JP2019136353A - Game control device, game system, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game control device, a game system, and a program for allowing a user to provide game object data to other users, and easily acquire the game object data from other users.SOLUTION: A game control device (10) includes: embedded image generation means (1030) for generating an embedded image in which data of a first game object are embedded in a basic image by changing a pixel value of a pixel of the basic image on the basis of the data of the first game object; data extraction means (1070) for extracting data of a second object from an embedded image in which the data of a second game object are embedded; and game execution control means (1090) for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used by a user on the basis of extracted data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

  The present invention relates to a game control device, a game system, and a program.

  A game is known in which data of a first user's game object (for example, a game character) is output as file data, and the second user can use the game object by obtaining the file data. ing.

JP 2003-265860 A

  In general, the above file data is output as data in a game-specific format, and is not data in a format that is normally handled by the user. Therefore, depending on the user (for example, a user who is not familiar with information processing technology) In some cases, it is difficult to provide file data output as game object data to other users or to obtain it from other users.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to enable game control that makes it easy for a user to provide game object data to other users or to obtain data from other users. An apparatus, a game system, and a program are provided.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a game control device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition unit that acquires data of a first game object, and an embedding formed by embedding the data of the first game object in a basic image. An embedded image generating unit that generates an image by changing a pixel value of a pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object, and an embedded image generated by the embedded image generating unit are output Output control means for performing control for performing, embedded image acquisition means for acquiring an embedded image in which data of the second game object is embedded, and the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means A data extraction means for extracting data of two game objects, and the second game object based on the data extracted by the data extraction means; Object comprises a game execution control means for controlling to execute a game to be used.

  A game control apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition unit that acquires game object data, and an embedded image obtained by embedding the game object data in a basic image based on the data of the first game object. Embedded image generating means for generating by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image, and output control means for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating means, Including.

  A game control apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a game control apparatus that performs control for executing a game in which a game object is used, and an embedded image in which game object data is embedded is acquired. An image acquisition unit, a data extraction unit for extracting data of the game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition unit, and the game object used based on the data extracted by the data extraction unit Game execution control means for performing control for causing the game to be executed.

  A game system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a basic image acquisition unit that acquires a basic image for embedding data, a data acquisition unit that acquires data of a first game object, and the data of the first game object. Embedded image generating means for generating an embedded image embedded in a basic image by changing a pixel value of a pixel of the basic image based on data of the first game object; and the embedded image generating means Output control means for performing control for outputting the generated embedded image, embedded image acquisition means for acquiring an embedded image in which data of the second game object is embedded, and acquisition by the embedded image acquisition means Data extracting means for extracting the data of the second game object from the embedded image, and extracted by the data extracting means It was based on the data, including a game execution control means for controlling to execute a game in which the second game object is used.

It is a figure showing the whole game system composition concerning an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a menu screen image. It is a figure which shows an example of a registration screen image. It is a figure which shows an example of a list screen image. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed screen image regarding a training player character. It is a figure for demonstrating the production | generation process of an embedded image. It is a figure for demonstrating the production | generation process of an embedded image. It is a figure for demonstrating transfer of the embedded image between users. It is a figure for demonstrating the extraction process of the data of a breeding player character. It is a figure for demonstrating the extraction process of the data of a breeding player character. It is a figure which shows an example of the change of the list screen image before and behind execution of the extraction process of the data of a breeding player character. It is a figure which shows an example of the detailed screen image regarding an acquisition player character. It is a figure which shows an example of the order setting screen image in a game. It is a figure which shows an example of the order setting screen image in a limited game. It is a figure which shows an example of the functional block implement | achieved with the game terminal which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of a player character table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the functional block implement | achieved with the game terminal which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of a basic image table. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

  [1. First Embodiment] A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  [1-1. Configuration of Game System] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a game system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of game terminals including game terminals 10-1... Game terminals 10 -N, and a server device 30. Each of the plurality of game terminals and the server device 30 are connected to the network N. For this reason, mutual data communication is possible between each of the plurality of game terminals and the server device 30. Further, mutual data communication is possible between a plurality of game terminals. Hereinafter, each of the game terminals 10-1... Game terminal 10-N may be collectively referred to as “game terminal 10”.

  The game terminal 10 is a computer operated by a user. More specifically, the game terminal 10 is a computer used by a user to play a game. For example, the game terminal 10 includes a home game machine (stationary game machine), a portable game machine, an arcade game machine installed in a play facility, a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a portable information terminal (tablet computer). A desktop computer or a laptop computer.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the game terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an optical disc drive unit 13, a communication unit 14, an operation unit 15, a display unit 16, and an audio output unit 17. The control unit 11 includes at least one microprocessor, and executes information processing according to an operating system and other programs stored in the storage unit 12. The storage unit 12 includes a main storage unit (for example, RAM) and an auxiliary storage unit (for example, a nonvolatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive, or a solid state drive). The auxiliary storage unit may be realized by an internal storage device built in the game terminal 10 or may be realized by an external storage device that can be attached to and detached from the game terminal 10. The storage unit 12 is for storing programs and data. The optical disk drive unit 13 is for reading a program and data stored in an optical disk (information storage medium). The communication unit 14 is for data communication with other devices via the network N.

  The operation unit 15 is for a user to give an instruction to the game. The operation unit 15 includes, for example, a button (key), a lever (stick), a touch panel, a mouse, a microphone, or a sensor. The buttons and levers may be provided on the main body of the game terminal 10, or may be provided on a game controller (game pad) connected to the game terminal 10. The buttons and levers may be virtual buttons or levers displayed on the touch panel. Further, a microphone and a sensor may be provided in the game terminal 10 main body, or may be connected to the game terminal 10. Note that the buttons, microphones, and the like may be connected to the game terminal 10 via wires such as cables, or may be connected to the game terminal 10 via wireless such as infrared rays or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

  The display unit 16 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and displays an image when display control is performed by the control unit 11. The audio output unit 17 is, for example, a speaker or headphones, and outputs audio. The display unit 16 and the audio output unit 17 may be provided as an external device connected to the game terminal 10 or may be provided on the game terminal 10 itself.

  The game terminal 10 may include a component (for example, a memory card slot) for reading a program or data stored in an information storage medium (for example, an optical disk or a memory card). The program and data may be supplied to the game terminal 10 via the information storage medium and stored in the storage unit 12. Note that the program and data may be supplied to the game terminal 10 from a remote location via the network N.

  The server device 30 is, for example, a server computer. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the server device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an optical disc drive unit 33, and a communication unit 34. Since the control unit 31, the storage unit 32, the optical disc drive unit 33, and the communication unit 34 are basically the same as the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, the optical disc drive unit 13, and the communication unit 14 of the game terminal 10, description thereof is omitted. To do.

  The server device 30 can access the database 35. The database 35 may be built in the server device 30 or may be built in a server computer different from the server device 30.

  For example, the server device 30 constitutes a system capable of transferring images between a plurality of users (hereinafter referred to as “image transfer system”). The “image transfer system” is, for example, an image posting system (image sharing system) or a social network service system. The “image transfer system” may be an e-mail system or the like. In this case, the server device 30 functions as a mail server.

  [1-2. Outline of Game] Various games are executed on the game terminal 10 by executing the program. For example, sports games, race games, fighting games, fighting games, card games, role-playing games, simulation games, adventure games, or training games based on sports (baseball, soccer, tennis, American football, basketball, volleyball, etc.) As described above, various games can be executed regardless of the game format and genre. The game may be executed by the game terminal 10 alone (stand-alone), or may be executed by performing data communication between the game terminal 10 and the server device 30 (or a server device other than the server device 30). It may be a thing. Below, a baseball game is mainly demonstrated as an example of the game performed with the game terminal 10. FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a menu screen image of a baseball game displayed on the display unit 16. As shown in FIG. 2, menu screen image G1000 includes a plurality of parts P1001 to P1004. “Parts” are elements constituting a screen image. For example, images such as buttons and icons, and text such as links correspond to examples of parts. In some cases, a process is associated with a part. When a user selects a part associated with a process, the process associated with the part is executed.

  The baseball game according to the present embodiment includes a training part in which a user trains a baseball player character (game character representing a player), and a game part in which the user forms his baseball team and plays a game with an opponent team. I have. Parts P1001 and P1002 are parts related to the breeding part, and parts P1003 and P1004 are parts related to the game part.

  [1-2-1] First, the training part will be described. In the menu screen image G1000 shown in FIG. 2, the part P1001 is a part for playing the training part, and a process for starting the training part is associated with the part P1001.

  The “nurturing part” is a game part in which a user trains a baseball player character. In the training part, the user trains the player character who is the main character of the scenario while proceeding with the scenario. A “scenario” is a game story that is developed as the game progresses. For example, a scenario is prepared in which a player character of a main character belonging to a high school baseball club becomes a professional baseball player. The player character of the main character improves the ability regarding baseball by executing the action (for example, practice, rest, play, etc.) selected by the user.

  When the scenario progresses and it is time for the main character to graduate from high school, the training part ends and the development of the main character is completed. The player character of the hero who has been trained is registered as the user's original player character. Hereinafter, the player character trained in the training part is referred to as a “training player character”.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a registration screen image for registering a breeding player character. For example, when the training part is completed and the training of the player character is completed, the registration screen image G1100 shown in FIG. The registration screen image G1100 displays information related to the breeding player character raised by the user. For example, the name of the breeding player character is displayed in the area A1101 of the registration screen image G1100. In the area A1102, the defensive position (position) that the breeding player character is good at is displayed. In the area A1103, an image (appearance) of the breeding player character is displayed. In the area A1106, the batting form of the breeding player character, the arm used for pitching, and the position of the bat at the batting are displayed.

  In the area A1104, a rank indicating the height of the overall ability of the breeding player character is displayed. The alphabet indicates the level of overall ability. For example, “S, A, B, C, D, E, F, G” is displayed in the area A 1104. “S” indicates that the overall capability is very high, and “G” indicates that the overall capability is very low.

  In the area A1105, the basic ability parameters of the breeding player character are displayed. In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the ballistic parameter, the meet parameter, the power parameter, the running force parameter, the shoulder force parameter, the defense force parameter, and the catching parameter are displayed in the area A1105. In the example shown in FIG. 3, numerical values and alphabets are displayed in the area A1105. The numerical value indicates the value of the basic ability parameter, and the alphabet indicates the level of the basic ability.

  The ballistic parameter indicates how high the hit ball of the breeding player character is raised. The meet parameter indicates the meet power (ability to hit the bat against the ball thrown by the pitcher) of the breeding player character. The power parameter indicates the power of the breeding player character (the ability to fly away by hitting the ball thrown by the pitcher with a bat). The running force parameter indicates the speed of the foot of the breeding player character. The shoulder strength parameter indicates the speed at which the breeding player character throws a ball. The defensive power parameter indicates the speed of movement in the defense of the breeding player character. The catching parameter indicates the catching power of the breeding player character (ability to not miss the ball in the defense).

  In the area A1107, the special ability acquired by the breeding player character is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 3, “chance ◎” and “opposite pitcher ○” are displayed in the area A 1107 as special abilities acquired by the breeding player character. “◎” and “◯” indicate the level of special ability, and “◎” indicates that the level of special ability is higher than “○”.

