JP2011212169A - Program, information storage medium, image generation method and image generation system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a program, an information storage medium, an image generation method and an image generation system, capable of generating an image in which a display object smoothly moves even when the resolution of a display area is low.SOLUTION: On the basis of a movement difference from a predetermined reference position of the display object, the drawing position of the display object is calculated. Then, when a difference between the movement difference from the reference position of the display object and a difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data are selected from two or more pieces of image data corresponding to the display object. When it is not within the predetermined range, one piece of image data other than the predetermined image data is selected from the two or more pieces of image data in accordance with the size of the difference. Then, the selected image data are drawn at the drawing position and the image including the display object is generated.

Description

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

  Conventionally, a music game system that performs a predetermined input operation at a timing in accordance with the progress of music is known. In such a music game system, in the image displayed on the display unit, a predetermined indicator is moved so as to reach a predetermined position at a reference timing in accordance with the progress of the music, thereby allowing the player to adjust to the progress of the music. Instruct the operation timing. Then, a process for evaluating the input of the player is performed by comparing the operation timing of the player with the reference timing. Furthermore, with the recent miniaturization and high performance of CPUs, it is possible to enjoy such music games with portable game devices and mobile phones.

JP 2008-264297 A JP 2009-131360 A

  In such a music game, it is desirable that the movement of the indication sign be displayed as smoothly as possible so that the player can accurately grasp the operation timing. For this reason, there is a case where it is desired to draw at a position that cannot be drawn depending on the game device, and an error occurs between the desired drawing position of the indication sign calculated by calculation for each drawing frame and the actual drawing position. It does not appear to move unnaturally or does not always display smooth movement. In particular, a display such as a portable game device or a mobile phone has a low resolution (the number of pixels is small), and thus the influence of this error is large. The moving speed of each indicator can be set so that the desired drawing position and the actual drawing position always match, but there may be cases where the speed setting accuracy is insufficient because the settable moving speed is limited. . In addition, for example, when it is desired to set a different moving speed for each indication sign in order to improve the difficulty level of the game, there are cases where appropriate settings cannot be made.

  When the resolution of the display area is low, not limited to music games, for example, various display objects may be displayed on the screen of a pachinko game or pachislot game, such as when a picture that moves at a low speed immediately before the reel rotation stops. Similar problems can occur when generating moving images.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and according to some aspects of the present invention, a program capable of generating an image in which a display object moves smoothly even when the resolution of a display area is low. An information storage medium, an image generation method, and an image generation system can be provided.

(1) The present invention
A program for generating an image in which a given display object moves,
A drawing position calculating unit that calculates a drawing position of the display object based on a movement difference from a predetermined reference position of the display object;
If the difference between the movement difference of the display object from the reference position and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data from a plurality of image data associated with the display object If not within a predetermined range, an image data selection unit that selects any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference,
The image data selected by the image data selection unit is drawn at the drawing position, and the computer is caused to function as an image generation unit that generates an image including the display object.

  The present invention also relates to an information storage medium that can be read by a computer and stores a program that causes the computer to function as each of the above-described units. The present invention also relates to an image generation system including the above-described units.

  According to the present invention, an image of a display object for each frame can be changed by selecting one image data that matches a predetermined condition from a plurality of image data for each frame. Accordingly, by setting a plurality of appropriate image data, it is possible to generate an image in which a display object moves smoothly even when the resolution of the display area is low.

(2) In the program, information storage medium, and image generation system according to the present invention,
The movement difference from the reference position of the display object is:
It may be a movement distance from the reference position of the display object or a movement time of the display object from the reference position.

  The moving distance from the reference position of the display object is, for example, the distance that the display object has moved from the reference position to the current position. The moving time from the reference position of the display object is, for example, the time required for the display object to move from the reference position to the drawing position.

(3) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The difference from the reference position to the drawing position is
A distance between the reference position and the drawing position or a time from when the display object is drawn at the reference position to when the display object is drawn at the drawing position may be used.

(4) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The computer may further function as an image data storage unit that stores the plurality of image data in association with one display object (including an image data storage unit).

  In this way, since it is not necessary to generate image data for each frame, the processing load can be reduced.

(5) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
An image data storage unit for storing image data of an original image of a display object;
Based on the image data of the original image of the display object, the computer further functions as a selected image data generating unit that generates the image data selected by the image data selecting unit (an image data storage unit, a selected image data generating unit, May be further included).

  In this way, the amount of image data to be stored can be reduced.

(6) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
For each of a plurality of groups obtained by dividing a plurality of display objects that move in a row in the order of movement, movement control information that controls movement of display objects included in each group is defined,
The drawing position calculation unit
Based on the movement control information for each group, calculate the drawing position of each display object,
The image data selection unit
On the basis of the movement control information for each group, for each display object, any one image data other than the predetermined image data or the predetermined image data may be selected.

  The movement control information may be, for example, information on the distance that the display object moves at a predetermined time (speed information), or information on the time required for the display object to move a predetermined distance. .

  In this way, not only when all the display objects move at the same movement speed, but also when each display object moves at different speeds in groups, an image in which all display objects move smoothly. Can be generated.

(7) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
As a movement distance calculation unit that calculates the movement distance of the display object from the reference position in the current frame based on the movement distance of the display object from the reference position in the previous frame and the speed information of the display object. Further, the computer may be caused to function (including a moving distance calculation unit).

(8) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The predetermined image data is image data of a basic image of the display object,
Image data other than the predetermined image data is
The basic image may be image data of an image that appears to be shifted in the moving direction of the display object or in the opposite direction.

  For example, the image data other than the predetermined image data may be image data of an image that appears to be shifted by a distance of less than one dot in the movement direction of the display object or in the opposite direction.

  For example, when the display object is drawn at the same drawing position, one image data that meets a predetermined condition is selected from N pieces of image data that appear to be drawn at positions shifted by 1 / N dots. Thus, since the resolution (number of pixels) in the moving direction can be artificially increased N times, an image in which a display object moves smoothly even when the resolution of the display area is low can be generated.

(9) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The drawing position calculation unit
Calculate the drawing position of each of the two display objects that move so that a part of each other overlaps,
The image data selection unit
For each of the two display objects, the predetermined image data or any one image data other than the predetermined image data is selected from the plurality of image data associated with the display object,
The image generation unit
For each of the two display objects, the image data selected by the image data selection unit may be drawn at the drawing position to generate an image including the two display objects.

  Generally, when the resolution of the display area is low, an unnatural movement that is particularly jerky is conspicuous in a portion where two display objects overlap. However, according to the present invention, it seems that the resolution (number of pixels) of the display area is increased in a pseudo manner, so that unnatural movement of the overlapping portion of the two display objects is reduced, and the two display objects are overlapped. A smoothly moving image can be generated.

(10) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The plurality of image data associated with each of the two display objects is defined such that the pixels of the outline portion of the display object are translucent,
The image generation unit
You may make it draw the pixel of the outline part of one display object, and the pixel of the other display object which overlaps the said pixel by translucent composition.

  In this way, the movement of the overlapping portion of the two display objects can be drawn more smoothly.

(11) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
The image data selection unit
One image data set is selected according to the processing load from a plurality of image data sets including different numbers of image data associated with the display object, and the plurality of image data included in the selected image data set is selected. Any one image data other than the predetermined image data or the predetermined image data may be selected.

  In this way, for example, when the processing load is relatively light, it is possible to generate an image in which the display object moves more smoothly by selecting image data from an image data set having a large number of image data, When the load is relatively heavy, it is possible to reduce the load of image data selection processing by selecting image data from an image data set having a small number of image data.

(12) In the program, the information storage medium, and the image generation system according to the present invention,
A music playback unit that plays back music data stored in the storage unit;
The indicator mark that indicates each of the plurality of reference timings according to the music data is used as the display object, and each indicator marker is moved on the movement route at a predetermined position at the reference timing corresponding to the indicator mark. A movement control unit
The reference timing corresponding to each indication sign and the input timing of the player are compared, and the computer is further functioned as an evaluation unit for evaluating the player input (a music playback unit, a movement control unit, and an evaluation unit, It may be further included).

  In this way, it is possible to realize a music game that smoothly moves and displays instruction signs even when the resolution of the display area is low. This makes it easier for the player to grasp the input timing.

(13) The present invention also provides:
An image generation method for generating an image in which a given display object moves,
A drawing position calculating step for calculating a drawing position of the display object based on a movement difference from the predetermined reference position of the display object;
If the difference between the movement difference of the display object from the reference position and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data from a plurality of image data associated with the display object And if not within a predetermined range, an image data selection step of selecting any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference,
An image generation step of drawing the image data selected in the image data selection step at the drawing position and generating an image including the display object.

  According to the present invention, an image of a display object for each frame can be changed by selecting one image data that matches a predetermined condition from a plurality of image data for each frame. Accordingly, by setting a plurality of appropriate image data, it is possible to generate an image in which a display object moves smoothly even when the resolution of the display area is low.

