JP2021009473A - Game system, game system operation method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To make it easy to retain a balance between profit and loss for a manager of a game device.SOLUTION: A game system provides a game in which a game medium is used for playing by a user and a reward according to a result of the playing is given to the user. The game system comprises: an index identification unit 51 which identifies an income and expenditure index corresponding to a difference between a used amount corresponding to a quantity of the game medium used in a unit period and a given amount corresponding to a quantity of the reward given in the unit period; and an adjustment processing unit 52 which changes a point possessed by a manager of the game to provide the game according to the income and expenditure index.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention relates to a game.

Various techniques for operating facilities such as game facilities in which game devices are installed have been conventionally proposed. For example, in Patent Document 1, revenue is distributed between a business operator who manages a facility (hereinafter referred to as "manager") and a business operator who provides a game device to the manager (hereinafter referred to as "provider"). The technology for this is disclosed. Specifically, the numerical value of the points corresponding to the amount paid in advance by the administrator to the provider is subtracted by a predetermined value for each game played by the user. When the value of points is less than a predetermined value, the operation of the game device is restricted.

Japanese Patent No. 5820777

By the way, a game in which a game medium such as a token coin is used for a play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user has been widely used. Also in the above types of games, it is assumed that the manager's points are subtracted for each use of the game value by the user (that is, for each game play). However, when a large number of rewards are given to the user, for example, a jackpot in a lottery game, points are uniformly deducted for each game played by the user, even though the administrator's profit decreases. As a result, it may not be possible to maintain the balance between profit and loss of the administrator.

In order to solve the above problems, in the game system according to one aspect of the present invention, the game medium is used for the play by the user, and the user is given a reward according to the result of the play. In a game system that provides a game, the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period and the grant amount corresponding to the quantity of the reward granted within the unit period. It includes an index specifying unit that specifies the corresponding balance index, and a settlement processing unit that changes the points owned by the manager of the game for providing the game according to the balance index.

The operation method of the game system according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system that provides a game in which a game medium is used for play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user. The balance according to the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period and the grant amount corresponding to the quantity of the reward granted within the unit period. The index is specified, and the points owned by the manager of the game for providing the game are changed according to the balance index.

The program according to one aspect of the present invention is within a unit period in order to provide a game in which a game medium is used for play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user. An index specifying unit that specifies a balance index according to the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used in the game and the grant amount corresponding to the quantity of the reward granted within the unit period, and The computer functions as a settlement processing unit that changes the points owned by the game manager for the provision of the game according to the balance index.

It is a block diagram which illustrates the schematic structure of the game system of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of a game system. It is a schematic diagram of aggregated data. It is explanatory drawing of the aggregated data when the balance index is a negative number. It is explanatory drawing of the aggregated data when the balance index is a negative number. It is a block diagram which illustrates the functional structure of a game apparatus. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the aggregation process. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of a setting process. It is a block diagram which illustrates the schematic structure of the game system of 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of the management device. It is a block diagram which illustrates the functional structure of the management device. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the aggregation processing in 2nd Embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below include various technically suitable limitations. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the forms exemplified below.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a game system 100A according to the first embodiment. The game system 100A of the first embodiment is installed in, for example, a game facility. The amusement facility is, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The game system 100A is a computer system that provides a game to a user (player) U in the game facility.

The game system 100A is provided by the provider Ha to the manager Hb of the amusement facility. Provider Ha is a business operator that lends or sells the game system 100A to the administrator. For example, a manufacturer engaged in the manufacture of the game system 100A or a business operator engaged in the leasing of the game system 100A purchased from the manufacturer is an example of the provider Ha. Manager Hb is a business operator that operates a game facility.

The administrator Hb acquires the management card M from the provider Ha in operating the game system 100A provided by the provider Ha. Specifically, the administrator Hb purchases the management card M in exchange for payment of a predetermined amount of currency. The management card M is a portable recording medium in which the possession point P is stored. The possession point P is a value owned by the administrator Hb in order to operate the game device 10. The manager Hb can also increase the possession points P stored in the acquired management card M by paying the currency to the provider Ha.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the game system 100A of the first embodiment includes a game device 10 and a writing device 20. The game device 10 is a computer system used by the user U to play a game. The game device 10 used in the casino is also called a gaming machine. The writing device 20 is connected to the game device 10 by wire or wirelessly, for example. The writing device 20 is a reader / writer that reads and writes data to the management card M. Specifically, the writing device 20 includes a attachment / detachment mechanism for attaching / detaching the management card M, and an update circuit for updating the data stored in the management card M. The writing device 20 of the first embodiment updates the possession point P stored in the management card M. The writing device 20 may be mounted on the game device 10. In the configuration in which the writing device 20 is mounted on the game device 10, the single game device 10 corresponds to the game system 100A.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a specific configuration of the game system 100A. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the game device 10 includes a control device 11, a storage device 12, a communication device 13, a display device 14, and an operation device 15. In addition to being realized by a single device, the game device 10 is also realized by a set of a plurality of devices configured as separate bodies from each other.

The control device 11 is, for example, a single or a plurality of processors that control each element of the game device 10. Specifically, for example, one or more types of processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). 3. The control device 11 is configured. The communication device 13 communicates with the writing device 20. The control device 11 can change the possession point P stored in the management card M by communicating with the writing device 20 via the communication device 13.

The storage device 12 is a single or a plurality of memories for storing a program executed by the control device 11 and various data used by the control device 11. For example, a known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium and a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of a plurality of types of recording media is adopted as the storage device 12.

The display device 14 displays an image under the control of the control device 11. For example, a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (ElectroLuminescence) display panel is used as the display device 14. The operation device 15 is an input device that receives an instruction from the user U. For example, a plurality of controls operated by the user U, or a touch panel integrally configured with the display device 14 to detect contact by the user U is used as the operating device 15.