  “Chance ◎” is a special ability that is very strong in chance. If the breeding player character has acquired “chance ◎”, the basic ability parameter of the breeding player character greatly increases during the chance. “To the left pitcher ○” is a special ability that is strong against the left pitcher. When the breeding player character has acquired “vs. left pitcher”, the basic ability parameter of the breeding player character increases when the opponent pitcher is the left pitcher.

  The registration screen image G1100 includes a part P1108. The part P1108 is associated with a process for registering a breeding player character. When the user selects the part P1108, the breeding player character is registered. The user can use the breeding player character registered in this way in a game part to be described later.

  The registration screen image G1100 includes a part P1109. The part P1109 is a part for outputting an embedded image that is an image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded, and a process for generating and outputting an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded. Is associated with the part P1109. When the user selects part P1109, an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded is output. The embedded image generation process will be described in detail later.

  In the menu screen image G1000 shown in FIG. 2, a part P1002 is a part for referring to a list of breeding player characters owned by the user, and is a list screen showing a list of breeding player characters owned by the user. A process for displaying an image is associated with the part P1002. When the user selects part P1002, a list screen image is displayed on display unit 16.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a list screen image. The list screen image G1200 shown in FIG. 4 displays a list L1201 of breeding player characters owned by the user. In the list L1201, the name of the breeding player character, the defensive position that the breeding player character is good at, the rank of the breeding player character, and the captured player flag that is information indicating whether or not the breeding player character is a player character captured from the image. Is displayed.

  The list L1201 displays information on one or more breeding player characters. The user can select one of the breeding player characters displayed in the list L1201. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the breeding player character “Sato” is selected.

  The list screen image G1200 includes parts P1202 and P1203. The part P1202 is a part for referring to detailed information of the selected breeding player character, and a process for displaying a detailed screen image showing the detailed information of the selected breeding player character is associated with the part P1202. . The part P1203 is associated with a process for extracting the data of the breeding player character from the embedded image. The process for extracting the data of the breeding player character will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detailed screen image related to the breeding player character. The detailed screen image G1300 shown in FIG. 5 shows the detailed screen image when the part P1202 is selected in the state where the breeding player character “Sato” is selected in the list screen image G1200 shown in FIG. Yes. Information displayed in the area A1301, the area A1302, the area A1303, the area A1304, the area A1305, the area A1306, and the area A1307 of the detailed screen image G1300 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes the areas A1101, A1102, A1103, Since this is the same as each of the region A 1104, the region A 1105, the region A 1106, and the region A 1107, description thereof is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the detailed screen image G1300 includes a part P1308. The part P1308 is a part for changing the data (for example, name) of the breeding player character, and a process for changing the data of the breeding player character is associated with the part P1308. For example, when the user selects the part P1308, a screen image for changing the data of the breeding player character is displayed.

  In this screen image, for example, the name of the breeding player character can be changed. In addition to the name of the breeding player character, the image (appearance) of the breeding player character may be changed. Or you may enable it to change the position of the batting position in the batting position, the form used for pitching, the arm used for pitching, and the good position of the breeding player character. Alternatively, the ability data (basic ability or special ability) of the breeding player character may be changed.

  The detailed screen image G1300 includes a part P1309. The part P1309 is a part for outputting an embedded image that is an image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded, and a process for generating and outputting an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded. It is associated with the part P1309. When the user selects part P1309, an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded is generated. As described above, also in the registration screen image G1100 shown in FIG. 3, by selecting the part P1109, an embedded image in which the data of the player character that has been trained is embedded is generated.

  The user can provide his / her training player character to another user by providing the embedded image in which the data of his / her training player character is embedded to the other user. Moreover, the user can also receive provision of the training player character of another user by receiving the provision of the embedded image in which the data of the training player character of the other user is embedded. That is, a breeding player character can be exchanged by exchanging embedded images between users.

  [1-2-2] Details of the embedded image generation process will be described here. 6 and 7 are diagrams for describing the embedded image generation processing.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 acquires a basic image PIC100 for embedding data, and generates an embedded image PIC200 by embedding the player character data DAT100 in the basic image PIC100.

  A “basic image” is an image serving as a basis for embedding data. In other words, the “basic image” is an image for which data is embedded. A predetermined image is used as the basic image PIC100. The basic image PIC100 is composed of a plurality of pixels. For example, image data related to a baseball game is used as the basic image PIC100. Specifically, an image indicating the name of the baseball game, an image indicating a logo of the baseball game, an image of a representative player character appearing in the baseball game, or the like is used as the basic image PIC100. An image unrelated to the baseball game may be used as the basic image PIC100.

  For example, the control unit 11 acquires the basic image PIC100 stored in the storage unit 12. Alternatively, the control unit 11 may acquire the basic image PIC100 stored in another storage device (for example, the storage unit 32 or the database 35 of the server device 30).

  The player character data DAT100 includes data relating to the breeding player character. For example, various data of the breeding player character displayed on the registration screen image G1100 and the detailed screen image G1300 are included. Specifically, the ability data indicating the ability of the breeding player character is included in the player character data DAT100. For example, the ability data includes a rank that indicates the height of the overall ability of the breeding player character, a basic ability parameter (such as a ballistic parameter) of the breeding player character, and a special ability parameter that indicates the presence or absence of the special ability acquired by the breeding player character. Etc. In addition, for example, data indicating the name, appearance (image), good defense position (position), etc. of the breeding player character is included in the player character data DAT100.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 11 changes the pixel value (for example, any numerical value of 0 to 255) of the pixel of the basic image PIC100 based on the player character data DAT100, thereby embedding the image PIC200. Is generated. That is, the difference between the embedded image PIC200 and the basic image PIC100 (the difference in pixel value of each pixel between the embedded image PIC200 and the basic image PIC100) corresponds to the player character data DAT100, and is embedded. The embedded image PIC200 is generated.

  More specifically, data for a predetermined number of bits of the player character data DAT100 is embedded for each pixel of the basic image PIC100. As shown in FIG. 7, when the pixel value of one pixel constituting the basic image PIC100 includes four types of values “R”, “G”, “B”, and “A”, for each value, By adding or subtracting 1-bit data of the player character data DAT100, 4-bit data can be embedded for each pixel. That is, 1 byte (8 bits) of data can be embedded for every two pixels constituting the basic image PIC100.

  FIG. 7 shows an example in which 1-byte data (11000011) in the player character data DAT100 is embedded in the Nth (N is a natural number) and N + 1th pixels of the basic image PIC100.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the 1st to 4th bit data (1100) of the 1-byte data is the pixel value of “R” among the pixel values of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100. (0), “G” pixel value (1), B pixel value (2), and A pixel value (3) are added. In the example shown in FIG. 7, since the first and second bits are “1”, respectively, the “R” pixel value (0) and the “G” pixel value (1) of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 ) Is added to each of the pixels, and as a result, the pixel values of “R” and “G” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 are “1” and “2”, respectively. On the other hand, since the third and fourth bits are “0”, the pixel values of “B” and “A” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 remain “2” and “3”, respectively. Become.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the 5th to 8th bit data (0011) of the 1-byte data is “R” among the pixel values of the N + 1th pixel of the basic image PIC100. The pixel value (252), the pixel value (253) of “G”, the pixel value (254) of “B”, and the pixel value (255) of “A” are respectively added. Here, since the fifth and sixth bits are “0”, the pixel values of “R” and “G” of the (N + 1) th pixel of the embedded image PIC200 remain “252” and “253”, respectively. It becomes. On the other hand, since the seventh bit is “1”, “1” is added to the pixel value (254) of the (N + 1) th “B” of the basic image PIC100, and “B” of the N + 1th pixel of the embedded image PIC200. The pixel value of “” is “255”. Since the eighth bit is also “1”, “1” is normally added to the N + 1th “B” pixel value (255) of the basic image PIC100. Since the pixel value of “A” of the N + 1th pixel of the PIC 100 is the upper limit value (255), in this case, by subtracting “1” from the upper limit value, the N + 1th pixel of the embedded image PIC200. The pixel value of “A” of “254” is “254”.

  Since the embedded image PIC200 is generated as described above, the difference in pixel values between the embedded image PIC200 and the basic image PIC100 does not increase. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 6, an image similar to the basic image PIC100 is generated as an embedded image PIC200. For example, when the image in which the specific object is drawn is the basic image PIC100, the embedded image PIC200 is also an image in which the same object is drawn.

  The embedded image PIC200 is generated as an image in a general-purpose image format. More specifically, the embedded image PIC200 is generated as an image in an image format compatible with lossless compression. For example, the embedded image PIC200 is generated as an image in PNG format or GIF format. Note that the image format of the embedded image PIC200 may be the same as or different from the image format of the basic image PIC100.

  Further, even if the user data related to the user is associated with the player character data, control is performed so that the user data is not embedded in the embedded image PIC200. This is to prevent user data from leaking due to the output of the embedded image PIC200. The “user data” is data relating to the individual user, and is data that can identify the individual user. For example, data related to the user's name, account name, e-mail address, etc. corresponds to “user data”.

  [1-2-3] As described above, by providing the embedded image PIC200 generated in the game terminal 10 to another user, the user can provide his / her breeding player character to the other user. it can. Moreover, the user can also receive provision of the training player character of another user by receiving provision of the embedded image PIC200 produced | generated in the game terminal 10 of another user. That is, the breeding player character can be exchanged by exchanging the embedded image PIC200 between the users.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the exchange of the embedded image PIC200 between users. Here, an example in which the embedded image PIC200 is exchanged between the user U1 and the user U2 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 8, (1) First, an upload screen image for uploading an image by the user U1 accessing an image transfer system (for example, the server device 30) that can transfer images between a plurality of users. G1400 is displayed on the display unit 16. In upload screen image G1400, user U1 performs an operation for transmitting (uploading) embedded image PIC200 to the image transfer system. (2) When the user U1 performs the operation, the embedded image PIC200 is transmitted to the image exchange system. (3) The embedded image PIC 200 transmitted to the image transmission / reception system (server device 30) is stored in the storage unit 32 or the database 35 and registered in the image transmission / reception system.

  As shown in FIG. 8, (4) the user U2 who wants to acquire the embedded image PIC200 specifies registration destination information (for example, URL) regarding the registration destination of the embedded image PIC200 on the game terminal 10. In this case, the game terminal 10 of the user U2 accesses the image transfer system (server device 30) and receives (downloads) the embedded image PIC200 stored in the storage unit 32 or the database 35. In this case, for example, an introduction screen image G1500 in which the embedded image PIC200 is introduced is displayed on the display unit 16 of the game terminal 10 of the user U2. As described above, the embedded image PIC200 generated in the game terminal 10 of the user U1 is acquired by the game terminal 10 of the user U2.

  Note that the user U1 may attach the embedded image PIC200 to an email and send it to the email address of the user U2. In this case, the user U2 acquires an embedded image attached to the e-mail by receiving the e-mail from the server device 30 functioning as a mail server. In this case, for example, the embedded image PIC200 may be acquired by executing a process in which the game terminal 10 of the user U2 receives an e-mail. Further, for example, when the game terminal 10 of the user U2 accesses the storage unit of the computer that receives the email of the user U2, the game terminal 10 acquires the embedded image PIC200 stored in the storage unit. May be.

  Alternatively, the user U1 stores the embedded image PIC200 in an external storage device connected to his / her game terminal 10, removes the external storage device and passes it to the user U2, and the user U2 transfers the external storage device to the user U2. By connecting to the game terminal 10, the game terminal 10 of the user U2 may access the external storage device to acquire the embedded image PIC200. In addition, the game terminal 10 of the user U1 may access the storage unit 12 of the game terminal 10 of the user U2 via the network N and store the embedded image PIC200 in the storage unit 12.

