns to step A21, and the presence / absence of the continuation is determined again. On the other hand, if the predetermined number of coins is not inserted within the time limit (step A21: NO), it is determined that the continue has not been selected, and it is determined that a series of game play has ended (step A25).

  When the series of game play ends, the game calculation unit 331 transmits an authentication request to the server system 10 (step A27). In response to this, if an approval notification is received from the server system 10 within a predetermined time limit (step A29: YES), the presence / absence of unapproved play data is subsequently determined. If there is unapproved play data (step A31: YES), the current play data and unapproved play data are transmitted to the server system 10 (step A33). Then, the number of unapproved plays and the unapproved play data stored and stored are cleared (step A35). On the other hand, if there is no unapproved play data (step A31: NO), the current play data is transmitted to the server system 10 (step A37).

  Further, if the approval notification is not received within the predetermined time limit from the server system 10 or if the approval disapproval notification is received (step A29: NO), it is determined that the approval is not possible, While adding to unapproved play data (step A39), the number of unapproved plays is updated to a value obtained by adding the number of times of play this time (step A41).

  Thereafter, the processing unit 331 determines whether or not the power of the game apparatus 30 has been cut off. If not cut off (step A43: NO), the processing unit 331 returns to step A13 and repeats the same processing. If the power is cut off (step A43: YES), this game process is terminated.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of server processing in the server system 10. As shown in FIG. 19, in the server system 10, the game management unit 121 performs a game management process.

  Specifically, when the game management unit 121 receives an authentication request from the game device 30 (step B1: YES), the game management unit 121 determines whether or not the game device 30 is approved. That is, the game device 30 and the store of the transmission source are specified (step B3), and it is determined whether or not the specified store matches the registered installation store of the specified game device 30 (step B5: YES), it is determined that it has been registered normally, and an approval notification is transmitted to the game apparatus 30 (step B7). If the operation start date of the identified game device 30 is not set (step B9: NO), today is set as the operation start date of the game device 30 (step B11).

  On the other hand, if the identified store does not match the registered store where the identified game device 30 is registered (step B5: NO), it is determined that the registered is not properly registered, and an approval disapproval notification is transmitted to the game device 30. (Step B13). The game management process is performed in this way.

  In addition, the billing unit 122 performs billing processing. Specifically, when the billing unit 122 receives play data from the game device 30 (step B15: YES), first, the store and game device 30 that are the transmission source of the received play data are specified (step B17). ). Next, the sales method of the specified game device 30 is determined, and if it is a charging system (step B19: YES), a charging fee for the specified game device 30 is calculated based on the received play data.

  That is, the elapsed days from the charging start date of the game device 30 to the play date included in the received play data is calculated, and it is determined whether the play date is within the charge target period (step B21). If it is within the charging target period (step B23: YES), the charging rate is determined with reference to the charging rate table 250 (step B25), and charging is performed by multiplying the number of plays included in the play data by the charging rate set. A fee is calculated (step B27). The billing process is performed in this way. Then, it returns to step B1 and repeats the same process.

[Action / Effect]
As described above, in the game system 1 of the present embodiment, there are two types of sales methods of the game device 30 from the game maker side to the store side: (a) lump sum payment method and (b) billing system, It can be selected on the side. In the charging system, after the purchase, charging is performed according to the number of plays during a predetermined charging target period from the first working day. The game device 30 transmits play data including the number of times of play to the server system after the series of game play is completed, and the server system 10 uses the received play data for the game device 30 sold in a charging system. Calculate the billing fee.

  As a result, if the store that purchases the game apparatus 30 can select from a plurality of sales systems including a chargeable sales system, for example, the future popularity degree of the game is predicted and judged to be advantageous. It is possible to select a sales method. Further, the game maker can expect an increase in the number of game devices 30 to be sold by preparing a plurality of sales methods. In addition, in the charge-based sales method, it is possible to expect sales more than the lump sum payment method. Then, the server system 10 distinguishes between the game device 30 sold by the charge-based sales method and the game device 30 sold by other sales methods, and sells by the charge-based sales method based on the received play data. A new charging method for the game device 30 such as calculating a charging fee for the game device 30 is realized.

[Modification]
It should be noted that embodiments to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

(A) Charging rate For example, in the above-described embodiment, the charging rate is constant within the charging target period (see the charging rate table 250 in FIG. 16), but the charging rate may be changed within the charging target period. good. Specifically, for example, as in a charging rate table 250A shown in FIG. 20A, the charging rate may be changed according to the number of days elapsed from the charging start date. Further, as shown in the charging rate table 250B shown in FIG. 20B, the charging rate may be changed according to the cumulative number of times of charging (or the cumulative number of times of play) from the charging start date. As in the charging rate table 250C shown in c), the charging rate may be changed according to the accumulated charging fee from the charging start date.