The figure which shows an example of the schematic external appearance of the system of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the image displayed by this embodiment. The figure for demonstrating evaluation of the timing of the movement display of an instruction | indication mark, and operation input. The figure which shows an example of the kind of musical note. The figure which shows an example of image data. The figure for demonstrating the creation example of image data. The time chart figure which shows an example of drawing of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The time chart figure which shows another example of drawing of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The time chart figure which shows another example of drawing of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the functional block diagram of the image generation system (game system) of this embodiment. The flowchart figure which shows an example of the determination process of the position designation operation of this embodiment. The flowchart figure which shows an example of the movement display process of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The flowchart figure which shows the specific example of the movement display process of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The flowchart figure which shows the modification of the movement display process of the instruction | indication mark of this embodiment. The figure which shows the example of the hardware constitutions which can implement | achieve this embodiment.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below do not unduly limit the contents of the present invention described in the claims. Also, not all of the configurations described below are essential constituent requirements of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, a music game system which is an example of the image generation system of the present embodiment will be described as an example, but the scope of application of the present invention is not limited to this.

1. (1) Outline of Music Game System FIG. 1 shows an external view of a music game system according to this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 1, the music game system of this embodiment is configured by a portable game system 10. As shown in FIG. 1, in the portable game system 10 of this embodiment, the main body upper portion 2 and the main body lower portion 4 are joined by the hinge portion 6, and the main body upper portion 2 and the main body lower portion 4 rotate around the hinge axis. It is made possible. The upper part 2 of the main body is provided with a first display 11, and the lower part 4 of the main body is provided with a second display 12. A sound input device 40 (microphone) for a player to input sound (speech input) is provided near the center of the middle part between the main body upper part 2 and the main body lower part 4. In the lower part 4 of the main body, operation units such as a cross key 14 and operation buttons 16 are provided. Further, on both sides of the first display 11, speakers 42 for outputting music sounds used in the music game are provided.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the second display 12 is a touch panel display in which a liquid crystal display for displaying an image and a touch panel capable of detecting a contact position are stacked, and the player displays the display area of the second display 12 with respect to the display area. It is possible to detect the position where the touched. In the present embodiment, an input for designating an arbitrary position in the display area (detection area) of the second display 12 by causing the player to operate the touch pen 20 and bringing the tip of the touch pen 20 into contact with the second display 12. An operation (position specifying operation) is performed and the operation position is detected.

  In the present embodiment, when the music game is started, the music sound is output from the speaker 42 and the first display 11 is moved to the left from the right side of the display area in accordance with the progress of the music. Is displayed on the second display 12 and an operation area where the player should perform a position specifying operation is displayed. This instruction mark 26 is a display for allowing the player to recognize the operation timing (reference timing) at which the player should perform the position specifying operation on the operation area of the second display 12. In the present embodiment, the reference sign 30 is fixedly displayed in the left central portion of the display area of the first display 11, and each instruction sign 26 is displayed at a reference timing for each instruction sign 26 that is predetermined according to the music data. Each indicator 26 is moved along a predetermined movement path 32 so as to reach the reference marker 30.

  In the present embodiment, the indication sign 26 is displayed, and further, the characters “Dong” or “Cut” are moved and displayed at the lower part of the indication sign 26 at the same moving speed as the indication sign 26. In addition, the operation area of the second display 12 is an area where a position designation operation is to be performed when the indication sign 26 that moves together with the character “don” is positioned (arrived) at the reference sign 30. A circular operation area 22 indicating a surface, and an area other than the operation area 22 where a position designation operation is to be performed when the indication sign 26 that moves together with the characters “Katsu” is positioned (arrived) at the reference sign 30 The operation area 24 is displayed.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 2A, at the timing (in fact, a predetermined reference period including the reference timing) at which the indication sign 26 that moves together with the character “don” reaches the reference sign 30 or the vicinity thereof, the player When a position specifying operation can be performed on the operation area 22, a sound effect “don” is output from the speaker 42 and a score is added. Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, at the timing (in fact, a predetermined reference period including the reference timing) at which the instruction indicator 26 that moves together with the character “kaku” reaches the reference indicator 30 or the vicinity thereof, the player When the position designation operation can be performed on the operation area 24, a sound effect “katsu” is output from the speaker 42 and a score is added. On the other hand, if the position designation operation cannot be performed on the operation area 22 or the operation area 24 in accordance with the instruction mark 26 at or near the reference timing (actually, a predetermined reference period including the reference timing) Is not output and the score is not added.

  FIG. 3 is a view for explaining the movement display of the instruction mark 26 and the evaluation of the operation input timing. The portable game system 10 of the present embodiment stores music data for outputting music sound in a storage unit, and uses musical score data 50 as data representing operation timing (reference timing) for one music. Stored in the storage unit. This operation timing may reproduce the characteristic rhythm of the original music, may be irregular based on game characteristics, or may be generated in real time in accordance with music data input externally.

  In the case of the music game as in this embodiment, since the distance from the display start position to the reference sign 30 is determined, an instruction can be made by setting speed information indicating how much the instruction sign 26 moves in a predetermined time. The movement of the sign 26 can be controlled. Therefore, in this embodiment, the movement speed (speed information) of each indication mark 26 is set in the musical score data 50.

  Further, in the present embodiment, identification data for identifying the type of note to be displayed is associated with each indication mark 26 corresponding to each operation timing, and the instruction is applied by applying the texture of the note corresponding to the identification data. A sign 26 is displayed. In this embodiment, the types of notes are classified into basic notes and special notes. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C show examples of note types. 4A is a basic note, FIG. 4B is a big note (an example of a special note) instructing to strike strongly, and FIG. 4C is a continuous note (special note instructing continuous operation). Example).

  In this embodiment, the musical score data 50 is divided into a plurality of bars 52-1, 52-2, 52-3, 52-4,. In the example of FIG. 3, in the second measure 52-2, the operation timings of the two indicator signs 26a and 26b are defined. Further, in the third measure 52-3, the operation timings of the five indicator signs 26c, 26b, 26d, 26e, 26f, and 26g are defined. In the fourth measure 52-4, the operation timings of the four indicator signs 26h, 26i, 26j, and 26k are defined. In the example of FIG. 3, the first measure 52-1 corresponds to the prelude part of the music data, and the operation timing is not defined.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the portable game system 10 of the present embodiment displays the display area of the first display 11 (for example, vertical 192 dots × 256 horizontal dots) 0 seconds after the reproduction of the music data is started. , The tip of the first measure 52-1 is displayed at the position of the reference marker 30, and the head of the second measure 52-2 is displayed at the right end. Then, in accordance with the musical score data 50, the portable game system 10 sequentially links the instruction sign 26 from the top to the reference sign 30 from the right end in the display area of the first display 11 in conjunction with the reproduction of the music data. Move and display. As a result, the head of the third measure 52-3 (indicator indicator 26c) is displayed at the right end of the display area of the first display 11 four seconds after the music data reproduction is started, and the fourth measure 52-3 is displayed. The head of the measure 52-4 (instruction indicator 26h) is displayed at the right end of the display area of the first display 11 8 seconds after the reproduction of the music data is started.

  In this embodiment, BPM (Beats Per Minute) based on the original music (or BGM) is set in each musical score data 50, and the moving speed (speed information) of the indicator 26 for each music and each bar from this BPM. Is defined. In the example of FIG. 3, a moving speed of 0.05 dot / ms is defined in the first bar 52-1, the second bar 52-2, and the fourth bar 52-4. Defines a moving speed of 0.1 dot / ms. Therefore, for example, if the distance from the right end of the display area of the first display 11 to the reference marker 30 is 200 dots, the two indicator signs 26a and 26b of the second measure 52-2 and 4 of the fourth measure 52-4 are displayed. It takes 4 seconds to reach the reference sign 30 after the two instruction signs 26h, 26i, 26j, and 26k are displayed at the right end of the display area of the first display 11. On the other hand, the five indicator signs 26c, 26d, 26e, 26f, and 26g of the third measure 52-3 reach the reference sign 30 in 2 seconds after being displayed at the right end of the display area of the first display 11.

  For example, the two indicator signs 26a and 26b of the second measure 52-2 are displayed on the right end of the first display 11 after 0 seconds and 1.2 seconds from the start of reproduction of the music data, respectively. It moves at 05 dots / ms and reaches the reference mark 30 after 4 seconds and 5.2 seconds, respectively. Further, for example, the five indicator signs 26c, 26d, 26e, 26f, and 26g of the third measure 52-3 are 4 seconds, 4.8 seconds, and 5.6 seconds, respectively, after the reproduction of the music data is started. After 6.4 seconds and 7.2 seconds, it is displayed on the right edge of the first display 11 and moves at 0.1 dot / ms. After 6 seconds, 6.8 seconds, and 7.6 seconds, respectively. 8.4 seconds later, the reference marker 30 is reached after 9.2 seconds.

  The portable game system 10 starts reproduction of music data, movement display of the instruction mark 26, and counting of elapsed time at the same time. Then, when the position designation operation is performed on the operation area 22 of the second display 12 when the reference timing of the indicator 26 that moves together with the characters “don” has arrived, a sound effect “don” is output from the speaker 42. In addition to the output, the display area of the first display 11 displays “Great!” To evaluate the player, and adds a relatively high score. Similarly, when the position designation operation is performed on the operation area 24 of the second display 12 when the reference timing of the indicator 26 that moves together with the characters “Ka” arrives, the sound effect “Ka” is output from the speaker 42. Is output in the display area of the first display 11 and a display for evaluating the player is displayed as “Great!”, And a relatively high score is added.