  The user U2 displays the list screen image G1200 on the display unit 16 of his / her game terminal 10 and selects the part P1203 of the list screen image G1200, whereby the data DAT100 of the breeding player character of the user U1 is displayed from the embedded image PIC200. Can be captured. In the game terminal 10 of the user U2 who acquired the embedded image PIC200, when the part P1203 of the list screen image G1200 is selected, the data DAT100 of the breeding player character is extracted from the embedded image PIC200.

  [1-2-4] Here, the details of the extraction process of the data DAT100 of the breeding player character will be described. 9 and 10 are diagrams for explaining the extraction process of the player character data DAT100.

  As illustrated in FIG. 9, the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 acquires the embedded image PIC200 and the basic image PIC100, and based on the basic image PIC100, the player character data DAT100 embedded in the embedded image PIC200. To extract. More specifically, the control unit 11 extracts the data of the breeding player character embedded in the embedded image PIC200 by comparing the embedded image PIC200 and the basic image PIC100.

  When extracting the data of the breeding player character from the embedded image PIC200, the control unit 11 acquires the same basic image PIC100 as the basic image PIC100 used for generating the embedded image PIC200. “The same basic image” means that the pixel values of all the pixels included in the images are the same in the two basic images. For example, the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 acquires the basic image PIC100 stored in the storage unit 12. Alternatively, the control unit 11 of the game terminal 10 may acquire the basic image PIC 100 stored in another storage device (for example, the storage unit 32 or the database 35 of the server device 30).

  As illustrated in FIG. 10, the control unit 11 compares the pixel value of the pixel of the embedded image PIC200 with the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image PIC100 corresponding to the pixel, and based on the difference between the pixel values. The player character data DAT100 embedded in the embedded image PIC200 is extracted by acquiring the data DAT100 of the breeding player character embedded in the pixel of the embedded image PIC200.

  FIG. 10 shows an example in which the data of the breeding player character for 1 byte embedded in the Nth and N + 1th pixels of the embedded image PIC200 is extracted.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10, the pixel value “R” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “1”, and the pixel value “R” of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 is “0”. Therefore, the difference “1” is extracted as the data of the first bit of the 1 byte. Similarly, the pixel value of “G” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “2”, and the pixel value of “G” of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 is “1”. The difference “1” is extracted as the data of the second bit of the 1 byte. Further, the pixel value of “B” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “2”, and the pixel value of “B” of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 is also “2”. “0” is extracted as the data of the third bit of the 1 byte. Similarly, the pixel value of “A” of the Nth pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “3”, and the pixel value of “A” of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 is also “3”. The difference “0” is extracted as the data of the fourth bit of the 1 byte.

  In addition, since the pixel value of “R” of the N + 1th pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “252” and the pixel value of “R” of the N + 1th pixel of the basic image PIC100 is “252”, the difference therebetween “0” is extracted as data of the fifth bit of the 1 byte. Similarly, the pixel value of “G” of the N + 1th pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “253”, and the pixel value of “G” of the N + 1th pixel of the basic image PIC100 is “253”. The difference “0” is extracted as the data of the sixth bit of the 1 byte. Further, the pixel value of “B” of the (N + 1) th pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “255”, and the pixel value of “B” of the (N + 1) th pixel of the basic image PIC100 is also “254”. “1” is extracted as the data of the seventh bit of the one byte. Further, the pixel value of “A” of the Nth pixel of the basic image PIC100 is “255”, and the pixel value of “A” of the N + 1st pixel of the embedded image PIC200 is “254”. “1” which is (absolute value) is extracted as the data of the eighth bit of the one byte. In this manner, 1-byte data (11000011) of the breeding player character is extracted from the Nth and N + 1th pixels of the embedded image PIC200.

  The training player character data DAT100 extracted as described above is stored in the storage unit 12, and in the baseball game executed by the game terminal 10, the training player characters of other users are reproduced based on the training player character data DAT100. Is done.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a change in the list screen image before and after the execution of the data extraction process for the breeding player character. Note that list screen image G1600-1 and list screen image G1600-2 shown in FIG. 11 are the same as list screen image G1200 shown in FIG. 11, the player character list L1601-1 (L1601-2), parts P1602-1 (P1602-2), and parts P1603-1 (P1603-2) are player character lists L1201, parts P1202, and parts. The same as P1203.

  When the part P1603-1 is selected while the list screen image G1600-1 is displayed on the display unit 16, a screen image for designating the embedded image PIC200 is displayed, and any embedded image PIC200 is displayed. Is specified, the training player character data DAT100 is extracted, the training player character data DAT100 is extracted from the embedded image PIC200, and the list screen image G1600-2 is displayed.

  For example, the breeding player character “Sato” is added to the list L1601-2 in the list screen image G1600-2. This breeding player character “Sato” is a breeding player character indicated by the breeding player character data DAT100 extracted from the embedded image PIC200. Since this training player character “Sato” is a training player character captured from the embedded image PIC200, a circle is described in the “captured player flag” column. In the following description, the trained player character of another user captured from the embedded image PIC200 is referred to as “captured player character” in order to distinguish it from the trained player character trained by the user himself / herself.

  The user can select any one of the breeding player characters from the plurality of breeding player characters displayed in the list L1601-2. For example, when the breeding player character “Sato” is selected and the part P1202 is selected, a detailed screen image showing detailed information of the breeding player character “Sato” that is the capture player character is displayed on the display unit 16.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detailed screen image related to a captured player character. As shown in FIG. 12, a marker image for indicating that the breeding player character displayed in the detailed screen image G1700 is a captured player character is displayed in a region A1710 of the detailed screen image G1700. 12, the information displayed in area A1701, area A1702, area A1703, area A1704, area A1705, area A1706, and area A1707 is the area A1101, area A1102, area A1103, area shown in FIG. Since they are the same as A1104, region A1105, region A1106, and region A1107, description thereof is omitted.

  In the detailed screen image G1700 related to the captured player character, changing the data (for example, name) of the captured player character is restricted. In addition, the generation of an embedded image in which data of the captured player character is embedded is also restricted. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the part P1708 for changing the data of the captured player character and the part P1709 for generating (outputting) an embedded image in which the data of the captured player character is embedded are shaded. It is attached. This indicates that parts P1708 and P1709 cannot be selected by the user.

  Note that the part P1708 and the part P1709 may not be displayed on the detailed screen image G1700 regarding the captured player character. Alternatively, a predetermined error message may be displayed when part P1708 or part P1709 is selected. Even in this way, it is possible to prevent the captured player character data from being changed, or to prevent generation (output) of an embedded image in which the captured player character data is embedded.

  [1-2-5] Next, the game part will be described. The “game part” is a game part in which the user forms his / her baseball team using the breeding player characters owned by the user and plays a game with the opponent team (other user or computer team). The baseball game according to the present embodiment includes a normal game part and a limited game part as game parts.

  [1-2-5-1] First, the normal game part will be described. “Normal match part” means that a baseball team is formed using a trained player character trained by the user and a trained player character (capture player character) trained by another user, and the opponent It is a game part that plays against teams.

  A part P1003 of the menu screen image G1000 shown in FIG. 2 is a part for playing the normal game part, and a process for starting the normal game part is associated with the part P1003.

  In the normal game part, an order setting screen image for the user to set his / her baseball team order is displayed on the display unit 16. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an order setting screen image in a normal game part. As shown in FIG. 13, the order setting screen image G1800 in the normal game part includes a list L1801 that is a list of the starting player's breeding player characters and a list L1802 that is a list of other breeding player characters. The user selects any one of the breeding player characters displayed in the list L1801 and any one of the breeding player characters displayed in the list L1802, and selects the part P1803, so that the selected breeding player is selected. Characters can be interchanged.

  In the order setting screen image G1800, the list L1802 shows that both the trained player character trained by the user himself and the trained player character trained by another user (capture player character) can be selected by the user. Is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the breeding player character “Shimizu” is a breeding player character trained by the user himself, and the breeding player character “Sato” is a breeding player character (capture player character) trained by another user. (See FIG. 11), both breeding player characters are displayed in a selectable state. For this reason, the user can select both a breeding player character trained by the user himself and a breeding player character (capture player character) trained by another user as a starting member.

  When the order setting on the order setting screen image G1800 is completed, a match with the opponent team is started.

  [1-2-5-2] Next, the limited game part will be described. The “limited game part” is a game part in which a user's own baseball team is formed using only the breeding player characters trained by the user himself and a game is played against the opponent team. That is, the “limited game part” is a game part in which a breeding player character (captured player character) trained by another user cannot be used for the baseball team.

  The “limited game part” is performed, for example, in an event having a predetermined holding period. In the event, the user is given points according to the game content and the game result in the limited game. Then, the rank of the user is determined according to the accumulated value of the points, and a reward corresponding to the rank is given. Thus, in the event, since the user is in a competitive relationship competing with other users for the accumulated value of points, the breeding player character that the user can use in the limited game part is the breeding player character that the user himself / herself has trained It is limited to. That is, the use of a breeding player character (captured player character) trained by another user is restricted.

  A part P1004 of the menu screen image G1000 shown in FIG. 2 is a part for playing the limited game part, and a process for starting the limited game part is associated with the part P1004.

  Similar to the normal game part, in the limited game part, an order setting screen image for the user to set his / her baseball team order is displayed on the display unit 16. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an order setting screen image in a limited game part. As shown in FIG. 14, the order setting screen image G1900 in the limited game part includes lists L1901 and L1902 similar to the lists L1801 and L1802 of the order setting screen image G1800 shown in FIG. However, in the order setting screen image G1900 in the limited game part, selection of a breeding player character (captured player character) trained by another user is restricted.

  For example, the list L1902 of the order setting screen image G1900 in the limited game part is displayed in a state where a breeding player character (captured player character) trained by another user cannot be selected. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the breeding player character “Shimizu” is a breeding player character trained by the user himself, and the breeding player character “Sato” is a breeding player character (capture player character) trained by another user. However, the breeding player character “Sato” is shaded, indicating that the breeding player character “Sato” is not in a selectable state.

  Note that the list L1902 may not display the breeding player characters (captured player characters) raised by other users. In addition, when a trained player character (captured player character) trained by another user is selected in the list L1902, a part P1903 for replacing the selected player characters can be displayed in a state where it cannot be selected, The part P1903 may not be displayed. In addition, in the list L1902, when a part P1903 is selected in a state where a trained player character (captured player character) trained by another user is selected, a predetermined error message is displayed and the selected trainer is selected. You may make it not replace player characters.

  [1-2-6] As described above, in the game system 1, an embedded image in which data (capability data or the like) of the user's breeding player character is embedded is generated and output. Moreover, the said data are extracted from the embedding image in which the data of the training player character of another user were embedded, and the said training player character can be used now. For this reason, a user provides data of a breeding player character to another user or obtains it from another user by providing an embedded image to another user or obtaining it from another user. be able to. Transfer of images is a common practice among users, and users must provide embedded images to other users or obtain them from other users without feeling resistance. Can do. For this reason, according to the game system 1, it becomes easy for a user to provide the data of a breeding player character to other users, or to acquire from other users.

  Moreover, in the game system 1, in the case of a limited game part, use of the breeding player character (capture player character) of another user can be restrict | limited. By doing in this way, competition between users can also be aimed at using only a user's own breeding player character.