The user U plays the game by the game device 10 by using the game medium owned by the user U. The gaming medium is a tangible or intangible value medium used in the game. The tangible game medium is, for example, a token coin (medal), a coin (money) or a ticket. The intangible gaming medium is, for example, electronic medals, credits or other numerical data. The quantity of the intangible game medium is stored as electronic data in, for example, a recording medium such as an IC card possessed by the user U, or a server capable of communicating with the game device 10. The use of a game medium is also referred to as the input or consumption (or bet) of a game medium.

The user U participates in various in-game events, for example, by using a predetermined number of game media. Events in which user U participates include, for example, a lottery event in which one of a plurality of elements is stochastically selected, a search event in which a character representing user U searches for a search location such as a cave or a building, or a search event. There is a battle event in which the character representing the user U plays against another character.

In addition, the user U obtains a reward according to the result of playing the game. Specifically, a quantity of game media according to the result of play is given to the user U as a reward. For example, when a predetermined condition is satisfied in the various events described above, a game medium in a quantity corresponding to the quantity used by the user U is given to the user U as a reward. The game medium used by the user U for the game and the game medium given to the user U as a reward may be of the same type or different types. For example, an intangible game medium such as an electronic medal or a credit is given to the user U according to the result of playing using a tangible game medium such as a token coin.

The user U who visits the game facility acquires the game medium by paying the administrator Hb a currency such as cash or electronic money, and uses the game medium for the game by the game device 10. On the other hand, as described above, the administrator Hb acquires the management card M from the provider Ha by paying the currency to the provider Ha, and uses the management card M to provide the game to the user U. As can be understood from the above explanation, the profit obtained by the administrator Hb from the user U is substantially distributed between the provider Ha and the administrator Hb. According to the operation illustrated above, the provider Ha can provide the game system 100A to the administrator Hb at low cost.

In order to realize the operation illustrated above, in the first embodiment, the number of game media used in the game device 10 and the number of game media given as a reward in the game device 10 are increased. The possession point P stored in the management card M of the manager Hb is changed.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the storage device 12 of the first embodiment stores the history data L and the aggregated data T. The history data L is log data representing the history of use and granting of the game medium in the game device 10. Specifically, the quantity of the game medium used by the arbitrary user U is registered in the history data L for each use, and the quantity of the game medium given as a reward to the arbitrary user U is registered in the history data L for each grant. To be registered in.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the aggregated data T. The aggregated data T is a data table used for changing the possession point P stored in the management card M. The aggregated data T is updated at any time in parallel with the operation of the game device 10. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the aggregated data T is an array of a plurality of unit data D. Each of the plurality of unit data D corresponds to one unit period Q (Q1, Q2, ...). The unit period Q is a period of a predetermined length (for example, 30 minutes). Within the period during which the game device 10 is operating, one unit data D is added to the aggregated data T for each unit period Q. The unit data D reflected in the possession point P may be deleted from the aggregated data T. Further, the aggregated data T may be deleted at predetermined intervals.

The unit data D corresponding to each unit period Q includes the usage amount X and the grant amount Y. The usage amount X is a numerical value corresponding to the number of game media used for playing the game within the unit period Q. Specifically, the usage amount X of the first embodiment is the total value of the number of game media used by one or more users U who have played the game within the unit period Q. The grant amount Y is a numerical value corresponding to the quantity of the game medium granted as a reward within the unit period Q. Specifically, the grant amount Y of the first embodiment is the total value of the number of game media granted as a reward to one or more users U who have played the game within the unit period Q. Generally, the possession point P is changed at any time so that the possession point P decreases as the usage amount X of the game medium increases (that is, the profit of the administrator Hb is large).

In FIG. 3, the total usage amount Σx of the unit data D corresponding to each unit period Q is the total value of the usage amount X in one or more unit periods Q before the unit period Q. That is, the total usage amount Σx in any one unit period Q is the total value of the usage amount X of the unit period Q and the total usage amount Σx of the immediately preceding unit period Q. Further, the total grant amount Σy of the unit data D corresponding to each unit period Q is the total value of the grant amounts Y in one or more unit periods Q before the unit period Q. That is, the total grant amount Σy in any one unit period Q is the total value of the grant amount Y of the unit period Q and the total grant amount Σy of the immediately preceding unit period Q. The total usage amount Σx and the total grant amount Σy may be omitted from the aggregated data T.

The balance index Z of the unit data D corresponding to each unit period Q is a numerical value corresponding to the usage amount X and the grant amount Y in the unit period Q. The balance index Z of the first embodiment is the difference (Z = XY) between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y. Therefore, the larger the usage amount X is compared with the grant amount Y (that is, the profit of the manager Hb is larger), the larger the balance index Z becomes. On the other hand, when the grant amount Y exceeds the usage amount X (Y> X), the balance index Z becomes a negative number. The balance index Z corresponds to the so-called house gain.

The total index Σz corresponding to each unit period Q is the total value of the balance index Z in one or more unit periods Q before the unit period Q. That is, the total index Σz in any one unit period Q is the total value of the balance index Z of the unit period Q and the total index Σz of the immediately preceding unit period Q. The total index Σz may be omitted from the aggregated data T.

The consumption amount C corresponding to each unit period Q is a quantity to be subtracted from the possession point P stored in the management card M. The consumption amount C corresponding to each unit period Q is set according to the balance index Z corresponding to the unit period Q. Specifically, when the balance index Z of the unit period Q is a non-negative number (positive number or 0), the balance index Z is set as the consumption amount C corresponding to the unit period Q (C = Z). .. That is, the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y (that is, the profit of the administrator Hb) is subtracted from the possession point P as the consumption amount C. On the other hand, when the balance index Z of the unit period Q is a negative number, the consumption amount C corresponding to the unit period Q is set to 0. 0 of the consumption amount C means that the possession point P stored in the management card M is maintained (that is, not subtracted).