  In addition, even if the reference timing and the timing of the position specifying operation do not exactly match, during a predetermined short period (for example, 0.2 seconds) before and after the reference timing of the indicator 26 that moves together with the character “don”, When a position specifying operation is performed on the operation area 22, a sound effect “don” is output from the speaker 42, and “Good” is displayed on the display area of the first display 11 to evaluate the player. Add a low score. Similarly, if a position designation operation is performed in the operation area 24 during a predetermined short period before and after the reference timing of the indicator 26 that moves with the character “KA”, a sound effect “KA” is output from the speaker 42. At the same time, “Good” and a display for evaluating the player are displayed on the display area of the first display 11, and a relatively low score is added.

  On the other hand, if a position specifying operation is not performed on the operation area 22 or the operation area 24 or a position specifying operation different from the position specifying operation indicated by the instruction mark 26 is performed in a predetermined short period before and after the reference timing, No sound is output from the speaker 42, “Bad” and a display for evaluating the player are displayed in the display area of the first display 11, and no score is added.

  In the example of FIG. 3, for example, the reference timing (4 seconds after the start of music playback) of the indicator 26 a that moves together with the character “Don” arranged at the head of the second measure 52-2 of the musical score data 50 has arrived. In some cases, since a position designation operation has been performed in the operation area 22, a sound effect “don” is output from the speaker 42, “Great!” Is displayed in the display area of the first display 11, and a relatively high score is obtained. Is added. Further, for example, after the reference timing (5.2 seconds after the start of music playback) of the indicator 26b that moves together with the character “c” arranged in the second measure 52-2 of the music score data 50 has arrived. Since the position specifying operation was performed in the operation area 24 with a slight delay, a sound effect “Katsu” was output from the speaker 42, “Good” was displayed in the display area of the first display 11, and it was relatively low Scores are added. In addition, for example, the operation area 22 and the operation area in a predetermined short period before and after the reference timing (6 seconds after the start of music playback) of the indicator 26c arranged at the head of the third measure 52-3 of the musical score data 50 Since no position designation operation was performed on any of 24, no sound was output from the speaker 42, "Bad" was displayed in the display area of the first display 11, and no score was added. Also, for example, when the reference timing (6.8 seconds after the start of music playback) of the indicator 26d that moves together with the character of “k” arranged in the second measure 52-3 of the musical score data 50 has arrived. In addition, since the position specifying operation is mistakenly performed in the operation area 22, no sound is output from the speaker 42, "Bad" is displayed in the display area of the first display 11, and no score is added.

  In this way, in the portable game system 10 of this embodiment, the player progresses the music while listening to the music sound output from the speaker 42 and watching the instruction sign 26 moving in the display area of the first display 11. In addition, enjoy the music game of hitting the drum at a predetermined timing.

  In the example of FIG. 3, in the fourth measure 52-4, the indicator 26h and the indicator 26i move while being in contact with each other, and the indicator 26j and the indicator 26k move while overlapping each other. The interval of the reference timing for the two indicator signs 26 is shortened. In this way, the difficulty level of the game can be adjusted by adjusting the interval between two consecutive indicator signs 26.

  Moreover, since the moving speed of the indicator 26c in the third measure 52-3 of the score data 50 is faster than the moving speed of the indicator 26b in the second measure 52-2, the time difference between the indicator 26b and the indicator 26c is While it is 2.8 seconds at the right end of the display area of one display 11, it is shortened to 0.8 seconds at the timing of reaching the reference sign 30 (reference timing). In this way, the difficulty level of the game can also be adjusted by adjusting the moving speed of the indicator 26 for each measure.

(2) Instruction sign drawing method In music games and slot games where timing operations are important, processing is performed in fine units such as milliseconds in order to make timing more precise, and calculation results of less than 1 dot that cannot be drawn However, if nothing is done, the drawing will be jerky, which will hinder the notification of the operation timing. For example, in the example of FIG. 3, the moving speed of the indicator 26a is 0.05 dots / ms. Therefore, in this embodiment, 1 frame time is 1/60 seconds, and 0. 0 per frame (1/60 seconds). Move 83 dots (≈50 dots / 60 s). Therefore, the instruction mark 26a is drawn at the same position as the previous frame or a position moved by one dot for each frame. That is, the drawing position of the indication mark 26a does not change at a constant speed, but stops for each frame or moves by one dot. In the portable game system 10, since the resolution of the display area of the first display 11 is low (the number of pixels is small) (for example, 192 × 256 pixels), there is a difference between whether the frame is stopped or moved by one dot. If the indicator 26a is conspicuously drawn with one type of image (image data), it does not appear to move smoothly, and it appears to be an unnatural movement that moves in a jerky manner.

  Further, since the indicator 26 in the third measure 52-3 has a moving speed of 0.1 dot / ms, it moves 1.67 dots (≈100 dots / 60 s) per frame (1/60 seconds). For this reason, the indicator 26 of the third measure 52-3 is drawn at a position shifted by one dot or two dots for each frame. Here, for example, when attention is paid to the indicator 26c and the indicator 26d, the drawing positions of the indicator 26c and the indicator 26d do not always change by the same number of dots (1 dot or 2 dots) every frame. The drawing position of the indicator 26c changes by 2 dots while the drawing position of the indicator 26c changes by 1 dot, and the drawing position of the indicator 26c changes by 2 dots in another frame, while the drawing position of the indicator 26c changes. A situation occurs where the position changes by one dot. Since the movement speeds of the instruction sign 26c and the instruction sign 26d are the same, the drawing positions of the two instruction signs are kept at a predetermined interval as a whole, but locally, the interval between the two instruction signs is One dot will be narrowed or widened. If the indicator 26c and the indicator 26d are drawn as one type of image (image data), the closer the interval between the indicator 26c and the indicator 26d is, the more noticeable the change in the interval for one dot is. It looks like a movement.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, for each indicator 26, for each frame, the movement distance from the reference position of the indicator 26 (for example, the right end position of the display area of the first display 11), and the reference One type of image (image data) is selected and drawn from a plurality of types of images (image data) according to the relationship with the distance from the position to the actual drawing position. For example, four types of images (image data) P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. 5 (A) to 5 (D) can be selected with respect to the indication mark 26 associated with the basic note shown in FIG. 4 (A). To. The four types of images (image data) P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D are all contained in a rectangular area (shown by a broken line) of vertical n dots and horizontal m dots (shown by broken lines in FIG. 5). A) to FIG. 5D, specifically, n = 21 and m = 22), and the lower right vertex position of this rectangular area is the origin (0, 0) of the images (image data) P1 to P4. ).

  A basic image P1 shown in FIG. 5A is a substantially bilaterally symmetric image with the outermost black line as an outline. The outline of the note that is originally desired to be displayed is a white part, but a black outline part is attached to blend with the background (black). The upper end, the lower end, and the right end of the basic image P1 are in contact with the outer periphery of the rectangular region, and the left end has a gap of one dot from the outer periphery of the rectangular region. The basic image P1 is an image that looks like the indicator 26 is in a position that is not deviated from the drawing position when the origin (0, 0) is arranged to coincide with the drawing position.

  An image P2 shown in FIG. 5B is an image in which each pixel of the basic image P1 is blurred leftward with the outermost black line as an outline. The upper end, the lower end, and the right end of the image P2 are in contact with the outer periphery of the rectangular region, and the left end has a gap of one dot from the outer periphery of the rectangular region. This image P2 is an image in which the indicator 26 appears to be at a position advanced by 0.25 dots from the drawing position when the origin (0, 0) is arranged to coincide with the drawing position (the indicator 26 moves in the moving direction). The image appears to be shifted by 0.25 dots.

  An image P3 shown in FIG. 5C is an image in which each pixel of the basic image P1 is blurred in the left-right direction with the outermost black line as an outline. The upper end, the lower end, the right end, and the left end of the image P3 are all in contact with the outer periphery of the rectangular area, and the number of dots in the horizontal direction of the image P3 is one dot greater than that of the basic image P1. This image P3 is an image in which the indicator 26 appears to be at a position advanced by 0.5 dots with respect to the drawing position when the origin (0, 0) is aligned with the drawing position (the indicator 26 moves in the moving direction). The image appears to be shifted by 0.5 dots.

  An image P4 shown in FIG. 5D is an image in which each pixel of the basic image P1 is blurred in the right direction with the outermost black line as an outline. The upper end, the lower end, and the left end of the image P4 are in contact with the outer periphery of the rectangular region, and the right end has a gap of one dot from the outer periphery of the rectangular region. This image P4 is an image in which the indicator 26 appears to be at a position advanced by 0.75 dots from the drawing position when the origin (0, 0) is arranged to coincide with the drawing position (the indicator 26 moves in the moving direction). The image appears to be shifted by 0.75 dots.

  In the present embodiment, these images P1 to P4 have an intermediate color (gray) between the background color (black) and the outline color of the original note (white) in order to give a shifted impression even if the position is not changed. ) Is adjusted in color tone. Further, in the present embodiment, the images P1 to P4 have not only the musical note portion but also the surroundings as a transparent texture, and the texture for all the rectangular areas is integrated. By doing so, it is possible to easily realize an expression that appears to be shifted from each other even if the images P1 to P4 are drawn at the same position.

