JP2021023790A - Game device, control method of game device, and game program - Google Patents

Abstract

To increase a difficulty level of a game by narrowing a display interval of sequence images.SOLUTION: A game device includes: a display part 31 having operation ranges 10 in which an operation by a user is executed, and display ranges R2A and R2B associated with the operation ranges 10; sequence image display means for displaying sequence images S1, S4, etc. indicating a process for reaching an operation timing for operating the operation ranges 10; and image display means for displaying an image E, etc. different from the sequence images S1, S4, etc. The display ranges R2A and R2B include sequence display areas R1A and R1B in which the sequence images S1, S4, etc. are displayed, and other display areas R3A and R3B in which the different image E, etc. are displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

The present invention relates to a game device including a sequence display area and another display area, a control method of the game device, and a game program.

Patent Document 1 discloses a game terminal device including a display provided with a plurality of push-down buttons as an operation unit. The display area of this display has an area for displaying the operation instruction mark. Then, the operation instruction mark is displayed in the sub area corresponding to the operation unit to be input and operated. The game terminal device visually informs the user of the input timing by changing the form of the operation instruction mark in each sub-area. For example, the game terminal device increases the display area of the operation instruction mark as it approaches the input timing, and notifies the user of the time when the display area reaches the maximum as the input timing.

International Publication No. 2009/048001

The game device may display an image showing the operation timing for a plurality of operation ranges. At this time, images showing the operation timing may be continuously displayed in the same operation range. In this case, if an image different from the image showing the operation timing (for example, an effect image) is displayed in the operation range, the display interval of the image showing the operation timing may be limited. That is, the image showing the operation timing to be continuously displayed cannot be displayed in the operation range until the display of the effect image displayed by the operation in the operation range disappears. Therefore, the display interval of the image showing the operation timing becomes long. This may make it difficult to increase the difficulty of the game, for example. The present invention has been created in view of the above circumstances. An object of the present invention is to provide a game device, a control method of the game device, and a game program capable of more appropriately shortening the display interval of an image indicating the operation timing to the operation range.

The game device according to one aspect of the present invention reaches a display unit having an operation range to be operated by the user, a display range associated with the operation range, and an operation timing for operating the operation range. The display range includes a sequence image display means for displaying a sequence image indicating the process of performing the process, and an image display means for displaying an image different from the sequence image. Includes other display areas where different images are displayed.

Further, the control method of the game device according to one aspect of the present invention is a control method of a game device including a display unit having an operation range to be operated by the user and a display range associated with the operation range. A sequence image showing the process of reaching the operation timing for operating the operation range is displayed, an image different from the sequence image is displayed, and the display range is a sequence display area in which the sequence image is displayed. And other display areas on which the different images are displayed.

Further, the game program according to one aspect of the present invention is a game of a game device including a display unit having an operation range to be operated by the user and a display range associated with the operation range, and a computer. The game program is a sequence image display means for displaying a sequence image showing a process of reaching an operation timing for operating the operation range of the computer, and an image for displaying an image different from the sequence image. It functions as a display means, and the display range includes a sequence display area in which the sequence image is displayed and another display area in which the different image is displayed.

As a result, each display area is divided, so that different images can be displayed while the sequence image is being displayed. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images.

The schematic which shows the whole structure of a game system. Schematic perspective view of the game device. Schematic cross-sectional view of the display unit. Schematic block diagram of the game system. The schematic diagram of the display part of 1st Embodiment. The schematic diagram of the display part of 1st Embodiment. The schematic diagram of the display part of 1st Embodiment. Display flow of sequence images. Display flow of guided objects. The schematic diagram of the display part of the 2nd Embodiment. The schematic diagram of the display part of the 2nd Embodiment. The schematic diagram of the display part of the 2nd Embodiment.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes and relative positions of the components described in the following embodiments can be arbitrarily set and can be changed according to the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Further, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below. In this specification, up and down correspond to the upward direction and the downward direction in the direction of gravity, respectively. Further, the meanings of "transparent" and "transmissive" include an aspect of transmitting light to the extent that the user can see it.

[First Embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 100 includes a center server 20, a game machine 30 as an example of a game device, and a user terminal 40. The center server 20, which is an example of a server, functions as a server device. Further, the game machine 30 can be connected to the center server 20 via a predetermined network 50. As an example, the game machine 30 is installed in a predetermined facility such as a store 33. Further, the game system 100 includes a user terminal 40 that can be connected to the center server 20 via the network 50.

The center server 20 is configured as one logical server device by combining the server units 21 as a plurality of computers. However, the center server 20 may be configured by a single server unit 21. Alternatively, the center server 20 may be logically configured by using cloud computing. The center server 20 provides the game machine 30 or the user of the game machine 30 with various services for the game device. This service includes a distribution service that distributes and updates the program or data of the game machine 30 via the network 50. Through this distribution service, the center server 20 appropriately distributes various programs or data necessary for providing a game to each game machine 30.