In FIG. 3, the total consumption amount Σc corresponding to each unit period Q is the total value of the consumption amount C in one or more unit periods Q before the unit period Q. That is, the consumption amount C in any one unit period Q is the total value of the consumption amount C of the unit period Q and the total consumption amount Σc of the immediately preceding unit period Q. The total consumption Σc is also paraphrased as the sum of the numerical values subtracted from the possession point P. The total consumption amount Σc may be omitted from the aggregated data T.

In the following description, one unit period Q in which the balance index Z is a negative number is particularly referred to as "specific period Q". For example, the unit period Q in which the grant amount Y exceeds the usage amount X as a result of the granting of a large number of rewards as in the jackpot in the lottery game is the specific period Q. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the consumption amount C is set to 0 in the specific period Q and one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q. Specifically, the numerical value (hereinafter referred to as "cumulative value") A obtained by accumulating the balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q becomes the absolute value | Z | of the balance index Z in the specific period Q. Until it is reached, the consumption amount C in each unit period Q after the specific period Q is set to 0. In the unit period Q in which the consumption amount C is 0, the possession point P is not subtracted.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the aggregated data T when the balance index Z is a negative number. In FIG. 4, it is assumed that the balance index Z in the unit period Q4 is a negative number “−1000”. That is, the unit period Q4 is a specific period Q. The consumption amount C of the possession point P in the specific period Q4 is set to 0. Further, when the balance index Z is accumulated for each unit period Q (Q5, Q6, ...) Following the specific period Q4, the cumulative value A of the balance index Z becomes "1100" in the unit period Q8. That is, the cumulative value A of the balance index Z exceeds the absolute value | Z | "1000" of the balance index Z in the specific period Q4. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the consumption amount C in each unit period Q from the specific period Q4 to the unit period Q7 is set to 0.

The state data F illustrated in FIG. 4 is information (for example, a flag) that specifies whether or not the consumption amount C of the possession point P should be set to 0. Specifically, the state data F is set to 1 in a state where the consumption amount C should be set to 0, and is set to 0 in a state where the consumption amount C should be set to a positive number according to the balance index Z. The state data F is stored in the storage device 12.

In other words, the consumption amount C is in each unit period Q until the total index Σz in each unit period Q following the specific period Q exceeds the total index Σz in the unit period Q immediately before the specific period Q. It is maintained at 0. For example, in FIG. 5, as a result of the balance index Z in the specific period Q4 being “−1000”, it is assumed that the total index Σz in the specific period Q4 is set to −300. Since the balance index Z is a positive number in each unit period Q (Q5, Q6, ...) Following the specific period Q4, the total index Σz increases for each unit period Q (-300 → -200 → 300 → 600). .. The total index Σz (= 600) of the unit period Q7 is lower than the total index Σz (= 700) in the unit period Q3 immediately before the specific period Q4, but the total index Σz (= 800) in the unit period Q8 immediately after is the unit period. It exceeds the total index Σz (= 700) in Q3. Therefore, the consumption amount C in each unit period Q from the specific period Q4 to the unit period Q7 is set to 0.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the game device 10 according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the control device 11 of the first embodiment has a plurality of functions (game control unit 50, index identification unit 51, and settlement processing unit 52) by executing a program stored in the storage device 12. To realize.

The game control unit 50 controls the game played by the user U. Specifically, the game control unit 50 advances various events in the game in response to an instruction from the user U to the operation device 15, for example. Further, the game control unit 50 causes the display device 14 to display a game screen showing the progress of the game.

The index specifying unit 51 calculates the balance index Z according to the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y. The calculation of the balance index Z is executed for each unit period Q. The index specifying unit 51 of the first embodiment calculates the balance index Z by subtracting the granted amount Y from the used amount X.

The settlement processing unit 52 changes the possession point P according to the balance index Z calculated by the index specifying unit 51. Specifically, the settlement processing unit 52 changes the possession point P in each of the plurality of unit periods Q according to the balance index Z of the unit period Q. By controlling the writing device 20 to which the management card M is mounted, the settlement processing unit 52 of the first embodiment obtains the consumption amount C according to the balance index Z from the possession point P stored in the management card M. Subtract. As described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5, the index specifying unit 51 of the first embodiment has possession points when the balance index Z is a positive number (that is, when the usage amount X exceeds the grant amount Y). P is subtracted according to the balance index Z, and when the balance index Z is a negative number (that is, when the usage amount X is less than the grant amount Y), the possession point P is maintained.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of a process (hereinafter referred to as “aggregation process”) executed by the control device 11 with respect to the possession point P stored in the management card M. Aggregation processing is executed for each unit period Q within the period in which the game device 10 operates. When the aggregation process is started for one unit period Q, the control device 11 adds the unit data D corresponding to the unit period Q to the aggregation data T (Sa1). Each element in the unit data D at the time of being added to the aggregated data T is set to an initial value, and is updated by each process illustrated below.

The control device 11 calculates the usage amount X and the grant amount Y in the unit period Q (Sa2). Specifically, the control device 11 extracts the history of use of the game medium within the unit period Q from the history data L stored in the storage device 12, and totals the number of the game media related to the history. Calculate the usage amount X of the unit period Q. Further, the control device 11 extracts the history of granting the game medium within the unit period Q from the history data L, and calculates the grant amount Y of the unit period Q by totaling the quantities of the game media related to the history. .. Further, the control device 11 calculates the total usage amount Σx and the total grant amount Σy (Sa3).

The control device 11 (index identification unit 51) calculates the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y in the unit period Q as the balance index Z of the unit period Q (Sa4). Further, the control device 11 calculates the total index Σz (Sa5).