  Moreover, in the game system 1, the change of the data of the breeding player character extracted from the embedded image can be restricted. That is, it is possible to suppress the change of the original breeding player character provided by another user who is the provider. In other words, it is possible to suppress a player character from being subjected to a change that does not conform to the intention of another user who is a provider.

  In the game system 1, the generation of an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character extracted from the embedded image is embedded is restricted. That is, the generation of an embedded image in which data of a breeding player character trained by another user is embedded is suppressed. As a result, it is possible to suppress providing the trained player character trained by another user as the trained player character trained by the user.

  [1-3. Functional Block] Next, a configuration for realizing the functions described above will be described. FIG. 15 shows an example of functional blocks realized by the game system 1.

  As shown in FIG. 15, each game terminal 10 includes a data storage unit 1000, a basic image acquisition unit 1010, an object data acquisition unit 1020, an embedded image generation unit 1030, an embedded image output control unit 1040, Registration destination information reception unit 1050, embedded image acquisition unit 1060, object data extraction unit 1070, object data storage control unit 1080, game execution control unit 1090, use restriction unit 1100, change restriction unit 1110, And an embedded image generation restriction unit 1120. Among these, the data storage unit 1000 is realized by the storage unit 12, and the other functional blocks are mainly realized by the control unit 11.

  [1-3-1] The data storage unit 1000 stores data necessary for executing the game. For example, a player character table TBL1001 is stored in the data storage unit 1000 as one of necessary data for executing the above-described baseball game.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the player character table TBL1001. The player character table TBL1001 is a table that includes one or more data of the breeding player characters. One record in the player character table TBL1001 corresponds to data of one breeding player character.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the data of the breeding player character stored in the player character table TBL1001 includes the data of the breeding player character ID, name, defense position, dominant arm, form, rank, capture player flag, ability parameter, and the like. Including. Note that “ID” and “name” correspond to data for identifying the breeding player character. “Rank” is data indicating the height of the overall ability of the breeding player character. The “ability parameter” includes a basic ability parameter (for example, “ballistic parameter”) indicating the level of the basic ability, and a special ability parameter indicating the presence or absence of the special ability. These “rank” and “ability parameter” correspond to ability data relating to the ability (performance) of the breeding player character. The “defense position” is an aptitude position of the breeding player character and corresponds to role data regarding the role of the breeding player character.

  Furthermore, the “capture player flag” is data indicating whether or not the breeding player character is the capture player character. When the breeding player character is not a captured player character (when the breeding player character is trained by the user), a first predetermined value (for example, “0”) is set in the “captured player flag”. Further, when the breeding player character is a captured player character (when it is a player character captured from an embedded image, that is, when it is a trained player character trained by another user), the “captured player flag” Is set to a second predetermined value (for example, “1”).

  In the data storage unit 1000, the group identification information to which the data of the trained player character trained by the user belongs and the group identification information to which the data of the trained player character (capture player character) trained by another user belongs. Whether the breeding player character is a breeding player character trained by the user himself or a breeding player character (capture player character) trained by another user by associating one with the data of each player character May be determined. In addition, in the data storage unit 1000, by storing the data of the trained player character trained by the user and the data of the trained player character (capture player character) trained by other users in different storage areas, It may be possible to determine whether the training player character is a training player character trained by the user himself or a training player character trained by another user (capture player character).

  [1-3-2] The basic image acquisition unit 1010 acquires a basic image for embedding data.

  A “basic image” is an image serving as a basis for embedding data. In other words, the “basic image” is an image for which data is embedded.

  For example, a predetermined image is used as the “basic image”. Further, for example, image data related to the game is used as the “basic image”. More specifically, an image showing a game name, an image showing a game logo, or an image of a representative game object (game character, etc.) appearing in the game corresponds to an example of an “image related to a game”. To do. For example, an image representing a game object may be used as the “basic image”. An image that is not related to the game may be used as the “basic image”.

  “Acquiring the basic image” means reading out the basic image from the storage unit 12. Further, “acquiring a basic image” may mean acquiring and acquiring a basic image from another device (for example, the server device 30 or another game terminal 10) via the network N. For example, the basic image may be requested to another device via the network N, and the basic image returned from the other device may be received and acquired.

  [1-3-3] The object data acquisition unit 1020 acquires data of the first game object.

  A “game object” is a target that can be used by a user in a game. For example, a game character, a game item, or a game card corresponds to an example of “game object”. In the case of a racing game, a race car corresponds to an example of “game object”. Further, in the case of a game in which magic, skill, technique or the like is used, magic, technique, or technique corresponds to an example of “game object”.

  For example, the object data acquisition unit 1020 acquires data of a game object (an example of a first game object) generated by the game terminal 10 (first game terminal: for example, the game terminal 10-1).

  The “game object generated on the game terminal 10” is a game object generated in a game executed on the game terminal 10. For example, a game object generated by a user in a game executed on the game terminal 10 corresponds to an example of “a game object generated in a game executed on the game terminal 10”. The “game object generated by the user in the game” is a game object for which one or more parameters are determined based on the user's game play. For example, a game character trained by the user, a game item created by the user, a game item trained by the user, or the like corresponds to an example of “a game object created by the user in the game”. In the case of a baseball game in which the user can create a ball type, the ball type created by the user corresponds to an example of “a game object generated by the user in the game”. Further, in the case of a game in which the user can create magic, skill, or technique, the magic, technique, or technique created by the user corresponds to an example of “a game object generated by the user in the game”.

  Alternatively, the object data acquisition unit 1020 may acquire data of a game object (an example of a first game object) acquired by a user in a game executed on the game terminal 10. The “game object acquired by the user in the game” is a game object acquired by the user playing the game. For example, a game character, a game item, a game card, or the like acquired by a user playing a game corresponds to an example of “a game object acquired by a user in a game”.

  The “game object data” is data indicating various information related to the game object.

  For example, the game object data includes performance data (ability data) related to the performance (ability) of the game object. The “performance data” may be data indicating the level of performance (or magnitude), or data indicating the presence or absence of specific performance. “Performance data” may be data indicating performance by numerical values, or data indicating performance by other than numerical values. Further, the “performance data” may be changed according to a user operation or a game progress.

  Further, for example, the game object data includes role data related to the role of the game object. “Role data” is data indicating a role set for a game object. For example, in the case of a baseball game or a soccer game, the position (defense position) corresponds to an example of “role”. For example, in the case of a role playing game, the occupation corresponds to an example of “role”.

  Further, for example, the game object data includes data for identifying the game object (for example, ID or name), data representing the appearance of the game object, and the like. In addition, various data indicating the characteristics of the game object may be included in the game object data.

  In the case of the above-described example of a baseball game, the user's breeding player character corresponds to an example of “game object”. For example, when the part P1109 of the registration screen image G1100 or the part P1309 of the detailed screen image G1300 is selected, the object data acquisition unit 1020 displays the training player character displayed in the registration screen image G1100 or the detailed screen image G1300. Data is acquired from the player character table TBL1001.

  [1-3-4] The embedded image generation unit 1030 determines an embedded image obtained by embedding the data of the first game object in the basic image, and sets the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object. Generate by changing. For example, the data of the first game object includes performance data (first performance data) indicating the performance of the first game object, and the embedded image generation unit 1030 includes the performance data (first performance data). An embedded image is generated by embedding data of the first game object in the basic image.

  The “embedded image formed by embedding game object data in the basic image” is an image generated by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the game object data. In the “embedded image”, the difference between the embedded image and the basic image (the difference in pixel values of each pixel between the embedded image and the basic image) corresponds to the data of the first game object. Generated.

  For example, the game object data is embedded in the basic image so that a predetermined number of bits of the game object data are embedded for each pixel of the basic image. For example, when the pixel value of one pixel includes four types of values “R”, “G”, “B”, and “A”, one bit of the game object data for each value. By adding (or subtracting) the data, 4-bit data can be embedded for each pixel.

  “Changing the pixel values of the pixels of the basic image” may be changing the pixel values of all the pixels constituting the basic image, or changing the pixel values of some of the pixels constituting the basic image. It may be to change.

  For example, when the image in which the object is drawn is a basic image and the pixel values of all the pixels constituting the basic image are changed, the area in which the object is drawn and the object are not drawn The pixel value of each pixel with the region (background region) is changed. Here, the “object” is drawn on an image, and is, for example, a game name, a game logo, or a game character.

  In addition, for example, when the image in which the object is drawn is a basic image and the pixel values of some pixels constituting the basic image are changed, the partial area including the area in which the object is drawn is changed. The pixel value of each pixel is changed. Note that only the pixel value of each pixel in a region (background region) where no object is drawn may be changed.

  An image similar to the basic image is generated as an “embedded image”. When the image in which the object is drawn is a basic image, the “embedded image” is also an image in which the object is drawn.

  The “embedded image” is generated as an image in a general-purpose image format. The “embedded image” is generated as an image in an image format compatible with lossless compression. For example, it is generated as an image in PNG format or GIF format. Note that the image format of the “embedded image” may be the same as or different from the image format of the basic image.

  In addition, when user data (for example, the user's name, account name, email address, etc.) relating to the individual user is associated with the game object data, the embedded image generation unit 1030 does not embed user data, An embedded image is generated.

  In the example of the baseball game described above, the embedded image generating unit 1030 generates an embedded image by embedding the data of the user's breeding player character in the basic image by the method described with reference to FIGS. To do. That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the embedded image generation unit 1030 has a predetermined number of bits (4 in the example shown in FIG. 7) of the data DAT100 of the user's breeding player character for each pixel of the basic image PIC100. The embedded image PIC200 is generated by embedding (bit) data.

  [1-3-5] The embedded image output control unit 1040 performs control for outputting the embedded image generated by the embedded image generation unit 1030.

  “Performing control for outputting an embedded image” means, for example, performing control for displaying an embedded image on a display unit. “Control for displaying the embedded image on the display means” may be to display the embedded image on the display unit 16 or to display the embedded image on the display means of another device. The embedded image may be transmitted to the other device. The “display unit of another device” may be a display unit provided in another device, or may be a display unit connected to another device as an external device.

  Further, “performing control for outputting an embedded image” may mean performing control for storing the embedded image in the storage means. The “control for storing the embedded image in the storage unit” may be storing the embedded image in the storage unit 12 or accessible from the storage unit (or another device) of another device. In order to store the embedded image in the storage means), the embedded image may be transmitted to the other device.

  Here, “another device” in “transmitting an embedded image to another device” is, for example, a system (server device 30) that can exchange images between a plurality of users. That is, the “control for storing the embedded image in the storage unit” may be a control for registering the embedded image in a system that can exchange images between a plurality of users. The “system capable of transferring images between a plurality of users” is, for example, an image posting system (image sharing system), a social network service system, or the like. The “system that can exchange images between a plurality of users” may be an e-mail system or the like.

  In addition, the “other device” in “transmit the embedded image to another device” may be the game terminal 10 (for example, the game terminal 10-2) of another user. That is, the embedded image output control unit 1040 transmits the embedded image to the game terminal 10 of the other user in order to store the embedded image in the storage unit 12 of the game terminal 10 of the other user. May be.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the embedded image output control unit 1040 may include a registration control unit 1041. The registration control unit 1041 registers the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating unit 1030 in a system that can exchange images between a plurality of users (for example, an image posting system or a social network service system). Control. For example, when a system that can exchange images between a plurality of users is realized by the server device 30, the registration control unit 1041 transmits the embedded image to the server device 30, and the embedded image is stored in the storage unit 32 or the database. By storing it in 35, the embedded image is registered in a system that can exchange images among a plurality of users.