  FIGS. 6A to 6D are diagrams for explaining examples of creating the images (image data) P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D, respectively.

First, an original image BP composed of N ² times as many pixels as the basic image P1 shown in FIG.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 6A, the original image BP touches the upper end, the lower end, and the right end, and has a vertical N × n dot, horizontal width having an outer periphery that leaves a gap of N dots from the left end of the original image BP. Assume a rectangular area of N × m dots (indicated by a broken line). Then, the basic image P1 is reduced to 1 / N in both vertical and horizontal directions while performing anti-aliasing (blurring) on the basis of the origin (0, 0) of the rectangular area (lower left of the rectangular area). can get.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6B, in the same rectangular area as in FIG. 6A, the original image BP is shifted leftward by 0.25 × N dots (or the rectangular area is changed to 0.25 × N). The image P2 is obtained by shifting the original image BP to 1 / N vertically and horizontally while performing anti-aliasing processing based on the origin (0, 0) of the rectangular area.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6C, in the same rectangular area as in FIG. 6A, the original image BP is shifted leftward by 0.5 × N dots (or the rectangular area is 0.5 × N). The image P3 is obtained by shifting the original image BP to 1 / N vertically and horizontally while performing anti-aliasing with reference to the origin (0, 0) of the rectangular area.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6D, in the same rectangular area as in FIG. 6A, the original image BP is shifted leftward by 0.75 × N dots (or the rectangular area is 0.75 × N). The image P4 is obtained by reducing the original image BP to 1 / N vertically and horizontally while performing anti-aliasing processing with reference to the origin (0, 0) of the rectangular area.

  In the portable game system 10 of the present embodiment, the decimal part of the calculation drawing position (hereinafter referred to as “calculation position”) of the indicator sign 26 associated with the basic note for each frame is 0 or more and 0.25. If it is less than that, the basic image P1 is selected. If the decimal part of the calculation position is 0.25 or more and less than 0.5, the image P2 is selected. If the decimal part of the calculation position is 0.5 or more and less than 0.75. For example, the image P3 is selected, and if the decimal part of the calculation position is 0.75 or more and less than 1.00, the image P4 is selected, and the origin (0, 0) of the selected image is drawn corresponding to the integer part of the calculation position. Draw at the position. The images P1 to P4 may be created in advance and stored in the storage unit, or the original image BP may be stored in the storage unit, and any one of the selected images P1 to P4 may be stored in the original image. You may make it produce | generate in real time from BP.

  FIG. 7 to FIG. 9 are time chart diagrams showing examples of drawing of indicator signs according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the drawing position of the indicator 26 is specified by the X coordinate and the Y coordinate with the horizontal direction of the first display 11 as the X axis and the vertical direction as the Y axis. The left direction of the first display 11 is the positive direction of the X axis, and the upward direction is the positive direction of the Y axis. Further, it is assumed that the instruction mark 26 moves to the left so that the origin of the images P1 to P4 is always at the position of 100 of the Y coordinate.

  FIG. 7 shows the k-th frame to the (k + 4) -th frame when the two indicator signs 26 associated with the basic notes are moving leftward at a speed of 0.25 dots per frame (1/60 seconds). It is a drawing example.

  In the k-th frame, it is assumed that the calculation result of the position of the X coordinate (that is, the coordinate (0, 100)) with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 100.00. Since the basic image P1 is selected because it is 00 and the integer part of the calculation result is 100, the basic image P1 is drawn at a position (drawing position) where the origin coincides with the coordinates (100, 100). The calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the indicator 26 is 70.50. Since the decimal part of this calculation result is 0.50, the image P3 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 70, the origin is the coordinate. An image P3 is drawn at a position that matches (70, 100).

  In the (k + 1) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 advance to the left by 0.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 100.25. Since the calculation result is 0.25 after the decimal point, the image P2 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 100, the image P2 is located at the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (100, 100) (the same position as the kth frame). Drawn. Further, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (rear) indicator 26 is 70.75. Since the calculation result is 0.75 after the decimal point, the image P4 is selected. Since the integer part of the calculation result is 70, the image P4 is located at the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (70, 100) (the same position as the kth frame). Drawn.

  In the (k + 2) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 0.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 100.50. Since the calculation result is 0.50 after the decimal point, the image P3 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 100, the image P3 is located at a position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (100, 100) (the same position as the (k + 1) th frame). Drawn. Further, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (rear) indicator 26 is 71.00. Since the calculation result is 0.00 after the decimal point, the basic image P1 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 71, the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (71,100) (one dot shifted to the left from the (k + 1) th frame) The basic image P1 is drawn at (position).

  In the (k + 3) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further move to the left by 0.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 100.75. Since the calculation result is 0.75 after the decimal point, the image P4 is selected. Since the integer part of the calculation result is 100, the image P4 is located at the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (100, 100) (the same position as the k + 2 frame). Drawn. Further, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (rear) indicator 26 is 71.25. Since the calculation result is 0.25 after the decimal point, the image P2 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 71, the image P2 is located at the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (71, 100) (the same position as the k + 2 frame). Drawn.

  In the (k + 4) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 0.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 101.00. Since the calculation result is 0.00 after the decimal point, the basic image P1 is selected, and since the integer part of the calculation result is 101, the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (101, 100) is shifted by one dot to the left from the (k + 3) th frame. The basic image P1 is drawn at (position). Also, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 71.50. Since the calculation result is 0.50 after the decimal point, the image P3 is selected. Since the integer part of the calculation result is 71, the image P3 is located at the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (71, 100) (the same position as the k + 3 frame). Drawn.

  As described above, the left (front) indicator 26 is drawn at the same position in the kth to k + 3th frames and is drawn at a position advanced by one dot in the k + 4th frame, but is drawn for each frame. By changing the image in the order of P1, P2, P3, P4, and P1, movement of 0.25 dots is expressed in a pseudo manner. The right (rear) indicator 26 is drawn at the same position in the kth to (k + 1) th frames and is drawn at the same position advanced by 1 dot in the (k + 2) th to (k + 4) th frames. By changing the image to be processed in the order of P3, P4, P1, P2, and P3, movement of 0.25 dots is expressed in a pseudo manner.

  Thus, in this embodiment, the difference in the X direction between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 is 30 in the kth, k + 1th, and k + 4th frames, whereas in the k + 2th and k + 3th frames. Although the difference between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 in the X direction is 29, the unnatural appearance due to the jerky movement is reduced, and an image in which the two indicator signs 26 move smoothly is generated. Has succeeded.

  FIG. 8 shows the k-th frame to the (k + 4) -th frame when the two indicator signs 26 associated with the basic notes are moving leftward at a speed of 1.67 dots per frame (1/60 second). It is a drawing example.

  In the k-th frame, it is assumed that the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 100.00. Therefore, the basic image P1 is drawn at a position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (100, 100). Also, assume that the X coordinate calculation result for the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 70.33. Therefore, the image P2 is drawn at a position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (70, 100).

  In the (k + 1) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 advance to the left by 1.67 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 101.67, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (101, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the kth frame) An image P3 is drawn. The calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 72.00, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (72, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the kth frame) A basic image P1 is drawn.

  In the (k + 2) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 1.67 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 becomes 103.34, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (103, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the (k + 1) th frame) An image P2 is drawn on the screen. Also, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 73.67, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (73, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the (k + 1) th frame). An image P3 is drawn.

  In the (k + 3) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 1.67 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 105.01, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (105, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the k + 2 frame) A basic image P1 is drawn. The calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (rear) indicator 26 is 75.34, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (75, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the k + 2 frame). An image P2 is drawn on the screen.

  In the (k + 4) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 1.67 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 106.68, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (106, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the k + 3 frame) An image P3 is drawn. Also, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 becomes 77.01, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (77, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the k + 3 frame). A basic image P1 is drawn.

  As described above, the left (front) indicator 26 is drawn at a position advanced by 1 dot or 2 dots in the k-th to (k + 4) th frames, but the image to be drawn is P1, P3, P2 for each frame. , P1, and P3 are changed in this order to express a movement of 1.67 dots in a pseudo manner. The right (rear) indicator 26 is also drawn at a position advanced by 1 dot or 2 dots in the k-th to (k + 4) -th frames. For each frame, the image to be drawn is P2, P1, P3, P2, By changing in the order of P1, a movement of 1.67 dots is expressed in a pseudo manner.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the difference in the X direction between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 is 30 in the kth, k + 2, and k + 3 frames, whereas in the k + 1th and k + 4th frames. Although the difference between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 in the X direction is 29, the unnatural appearance due to the jerky movement is reduced, and an image in which the two indicator signs 26 move smoothly is generated. Has succeeded.

  FIG. 9 shows the first case where the two indicator signs 26 associated with the basic notes are moving in the left direction at a speed of 1.25 dots per frame (1/60 second) with a part of them overlapping. It is an example of drawing of k frame-k + 4th frame.

  In the k-th frame, it is assumed that the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 84.00. Therefore, the basic image P1 is drawn at a position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (84, 100). Also, assume that the X coordinate calculation result for the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 70.50. Therefore, the image P3 is drawn at a position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (70, 100).

  In the (k + 1) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 advance to the left by 1.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 85.25, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (85, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the kth frame) An image P2 is drawn on the screen. The calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 71.75, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (71, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the kth frame). An image P4 is drawn.