The service for the game device may include a service in which the center server 20 receives the user identification information of the user from the game machine 30 and authenticates the user. Further, the service for the game device may include a service in which the center server 20 receives and stores the play data including the play result of the authenticated user from the game machine 30. Further, the service for the game device may include a service for providing the game machine 30 with play data stored by the center server 20. In addition, the service for the game device may include a service in which the center server 20 matches the users when a plurality of users play a common game via the network 50. Further, the service for the game device may include a service in which the center server 20 collects a fee from the user.

The network 50 is configured so that the game machine 30 and the user terminal 40 can be connected to the center server 20, respectively. As an example, the network 50 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Specifically, the LAN 52 connects each of the center server 20 and the game machine 30 to the Internet 51. Then, the Internet 51 as a WAN and the LAN 52 are connected via the router 53. The user terminal 40 is also configured to be connected to the Internet 51. Alternatively, a local server may be installed between the game machine 30 and the router 53 of the store 33. The game machine 30 can be communicably connected to the center server 20 via the local server. The server units 21 of the center server 20 may be connected to each other by the Internet 51 in place of or in addition to the LAN 52.

The game machine 30 is a commercial (commercial) game device that allows a user to play a game within a range corresponding to the consideration in exchange for payment of a fee which is a predetermined consideration. The game machine 30 is sometimes called an arcade game machine. Further, the game machine 30 is a computer device, and is installed in the store 33 mainly for the purpose of making a large number of users repeatedly play the game to generate profits. As an example, the game machine 30 provides a music game in which an operation range is operated according to music at an operation timing indicated by a sequence image displayed on a display unit. The game machine 30 may provide various games other than the music game, for example, other games such as whac-a-mole that compete for the speed or accuracy of the operation with respect to the operation range. In the following, a case of providing a music game will be described as an example.

The user terminal 40 is a computer device that can be connected to a network. For example, the user terminal 40 includes a stationary or book-type personal computer 41 and a mobile terminal device 42 such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone). In addition, various computer devices such as a stationary home-use game device, a portable game device, and a portable tablet terminal device are included in the user terminal 40. By implementing various computer software, the user terminal 40 can allow the user to enjoy various services provided by the center server 20. Further, the user terminal 40 can provide the game as a game device, but the case where the game machine 30 provides the game will be described below as an example.

[Game device configuration]
Next, the game machine 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. As shown in the schematic perspective view of FIG. 2, the game machine 30 includes a display unit 31 having an operation unit 32 including an operation button 10 as a plurality of operation ranges in which the operation by the user should be performed at a predetermined operation timing. There is. Each operation button 10 is configured to be pushable down. Alternatively, the plurality of operating ranges may be images of buttons displayed on the display unit 31 by the touch panel. The display unit 31 is a portion provided with an operation unit 32 including an operation button 10, and in the case of a touch panel, an operation unit 32 for detecting contact is provided. In addition, the game machine 30 includes a speaker 36 that outputs game music, sound effects, and the like that are played during the game. Although the display unit 31 and the speaker 36 are both provided in the housing of the game machine 30, they may be separate from the housing.

The operation unit 32 in FIG. 2 has four rows including four operation buttons 10, and has sixteen regularly arranged operation buttons 10. These operation buttons 10 are arranged in a matrix. Alternatively, the plurality of operation buttons 10 may be arranged regularly in other embodiments such as honeycomb or concentric, or may be arranged irregularly. Further, the operation button 10 in FIG. 2 is a substantially square shape. Alternatively, the operating buttons 10 may have other shapes such as triangles, pentagons, hexagons, circles, and ellipses.

As shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 3, the game machine 30 further includes a display device 16 arranged on the inner surface side of the display unit 31. Then, the display device 16 transmits the display unit 31 to display the guidance object described later. The user can visually recognize the image displayed by the display device 16 through the display unit 31. That is, the user can visually recognize the image displayed by the display device 16 through the transparent operation button 10. As an example, the display device 16 is a display such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, and an inorganic EL display. Alternatively, when the operation unit 32 is a touch panel, the user may visually recognize the image displayed by the display device 16 through the operation unit 32 that detects contact by a resistive film method, a capacitance method, or the like. The operation unit 32, which is a touch panel, may detect contact by another method.