  [1-3-6] The registration destination information receiving unit 1050 receives designation of registration destination information regarding the registration destination of the embedded image.

  The “registration destination information” is a URL or the like of a registered embedded image. “Receiving designation of registration destination information” means accepting input of registration destination information or accepting selection of registration destination information. For example, “accepting designation of registration destination information” means accepting an input of a URL by a user, a click operation or a tap operation on a part (text or image associated with a URL, etc.) displayed on the display means. Is to accept.

  [1-3-7] The embedded image acquisition unit 1060 acquires an embedded image in which the data of the second game object is embedded. For example, in the embedded image acquisition unit 1060, data of a game object (an example of a second game object) generated or acquired by another game terminal 10 (second game terminal: game terminal 10-2, for example) is embedded. Acquire an embedded image.

  For example, the “second game object” is a game object generated or acquired by another game terminal 10 (second game terminal: for example, game terminal 10-2), and “the data of the second game object is embedded. “Obtain an embedded image” means to acquire an embedded image generated in another game terminal 10. In other words, the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating unit 1030 of another game terminal 10 is acquired. For example, to acquire an embedded image in which data of a game object created by another user who is a user of another game terminal 10 is embedded.

  “Acquiring an embedded image” means reading the embedded image from the storage means. Alternatively, the embedded image stored in another device (for example, the server device 30) may be received and acquired via the network N. For example, an embedded image may be requested from another device via the network N, and an embedded image returned from the other device may be received and acquired. Specifically, an embedded image may be requested based on registration destination information (for example, URL) received by the registration destination information receiving unit 1050, and the embedded image may be downloaded from the registration destination.

  [1-3-8] The object data extraction unit 1070 extracts the data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition unit 1060. For example, the data of the second game object includes performance data (second performance data) indicating the performance of the second game object, and the object data extraction unit 1070 extracts the performance data (second performance data) from the embedded image. Data of the second game object including (data) is extracted.

  “Extracting game object data from an embedded image” means acquiring game object data embedded in the embedded image. For example, the game object data embedded in the embedded image is extracted based on the embedded image and the basic image. Specifically, the game object data embedded in the embedded image is extracted by comparing the embedded image with the basic image. More specifically, the pixel value of the pixel of the embedded image is compared with the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image corresponding to the pixel, and the pixel value is embedded in the pixel of the embedded image based on the difference between the pixel values. By acquiring the game object data, the game object data embedded in the embedded image is extracted.

  In the case of the above-mentioned baseball game, the object data extraction unit 1070 uses the method described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 to determine the other player's breeding player character from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition unit 1060. Extract data.

  [1-3-9] The object data storage control unit 1080 can specify that the data of the second game object extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 is the data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 The control for storing in the storage device is performed.

  “Performing control for storing data in the storage device” may mean storing the data in the storage device (for example, the data storage unit 1000), or may store the data in another device (for example, the server device 30). The data may be transmitted to the other device in order to be stored in a storage device (for example, the storage unit 32 or the database 35) accessible from the other device.

  “The data stored in the storage device in a state where it can be specified that the data is extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070” means that the game object data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 and other game objects Data is stored in a storage device in a distinguishable manner.

  “To store in a storage device in a state where it can be specified that the data is extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070” is, for example, flag information indicating whether the data is extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 Is associated with the game object data, and the game object data is stored in the storage device. Also, for example, any one of the group identification information to which the game object data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 belongs and the group identification information to which the other game object data belongs is associated with the game object data. The game object data is stored in a storage device. Also, for example, the game object data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 and the other game object data are stored in different storage areas (different storage areas in the same storage device, or different storage devices). It is to memorize.

  In the case of the above-mentioned baseball game example, as shown in FIG. 16, the object data storage control unit 1080 sets the data storage unit data of the user's breeding player character with the capture player flag set to “0”. 1000 (player character table TBL1001). On the other hand, the data of the other player's breeding player character extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 is stored in the data storage unit 1000 (player character table TBL1001) with the capture player flag set to “1”.

  [1-3-10] The game execution control unit 1090 uses a second game object (for example, a game object generated or acquired by another game terminal 10) based on the data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070. Control to execute the game to be played.

  The “game in which the second game object is used” is, for example, a game in which the second game object is set as a user instruction target (operation target). In other words, a game in which a second game object (such as a game object created or acquired by another user) is displayed on the display unit 16 as a game object used by the user, or a game object group used by the user (for example, As a member of a sports team, guild, party, or card deck), a second game object (such as a game object created or acquired by another user) is displayed on the display unit 16.

  Further, “performing control for executing a game in which a game object is used” means, for example, executing a game in which the game object is used by a user. Alternatively, “perform control for executing a game in which a game object is used” means that the data of the game object is transmitted to the other device in order to cause the other device to execute the game in which the game object is used. It may be to transmit.

  In the case of the above-described example of the baseball game, the game execution control unit 1090 allows the user to select another player's breeding player character (capture player character) based on the data extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070. Execute a regular match part that can be included in the members. For example, the game execution control unit 1090 displays the order setting screen image G1800 in the normal game part shown in FIG. 13 on the display unit 16, so that the user can select other user's breeding player character (capture player character). To be included in the baseball team members.

  [1-3-11] The use restriction unit 1100 restricts the use of the second game object compared to the use of the first game object.

  “Restricting the use of game objects” means prohibiting the use of game objects. It should be noted that “restricting the use of a game object” may be prohibiting the use of a game object with its original performance. In other words, it may be permitted to use the game object in a state where the performance of the game object is lowered or in a state where the specific performance of the game object is not exhibited.

  “Restrict the use of the second game object compared to the use of the first game object” means, for example, that the use of the second game object is not restricted, but the use of the second game object is restricted. More specifically, in a specific case (for example, in the case of a specific event), the use of the first game object is not restricted, but the use of the second game object is restricted. Note that “restrict the use of the second game object compared to the use of the first game object” means that the restriction imposed on the use of the second game object is less than the restriction imposed on the use of the first game object. It may be to increase the degree of.

  In the example of the baseball game described above, the use restriction unit 1100 prohibits the user from including other user's breeding player character (capture player character) as a member of his / her baseball team in the limited game part. For example, the game execution control unit 1090 displays the order setting screen image G1900 in the limited game part shown in FIG. 14 on the display unit 16 so that the user can select other user's breeding player character (capture player character). Not to be a member of any baseball team.

  In the limited game part, the use restriction unit 1100 lowers the ability of another user's breeding player character (captured player character) or the special ability of another user's breeding player character (captured player character). The user may be allowed to include the other player's breeding player character (capture player character) as a member of his baseball team only in a state where the player cannot be used.

  [1-3-12] The change restriction unit 1110 restricts the change of the data of the second game object extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070.

  “Restricting change of game object data” means prohibiting change of game object data. For example, it may be prohibited to change all of the game object data, or specific data (ability data, etc.) of the game object data is prohibited from being changed, and other data (name data) Etc.) may be allowed to be changed.

  In the case of the above-described example of the baseball game, the change restricting unit 1110, as shown in FIG. 12, in the detailed screen image G1700 related to the captured player character, a part P1708 for changing the data of the breeding player character is displayed by the user. Display in a state that cannot be selected.

  [1-3-13] The embedded image generation restriction unit 1120 restricts generation of an embedded image formed by embedding the data of the second game object extracted by the object data extraction unit 1070 in the basic image.

  “Restricting the generation of an embedded image in which game object data is embedded in a basic image” refers to prohibiting generation of an embedded image in which game object data is embedded in a basic image. Note that “restricting the generation of an embedded image in which game object data is embedded in the basic image” means generating an embedded image in which the game object data is embedded in the basic image while maintaining its original performance. May be prohibited.

  In the case of the above-described baseball game example, the embedded image generation restriction unit 1120 displays an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character is embedded in the detailed screen image G1700 regarding the captured player character, as shown in FIG. A part P1709 for generation is displayed in a state that cannot be selected by the user.

  [1-4. Processing] Next, processing for realizing the functional blocks described above will be described. FIGS. 17-20 shows an example of the process performed with the game terminal 10 (game system 1). Here, the process performed in the game terminal 10 (game system 1) is demonstrated supposing the case where the above-mentioned baseball game is performed in the game terminal 10. FIG.

  [1-4-1] FIG. 17 shows an example of processing until generating and outputting an embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character of the user generated on the game terminal 10 is embedded. The process shown in FIG. 17 is executed when the part P1109 of the registration screen image G1100 or P1309 of the detailed screen image G1300 is selected. 17 is executed based on a program, the basic image acquisition unit 1010, the object data acquisition unit 1020, the embedded image generation unit 1030, and the embedded image output control unit 1040 (registration control unit 1041). Realized.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the control part 11 acquires the data of the breeding player character produced | generated with the game terminal 10 (S100). For example, when the part P1109 of the registration screen image G1100 or P1309 of the detailed screen image G1300 is selected, the control unit 11 uses the data of the breeding player character displayed on the registration screen image G1100 or the detailed screen image G1300, Obtained from the player character table TBL1001 shown in FIG.

  In addition, the control unit 11 acquires a basic image (S102). For example, the control unit 11 acquires a basic image stored in the storage unit 12. Further, for example, the control unit 11 may acquire the basic image by receiving (downloading) the basic image stored in another device (for example, the server device 30) via the communication unit 14 and the network N.

  After execution of steps S100 and S102, the control unit 11 generates an embedded image based on the data of the breeding player character and the basic image (S104). For example, the control part 11 produces | generates an embedding image by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image acquired at step S102 based on the data of the breeding player character acquired at step S100. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the control unit 11 has a predetermined amount of data (for example, 4-bit data) among the data of the breeding player character for each pixel constituting the basic image. Embed. The embedded image generated in step S104 is an image that is similar to the basic image but does not match the basic image.

  The control unit 11 outputs the embedded image generated in step S104 (S106). For example, the control unit 11 may store the embedded image in the storage unit 12. Further, the control unit 11 may display the embedded image on the display unit 16. Further, for example, the control unit 11 registers the embedded image in an image transfer system (such as an image posting system or a social network service system) that can transfer images between a plurality of users. The embedded image may be transmitted to 30).

  [1-4-2] FIG. 18 shows an embedded image acquired by another user's breeding player character embedded in the embedded image (capture of a breeding player character generated by another game terminal 10). An example of a process until it memorize | stores in a memory | storage part 12 is shown. The registration destination information receiving unit 1050, the embedded image acquisition unit 1060, the object data extraction unit 1070, and the object data storage control unit 1080 are realized by executing the processing shown in FIG. 18 based on the program.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the control unit 11 accepts an operation for designating an embedded image (S110), and acquires the embedded image specified in step S110 (S112).

  For example, when the embedded image is stored in the storage unit 12, the control unit 11 receives an operation for designating any one of the embedded images stored in the storage unit 12. Then, the control unit 11 acquires the designated embedded image from the storage unit 12.

  Further, for example, when the embedded image is registered in the image transmission / reception system, the control unit 11 receives designation of registration destination information regarding the registration destination of the embedded image. For example, the control unit 11 receives an input operation of a URL (an example of registration destination information), a click operation or a tap operation on an object (text, image, or the like) associated with the URL. Then, the control unit 11 requests an embedded image from the registration destination indicated by the registration destination information, and receives (downloads) the embedded image transmitted from the registration destination, thereby acquiring the embedded image.