The control device 11 (settlement processing unit 52) changes the possession point P according to the balance index Z specified by the index specifying unit 51 (Sa6, Sa7). Specifically, the control device 11 executes a process for setting the consumption amount C to be subtracted from the possession point P (hereinafter referred to as “setting process”) (Sa6). Then, the control device 11 subtracts the consumption amount C set by the setting process Sa6 from the possession point P (Sa7). Specifically, the control device 11 transmits an instruction for subtracting the consumption amount C from the communication device 13 to the writing device 20. The writing device 20 subtracts the consumption amount C from the possession point P in response to the instruction from the control device 11.

The control device 11 determines whether or not the possession point P after subtracting the consumption amount C is 0 or less (Sa8). When the possession point P is 0 or less (Sa8: YES), the control device 11 limits the operation of the game device 10 (Sa9). For example, the control device 11 shifts the game system 100A to a state in which the user U is prohibited from playing the game. On the other hand, when the possession point P exceeds 0 (Sa8: NO), the operation of the game device 10 is not restricted. As can be understood from the above explanation, the possession point P is a value required for the administrator Hb to provide the game to the user U.

When the possession point P decreases, the control device sends a message prompting the administrator Hb to replenish the possession point P or a message warning the administrator Hb that the operation of the game device 10 is restricted. 11 may be displayed on the display device 14.

Further, the operation of the game device 10 may be allowed until a predetermined period elapses after the possession point P decreases to 0 or less. For example, in the reservation period from when the possession point P decreases to 0 or less until the number of plays by the user U reaches the threshold value, the operation restriction is reserved. If the administrator Hb exchanges the current management card M for a new management card M (that is, the management card M with the remaining possession points P) within the reservation period, or by paying the currency to the provider Ha, the administrator Hb Can continue to operate the game device 10 when the current management card M is replenished with possession points P.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of the setting process Sa6. In the setting process Sa6, the above-mentioned state data F stored in the storage device 12 is used. When the setting process Sa6 is started, the control device 11 determines whether or not the balance index Z calculated (Sa4) for the unit period Q is a negative number (Sb1). When the balance index Z is a non-negative number (Sb1: NO), the control device 11 determines whether or not the state data F is 1 (Sb2). When the state data F is 0 (Sb2: NO), the control device 11 sets the balance index Z as the consumption amount C (Sb3). Therefore, the consumption amount C corresponding to the balance index Z is subtracted from the possession point P stored in the management card M (Sa7).

On the other hand, when the balance index Z is a negative number (Sb1: YES), the control device 11 sets the consumption amount C to 0 (Sb4). Therefore, the possession point P is not changed (Sa7). The control device 11 sets the state data F to 1 (Sb5). That is, the state transitions to a state in which the consumption amount C should be set to 0 (a state in which the possession point P is maintained). The control device 11 sets the absolute value | Z | of the balance index Z calculated for the current unit period Q as the target value N (Sb6). The target value N means an excess amount Y with respect to the usage amount X (that is, a loss amount of the administrator Hb). Further, the control device 11 initializes the cumulative value A to 0 (Sb7). The cumulative value A is a numerical value obtained by accumulating the balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following a specific period Q in which the balance index Z is a negative number.

As understood from the above description, the state data F is set to 1 in the unit period Q following the specific period Q in which the balance index Z is a negative number. When the balance index Z is a non-negative number (Sb1: NO) and the state data F is 1 (Sb2: YES), the control device 11 calculates the balance index Z for the current unit period Q as a cumulative value A. Add to (Sb8). The control device 11 determines whether or not the cumulative value A after the addition of the balance index Z exceeds the target value N (Sb9). That is, it is determined whether or not the minus portion of the balance index Z in the latest specific period Q is appropriated by the balance index Z in one or more unit periods Q immediately after the specific period Q.

When the cumulative value A exceeds the target value N (Sb9: YES), the control device 11 sets the consumption amount C to the difference (C = MN) between the cumulative value A and the target value N (Sb10). That is, a numerical value obtained by offsetting the cumulative value A of the balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q by the negative balance index Z in the specific period Q is set as the consumption amount C. For example, the consumption amount C of the unit period Q8 in FIG. 4 is set to a numerical value (= 100) obtained by subtracting the target value N (= | Z | = 1000) from the cumulative value A (= 1100). When the consumption amount C is set by the above procedure, the control device 11 sets the state data F to 0 (Sb11). Therefore, in each subsequent unit period Q, the consumption amount C corresponding to the balance index Z is subtracted from the possession point P.

On the other hand, when the cumulative value A is less than the target value N (Sb9: NO), the cumulative value A of the balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q is the balance index Z in the specific period Q. Means that you have not reached. Therefore, when the cumulative value A is less than the target value N (Sb9: NO), the control device 11 sets the consumption amount C for the current unit period Q to 0 (Sb12). As understood from the above description, the settlement processing unit 52 of the first embodiment has a balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q when the balance index Z in the specific period Q is a negative number. The possession point P is maintained until the cumulative value A of is reached the absolute value | Z | of the balance index Z in the specific period Q.

When the consumption amount C is calculated by the above processing, the control device 11 calculates the total consumption amount Σc (Sb13). Specifically, the control device 11 adds the consumption amount C in the current unit period Q to the total consumption amount Σc in the immediately preceding unit period Q. The specific procedure of the setting process Sa6 is as described above.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the possession points are obtained according to the balance index Z corresponding to the difference between the usage amount X of the game medium in the unit period Q and the grant amount Y of the game medium in the unit period Q. P is changed. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is easy to maintain the balance of profit and loss of the manager Hb as compared with the configuration in which the possession point P is changed only according to the usage amount X of the game medium. Further, the frequency of changing the possession point P is reduced as compared with the configuration in which the possession point P is changed each time the game medium is used or the reward is given. Therefore, there is an advantage that the load of the process of changing the possession point P is reduced.