Further, the display device 16 may be a light emitting device (for example, a issuing diode) arranged in a matrix. Further, the display device 16 may have a light emitting device and a display. In this case, the display may perform the display in the operation buttons 10, and the light emitting device may perform the display in the frame 14 between the operation buttons 10. Further, the display device 16 may include a light emitting device arranged on the side of the operation unit 32 and a reflecting member that reflects the light from the light emitting device toward the display unit 31. In this case, the frame 14 may be composed of a light guide member, and the frame 14 may reflect light toward the display unit 31. In addition, the display device 16 may be a projection device that projects an image onto the display unit 31.

As an example, each operation button 10 includes a transparent outer rubber member 11 that the user touches, and a transparent inner rubber member 12. Further, each operation button 10 includes a transparent substrate 13 having a contact point in contact with the inner rubber member 12. The inner rubber member 12 is provided at a position corresponding to the four corners of the operation button 10. Then, when the inner rubber member 12 comes into contact with the contact point of the substrate 13, the detection unit detects the pressing and lowering of the operation button 10 by the user as the operation of the operation button 10 by the user. Further, a frame 14 is arranged between the outer rubber member 11 and the substrate 13. The frame 14 is arranged between the operation buttons 10 and is composed of a transparent member so as to transmit light from the display device 16. A part of the substrate 13 and the frame 14 may be made of a member that does not transmit light.

The display device 16 is arranged inside the inner rubber member 12 via the transparent plate 15. The operation buttons 10 and the transparent plate 15 form the display unit 31. In the game machine 30, when the display unit 31 faces upward, the operation button 10 and the transparent plate 15 are located above the display device 16. Alternatively, in the game machine 30, when the display unit 31 faces downward, the operation button 10 and the transparent plate 15 may be located below the display device 16.

[Game system configuration]
The control system of the game system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The center server 20 includes a server control unit 24 that controls the center server 20 and a server memory 25 as a server storage unit that stores the program PGA of the center server 20. The server control unit 24 is configured as a computer in which a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operation controls according to a predetermined program and other peripheral devices are combined.

As an example, the processor of the server control unit 24 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), and controls the entire center server 20 based on a program stored in the server memory 25. , Various processes are also controlled comprehensively. Further, the server memory 25 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) which is a system work memory for operating a processor, a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing a program and system software, an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), and an SSD (Solid). Includes storage devices such as State Drive). In the following, a case where the CPU executes processing operations such as various calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in the ROM or HDD will be described as an example.

Further, the server control unit 24 is connected by wire or wirelessly to an interface including a keyboard or various switches for inputting predetermined commands and data. Further, the server control unit 24 is connected by wire or wirelessly to a monitor that displays an input state, a setting state, a measurement result, and various information of the device. Further, the server control unit 24 is a portable recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a CF (Compact Flash) card, and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, or a server on the Internet. Control can also be performed according to a program stored in an external storage medium.

The server memory 25 is an external storage device including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable non-temporary storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. The server memory 25 may hold all the data on one storage unit, or may distribute and store the data in a plurality of storage units. The server memory 25 records a program PGA as an example of a computer program that causes the server control unit 24 to execute various necessary processes. The server control unit 24 provides the user with various services including a music game by executing the program PGA.

Further, the server memory 25 stores game data D1 for a music game and play data D2A. As an example, the game data D1 stores image data, music data, and sequence data. The image data includes, for example, data such as icons, various objects, and a background, in addition to the sequence image, the guidance object, and the effect image described later. Further, the music data includes data such as music, sound effects, and directing sounds. The sequence data is data that defines the operation procedure of the game, and includes, for example, data such as the display timing of the sequence image and the guidance object, the type of the object, and the operation timing of the operation button 10. Further, the play data D2A is a play history of the game played by the user, such as a score obtained by the user playing the game, and is stored in association with user identification information unique to each user for identifying the user. ing.

[Game device configuration]
The game machine 30 includes a game machine control unit 34 that controls the game machine 30 and a game machine memory 35 as a game machine storage unit that stores a control program. The game machine control unit 34 is a computer in which a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operation controls according to a predetermined program and other peripheral devices are combined. Further, the game machine 30 includes a display unit 31 having an operation unit 32 and a display device 16.

As an example, the processor of the game machine control unit 34 is, for example, a CPU or an MPU, and controls the entire game machine 30 based on the program stored in the game machine memory 35, and also comprehensively controls various processes. Control. As an example, the game machine control unit 34 provides a music game based on the game program PGB. Further, the game machine memory 35 includes a RAM which is a system work memory for operating a processor, and a storage device such as a ROM, an HDD, and an SSD for storing a program and system software. In the following, a case where the CPU executes processing operations such as various calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in the ROM or HDD will be described as an example. Further, the game machine control unit 34 can also control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, DVD, CF card, and a USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

The game machine memory 35 is an external storage device including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable non-temporary storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. Further, the game machine memory 35 records the game data and the play data D2B acquired from the center server 20 together with the game program PGB. The game data is data for causing a user to play a predetermined game according to the game program PGB. The game data includes image data D3, music data D4, and sequence data D5. The play data D2B is data for inheriting the contents unique to each user such as the user's play history (past play result) from the next time onward. The image data D3 includes data such as a sequence image, a guidance object, and an effect image. Further, the music data D4 includes data such as music, sound effects, and directing sounds. The sequence data D5 is data that defines the operation procedure of the game, and includes, for example, data such as the display timing of the sequence image and the guidance object, the type of the object, and the operation timing.