  In addition, the control unit 11 acquires a basic image (S114). That is, the control unit 11 acquires the basic image used for generating the embedded image acquired in step S112. For example, the control unit 11 acquires a basic image stored in the storage unit 12 as in the process of step S102. Further, for example, the control unit 11 may acquire the basic image by receiving (downloading) the basic image stored in another device (for example, the server device 30) via the communication unit 14 and the network N.

  And the control part 11 extracts the data of a breeding player character from the embedding image acquired at step S112 based on the basic image acquired at step S114 (S116). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the control unit 11 compares the pixel value of the pixel of the embedded image with the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image corresponding to the pixel, and based on the difference between the pixel values. Then, the data of the breeding player character embedded in the pixel of the embedded image is extracted.

  The control part 11 memorize | stores the data of the breeding player character extracted by step S116 (S118). For example, the control unit 11 additionally stores the data of the breeding player character extracted from the embedded image in the player character table TBL1001. At this time, the capture player flag is set to “1”.

  [1-4-3] FIG. 19 shows an example of processing when the detailed screen image G1300 or G1700 is displayed. The process shown in FIG. 19 is executed when the part 1202 is selected in a state where any breeding player character is selected in the list screen image G1200. By executing the process shown in FIG. 19 based on a program, a change restriction unit 1110 and an embedded image generation restriction unit 1120 are realized.

  When the part P1202 of the list screen image G1200 is selected, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the control unit 11 determines whether the breeding player character selected by the user is a captured player character generated by another game terminal 10. It is determined whether or not (S120). For example, the control unit 11 refers to the player character table TBL1001 and determines whether or not the value of the captured player flag of the breeding player character selected by the user is “1”. When the value of the captured player flag of the training player character selected by the user is “1”, the control unit 11 determines that the training player character selected by the user is the capturing player character. On the other hand, when the value of the captured player flag of the training player character selected by the user is “0”, the control unit 11 determines that the training player character selected by the user is not the capturing player character.

  When it is determined that the breeding player character selected by the user is not a capture player character (step S120: No), the control unit 11 “edits (nurturing player) the detailed screen image of the breeding player character selected by the user. “Change of character data)” or “output to image (generation of embedded image of breeding player character data)” is displayed on display 16 in a selectable state (step S122). That is, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a detailed screen image G1300 set in a state where the part P1308 and the part P1309 can be selected, for example, as illustrated in FIG.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the player character selected by the user is the capture player character (step S120: Yes), the control unit 11 “edits” the detailed screen image of the breeding player character selected by the user. “Change of data of breeding player character)” and “Output to image (generation of embedded image of data of breeding player character)” are displayed on the display unit 16 in a non-selectable state (step S124). That is, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display a detailed screen image G1700 in which the part P1708 and the part P1709 cannot be selected, for example, as illustrated in FIG.

  [1-4-4] FIG. 20 shows an example of processing when a game part is started. The process shown in FIG. 20 is executed when the part P1003 or P1004 of the menu screen image G1000 is selected. By executing the processing shown in FIG. 20 based on a program, a game execution control unit 1090 and a use restriction unit 1100 are realized.

  When the part P1003 or P1004 of the menu screen image G1000 is selected, as shown in FIG. 20, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the game part selected by the user is a limited game part (S130). When the part P1004 is selected, the control unit 11 determines that the game part selected by the user is a limited game part. On the other hand, when the part P1003 is selected, the control unit 11 determines that the game part selected by the user is a normal game part.

  When the game part selected by the user is not the limited game part (step S130: No), that is, when the game part selected by the user is the normal game part, the control unit 11 captures the player character (embedded image). The order setting screen image is displayed in a state in which the other player's breeding player character acquired from (2) can be selected (S132). That is, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display an order setting screen image G1800 as shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, when the game part selected by the user is a limited game part (step S130: Yes), the control unit 11 does not select the capture player character (the breeding player character of another user acquired from the embedded image). The order setting screen image is displayed in a possible state (S134). That is, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 16 to display an order setting screen image G1900 as shown in FIG.

  [1-5. Summary] According to the game system 1 according to the first embodiment, the data (including ability data and the like) of the user's breeding player character generated by the game terminal 10 (for example, the game terminal 10-1) is embedded. Embedded image is generated and output. In addition, data is extracted from an embedded image generated by another game terminal 10 (for example, the game terminal 10-2) in which data (including ability data and the like) of other user's breeding player characters are embedded, The training player characters of other users can be used. For this reason, a user provides data of a breeding player character to another user or obtains it from another user by providing an embedded image to another user or obtaining it from another user. be able to. Since transfer of images is generally performed between users, according to the game system 1, the user provides data (including ability data and the like) of the breeding player character to other users, or from other users. It becomes easy to acquire.

  Further, according to the game system 1, the trained player character and the trained player character (captured player character) of another user captured from the embedded image are distinguished from each other and stored in the player character table TBL 1001. It is possible to specify whether or not the character is another user's breeding player character (captured player character) captured from the embedded image. As a result, it is possible to handle differently between the user's own breeding player character and another user's breeding player character (captured player character) captured from the embedded image.

  For example, compared with the use of the user's own breeding player character, the use of another user's breeding player character (captured player character) captured from the embedded image can be restricted. For example, in a specific game (limited game part), it becomes possible to restrict the use of other player's breeding player character (captured player character) captured by the user from the embedded image.

  Moreover, according to the game system 1, the user can restrict the change of the data of the breeding player character (captured player character) of another user captured from the embedded image. As a result, it is possible to prevent another user's breeding player character captured from the embedded image from being changed to another player character. In other words, it can suppress that the change which does not follow the intention of the other user who is a provider of a breeding player character is performed.

  Moreover, according to the game system 1, the production | generation of the embedding image which embeds the data of the training player character (capture player character) of the other user taken in from the embedding image can be restrict | limited. As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from providing other users' training player characters as their own training player characters to a third party.

  [2. Second Embodiment] A game system 1A according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. A game system 1A according to the second embodiment has the same overall configuration as that of the first embodiment (see FIG. 1).

  The game executed by the game system 1A is the same as that in the first embodiment. For example, in the game system 1A, a baseball game similar to the first embodiment is executed.

  [2-1. Outline] In the game system 1A according to the second embodiment, one of a plurality of basic images is selected based on the performance information of the game object, and the game object data is embedded in the selected basic image. This is different from the first embodiment in that an embedded image is generated. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

  [2-2. Functional Block] FIG. 21 shows an example of functional blocks realized by the game system 1A (game terminal 10A) according to the second embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 21, each game terminal 10A included in the game system 1A includes a data storage unit 1000A, a basic image acquisition unit 1010A, an object data acquisition unit 1020A, an embedded image generation unit 1030A, and an embedded image. Output control unit 1040A, registration destination information receiving unit 1050A, embedded image acquisition unit 1060A, object data extraction unit 1070A, object data storage control unit 1080A, game execution control unit 1090A, use restriction unit 1100A, A change restriction unit 1110A, an embedded image generation restriction unit 1120A, and a basic image selection unit 1200A are included. Among these, the data storage unit 1000A is realized by the storage unit 12, and the other functional blocks are mainly realized by the control unit 11.

  [2-2-1] The data storage unit 1000A stores data necessary for executing the game. For example, a player character table TBL1001A and a basic image table TBL1002A are stored in the data storage unit 1000A. Since the player character table TBL1001A is basically the same as the player character table TBL1001 of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the basic image table TBL1002A. As shown in FIG. 22, the data is related to a plurality of basic images.

  “Multiple basic images” are a plurality of different basic images. For example, it is a plurality of basic images in which at least one of a pattern or a color is different. For example, a plurality of basic images respectively corresponding to a plurality of hierarchies (rank, level, category, etc .: hierarchies classified by alphabets such as S, A, and B) relating to the performance level of the game object are prepared.

  In the basic image table TBL1002A shown in FIG. 22, information specifying a plurality of basic images is associated with a rank (an example of performance information indicating the performance of the game object) indicating the overall ability of the breeding player character.

  In this case, for example, the basic image with the first color (for example, gold) is set as the basic image (for example, the basic image S. png) corresponding to the stage (for example, S) where the rank of the breeding player character is the highest, The basic image with the second color (for example, silver) is set as the basic image (for example, the basic image A.png) corresponding to the stage (for example, A) in which the rank of the breeding player character is the second highest, and the third color The basic image (for example, copper color) is set as the basic image (for example, basic image B. png) corresponding to the stage (for example, B) in which the rank of the breeding player character is the third highest.

  Alternatively, the basic image to which the first pattern is applied is set as the basic image (for example, the basic image S. png) corresponding to the stage (for example, S) where the rank of the breeding player character is the highest, and the second pattern is applied. The basic image is set as the basic image (for example, basic image A. png) corresponding to the stage (for example, A) in which the rank of the breeding player character is the second highest, and the basic image to which the third pattern is applied is Is set as a basic image (for example, basic image B. png) corresponding to the third highest rank (for example, B).

  [2-2-2] Object data acquisition unit 1020A, embedded image output control unit 1040A, registration destination information reception unit 1050A, embedded image acquisition unit 1060A, object data storage control unit 1080A, game execution control of each game terminal 10A Unit 1090A, use restriction unit 1100A, change restriction unit 1110A, embedded image generation restriction unit 1120A, object data acquisition unit 1020, embedded image output control unit 1040, registration destination information reception unit 1050, embedding Since it is basically the same as the image acquisition unit 1060, the object data storage control unit 1080, the game execution control unit 1090, the use restriction unit 1100, the change restriction unit 1110, and the embedded image generation restriction unit 1120, description thereof is omitted here. .

  [2-2-3] The basic image selection unit 1200A selects any one of a plurality of basic images based on performance data (first performance data) related to the performance of the game object. The basic image acquisition unit 1010A acquires the basic image selected by the basic image selection unit 1200A.

  “Select one of a plurality of basic images based on performance data related to the performance of the game object” means that a basic image corresponding to the performance data is selected from a plurality of basic images. is there. More specifically, a basic image corresponding to a hierarchy to which the performance indicated by the performance data belongs is selected from a plurality of basic images respectively corresponding to a plurality of hierarchies relating to the level of performance.

  For example, the basic image selection unit 1200A selects a basic image corresponding to the rank of the user's breeding player character (embedded breeding player character) based on the basic image table TBL1002A. When the rank of the breeding player character of the user is “S”, the basic image selection unit 1200A acquires “basic image S. png”.

  [2-2-4] The embedded image generation unit 1030A generates an embedded image in which game object data is embedded in the basic image selected by the basic image selection unit 1200A. The embedded image generation unit 1030A is basically the same as the embedded image generation unit 1030 of the first embodiment, except that the basic image selected by the basic image selection unit 1200A is used.

  It should be noted that the embedded image generation unit 1030A can be specified so that the basic image (basic image selected by the basic image selection unit 1200A) used to generate the embedded image at the time of extraction by the object data extraction unit 1070A can be specified. May embed identification data for identifying the basic image selected by the basic image selection unit 1200A in the embedded image.

  [2-2-5] The object data extraction unit 1070A is basically the same as the object data extraction unit 1070 of the first embodiment. However, when extracting game object data from an embedded image, a basic image selection unit It differs from the object data extraction unit 1070 of the first embodiment in that the basic image selected by 1200A is used.