In the first embodiment, since the possession point P is stored in the management card M mounted on the writing device 20, for example, communication with another device via the communication network is not necessary for changing the possession point P. .. Therefore, for example, even in an environment where a communication network cannot be used, there is an advantage that the possession point P can be changed according to the situation of the game device 10.

In the first embodiment, the balance index Z is calculated for each unit period Q, and the possession point P is changed for each unit period Q. Therefore, it is possible to reflect the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y within the unit period Q at any time for each unit period Q with respect to the possession point P. Further, since the possession point P is changed for each unit period Q, there is an advantage that it is not necessary to hold the usage amount X and the grant amount Y reflected in the possession point P in the storage device 12.

In addition, when the grant amount Y exceeds the usage amount X, it is assumed that the possession point P is increased according to the balance index Z. However, if the increase in the possession points P is allowed, fraudulent acts such as the administrator Hb increasing the possession points P stored in the management card M without permission may occur. In the first embodiment, when the balance index Z is a non-negative number, the possession point P is subtracted according to the balance index Z, and when the balance index Z is a negative number, the consumption amount C is set to 0. As a result, the possession point P is maintained. That is, the possession point P is not increased even when the grant amount Y exceeds the usage amount X. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of the above-mentioned fraudulent activity.

When the balance index Z is a negative number, the cumulative value A of the balance index Z over one or more unit periods Q following the specific period Q reaches the absolute value | Z | of the balance index Z in the specific period Q. Until then, the possession point P is maintained. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the possession point P is excessively reduced even though the grant amount Y exceeds the usage amount X (that is, the profit of the administrator Hb is small). That is, the possession point P can be appropriately changed according to the magnitude of the usage amount X and the grant amount Y without allowing the increase of the possession point P.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. For the elements having the same functions as those of the first embodiment in each of the embodiments exemplified below, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be diverted and detailed description of each will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game system 100B according to the second embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the game system 100B of the second embodiment includes a game device 10 and a management device 30. The game device 10 is provided by the provider Ha to the manager Hb of the game facility, and provides the game to the user U as in the first embodiment. The management device 30 is a server device operated by the provider Ha or another business operator. The game device 10 and the management device 30 can communicate with each other via a communication network 200 such as the Internet. Specifically, the communication device 13 of the game device 10 communicates with the management device 30 via the communication network 200. The writing device 20 of the first embodiment is omitted in the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a specific configuration of the management device 30. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the management device 30 includes a control device 31, a storage device 32, and a communication device 33. The management device 30 is realized not only as a single device but also as a set of a plurality of devices configured as separate bodies from each other.

The control device 31 is, for example, a single or a plurality of processors that control each element of the management device 30. Specifically, the control device 31 is composed of one or more types of processors such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The communication device 33 communicates with the game device 10 via the communication network 200.

The storage device 32 is a single or a plurality of memories for storing a program executed by the control device 31 and various data used by the control device 31. For example, a known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium and a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of a plurality of types of recording media is adopted as the storage device 32.

The storage device 32 stores the possession point P, the history data L, and the aggregated data T. The possession point P is a value owned by the administrator Hb in order to operate the game device 10 as in the first embodiment. For example, the administrator Hb can acquire a predetermined amount of possession points P by paying a predetermined amount of currency such as cash or electronic money to the provider Ha.

The history data L is log data representing the history of use and grant of the game medium in the game device 10, as in the first embodiment. The history data L is updated at any time in parallel with the operation of the game device 10. Specifically, the quantity of the game medium used by the user U and the quantity of the game medium given to the user U are sequentially transmitted from the game device 10 to the management device 30, and each quantity is registered in the history data L. Will be done. The aggregated data T is a data table used for changing the possession point P as in the first embodiment. That is, the aggregated data T is a data table in which a plurality of numerical values including the balance index Z, the consumption amount C, and the total consumption amount Σc are registered for each unit period Q.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the management device 30 according to the second embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the control device 31 of the management device 30 realizes a plurality of functions (index identification unit 51 and settlement processing unit 52) by executing the program stored in the storage device 32. The functions of the index specifying unit 51 and the settlement processing unit 52 are the same as those in the first embodiment. That is, the index specifying unit 51 calculates the balance index Z according to the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y. Further, the settlement processing unit 52 changes the possession point P according to the balance index Z calculated by the index specifying unit 51. The settlement processing unit 52 of the second embodiment changes the possession point P stored in the storage device 32 according to the balance index Z. The index specifying unit 51 and the settlement processing unit 52 are not installed in the game device 10.

The control device 31 of the management device 30 executes the aggregation process shown in FIG. For example, the aggregation process is started when the management device 30 is started. When the aggregation process is started, the control device 31 waits until the unit period Q elapses (Sc1: NO). When the unit period Q elapses (Sc1: YES), the control device 31 adds the unit data D corresponding to the unit period Q to the aggregated data T (Sa1). Then, as in the first embodiment, the control device 31 has a plurality of numerical values (usage amount X, grant amount Y, total usage amount Σx, total grant amount Σy, balance index Z, total index) registered in the aggregated data T. Σz, consumption C and total consumption Σc) are calculated (Sa2 to Sa6).

When the above processing is executed, the control device 31 determines whether or not the predetermined period has elapsed (Sc2). The predetermined period is a period of a predetermined length (for example, one month) including a plurality of unit periods Q. When the predetermined period has not elapsed (Sc2: NO), the control device 31 shifts the processing to step Sc1, and a plurality of units registered in the aggregated data T for the unit period Q immediately after the processed unit period Q. Perform numerical calculations (Sc1, Sa1 to Sa6). On the other hand, when the predetermined period elapses (Sc2: YES), the control device 31 subtracts the total consumption amount Σc calculated for the last unit period Q of the predetermined period from the possession point P stored in the storage device 32. (Sc3). For example, assuming that a predetermined period is composed of 15 unit periods Q from the unit period Q1 to the unit period Q15 in FIG. 3, the control device 31 determines the total consumption amount Σc “2300” calculated for the unit period Q15. Is subtracted from the possession point P.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the calculation of the usage amount X and the grant amount Y (Sa2) and the change of the possession point P (Sa7) are executed for each unit period Q. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the calculation of the usage amount X and the grant amount Y (Sa2) is executed for each unit period Q, and the change of the possession point P (Sc3) is performed for each predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods Q. Will be executed.