  In the (k + 2) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 1.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 86.50, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (86, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the (k + 1) th frame) An image P3 is drawn. Also, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 73.00, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (73, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the (k + 1) th frame). A basic image P1 is drawn.

  In the (k + 3) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further move to the left by 1.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 87.75, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (87,100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the k + 2 frame) An image P4 is drawn. The calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (rear) indicator 26 is 74.25, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (74, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the k + 2 frame). An image P2 is drawn on the screen.

  In the (k + 4) th frame, the two indicator signs 26 further advance to the left by 1.25 dots. Therefore, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the left (front) indicator 26 is 89.00, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (89, 100) (position shifted by 2 dots to the left from the k + 3 frame) A basic image P1 is drawn. Further, the calculation result of the X coordinate with respect to the origin of the right (back) indicator 26 is 75.50, and the position where the origin coincides with the coordinates (75, 100) (position shifted by 1 dot to the left from the k + 3 frame). An image P3 is drawn.

  As described above, the left (front) indicator 26 is drawn at a position advanced by 1 dot in the kth to k + 3th frames and is drawn at a position advanced by 2 dots in the k + 4th frame. Further, the movement of 1.25 dots is simulated in a pseudo manner by changing the image to be drawn in the order of P1, P2, P3, P4, and P1. The right (back) indicator 26 is drawn at a position advanced by 1 dot in the kth to (k + 1) th frame and the k + 3 to (k + 4) th frame, and is drawn at a position advanced by 2 dots in the k + 2th frame. However, for each frame, the image to be drawn is changed in the order of P3, P4, P1, P2, and P3 to express a movement of 1.25 dots in a pseudo manner.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the difference in the X direction between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 is 14 in the kth, k + 1th, and k + 4th frames, whereas in the k + 2th and k + 3th frames, Although the difference in the X direction between the drawing positions of the two indicator signs 26 is 13, it is possible to reduce the unnatural appearance due to the jerky movement and generate an image in which the two indicator signs 26 move smoothly. Has succeeded. However, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5D, the right edge of the image P4 is shifted to the left by 1 dot with respect to the images P1, P2, and P4. Therefore, when the frame changes from the (k + 2) th frame to the (k + 3) th frame, or when the (k + 3) th frame changes to the (k + 2) th frame, the movement change of the portion where the two indicator signs 26 overlap may be somewhat noticeable. Therefore, the black pixels in the contour portions of the images P1 to P4 are defined as semi-transparent, and the pixels in the contour portions of the images P1 to P4 are semitransparently combined with α = 0.5, for example, so that the appearance is unnatural. Can be further reduced.

  Since there are a large number of indicator signs 26 that can be associated with more drawn basic notes, this drawing method is applied only to the indicator indicators 26 that are associated with basic notes, and the indicator signs that are associated with special notes. Since the number 26 is small, a basic image of each special note may be always drawn without applying this drawing method to the indicator 26 to which the special note is associated.

2. Configuration Next, the configuration of a portable game system (music game system, image generation system) in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is an example of a functional block diagram of the portable game system 10 in the present embodiment. Note that the game system of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 8 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation data, and the function can be realized by a lever, a button, a steering, a microphone, a touch panel display, a housing, or the like.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the second display 12 shown in FIG. 1 has a configuration in which a liquid crystal display and a touch panel for detecting the contact position of the player are stacked. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the second display 12 functions as the operation unit 160 and also functions as the display unit 190. Here, as the touch panel, for example, various touch panels such as a resistive film method (4-wire type, 5-wire type), a capacitive coupling method, an ultrasonic surface acoustic wave method, and an infrared scanning method can be used. The contact operation on the second display 12 may be performed using an input device such as the touch pen 20 illustrated in FIG. 1 or may be performed using a fingertip.

  In addition, the operation unit 160 is realized by a pointing device that can detect the designated position in the display area of the display unit 190, or the operation unit 160 can detect any movement direction, movement amount, movement speed, and the like in the display area of the display unit 190. It may be realized by a mouse or a trackball that can specify the position of the. That is, the operation unit 160 of the present embodiment can be realized by various devices that can perform a position specifying operation for specifying a position in the display area.

  The sound input device 162 is used by the player to input sounds such as voice and clapping, and the function can be realized by a microphone or the like. The player may be able to perform a position designation operation by inputting sound to the sound input device 162.

  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 (VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 170 of the present embodiment includes a main storage unit 171 used as a work area, a drawing buffer 172 that stores final display images and the like, and music data that stores music data of multiple types of music. The storage unit 173, the image data storage unit 174 for storing image data of a display object (object) such as a game character, and the operation timing of the indicator 26 ((speed information for each measure)) at intervals according to the music. And a musical score data storage unit 175 for storing the defined musical score data. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the musical score data storage unit 175 performs, as musical score data, identification data of instruction signs, reference timing data indicating operation timing (reference timing), speed data indicating movement speed for each measure, and position specifying operation. Reference period data indicating a power reference period, operation area data indicating an operation area where a position specifying operation should be performed in the reference period, and data in a table format in which note identification data are associated are stored.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the image data storage unit 174 may store a plurality of image data in association with one instruction mark 26 (display object). For example, the image data storage unit 174 stores the four image data P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D in association with one instruction mark 26.

  Alternatively, the image data storage unit 174 may store image data (for example, image data BP) of the original image of the indicator 26 (display object).

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

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

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), or the like. In particular, in the present embodiment, the display unit 190 includes a first display 11 and a second display 12, and the second display 12 also functions as an operation unit 160 that allows a player to perform a game operation by using a touch panel display. To do.

  In the case of having two displays, at least the second display 12 may be configured as a touch panel display. In addition, a first display area and a second display area may be provided on one display, and at least the second display area may function as a detection area for detecting a contact operation position.

  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. In particular, in this embodiment, when a game is started and music data is reproduced, the music is output.

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

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

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

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on operation data and programs from the operation unit 160. Here, the game process includes a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for arranging display objects (objects) such as characters and maps, and a display object (object). There are a process for displaying, a process for calculating a game result, a process for ending a game when a game end condition is satisfied, 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, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

  In particular, the processing unit 100 of the present embodiment includes a music playback unit 110, an evaluation unit 112, an operation data acquisition unit 114, a game calculation unit 116, a display control unit 120, a selected image data generation unit 130, and an image generation unit 132. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  The music playback unit 110 plays back the music data stored in the music data storage unit 173 and causes the sound output unit 192 to output the music. This function can be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit (sound source IC) that generates a waveform of music sound based on music data, a program, or the like.

  The evaluation unit 112 compares and determines the timing at which the player makes an operation input to the operation unit 160 and the reference timing included in the reference period data stored in the reference data storage unit 174, and evaluates the player's operation input. . Specifically, the evaluation unit 112 starts counting a predetermined count value in conjunction with the start of reproduction of music data, and is preset as a count value when a manipulation input is detected and a reference timing. Judgment is made by comparing with the existing value.

  Then, the evaluation unit 112 performs “Great”, “Good”, “Good” with respect to the reference timing determined for each instruction mark 26 according to the degree of coincidence between the operation input timing and the reference timing during reproduction of the music data. Any evaluation of “Bad” is performed, and a score corresponding to the evaluation is added.

  When executing the above-described music game, the operation data acquisition unit 114 performs operation designation data indicating the operation timing at which the position designation operation is performed based on the player's position designation operation, and performs the position designation operation at the operation timing. The operation position data indicating the operated position is acquired. In the present embodiment, operation timing data at the time when a position designation operation is detected on the touch panel of the second display 12 and operation position data at the operation timing are acquired.

  The game calculation unit 116 performs various game calculations for advancing a game that causes an image to be displayed on the first display 11 based on an input operation accepted for the operation area of the second display 12. For example, when executing the above-described music game, the game calculation unit 116 compares and determines the reference period data and the operation timing data based on the input operation, and the operation region in which the position specifying operation is to be performed at the operation timing. The operation area data indicating the operation position data is compared and determined. Then, the game calculation unit 116 evaluates the player by calculating a game result according to the comparison determination result or performing an image effect according to the comparison determination result. If the comparison / determination result is bad, the volume of the music data is muted or reduced, and unpleasant sound effect data is reproduced and output.

  The display control unit 120 performs display control of a display object (object) displayed and output on the display unit 190. Specifically, a display object (game character, background, target, car, ball, item, building, tree, pillar, wall, map) is generated, the display position of the display object is indicated, or the display object disappears. Display control such as That is, display control is performed such as registering the generated display object in the display object list, transferring the display object list to the image generation unit 132, or deleting the disappeared display object from the display object list. In particular, the display control unit 120 should perform a first display control process for displaying an image for progressing the game on the first display 11 (first display area) and a position specifying operation for the player to specify a position. And a second display control process for displaying an image indicating the operation area on the second display 12 (second display area).

  Further, when executing the above-described music game, the display control unit 120 displays an image that allows the player to recognize the reference timing according to the music as the first display 11 (first display area) as the first display control process. ).

  Further, when executing the above-described music game, the display control unit 120 performs the second display control process when the indicator 26 that moves together with the characters “don” is positioned (arrived) at the reference marker 30. Position specifying operation when a circular operation area 22 indicating the surface of a Japanese drum and an indicator 26 that moves together with the character “K” is positioned (arrived) at the reference marker 30. And the operation area 24 that is an area other than the operation area 22 is displayed.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the display control unit 120 includes a movement distance calculation unit 122, a drawing position calculation unit 124, an image data selection unit 126, and a movement control unit 128. Note that some of these may be omitted.