  For example, when the identification data of the basic image is embedded at a specific position of the embedded image, the object data extraction unit 1070A acquires the identification data of the basic image embedded at the specific position of the embedded image. The basic image used to generate the embedded image is specified from the plurality of basic images. Further, for example, the basic image selection unit 1200A compares the embedded image with each of the plurality of basic images by a known pattern matching technique, and determines the basic image having the highest similarity to the embedded image as the embedded image. You may specify as a basic image used for generation. Further, for example, when specific pixels having different pixel values between the basic images are known, the basic image selection unit 1200A generates an embedded image based on the pixel values of the specific pixels of the embedded image. The used basic image may be specified from a plurality of basic images.

  [2-3. Process] Hereinafter, a process executed by the game terminal 10A (game system 1A) according to the second embodiment will be described.

  [2-3-1] FIG. 23 shows an example of processing until the embedded image in which the data of the breeding player character of the user is embedded is generated and output. That is, in the second embodiment, when the part P1109 of the registration screen image G1100 or the P1309 of the detailed screen image G1300 is selected, the processing shown in FIG. 23 is executed instead of the processing shown in FIG. 23 is executed based on a program, the basic image acquisition unit 1010A, the object data acquisition unit 1020A, the embedded image generation unit 1030A, the embedded image output control unit 1040A, the registration control unit 1041A, and the basic An image selection unit 1200A is realized.

  As shown in FIG. 23, the control part 11 acquires the data of a breeding player character (S100A). Step S100A is basically the same as step S100 in FIG.

  After execution of step S100A, the control unit 11 selects any one of the plurality of basic images based on the data of the breeding player character acquired in step S100A (S102A). For example, the control unit 11 searches the basic image corresponding to the rank of the breeding player character from the basic image table TBL1002A (see FIG. 22), and selects the searched basic image.

  After execution of step S102A, the control unit 11 acquires the basic image selected in step S102A (S104A). And the control part 11 produces | generates the embedding image with which the data of the breeding player character was embedded based on the data of the breeding player character acquired in step S100A, and the basic image acquired in step S104A (S106A). Further, the control unit 11 outputs the embedded image generated in step S106A (S108A). Steps S104A to S108A are basically the same as steps S102 to S106 in FIG.

  [2-3-2] The process until acquiring the embedded image and storing the training player character (capture player character) of another user embedded in the embedded image in the storage unit 12 is basically This is the same as the processing in the first embodiment (see FIG. 18).

  However, in step S114, the control unit 11 specifies the basic image used for generating the embedded image acquired in step S112 from the plurality of basic images. For example, when the identification data of the basic image is embedded at a specific position of the embedded image, the control unit 11 acquires the identification data of the basic image embedded at the specific position of the embedded image, thereby embedding the basic image. The basic image used to generate the embedded image is specified from among the plurality of basic images. Further, for example, the control unit 11 compares the embedded image with each of the plurality of basic images using a known pattern matching technique, and generates a basic image having the highest similarity with the embedded image to generate an embedded image. You may identify as a used basic picture. In addition, for example, when a specific pixel having a different pixel value between the basic images is known, the control unit 11 is used to generate an embedded image based on the pixel value of the specific pixel of the embedded image. The basic image may be specified from a plurality of basic images. And the control part 11 extracts the data of the breeding player character from an embedding image based on the basic image specified as mentioned above.

  [2-3-3] The process for displaying the detailed screen image G1300 or G1700 and the process for starting the game part are the same as those in the first embodiment (see FIGS. 19 and 20).

  [2-4. Summary] According to the game system 1A according to the second embodiment, one of the plurality of basic images is selected based on the ability data (rank) indicating the ability of the user's breeding player character, and the breeding player of the user is selected. An embedded image is generated by embedding character data in the selected basic image. For this reason, other users can grasp the level of the ability of the breeding player character embedded in the embedded image, for example, by looking at the embedded image.

  [3. Modification] The present invention is not limited to the first and second embodiments described above.

  [3-1] In the first and second embodiments, an example has been described in which an image prepared in advance is used as a basic image that serves as a basis for embedding data of a game object (for example, a breeding player character trained by a user). . In addition, the basic image may be an image generated by a game. The “image generated by the game” is an image generated in response to a user instruction in a game executed on the game terminals 10 and 10A. For example, an image representing a game object instructed by the user in the game corresponds to an example of an “image generated by the game”. In addition to this, an image representing the game space (for example, an image showing a state where the game space is viewed from a given viewpoint) corresponds to an example of an “image generated by the game”.

  When an image generated in a game is used as a basic image, the generated basic image may be output together with an embedded image in which game object data is embedded. For example, both an embedded image and a basic image may be registered in an image exchange system that can exchange images between a plurality of users. In this case, the game terminal 10 of the other user receives (downloads) both the registered embedded image and the basic image, and the game object data embedded in the embedded image using the received basic image. The game object captured from the embedded image may be used by extracting.

  [3-2] In the first and second embodiments, when extracting game object data from an embedded image, the same basic image as the basic image used in the generation of the embedded image is acquired, and the embedded image is acquired. The example in which the data of the game object is extracted by comparing the pixel value of the pixel and the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image has been described. However, when extracting game object data from an embedded image, it is not always necessary to acquire a basic image.

  For example, according to a known steganography technique, an embedded image is generated by transforming a basic image so that game object data is embedded in the basic image according to a predetermined algorithm, and according to an algorithm corresponding to the predetermined algorithm, The game object data may be extracted from the embedded image. In this way, game object data can be extracted from an embedded image without using a basic image that is a key for extraction.

  [3-3] All or part of the functional blocks shown in FIGS. 15 and 21 may be realized in another device different from the game terminals 10 and 10A. For example, each functional block may be realized in the server device 30 (or a server device other than the server device 30).

  When each functional block is realized in the server device 30, for example, data of a game object (for example, a user's breeding player character) generated in a game executed on the game terminal 10 or 10A is transmitted to the server device 30. Thus, the player character table TBL1001 or TBL1001A may be stored in the storage unit 32 or the database 35 of the server device 30. In addition, generation of an embedded image may be executed by the server device 30 in response to a request from the game terminal 10 or 10A. Alternatively, in response to a request from the game terminal 10 or 10 </ b> A, the extraction of the breeding player character data from the embedded image may be executed by the server device 30. In addition, the game may be executed by the game terminal 10 (or the game terminal 10A) and the server device 30.

  For example, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 acquires data of a first game object that is a game object generated by a first game terminal (for example, the game terminal 10-1 or 10-1A), and this first game An embedded image in which object data is embedded may be generated, and the embedded image may be output to the second game terminal (for example, game terminal 10-2 or 10-2A).

  In addition, the control unit 31 of the server device 30 acquires an embedded image in which the data of the game object generated by the second game terminal is embedded, and extracts the data embedded in the embedded image, thereby Control for executing a game in which the second game object (that is, a game object generated on another game terminal different from the first game terminal) is used on one game terminal may be performed.

  [3-4] While the above mainly describes the case where the trained player character trained by the user is a target for transfer with another user, the user is trained for the transfer with another user. It is not limited to the trained player character. That is, a game object other than the game object created by the user may be a target for exchange with another user.

  [3-5] Although the case where the present invention is applied to a baseball game has been mainly described above, the present invention can also be applied to a game other than a baseball game. The present invention can be applied to various games so that a user's game object can be exchanged with other users.

  [4. Supplementary Note] From the above description, the present invention is grasped as follows, for example. In addition, in order to make an understanding of this invention easy, the code | symbol described in drawing suitably is described in parenthesis, However, This invention is not limited to the aspect of illustration by it.

  1) A game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition means (1020, 1020A) for acquiring data of a first game object (for example, a breeding player character), and the first game. An embedding image (for example, PIC200) in which object data is embedded in a basic image (for example, PIC100) is generated by changing pixel values of pixels of the basic image based on the data of the first game object. An image generation means (1030, 1030A), an output control means (1040, 1040A) for performing control for outputting an embedded image generated by the embedded image generation means (1030, 1030A), a second game object An embedded image for acquiring an embedded image in which data of a breeding player character (for example, a breeding player character) is embedded Acquisition means (1060, 1060A), data extraction means (1070, 1070A) for extracting data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means (1060, 1060A), and the data Game execution control means (1090, 1090A) for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used based on the data extracted by the extraction means (1070, 1070A).

  10) A game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition unit (1020, 1020A) for acquiring data of a first game object, and a basic image of the data of the first game object. Embedded image generating means (1030, 1030A) for generating an embedded image formed by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object, and the embedded image Output control means (1040, 1040A) for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the generation means (1030, 1030A).

  11) A game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to an aspect of the present invention includes an embedded image acquisition unit (1060, 1060A) for acquiring an embedded image in which data of a second game object is embedded; Data extraction means (1070, 1070A) for extracting the data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means (1060, 1060A) and the data extraction means (1070, 1070A). Game execution control means (1090, 1090A) for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used based on the data.

  12) A game system (1, 1A) according to an aspect of the present invention includes data acquisition means (1020, 1020A) for acquiring data of a first game object, and embeds the data of the first game object in a basic image. Embedded image generating means (1030, 1030A) for generating the embedded image by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object, and the embedded image generating means ( 1030, 1030A) output control means (1040, 1040A) for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by, and embedded image acquisition means for acquiring the embedded image in which the data of the second game object is embedded (1060, 1060A) and the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means (1060, 1060A) A data extraction means (1070, 1070A) for extracting data of the second game object, and a game in which the second game object is used based on the data extracted by the data extraction means (1070, 1070A). Game execution control means (1090, 1090A) for performing control for execution.

  13) A program according to an aspect of the present invention is a game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to any one of 1) to 11), or a game system (1, 1A) according to 12). Is a program for causing the computer to function.

  14) An information storage medium according to an aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium storing the program according to 13).

  15) A control method of the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition step (S100, S100A) for acquiring data of a first game object, and data of the first game object. Embedded image generation step (S104, S106A) for generating an embedded image formed by embedding the image in the basic image by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object; An output control step (S106, S108A) for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated in the embedded image generation step (S104, S106A), and an embedded image in which the data of the second game object is embedded Embedded image acquisition step (S112) and the embedded image acquisition step (S112). A data extraction step (S116) for extracting data of the second game object from the acquired embedded image, and the second game object is used based on the data extracted by the data extraction step (S116). Game execution control means (S132) for performing control for executing the game.

  16) A control method of the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition step (S100, S100A) for acquiring data of a first game object, and data of the first game object. Embedded image generation step (S104, S106A) for generating an embedded image formed by embedding the image in the basic image by changing the pixel value of the pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object; And an output control step (S106, S108A) for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated in the embedded image generation step (S104, S106A).

  17) The control method of the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes an embedded image acquisition step (S112) for acquiring an embedded image in which data of the second game object is embedded; Based on the data extraction step (S116) for extracting data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition step (S112), and the data extracted by the data extraction step (S116). And a game execution control step (S132) for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used.

  18) A control method for a game system (1, 1A) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a data acquisition step (S100, S100A) for acquiring data of a first game object, and the data of the first game object as the basis. An embedded image generating step (S104, S106A) for generating an embedded image formed by embedding an image by changing a pixel value of a pixel of the basic image based on data of the first game object; Output control means (106, S108A) for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the image generation step, and an embedded image acquisition step for acquiring the embedded image in which the data of the second game object is embedded ( S112) and the second game from the embedded image acquired in the embedded image acquiring step (S112). Data extraction step (S116) for extracting object data, and game execution for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used based on the data extracted in the data extraction step (S116) A control step (S132).