In the second embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is realized. Further, in the second embodiment, since the possession point P is stored in the storage device 32 of the management device 30 capable of communicating with the game device 10 via the communication network 200, the possession point P is stored in the management card M or the game device 10. There is an advantage that it is not necessary to store in the storage device 12.

Further, in the second embodiment, the possession point P is changed every predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods Q. That is, it is not necessary to change the possession point P for each unit period Q. Therefore, the processing load for changing the possession point P is reduced.

In the configuration in which the control device 11 calculates the total consumption amount Σc for each predetermined period, the process (Sc3) of subtracting the total consumption amount Σc from the possession point P may be omitted. The total consumption amount Σc corresponds to the amount to be paid from the administrator Hb to the provider Ha within a predetermined period (the amount billed from the provider Ha to the administrator Hb). Therefore, after the elapse of the predetermined period, the administrator Hb may postpay the currency of the amount corresponding to the total consumption Σc to the provider Ha. When the administrator Hb pays the currency later, the total consumption Σc corresponds to the possession point P.

[Modification example]
Each of the above illustrated forms can be transformed in various ways. Specific modifications that can be applied to each of the above-described forms are illustrated below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be merged to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

(1) In each of the above-described forms, the total amount of game media used by the user U within the unit period Q is defined as the usage amount X, and the total amount of the game media granted to the user U within the unit period Q is the grant amount Y. However, the method of totaling the usage amount X and the grant amount Y is not limited to the above examples. For example, the quantity of a part of the game media used by the user U (for example, the game media used at a specific event in the game) may be totaled as the usage amount X. As understood from the above examples, the usage amount X is comprehensively expressed as a numerical value corresponding to the number of game media used for playing the game. Further, the quantity of a part of the game media given to the user U (for example, the game medium given at a specific event in the game) may be totaled as the grant amount Y. As understood from the above examples, the grant amount Y is comprehensively expressed as a numerical value corresponding to the number of rewards granted according to the play of the game.

(2) In each of the above-described forms, the configuration in which the increase in the possession point P is not allowed is illustrated, but the increase in the possession point P may be allowed. For example, when the balance index Z is a negative number, the settlement processing unit 52 may add a numerical value corresponding to the absolute value | Z | of the balance index Z to the possession point P.

(3) In each of the above-described forms, the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y is calculated as the balance index Z, but the method for calculating the balance index Z is not limited to the above examples. For example, the balance index Z may be calculated by multiplying the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y by a predetermined coefficient. Further, for example, the ratio of the granted amount Y to the used amount X may be calculated as the balance index Z.

(4) In each of the above-described forms, the difference between the usage amount X and the grant amount Y is calculated as the balance index Z, but the method for specifying the balance index Z is not limited to the above examples. For example, the index specifying unit 51 may search for the balance index Z corresponding to the usage amount X and the grant amount Y in the unit period Q from the table in which the usage amount X and the grant amount Y are associated with the balance index Z. .. As understood from the above description, the index specifying unit 51 is comprehensively expressed as an element for specifying the balance index Z.

(5) In a situation where a plurality of game devices 10 are installed, the management card M may be shared by the plurality of game devices 10. However, the management card M may be dedicated to the specific game device 10. Further, for example, it is assumed that a management card M is prepared for each type of the game device 10, and a management card M corresponding to the type is dedicated to each type of game device 10. The types of games may be distinguished by the genre of the game such as a music game, or the types of games may be distinguished for each title in the same genre. Further, in a configuration in which a plurality of management cards M can be used in one game device 10, even if the possession point P of one management card M becomes 0, the administrator Hb uses the other management card M. It is possible to continue to provide the game.

(6) When the balance index Z is a non-negative number, the balance index Z is set as the consumption amount C (C = Z), but the relationship between the balance index Z and the consumption amount C is not limited to the above examples. For example, the consumption amount C may be calculated by multiplying the balance index Z by a predetermined coefficient.

(7) In each of the above-described forms, the game medium is given to the user U as a reward, but the type of reward given to the user U is not limited to the game medium. That is, it is not essential that the reward given to the user U is the medium used for the game.

(8) In the first embodiment in which the possession point P is stored in the management card M, the possession point P may be changed every predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods Q as in the second embodiment. Further, in the second embodiment in which the possession point P is stored in the management device 30, the possession point P may be changed for each unit period Q as in the first embodiment.

(9) In the second embodiment, the balance index Z is calculated every time the unit period Q elapses, but when the predetermined period elapses (Sc2: YES), the control device 31 calculates the balance index Z of each unit period Q. You may calculate. Similarly, the consumption amount C and the total consumption amount Σc may be calculated by the control device 31 when a predetermined period has elapsed.

(10) In the first embodiment, the configuration in which the function of changing the possession point P (index identification unit 51 and the settlement processing unit 52) is mounted on the game device 10 is illustrated, but the function of changing the possession point P is provided. The mounted processing unit may be retrofitted to the game device 10.

(11) In the first embodiment, the provider Ha may collect the management card M whose possession point P is reduced to 0 or less. For example, historical data L or aggregated data T may be stored in the management card M collected by the provider Ha. The administrator Hb may discard the management card M whose possession point P is reduced to 0 or less.