  In the above-described embodiment, the billing is not performed after the billing period ends (the billing fee is “0 yen”), but billing at a billing rate lower than the billing period (for example, the billing target) You may decide to perform about 10% of the billing rate within the period). In addition, in the series of game play, the charge rate may be different between the initial play and the continuous play. Also, the test play may not be charged, and when charged, the charge rate may be different from the normal game play. Furthermore, a plurality of charging rate patterns as described above may be prepared and selected on the store side (the purchaser side of the game apparatus 30).

(B) Service play In addition, service play that does not involve the input of game consideration may be excluded from being charged or may be charged. This service play is a game play that is made possible by pressing a predetermined service button provided on the housing.

  Specifically, the game device 30 starts game play when a predetermined number of coins are inserted or when a service button is pressed. Then, after the series of game play is completed, play data is transmitted. At this time, whether or not the game play is “normal play” by inserting game consideration (coin) into the play data to be transmitted is pressed. Including the play type indicating whether it is “service play”.

  In the server system 10, it is determined from the play type included in the received play data whether the corresponding game play is a normal play or a service play. When service play is not subject to billing, billing based on the number of plays is performed only for normal play, and billing is not performed for service play (or the billing fee is set to “0 yen”). On the other hand, when service play is to be charged, billing based on the number of plays is performed for both normal play and service play. In this case, the charge for the service play is a burden on the store side.

  In this case, “one game play” is performed by pressing the service button once, but “single press of the service button” may correspond to “inserting one coin”. Conceivable.

  That is, in the game apparatus 30, one game play can be performed by inserting a predetermined number of coins as a game consideration, but by pressing the service button as many times as the number of necessary coins inserted, Times of game play is possible. For example, when “three coins of 100 yen” are inserted and the first play is possible, and continuous play is possible by inserting “two coins of 100 yen”, “press the service button three times”. The first play becomes possible, and the “continuous play” becomes possible by “pressing the service button twice”.

  Furthermore, a single game play (first play or continuous play) is also possible by a combination of coin insertion and service button press. For example, the first play can be performed by inserting two 100 yen coins and pressing the service button once, and the continuous play can be performed by inserting one 100 yen coin and pressing the service button once. . Note that the number of coins required for one game play can be arbitrarily set by, for example, an installation store.

  At this time, in the play data transmitted from the game apparatus 30 to the server system 10, for each game play (first play or continuous play), “the number of coins inserted” and “service” Send the data including the number of button presses. In the server system 10, each game play is received from the received play data by “normal play” only by inserting coins, “discounted play” by combining coin insertion and service button pressing, and only by pressing a service button. It is determined which play type is “service play”, and charging is performed according to this play type. At this time, the charging rate may be varied depending on the play type.

(C) Game device 30
In the above-described embodiment, the game apparatus 30 is a single apparatus, but the present invention can also be applied to a game system in which a plurality of game apparatuses 30 are integrally formed.

  In this game system, a plurality of game devices 30 and a management device that is connected to each game device 30 and manages each game device 30 are integrally configured, and are sold on a game system basis. In the game system, game play is performed in each game device 30 by inserting game consideration (coins, etc.). As a form of game play, “single play” for playing against the CPU character and “multiplay” for playing against other game devices 30 of the same system are performed.

  The management device manages the play status of each game device 30, and transmits play data to the game server 10 after the series of game play in each game device 30 is completed. At this time, for the game device 30 performing single play, play data is transmitted after the end of a series of game play, as in the case of the above-described embodiment.

  In addition, for the game device 30 performing multi-play, (1) play data is transmitted for each of a plurality of game devices 30 that are competing after the series of game play on the game device 30 is completed. Alternatively, (2) after a series of game play in all the game devices 30 in a match is completed, the play data of each of these game devices 30 may be transmitted together.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game system 10 Server system 110 Operation part 120 Processing part, 121 Game management part, 122 Charge part 130 Display part, 140 Communication part 200 Storage part 210 Game management program, 220 Charge program 230 Game apparatus management table, 240 Communication apparatus management table 250 charge rate table, 260 charge detail data 30 game device 310 operation input unit, 320 coin detection unit 330 processing unit 331 game calculation unit, 332 image generation unit, 333 audio generation unit 340 image display unit, 350 audio output unit, 360 communication Unit 400 storage unit 410 game program, 420 game device ID
430 Number of plays when unapproved 440 Play data when unapproved 50 Communication device N Communication line