  The drawing position calculation unit 124 calculates the drawing position of the instruction sign 26 (display object) based on the movement difference from the reference position of the instruction sign 26 (display object). The movement difference from the reference position of the indication sign 26 (display object) is, for example, the movement distance from the reference position of the indication sign 26 (display object) or the movement time of the indication sign 26 (display object) from the reference position. .

  If the difference between the movement difference from the reference position of the indication sign 26 (display object) and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, the image data selection unit 126 displays the indication sign 26 (display object). Select predetermined image data from a plurality of associated image data, and if not within a predetermined range, select any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference To do. The difference from the reference position to the drawing position is, for example, the distance between the reference position and the drawing position or the time from when the display object is drawn at the reference position to when the display object is drawn at the drawing position. The predetermined image data is, for example, image data (for example, basic image data P1) of a basic image of the indicator 26 (display object). The image data other than the predetermined image data is, for example, image data (for example, image data P2, P3, and P4) of an image that appears to have shifted the basic image in the moving direction of the indicator 26 (display object) or in the opposite direction. ).

  For example, the image data selection unit 126 selects one image data set according to the processing load from a plurality of image data sets including different numbers of image data that are associated with the instruction mark 26 (display object). From a plurality of image data included in the selected image data set, predetermined image data (for example, basic image data P1) or any one image data other than the predetermined image data (for example, any of image data P2, P3, P4) May be selected.

  The movement distance calculation unit 122 is configured to display the indicator 26 (display) in the current frame based on the movement distance from the reference position of the indicator 26 (display object) in the previous frame and the speed information of the indicator 26 (display object). The movement distance from the reference position of the object is calculated. For example, the speed information of the instruction mark 26 is defined for each measure in the musical score data.

  Further, in the present embodiment, for each of a plurality of measures (groups) obtained by dividing a plurality of instruction indicators 26 (display objects) that move in a row in the order of movement, the indication indicators 26 (display objects) included in each group are moved. The movement control information (for example, speed information) for controlling is defined. Then, the drawing position calculation unit 124 calculates the drawing position of each indicator 26 (display object) based on the movement control information for each measure (group). In addition, the image data selection unit 126 determines whether each indication mark 26 (display object) is other than predetermined image data (for example, basic image data P1) or predetermined image data based on the movement control information for each measure (group). One of the image data (for example, any one of the image data P2, P3, and P4) is selected.

  The movement control unit 128 positions each instruction mark 26 (display object) at the position (predetermined position) of the reference sign 30 at a reference timing corresponding to the instruction mark 26 (display object) predetermined in accordance with the music data. Thus, a process of moving on the movement path 32 is performed. For example, the movement control unit 128 moves each instruction marker 26 so as to be positioned on the reference marker 30 at the reference timing corresponding to each instruction marker 26 according to the musical score data defining the operation timing of the plurality of instruction markers 26.

  The selected image data generation unit 130 generates the image data selected by the image data selection unit 126 based on the image data (for example, image data BP) of the original image of the instruction sign 26 (display object).

  The image generation unit 132 performs processing for drawing (generating) an image based on various processing (game processing) performed by the processing unit 100, and outputs the drawn image to the display unit 190. It can be realized by hardware such as a drawing processor (GPU) or a program. Here, the image drawn by the image generation unit 132 may be a so-called two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image. The image generation unit 132 reads the image data of the display object corresponding to the display object list transferred by the display control unit 120 from the image data storage unit 174 or the like, and can store image information in units of pixels (frame buffer 172). Alternatively, a display object is drawn in a buffer such as an intermediate buffer (VRAM). Then, the image generation unit 132 displays the moving image on the display unit 190 by updating the image information every frame (for example, 1/60 seconds).

  In particular, in the present embodiment, the image generation unit 132 draws the image data selected by the image data selection unit 126 at the drawing position calculated by the drawing position calculation unit 124, and generates an image including the instruction mark 26 (display object). .

  Furthermore, in the portable game system 10 of the present embodiment, for example, the drawing position calculation unit 124 calculates the drawing position of each of the two indicator signs 26 (display objects) that move so that a part of each other overlaps, For each of the two instruction signs 26 (display objects), the data selection unit 126 selects predetermined image data (for example, basic image data P1) or predetermined information from a plurality of image data associated with the instruction signs 26 (display objects). Any one image data other than the image data (for example, any one of the image data P2, P3, and P4) is selected, and the image generation unit 132 uses the image data selection unit 126 for each of the two indicator signs 26 (display objects). The selected image data may be drawn at the drawing position, and an image including the two indicator signs 26 (display objects) may be generated. In this case, the plurality of image data associated with each of the two indicator signs 26 (display objects) are defined by semi-transparent pixels of the contour portion of the indicator sign 26 (display object), and the image generation unit 132 The pixels of the contour portion of one indicator 26 (display object) and the pixels of the other indicator 26 (display object) overlapping the pixel may be drawn by translucent synthesis.

3. Process of this embodiment (1) Determination process of position specifying operation Next, an example of the determination process of the position specifying operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in the present embodiment, when the game is started, reproduction of music data is started (step S10). Then, the elapsed time T is counted as 0 when the reproduction of the music data is started (step S12), and the movement display process of the indicator 26 is performed (step S14).

  Then, the contact operation on the second display 12 is monitored (step S16), and if the contact operation is not detected (N in step S16), has the elapsed time T reached the reference period set according to the music? If it is determined (step S18) and the reference period is reached (Y in step S18), a failure effect indicating that the operation has failed is performed (step S20). If the reference period is not reached (step S18). N) Returning to step S12, the processing from step S12 to step S18 is repeated. On the other hand, when the contact operation is detected (Y in step S16), the elapsed time T (count value) at the time when the contact operation is detected is acquired as operation timing data, and the detection area (display) of the second display 12 is displayed. The coordinate value in which the contact operation in the region is accepted is acquired as operation position data (step S22).

  And based on the operation timing data acquired in step S22, the music score data (reference | standard period data) of the score data storage part 175 is referred (step S24), and it is determined whether the operation timing data are included in reference | standard period data. (Step S26). That is, when the player performs a position specifying operation on the operation area, this is accepted as a valid input operation, and the processing from step S26 is performed.

  If the operation timing data is not included in the reference period data (N in step S26), a failure effect indicating that the operation has failed is performed (step S20). On the other hand, when the operation timing data is included in the reference period data (Y in step S26), the operation area data corresponding to the reference period data is referred to (step S28), and the operation position data is included in the correct operation area data. The reference period of the indicator 26 that moves with the character “Don”, whether the position designation operation is performed on the operation area 22, or the reference period of the indicator 26 that moves with the character “Ka” In step S30, it is determined whether or not a position designation operation is performed on the operation area 24.

  If the operation position data is not included in the correct operation area data (N in step S30), a failure effect indicating that the operation has failed is performed (step S20). On the other hand, when the operation position data is included in the correct operation area data (Y in step S30), it is determined whether or not the operation timing data is in the first range close to the reference timing among the reference period data (step S30). S32). If the operation timing data is not in the first range (N in step S32), a good performance indicating that the operation was good is performed (step S34). On the other hand, when the operation timing data is included in the timing of the first range (Y in step S32), an excellent effect indicating that the operation is excellent is performed (step S36).

  Thus, in this embodiment, the processing from step S12 to step S36 is repeated every 1/60 seconds. That is, in the present embodiment, the image update rate is 1/60 seconds, the elapsed time T is counted for each image update (every frame), and the indicator 26 is moved and displayed to monitor the period and monitor the operation data. The reception is monitored.

(2) Instruction Mark Movement Display Process Next, an example of the instruction mark movement display process of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not each instruction mark 26 included in the musical score data 50 is an instruction sign that is a target of the moving display process (step S110). For example, the indication indicator 26 whose display start timing is earlier than the elapsed time T from the start of reproduction of music data and in which none of the superior effect, the good effect, and the failure effect is performed is set as the object of the moving display process.

  If the indicator 26 is a processing target (Y in step S110), the drawing position of the indicator 26 is calculated based on the movement distance from the reference position of the indicator 26 (step S120).

  If the difference between the moving distance from the reference position of the indication mark 26 and the distance from the reference position to the drawing position (the drawing position calculated in step S120) is within a predetermined range (Y in step S130), the indication sign 26 Image data of a predetermined basic image data image is selected from a plurality of image data associated with (step S132).

  On the other hand, if the difference between the moving distance from the reference position of the indicator 26 and the distance from the reference position to the drawing position (the drawing position calculated in step S120) is not within a predetermined range (N in step S130), the difference According to the size, any one image data other than the image data of the predetermined basic image data is selected from the plurality of image data associated with the instruction mark 26 (step S134).

  If there is another instruction mark 26 to be processed (Y in step S140), the processing of the instruction mark 26 to be processed is performed in steps S110 to S134. If there is no other instruction mark 26 to be processed ( In step S140, the image data selected in step S132 or S134 is drawn at the drawing position calculated in step S120 for each instruction mark 26 to be processed, thereby generating an image of one frame (step S150).