(12) The functions of the game system 100 (100A, 100B) according to each of the above-described modes are realized by the cooperation between the control device 11 or the control device 31 and the program. The program may be provided and installed on a computer in a form stored on a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and an optical recording medium (optical disc) such as a CD-ROM is a good example, but a known arbitrary such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. Recording media in the format of are also included. The non-transient recording medium includes any recording medium except for a transient propagation signal (transitory, propagating signal), and a volatile recording medium is not excluded. Further, in the configuration in which the distribution device distributes the program via the communication network, the storage device that stores the program in the distribution device corresponds to the above-mentioned non-transient recording medium.

[Additional Notes]
From the above description, for example, a preferred embodiment of the present invention can be grasped as follows. In addition, in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, the reference numerals of the drawings are shown in parentheses below for convenience, but the present invention is not intended to be limited to the illustrated aspects.

[Appendix 1]
In the game system (100A, 100B) according to one aspect (Appendix 1) of the present invention, the game medium is used for the play by the user (U), and the reward according to the result of the play is the user (100A, 100B). A game system (100A, 100B) that provides a game assigned to U), and the usage amount (X) corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period (Q) and the unit period (X). The index specifying unit (51) that specifies the balance index (Z) according to the difference from the grant amount (Y) corresponding to the amount of the reward given in Q), and the game manager (Hb) It includes a settlement processing unit (52) that changes points (P) owned for providing the game according to the balance index (Z). In the above aspect, it corresponds to the balance index (Z) corresponding to the difference between the usage amount (X) of the game medium within the unit period (Q) and the reward grant amount (Y) within the unit period (Q). Therefore, the points (P) required for the administrator (Hb) to provide the game are changed. Therefore, there is an advantage that it is easy to maintain the balance of profit and loss of the manager (Hb) as compared with the configuration in which the points (P) are changed only according to the usage amount (X) of the game medium.

The content of the reward given to the user (U) is arbitrary. For example, a game medium of the same type or different type as the game medium used by the user (U) for play is given to the user (U) as a reward. However, the reward is not limited to the game medium that the user (U) can use for playing.

The "unit period (Q)" is, for example, a period of a predetermined length. It should be noted that the identification of the balance index (Z) by the index specifying unit (51) and the change of the point (P) by the settlement processing unit (52) may be executed in one unit period (Q), or a plurality. It may be executed in each of the unit periods (Q) of. In the configuration in which the identification of the balance index (Z) and the change of the point (P) are executed for each unit period (Q), the difference in the time length of each unit period (Q) does not matter.

The "usage amount (X)" is, for example, the number of game media used within the unit period (Q). That is, the total number of game media used by one or more users (U) to play the game within the unit period (Q) is a typical example of "usage amount (X)". However, a numerical value calculated by a predetermined calculation (for example, multiplication of a predetermined coefficient) with respect to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period (Q) may be defined as the "usage amount (X)".

Similarly, the "grant amount (Y)" is, for example, the quantity of rewards granted within the unit period (Q). That is, the total amount of rewards given to one or more users (U) within the unit period (Q) is a typical example of the "grant amount (Y)". However, a numerical value calculated by a predetermined calculation (for example, multiplication of a predetermined coefficient) with respect to the quantity of the reward granted within the unit period (Q) may be defined as the “grant amount (Y)”.

The "balance index (Z)" is typically the difference between the usage amount (X) and the grant amount (Y), but is a numerical value specified by a predetermined operation (for example, multiplication of a predetermined coefficient) for the difference. May be used as the “balance index (Z)”.

The specific method for changing the point (P) according to the balance index (Z) is arbitrary. For example, when the usage amount (X) is larger than the usage amount (Y), the balance index (Z) is subtracted from the points (P), and when the usage amount (Y) is larger than the usage amount (X). A configuration is assumed in which the balance index (Z) is added to the points (P). However, the process of "changing the points (P) according to the balance index (Z)" is not limited to the addition or subtraction of the balance index (Z). Further, only one of increase and decrease may be allowed for the point (P).

The specific content of the process for specifying the balance index (Z) is arbitrary. A typical example of "specification" is a process of calculating the balance index (Z) from the usage amount (X) and the grant amount (Y). For example, the usage amount (X), the grant amount (Y), and the balance index ( The process of searching the balance index (Z) from the table corresponding to Z) is also included in the concept of "specification".

[Appendix 2]
The game system (100A) according to the specific example (Appendix 2) of Appendix 1 comprises a game device (10) for providing the game and a writing device (20) connected to or mounted on the game device (10). The game device (10) includes the index specifying unit (51) and the settlement processing unit (52), and the settlement processing unit (52) is attached to the writing device (20). The point (P) stored in the portable recording medium (M) is changed according to the balance index (Z). In the above aspect, since the point (P) is stored in the recording medium (M) mounted on the writing device (20) connected to or mounted on the game device (10), for example, another device via a communication network. There is an advantage that communication with is not necessary for changing the point (P).

A typical example of the "portable recording medium (M)" is an IC card, but the specific form of the recording medium (M) is arbitrary. Further, the recording medium (M) may be a medium capable of repeatedly increasing (charging) the points (P), or a medium in which the increase of the points (P) is not allowed.

[Appendix 3]
The game system (100B) according to the specific example (Appendix 3) of Appendix 1 is a management device capable of communicating with the game device (10) that provides the game and the game device (10) via a communication network (200). The management device (30) includes the index specifying unit (51), the settlement processing unit (52), and a storage device (32) for storing the point (P). , The settlement processing unit (52) changes the point (P) stored in the storage device (32) according to the balance index (Z). In the above aspect, since the points (P) are stored in the storage device (32) of the management device (30) capable of communicating with the game device (10) via the communication network (200), the points (P) are stored in the game. There is an advantage that it is not necessary to store in the device (10).