Claims (9)

A server system that communicates with a game device installed in the store via a communication device installed in the store and receives play information indicating that the game play has been performed from the game device,
Storage means for storing ID information assigned to a legitimate game device and sales method information indicating whether or not the game device is sold by a chargeable sales method in association with each other;
Receiving means for receiving the ID information of the game device together with the play information from the game device;
Charge-based sales determination means for checking the ID information received by the receiving means with the storage contents of the storage means and determining whether or not the game device corresponding to the ID information has been sold by the charge-based sales method;
When it is determined by the charging system sales determination means that the game is sold by the charging system, a charging fee calculation means for calculating a charging fee for the game device based on the play information received from the game device;
Server system with First reception detection means for detecting that the reception of the first ID information by the reception means;
Billing start date storage means for storing the date of initial reception detected by the first reception detection means as the charging start date in association with the ID information;
Further comprising
The charging fee calculation means checks the storage contents of the charging start date storage means to obtain a charging start date corresponding to the ID information received by the receiving means, and when a predetermined period has elapsed from the charging start date. The charge fee for the game device corresponding to the ID information is set free of charge or a predetermined reduction amount, and if within a predetermined period, the charge fee is calculated based on the play information received by the receiving means.
The server system according to claim 1. The charging fee calculating means variably calculates a charging fee according to the number of days elapsed from the charging start date, within the predetermined period from the charging start date;
The server system according to claim 2. The charging fee calculation means variably calculates the charging fee according to the total number of charges from the charging start date or the accumulated charging amount within the predetermined period from the charging start date.
The server system according to claim 2 or 3. An installation location information storage unit that stores the ID information of the game device in association with the communication device installed in the store where the game device is installed or the installation location identification information indicating the store;
The receiving means further receives the installation location identification information of the game device when receiving the play information,
The ID information received by the receiving means and the installation location information are checked against the stored contents of the installation information storage means to authenticate whether or not the game device is installed at a properly registered location. Further comprising an authentication means,
The server system as described in any one of Claims 1-4. A game device that is installed in a store and detects a payment of a predetermined play price and starts a game execution or continues a previous game to continuously run a series of game play until the game is over There,
ID information storage means for storing ID information indicating that it is a legitimate game device;
The play information including at least the total number of times of the first play and the continue play executed in the series play when the series play is completed, together with the ID information stored in the ID information storage unit, Play information transmission means for transmitting to the server system according to any one of the above,
A game device comprising: In a game device that is installed in a store and that performs a series of game play until a game is over by detecting payment of a predetermined play price and starting execution of the game or continuing the previous game ,
A communication device that is communicatively connected to the server system according to claim 5, and transmits the installation location identification information indicating the communication device or a store in which the communication device is installed when transmitting data to the server system. A game device that can communicate with the server system via a communication device installed in the store.
ID information storage means for storing ID information indicating that it is a legitimate game device;
ID information transmitting means for transmitting the ID information stored by the ID information storage means to the server system via the communication device;
An approval notification receiving means for receiving an approval notification when the server system authenticates based on the ID information transmitted by the ID information transmission control means;
When the series play is performed while the approval notification is not received by the approval notification means, the total number of unapproved plays is cumulatively stored for the total number of times of the first play and the continue play executed in the series play. Storage means;
When the approval notification is received by the approval notification means, the play information including at least the number of plays stored in the non-approved play count accumulation storage means, together with the ID information stored in the ID information storage means, Unapproved cumulative play information transmission means to be transmitted to the server system,
A game device comprising: Unapproved execution count allowable detection means for detecting that the number of plays stored in the unapproved play count cumulative storage means exceeds a predetermined unapproved execution allowable count;
A game execution restraining means for restraining execution of a new game play when the unapproved execution number allowable detection means is detected;
The game device according to claim 7, comprising: A billing method in a game system configured to be communicably connected to a game device installed in a store and a server system that receives play information indicating that the game play has been performed from the game device,
The game device includes ID information storage means for storing ID information indicating that the game device is a legitimate game device,
The server system includes storage means for storing the ID information given to a legitimate game device and sales method information indicating whether or not the game device is sold by a chargeable sales method in association with each other. ,
A play information notification step in which the game device notifies the server system of the play information and the ID information of the game device;
The server system checks the ID information notified in the play information notification step with the stored contents of the storage means, and determines whether or not the game device corresponding to the ID information is sold by the chargeable sales method. A chargeable sales determination step;
Billing for calculating a billing fee for the game device based on the play information notified from the game device when the server system determines that the game is sold by the billing system sales method in the billing-based sales determination step Charge calculation step;
Billing method including.

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