  Here, for example, a plurality of pieces of image data are stored in the image data storage unit 174 in association with one indicator 26, and the image generation unit 132 selects the image data selected in step S132 or S134. May be read out and drawn at the drawing position. By doing so, it is not necessary to generate image data for each frame, and the processing load can be reduced.

  Further, for example, the original image data of each indication sign 26 is stored in the image data storage unit 174, and the selected image data generation unit 130 reads the original image data from the image data storage unit 174 and selects it in step S132 or S134. Image data may be generated, and the image generation unit 132 may draw at the drawing position. By doing so, the amount of image data stored in the image data storage unit 173 can be reduced.

  Further, in the process of step S150, taking into account the case where a part of the plurality of instruction signs 26 overlap each other, such as the instruction signs 26j and 26k shown in FIG. 26k) may be drawn first. For example, the instruction mark 26 may be drawn while performing hidden surface removal processing using the Z buffer, or may be drawn in order from the instruction mark 26 whose display start timing is late. Alternatively, each pixel of the outline portion of the indicator sign (indicator indicator 26j) drawn in front and each pixel of the indicator indicator (indicator indicator 26k) drawn behind it may be drawn by translucent synthesis.

  Next, as a specific example of the movement display process of the indicator sign of this embodiment, an example of the process using the images (image data) P1 to P4 in FIGS. 5A to 5D described above is shown in FIG. This will be described with reference to a flowchart.

  First, it is determined whether or not each instruction sign 26 included in the musical score data 50 is an instruction sign to be subjected to the moving display process. If it is a process target (Y in step S210), the previous calculation position of the instruction sign 26 and Based on the speed information, the current position is calculated (step S212).

  Then, the value of the integer part of the current calculation position of the indicator 26 calculated in step S212 is set as the drawing position (step S220).

  Next, if the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position of the indicator 26 calculated in step S212 is 0 or more and less than 0.25 (Y in step S231), the image data P1 of the basic image is selected (step S232). ). On the other hand, if the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position of the indicator 26 is not less than 0.25 and less than 0.5 (Y in step S233), the image data P2 is selected (step S234). On the other hand, if the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position of the indicator 26 is 0.5 or more and less than 0.75 (Y in step S235), the image data P3 is selected (step S236). If the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position of the indicator 26 is 0.75 or more and less than 1 (N in step S235), the image data P4 is selected (step S237).

  If there is another processing target instruction mark 26 (Y in step S240), the processing target instruction mark 26 is processed in steps S210 to S237, and if there is no other processing target instruction mark 26 ( In step S240, N), for each instruction mark 26 to be processed, the image data selected in step S232, S234, S236, or S237 is drawn at the drawing position obtained in step S220 to generate an image of one frame (step S250). ).

(3) Modification In this embodiment, for example, one image data set composed of four types of image data P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. The moving display process is performed by using a plurality of image data sets associated with one indicator 26, and the image used for the moving display process according to the processing load of the CPU that performs the image data selection process. The present embodiment may be modified so that the data set is switched in real time.

  As an example, FIG. 14 shows a flowchart in which two image data sets are associated with one instruction mark 26 and an image data set used for the moving display process is switched in real time according to the processing load of the CPU. For example, the first image data set is a first image data set composed of the image data P1 to P4 shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D, and the second image data set is an indicator mark. The image data Q1 of the basic image that appears to be at a position that is not displaced with respect to the drawing position, and the indicator 26 is 0.125 dots, 0.25 dots, 0.375 dots, 0 for the drawing position, respectively. Consists of image data Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5, Q6, Q7, and Q8 of an image that appears to be shifted in the movement direction by .5 dots, 0.625 dots, 0.75 dots, and 0.875 dots. Is done.

  The processing in steps S110 and S120 in FIG. 14 is the same as the processing in steps S110 and S120 in FIG.

  In step S122 of FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the processing load on the CPU is equal to or greater than a threshold value. Here, the CPU processing load may be actually detected and determined, or the CPU processing load may be estimated and determined. In the latter case, for example, if the number of indicator signs 26 drawn in one frame is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, it is determined that the CPU processing load is equal to or greater than the threshold value. You may make it determine with it.

  If the processing load of the CPU is equal to or greater than the threshold (Y in step S122), one image to be rendered is obtained from the first image data set (P1 to P4) by the same processing as steps S130, S132, and S134 in FIG. Data is selected (step S136). For example, P1 if the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position is 0 or more and less than 0.25, P2 if it is 0.25 or more and less than 0.5, P3 if it is 0.5 or more and less than 0.75, 0 If it is not less than .75 and less than 1, P4 may be selected.

  On the other hand, if the processing load of the CPU is less than the threshold (N in Step S122), the drawing target 1 is obtained from the second image data set (Q1 to Q8) by the same processing as Steps S130, S132, and S134 of FIG. Two pieces of image data are selected (step S138). For example, Q1 if the value of the decimal part of the current calculation position is 0 or more and less than 0.125, Q2 if it is 0.125 or more and less than 0.25, Q3 if it is 0.25 or more and less than 0.375, 0 Q4 if 375 or more and less than 0.5, Q5 if 0.5 or more and less than 0.625, Q6 if 0.625 or more and less than 0.75, Q7 if 0.75 or more and less than 0.875. If it is 0.875 or more and less than 1, Q8 may be selected.

  If there is another instruction mark 26 to be processed (Y in step S140), the process in steps S110 to S138 is performed on the instruction mark 26 to be processed. If there is no other instruction mark 26 to be processed ( In step S140, N), the image data selected in step S136 or S138 is drawn at the drawing position calculated in step S120 for each instruction indicator 26 to be processed, thereby generating an image of one frame (step S150).

  In this way, when the processing load on the CPU is relatively heavy, the number of cases in the image data selection process is reduced (for example, four ways), so that the processing load on the CPU can be reduced. On the other hand, when the CPU processing load is relatively light, there are many cases (e.g., eight patterns) in the selection process of the image data, so that the instruction mark can be seen to move more smoothly.

4). Hardware Configuration Next, a hardware configuration capable of realizing the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is an example of a hardware configuration that can realize this embodiment.

  The main processor 900 operates based on a program stored in a DVD 982 (information storage medium, which may be a CD), a program downloaded via the communication interface 990, a program stored in the ROM 950, or the like. Perform processing, sound processing, etc.

  The coprocessor 902 assists the processing of the main processor 900, and executes matrix operation (vector operation) at high speed. For example, when a matrix calculation process is necessary for a physical simulation for moving or moving an object, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs (requests) the process to the coprocessor 902.

  The geometry processor 904 performs geometry processing such as coordinate conversion, perspective conversion, light source calculation, and curved surface generation based on an instruction from a program operating on the main processor 900, and executes matrix calculation at high speed. The data decompression processor 906 performs decoding processing of compressed image data and sound data, and accelerates the decoding processing of the main processor 900. Thereby, a moving image compressed by the MPEG method or the like can be displayed on the opening screen or the game screen.

  The drawing processor 910 executes drawing (rendering) processing of an object composed of primitive surfaces such as polygons and curved surfaces. When drawing an object, the main processor 900 uses the DMA controller 970 to pass the drawing data to the drawing processor 910 and, if necessary, transfers the texture to the texture storage unit 924. Then, the drawing processor 910 draws the object in the frame buffer 922 while performing hidden surface removal using a Z buffer or the like based on the drawing data and texture.

  The drawing processor 910 also performs α blending (translucent processing), depth queuing, mip mapping, fog processing, bilinear filtering, trilinear filtering, anti-aliasing, shading processing, and the like. When an image for one frame is written in the frame buffer 922, the image is displayed on the display 912.

  Each function of each of the processors may be realized by a separate processor as hardware, or may be realized by one processor. In addition, even when a CPU and a GPU are provided as processors, it is possible to arbitrarily set which function is realized by which processor.

  The sound processor 930 includes a multi-channel ADPCM sound source and the like, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, and sounds, and outputs them through the speaker 932. Data from the game controller 942 and the memory card 944 is input via the serial interface 940.

  The ROM 950 stores system programs and the like. In the case of an arcade game system, the ROM 950 functions as an information storage medium, and various programs are stored in the ROM 950. A hard disk may be used instead of the ROM 950.

  The RAM 960 serves as a work area for various processors. The DMA controller 970 controls DMA transfer between the processor and the memory. The DVD drive 980 accesses a DVD 982 in which programs, image data, sound data, and the like are stored. The communication interface 990 performs data transfer with the outside via a network (communication line, high-speed serial bus).

  The processing of each unit (each unit) in this embodiment may be realized entirely by hardware, or may be realized by a program stored in an information storage medium or a program distributed via a communication interface. May be. Alternatively, it may be realized by both hardware and a program.

  When the processing of each unit of this embodiment is realized by both hardware and a program, a program for causing the hardware (computer) to function as each unit of this embodiment is stored in the information storage medium. . More specifically, the program instructs the processors 902, 904, 906, 910, and 930, which are hardware, and passes data if necessary. Each processor 902, 904, 906, 910, 930 realizes the processing of each unit of the present invention based on the instruction and the passed data.

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

  In the present embodiment, the music game in which the instruction mark included in the musical score data is moved and displayed from right to left in accordance with the reproduction of the music has been described as an example, but the scope of application of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it may be an image generation system that moves and displays a display object other than the indication sign, or moves and displays the display object in an arbitrary direction (from left to right, from top to bottom, from bottom to top, etc.).