[Appendix 4]
In any specific example (Appendix 4) of Appendix 1 to Appendix 3, the index specifying unit (51) specifies the balance index (Z) for each unit period (Q), and the settlement processing unit (52). Changes the point (P) for each unit period (Q) according to the balance index (Z) specified for the unit period (Q). In the above aspect, the balance index (Z) is specified for each unit period (Q), and the points (P) are changed for each unit period (Q). Therefore, the balance index (Z) according to the difference between the usage amount (X) and the grant amount (Y) within the unit period (Q) can be reflected in the point (P) at any time for each unit period (Q). It is possible. Further, since the points (P) are changed for each unit period (Q), there is an advantage that it is not necessary to keep the used amount (X) and the granted amount (Y) reflected in the points (P). ..

[Appendix 5]
In the specific example of Appendix 4 (Appendix 5), when the usage amount (X) exceeds the grant amount (Y), the settlement processing unit (52) sets the point (P) as the balance index (Z). ), And when the amount used (X) is less than the amount given (Y), the point (P) is maintained. In the above aspect, the point (P) is maintained when the amount used (X) is less than the amount given (Y). That is, the increase of points (P) is not allowed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acts in which the administrator (Hb) increases the points (P).

[Appendix 6]
In the specific example of Appendix 4 (Appendix 6), the settlement processing unit (52) uses the one unit when the usage amount (X) in one unit period (Q) is less than the grant amount (Y). The cumulative value (A) of the difference value between the usage amount (X) and the grant amount (Y) over one or more unit periods (Q) following the period (Q) is the cumulative value (A) in the one unit period (Q). The point (P) is maintained until the absolute value of the difference between the used amount (X) and the given amount (Y) is reached. According to the above aspect, the points (P) can be appropriately changed according to the magnitude of the usage amount (X) and the grant amount (Y) while prohibiting the increase of the points (P).

[Appendix 7]
In any specific example (Appendix 7) of Appendix 1 to Appendix 3, the settlement processing unit (52) changes the point (P) for each predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods (Q). In the above aspect, the points (P) are changed for each predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods (Q). That is, it is not necessary to change the points (P) for each unit period (Q). Therefore, the load of the process of changing the point (P) is reduced.

In Appendix 7, the index specifying unit (51) may specify the balance index (Z) for each unit period (Q), or the balance index (Z) for each predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods (Q). May be specified.

[Appendix 8]
In the operation method of the game system (100A, 100B) according to one aspect (Appendix 8) of the present invention, the game medium is used for the play by the user (U), and the reward according to the result of the play is described above. A usage amount (X) corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used in the unit period (Q), which is an operation method of the game system (100A, 100B) that provides the game given to the user (U). And the balance index (Z) corresponding to the difference from the grant amount (Y) corresponding to the amount of the reward granted within the unit period (Q) is specified, and the manager (Hb) of the game is concerned. The points (P) owned for providing the game are changed according to the balance index (Z).

[Appendix 9]
In the program according to one aspect (Appendix 9) of the present invention, the game medium is used for the play by the user (U), and the reward according to the result of the play is given to the user (U). Corresponds to the usage amount (X) corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period (Q) and the quantity of the reward given within the unit period (Q) to provide the game. An index specifying unit (51) that specifies a balance index (Z) according to a difference from the granted amount (Y), and a point (P) owned by the game manager (Hb) for providing the game. Is made to function as a settlement processing unit (52) that changes according to the balance index (Z).

100A, 100B ... Game system, 200 ... Communication network, 10 ... Game device, 11 ... Control device, 12 ... Storage device, 13 ... Communication device, 14 ... Display device, 15 ... Operation device, 20 ... Writing device, 30 ... Management device, 31 ... Control device, 32 ... Storage device, 33 ... Communication device, 50 ... Game control unit, 51 ... Index identification unit, 52 ... Settlement processing unit, M ... Management card, Ha ... Provider, Hb ... Administrator , U ... User.

Claims (9)

A game system that provides a game in which a game medium is used for play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user.
Index specifying unit that specifies the balance index according to the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period and the grant amount corresponding to the reward quantity granted within the unit period. When,
A game system including a settlement processing unit that changes points owned by the game manager for the provision of the game according to the income and expenditure index. The game device that provides the game and
A writing device connected to or mounted on the game device is provided.
The game device includes the index specifying unit and the settlement processing unit.
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the settlement processing unit changes points stored in a portable recording medium mounted on the writing device according to the balance index. The game device that provides the game and
It is equipped with a management device capable of communicating with the game device via a communication network.
The management device includes the index specifying unit, the settlement processing unit, and
A storage device for storing the points is provided.
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the settlement processing unit changes the points stored in the storage device according to the balance index. The index specifying unit specifies the balance index for each unit period, and
The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the settlement processing unit changes the points according to the income and expenditure index specified for the unit period for each unit period. The settlement processing unit
When the amount used exceeds the amount given, the points are subtracted according to the balance index.
The game system according to claim 4, wherein the points are maintained when the usage amount is less than the grant amount. When the usage amount in one unit period is less than the grant amount, the settlement processing unit accumulates the difference value between the usage amount and the grant amount over one or more unit periods following the one unit period. The game system according to claim 4, wherein the points are maintained until the value reaches the absolute value of the difference value between the usage amount and the grant amount in the one unit period. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the settlement processing unit changes the points for each predetermined period including a plurality of unit periods. A method of operating a game system that provides a game in which a game medium is used for play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user.
The balance index according to the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period and the grant amount corresponding to the quantity of the reward granted within the unit period is specified.
A method of operating a game system in which the manager of the game changes the points owned for the provision of the game according to the income and expenditure index. In order to provide a game in which a game medium is used for play by a user and a reward according to the result of the play is given to the user.
Index specifying unit that specifies the balance index according to the difference between the usage amount corresponding to the quantity of the game medium used within the unit period and the grant amount corresponding to the reward quantity granted within the unit period. ,and,
A program that causes a computer to function as a settlement processing unit that changes the points owned by the game manager for the provision of the game according to the income and expenditure index.

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