  According to the inventions described in 1), 10), 12) to 16), and 18), an embedded image in which data of a game object (first game object) is embedded is generated and output. Therefore, the user can provide the game object data to the other user by providing the embedded image to the other user.

  In addition, according to the inventions described in 1), 11) to 15), 17), and 18), data is extracted from an embedded image in which data of a game object (second game object) is embedded, Based on the data, a game in which the game object is used by the user is executed. For this reason, the user can acquire game object data from another user by acquiring an embedded image from the other user.

  For example, the transfer of images is generally performed between users, and the user feels no resistance to providing embedded images to other users or acquiring them from other users. Therefore, according to the present invention, it becomes easy for the user to provide the game object data to other users or to acquire the data from other users.

  2) The game control device according to one aspect of the present invention may be a game terminal (10-1, 10-1A), and the first game object may be a game object generated by the game terminal. The second game object may be a game object generated by a game terminal (10-2, 10-2A) other than the game terminal.

  According to the invention described in 2), an embedded image in which data of a game object generated by a game terminal is embedded is output. Further, game object data generated at another game terminal is extracted from the embedded image, and a game using the game object generated at the other game terminal is executed based on the data. According to the present invention, the game object data generated on the user's game terminal is provided to another user, or the game object data generated on the other user's game terminal is acquired from the other user. It becomes possible to make it easier.

  3) In the game control device (30) according to one aspect of the present invention, the first game object may be a game object generated by the first game terminal (10-1, 10-1A). The two game objects may be game objects generated by the second game terminal (10-2, 10-2A).

  According to the invention described in 3), the embedded image in which the data of the game object generated by the first game terminal is embedded is output. Further, game object data generated on the second game terminal is extracted from the embedded image, and a game using the game object generated on the second game terminal is executed on the first game terminal based on the data. Is done. According to the present invention, the game object data generated on the user's first game terminal is provided to another user, or the game object data generated on the other user's second game terminal is received from another user. It becomes possible to make it easy to obtain.

  4) In the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention, the data of the first game object includes first performance data related to the performance of the first game object, and the second game object The data of the second game object includes second performance data relating to the performance of the second game object, and the embedded image generating means (1030, 1030A) converts the data of the first game object including the first performance data into the basic image. The data extraction means (1070, 1070A) includes the second performance data from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means (1060, 1060A). Data of the second game object may be extracted.

  According to the invention described in 4), an embedded image in which performance data relating to the performance of the game object is embedded is output. Further, performance data is extracted from the embedded image in which the performance data of the game object is embedded, and a game in which the game object is used by the user is executed based on the performance data. ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to make it easy for a user to provide the data of the game object containing the performance data of a game object to other users, or to acquire from other users.

  In the game control device (10, 10A) according to one aspect of the present invention, the game execution control means (1090, 1090A) executes the game based on the second performance data of the second game object. You may make it perform control for this.

  5) In the game control device (10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention, based on the first performance data, basic image selection means (1200A) for selecting any one of a plurality of basic images Further, the embedded image generating means (1030A) may generate an embedded image in which the data of the first game object is embedded in the basic image selected by the basic image selecting means (1200A). Good.

  According to the invention described in 5), any one of the plurality of basic images is selected based on the performance data of the first game object, and the data of the first game object is embedded in the selected basic image. An embedded image is output. For this reason, other users can grasp the level of the ability of the first game object embedded in the embedded image, for example, by looking at the embedded image.

  6) The game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention uses the data extraction means (1070, 1070A) as the data of the second game object extracted by the data extraction means (1070, 1070A). 1070A) may further include storage control means (1080, 1080A) for performing control for storing the data in the storage means (1000) in a state where it can be specified that the data is extracted.

  According to the invention described in 6), since the data of the second game object extracted by the data extraction unit is stored in the storage unit in a state where it can be specified that the data is extracted by the data extraction unit, It is possible to specify whether or not the object data is data extracted by the data extracting means (that is, game object data provided by another user). As a result, for example, data extracted by the data extraction means (that is, game object data provided by another user) and other game object data (for example, game object data generated by the user himself, Alternatively, the handling can be different from the game object data acquired by the user himself / herself in the game.

  7) The game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention further includes usage restriction means (1100, 1100A) for restricting the use of the second game object as compared to the first game object. You may make it.

  According to the invention described in 7), the use of the second game object (for example, a game object generated by another game terminal) can be restricted as compared with the first game object. For example, in certain cases (for special events such as tournaments), users can be restricted from using game objects provided by other users.

  8) The game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to an aspect of the present invention includes a change restriction unit (10, 10A, 30) for restricting a change in data of the second game object extracted by the data extraction unit (1070, 1070A). 1110, 1110A) may be further included.

  According to the invention described in 8), the change of the data of the second game object extracted by the data extraction means can be restricted. As a result, the data of the second game object is changed, so that the game object different from the original second game object provided by the second game object provider (other user) is suppressed. it can. In other words, it is possible to prevent the second game object from being changed in accordance with the intention of the second game object provider (another user).

  9) The game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention embeds the second game object data extracted by the data extraction means (1070, 1070A) in the basic image. Embedded image generation limiting means (1120, 1120A) for limiting the generation of embedded images may be further included.

  According to the invention described in 9), it is possible to restrict the generation of an embedded image formed by embedding the data of the second game object extracted by the data extracting means in the basic image. According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the generation of an embedded image in which game object data provided by another user is embedded, and the game object data provided by another user can be stored in the own game object. Providing as data can be suppressed.

  19) The game control device (1, 1A) according to one aspect of the present invention may further include basic image acquisition means (1010, 1010A) for acquiring the basic image for embedding data.

  20) In the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention, user data relating to a user is associated with the first game object, and the embedded image generating means (1030, 1030A) The user data associated with the first game object may not be embedded in the embedded image.

  21) In the game control device (10, 10A, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention, the output control means (1040, 1040A) is an embedded image generated by the embedded image generating means (1030, 1030A). May include registration control means (1041, 1041A) for performing control for registering in a system that can exchange images between a plurality of users.

  22) The game control device (10, 10A) according to one aspect of the present invention further includes accepting means (1050, 1050A) for receiving designation of registration destination information relating to the registration destination of the embedded image, and acquiring the embedded image The means (1060, 1060A) may perform control for acquiring the embedded image from the registration destination specified based on the registration destination information.

  1, 1A game system, N network, 10, 10A game terminal, 30, 30A server device, 11, 31 control unit, 12, 32 storage unit, 13, 33 optical disc drive unit, 14, 34 communication unit, 15 operation unit, 16 display unit, 17 audio output unit, 35 database, 1000, 1000A data storage unit, TBL1001, TBL1001A player character table, TBL1002A basic image table, 1010, 1010A basic image acquisition unit, 1020, 1020A object data acquisition unit, 1030, 1030A Embedded image generation unit, 1040, 1040A Embedded image output control unit, 1041, 1041A Registration control unit, 1050, 1050A Registration destination information reception unit, 1060, 1060A Embedded image acquisition unit, 1070, 107 A object data extraction unit, 1080, 1080A object data storage control unit, 1090, 1090A game execution control unit, 1100, 1100A use restriction unit, 1110, 1110A change restriction unit, 1120, 1120A embedded image generation restriction unit, 1200A basic image Selection unit, G1000 menu screen image, G1100 registration screen image, G1200, G1600-1, G1600-2 list screen image, G1300, G1700 detailed screen image, G1400 upload screen image, G1500 introduction screen image, G1800, G1900 order setting screen image A1101, A1102, A1103, A1104, A1105, A1106, A1107, A1301, A1302, A1303, A1304, A1305, A1306 1307, A1701, A1702, A1703, A1704, A1705, A1706, A1707, A1710 area, L1201, L1600-1, L1600-2, L1801, L1802, L1901, L1902 lists, P1001, P1002, P1003, P1004, P1108, P1109, P1202, P1203, P1308, P1309, P1602-1, P1603-1, P1602-2, P1603-2, P1708, P1709, P1803, P1903 parts, DAT100 data, PIC100 basic image, PIC200 embedded image, U1, U2 users.

Claims (13)

Data acquisition means for acquiring data of the first game object;
Embedded image generating means for generating an embedded image in which data of the first game object is embedded in a basic image by changing pixel values of pixels of the basic image based on the data of the first game object; ,
Output control means for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating means;
Embedded image acquisition means for acquiring an embedded image in which data of the second game object is embedded;
Data extraction means for extracting data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means;
Game execution control means for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used based on the data extracted by the data extraction means;
Including a game control device. The game control apparatus according to claim 1,
The game control device is a game terminal;
The first game object is a game object generated by the game terminal;
The second game object is a game object generated by a game terminal other than the game terminal;
Game control device. The game control apparatus according to claim 1,
The first game object is a game object generated on a first game terminal;
The second game object is a game object generated by a second game terminal;
The game execution control means performs control for executing a game in which the second game object is used on the first game terminal.
Game control device. The game control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The data of the first game object includes first performance data related to the performance of the first game object,
The data of the second game object includes second performance data related to the performance of the second game object,
The embedded image generating means generates an embedded image formed by embedding the data of the first game object including the first performance data in the basic image;
The data extraction means extracts data of the second game object including the second performance data from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means.
Game control device. The game control apparatus according to claim 4,
A basic image selecting means for selecting any one of a plurality of basic images based on the first performance data;
The embedded image generating means generates an embedded image formed by embedding data of the first game object in the basic image selected by the basic image selecting means;
Game control device. The game control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
Storage control means for performing control for storing the data of the second game object extracted by the data extraction means in the storage means in a state where it can be specified that the data is extracted by the data extraction means Including,
Game control device. The game control device according to claim 6,
A usage restriction unit for restricting the use of the second game object as compared to the first game object;
Game control device. The game control device according to claim 6 or 7,
A change restricting means for restricting a change in data of the second game object extracted by the data extracting means;
Game control device. The game control device according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
Further comprising embedded image generation limiting means for limiting generation of an embedded image formed by embedding the data of the second game object extracted by the data extracting means in the basic image.
Game control device. Data acquisition means for acquiring game object data;
Embedded image generation means for generating an embedded image formed by embedding data of the game object in a basic image by changing a pixel value of a pixel of the basic image based on the data of the first game object;
Output control means for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating means;
Including a game control device. A game control device that performs control for executing a game in which a game object is used,
Embedded image acquisition means for acquiring an embedded image in which game object data is embedded;
Data extraction means for extracting data of the game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means;
Game execution control means for performing control for executing a game in which the game object is used, based on the data extracted by the data extraction means;
Including a game control device. Data acquisition means for acquiring data of the first game object;
Embedded image generating means for generating an embedded image in which data of the first game object is embedded in a basic image by changing pixel values of pixels of the basic image based on the data of the first game object; ,
Output control means for performing control for outputting the embedded image generated by the embedded image generating means;
Embedded image acquisition means for acquiring an embedded image in which data of the second game object is embedded;
Data extraction means for extracting data of the second game object from the embedded image acquired by the embedded image acquisition means;
Game execution control means for performing control for executing a game in which the second game object is used, based on the data extracted by the data extraction means;
Including game system. The program for functioning a computer as a game control apparatus of any one of Claims 1 thru | or 11, or a game system of Claim 12.

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