  In this embodiment, the value of the integer part of the calculation result (calculation position) of the movement distance from the reference position of the indicator 26 is directly used as the X coordinate of the drawing position, but the integer value obtained by rounding off the calculation position is used as the drawing position. The X coordinate may be modified. In that case, one image data selected from a plurality of image data respectively associated with a plurality of ranges of the difference between the calculation position and the drawing position may be selected and drawn.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the movement time from the reference position of the indication sign 26 (the time required for the indication sign 26 to move from the reference position to the drawing position) and the drawing position after the indication sign 26 is drawn at the reference position are set. If the difference between the time until rendering is within a predetermined range, image data of a predetermined image data basic image is selected from a plurality of image data associated with the indicator 26, and if not within the predetermined range, Depending on the magnitude of the difference, modification may be made so that any one image data other than the image data of the predetermined basic image data image is selected from the plurality of image data associated with the instruction mark 26. For example, (time from when the indicator 26 is drawn at the reference position to when it is drawn at the drawing position) − (time required for the indicator 26 to move from the reference position to the drawing position) / 1 frame time (1 / If the remainder of 60 seconds) is 0 or more and less than 0.25 frame time (1/240 second), the basic image data P1 is selected, and 0.25 frame time (1/240 second) or more 0.5 frame time ( If it is less than 1/120 second, the image data P2 is selected, and if it is 0.5 frame time (1/120 seconds) or more and less than 0.75 frame time (1/80 seconds), the image data P3 is selected. The image data P4 may be selected if it is not less than 0.75 frame time (1/80 seconds) and less than 1 frame time (1/60 seconds). The time from when the indicator 26 is drawn at the reference position to when the indicator 26 is drawn at the drawing position is a frame from the frame where the indicator 26 is drawn at the reference position to the frame where the indicator 26 is drawn at the drawing position. It is obtained by multiplying the number by one frame time (1/60 second). Further, the time required for the indicator 26 to move from the reference position to the drawing position can be obtained by dividing the distance between the reference position and the drawing position by the speed of the indicator 26.

  In the present embodiment, when generating the images P2 to P4, the original image BP is shifted by a predetermined dot and the anti-aliasing process (blurring process) is performed. However, the original image BP may be shifted by a predetermined dot. However, the blurring process may be performed without shifting the original image BP.

  In the present embodiment, the player uses the touch pen 20 to perform a position designation operation on the operation area 22 or 24 of the second display 12 according to the indication sign. It may be replaced with a type of button pressing operation.

  In the present embodiment, notes associated with consecutive instruction signs 26 do not overlap with each other. However, even when they are close to each other, they may be adapted by semi-transparent processing.

  Further, the drawing technique of the present embodiment may be applied to the image of the characters “Dong” and “Cut” as well as the musical notes associated with the instruction mark 26 to correct it. However, as the number of correction targets increases, the number of processes increases and the processing load on the CPU increases. Therefore, the increase / decrease in the correction targets may be determined based on the CPU power.

  Further, when the drawing method of the present embodiment is applied to a general monitor, a pixel value of 1 dot that can be realized by the game machine and the monitor is obtained according to the monitor, and an image (texture) used for correction processing is obtained therefrom. You may decide the number.

  The present invention can be applied not only to music games but also to various games such as racing games, action games, fighting games, and role playing games. For example, the present invention can be applied to a case where a display object such as a number or a picture on a reel displayed on a screen in a pachinko game or a pachislot game is rotated and displayed.

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

  The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as the configurations described in the embodiments (for example, configurations that have the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations that have the same objects and effects). In addition, the invention includes a configuration in which a non-essential part of the configuration described in the embodiment is replaced. In addition, the present invention includes a configuration that exhibits the same operational effects as the configuration described in the embodiment or a configuration that can achieve the same object. Further, the invention includes a configuration in which a known technique is added to the configuration described in the embodiment.

BP original image, P1, P2, P3, P4 image (image data), 2 upper part of the body, 4 lower part of the body, 6 hinge part, 11 first display, 12 second display, 14 cross key, 16 operation buttons, 20 Touch pen, 22, 24 operation area, 26, 26a, 26b, 26c, 26d, 26e, 26f, 26g, 26h, 26i, 26j, 26k, 26l indicator sign, 30 reference sign, 32 moving path, 40 sound input device (microphone) ), 42 speakers, 50 musical score data, measures 52-1, 52-2, 52-3, 52-4, 100 processing unit, 110 music playback unit, 112 evaluation unit, 114 operation data acquisition unit, 116 game calculation unit, 120 display control unit, 122 movement distance calculation unit, 124 drawing position calculation unit, 126 image data selection unit, 128 movement Control unit, 130 selection image data generation unit, 132 image generation unit, 160 operation unit, 162 sound input device, 170 storage unit, 171 main storage unit, 172 drawing buffer, 173 music data storage unit, 174 image data storage unit, 175 Music score data storage unit, 180 information storage medium, 190 display unit, 192 sound output unit, 194 portable information storage device, 196 communication unit

Claims (15)

A program for generating an image in which a given display object moves,
A drawing position calculating unit that calculates a drawing position of the display object based on a movement difference from a predetermined reference position of the display object;
If the difference between the movement difference of the display object from the reference position and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data from a plurality of image data associated with the display object If not within a predetermined range, an image data selection unit that selects any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference,
A program that causes a computer to function as an image generation unit that draws image data selected by the image data selection unit at the drawing position and generates an image including the display object. In claim 1,
The movement difference from the reference position of the display object is:
The program is a movement distance of the display object from the reference position or a movement time of the display object from the reference position. In claim 1 or 2,
The difference from the reference position to the drawing position is
The distance between the reference position and the drawing position or the time from when the display object is drawn at the reference position to when the display object is drawn at the drawing position. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
A program that further causes a computer to function as an image data storage unit that stores the plurality of image data in association with one display object. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
An image data storage unit for storing image data of an original image of a display object;
A program that further causes a computer to function as a selected image data generation unit that generates image data selected by an image data selection unit based on image data of an original image of the display object. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 5,
For each of a plurality of groups obtained by dividing a plurality of display objects that move in a row in the order of movement, movement control information that controls movement of display objects included in each group is defined,
The drawing position calculation unit
Based on the movement control information for each group, calculate the drawing position of each display object,
The image data selection unit
A program for selecting one of the predetermined image data or image data other than the predetermined image data for each display object based on the movement control information for each group. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6.
As a movement distance calculation unit that calculates the movement distance of the display object from the reference position in the current frame based on the movement distance of the display object from the reference position in the previous frame and the speed information of the display object. Further, a program for causing a computer to function. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 7,
The predetermined image data is image data of a basic image of the display object,
Image data other than the predetermined image data is
A program characterized by being image data of an image that seems to be shifted in the moving direction of the display object or the opposite direction of the basic image. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 8.
The drawing position calculation unit
Calculate the drawing position of each of the two display objects that move so that a part of each other overlaps,
The image data selection unit
For each of the two display objects, the predetermined image data or any one image data other than the predetermined image data is selected from the plurality of image data associated with the display object,
The image generation unit
A program that draws the image data selected by the image data selection unit for each of the two display objects at the drawing position, and generates an image including the two display objects. In claim 9,
The plurality of image data associated with each of the two display objects is defined such that the pixels of the outline portion of the display object are translucent,
The image generation unit
A program characterized by rendering a pixel of an outline portion of one display object and a pixel of the other display object overlapping with the pixel by translucent synthesis. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 10.
The image data selection unit
One image data set is selected according to the processing load from a plurality of image data sets including different numbers of image data associated with the display object, and the plurality of image data included in the selected image data set is selected. A program for selecting any one image data other than the predetermined image data or the predetermined image data. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 11,
A music playback unit that plays back music data stored in the storage unit;
The indicator mark that indicates each of the plurality of reference timings according to the music data is used as the display object, and each indicator marker is moved on the movement route at a predetermined position at the reference timing corresponding to the indicator mark. A movement control unit
A program that further causes a computer to function as an evaluation unit that evaluates a player's input by comparing a reference timing corresponding to each indication sign and a player's input timing. An information storage medium readable by a computer, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is stored. An image generation method for generating an image in which a given display object moves,
A drawing position calculating step for calculating a drawing position of the display object based on a movement difference from the predetermined reference position of the display object;
If the difference between the movement difference of the display object from the reference position and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data from a plurality of image data associated with the display object And if not within a predetermined range, an image data selection step of selecting any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference,
An image generation method comprising: an image generation step of drawing the image data selected in the image data selection step at the drawing position and generating an image including the display object. An image generation system for generating an image in which a given display object moves,
A drawing position calculating unit that calculates a drawing position of the display object based on a movement difference from a predetermined reference position of the display object;
If the difference between the movement difference of the display object from the reference position and the difference from the reference position to the drawing position is within a predetermined range, predetermined image data from a plurality of image data associated with the display object If not within a predetermined range, an image data selection unit that selects any one image data other than the predetermined image data from the plurality of image data according to the magnitude of the difference,
An image generation system comprising: an image generation unit configured to draw the image data selected by the image data selection unit at the drawing position and generate an image including the display object.