As a logical device, the game machine control unit 34 includes a sequence image display unit 61 as a sequence image display means, an object display unit 62 as an object display means, an image display unit 63 as an image display means, and an evaluation unit as an evaluation means. 64 and a detection unit 65 are provided. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the game machine control unit 34 and the game program PGB as software resources. The game machine control unit 34 executes various arithmetic controls necessary for the progress of the game in order to control the progress of the game. Further, the game machine control unit 34 executes a process for enjoying the service provided by the server control unit 24 of the center server 20.

The sequence image display unit 61 causes the display device 16 to display a sequence image that changes so as to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing for operating the operation button 10. Specifically, the sequence image display unit 61 reads out the sequence image display timing included in the sequence data D5 and causes the sequence images included in the image data D3 to be displayed in order. The image data D3 includes a sequence image that changes from the sequence image display timing to the operation timing. As an example, the image data D3 includes a sequence image that changes so that the area increases with the passage of time, and the circular blank area at the center becomes smaller with the passage of time. The circular blank area gradually becomes smaller from the great circle to the small circle, and the operation timing is when the circular blank area disappears. As a result, the sequence image display unit 61 can display the sequence image that gradually increases in area and indicate the operation timing to the user.

Further, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image at the sequence image display timing that precedes the operation timing. Then, the sequence image display unit 61 changes the sequence image so as to indicate the operation timing. Alternatively, the sequence image display unit 61 reads out the operation timing information included in the sequence data, and displays the sequence image on the operation button 10 while referring to the sequence image display timing set for each song. You may let me. In this case, the sequence image display unit 61 may read the operation timing and back-calculate the sequence image display timing to determine the operation timing. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 refers to the set sequence image display timing. Then, the sequence image display unit 61 causes the operation button 10 to display the sequence image so as to indicate a predetermined operation timing. After that, the sequence image display unit 61 changes the sequence image so as to show the process of reaching the operation timing.

The sequence image can be changed in various ways over time. For example, as the mode of changing the sequence image, a mode in which the area gradually decreases, a mode in which the distance to the operation button 10 gradually decreases or lengthens, a mode in which the color gradually changes, and a mode in which the density gradually becomes darker or lighter , A mode in which the number gradually becomes brighter or darker, and a mode in which the number gradually increases or decreases. In addition, sequence images may include letters, graphics, patterns, numbers, and symbols, as well as combinations thereof.

Further, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image on the operation button 10. Alternatively, the sequence image display unit 61 may be displayed in an area outside the operation button 10, for example, an area overlapping the frame 14. Further, the sequence image may be an image that continues to change even after the operation timing is reached. As an example, a sequence image that gradually changes to open flowers may be changed so that it becomes full bloom at the operation timing and then withers after reaching the operation timing.

The object display unit 62 causes the display device 16 to display a guidance object that associates the operation timings of the plurality of operation buttons 10. The associated operation button 10 includes an operation button 10 to be operated in order and an operation button 10 to be operated at the same time. As an example, the object display unit 62 displays a guided object having a broken line connecting a plurality of operation buttons 10 associated with the operation timing on the guidance path. Here, the guidance path is located outside each of the plurality of operation buttons 10 and includes a region overlapping the frame 14. However, at least a part of the guidance path may be located inside each of the operation buttons 10.

In addition, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object at the object display timing that precedes the operation timing, and changes the guidance object so as to indicate the operation timing. Specifically, the object display unit 62 reads the object display timing included in the sequence data D5 and sequentially changes the guided objects included in the image data D3 (displays the animation). For example, when the two operation buttons 10 are operated in sequence, the object display unit 62 is a guided object having a broken line connecting the operation buttons 10 to be operated first and the operation buttons 10 to be operated subsequently. Is displayed. Subsequently, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object so as to start from the preceding operation button 10 and gradually extend the arrow indicated by the solid line until the subsequent operation button 10 is reached. That is, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object so that the tip of the arrow reaches the subsequent operation button 10 when the operation timing is reached.

As another example, when two operation buttons 10 are operated at the same time, the object display unit 62 displays a broken line guidance object connecting the two operation buttons 10. Subsequently, the object display unit 62 changes the guided object so as to start from the middle of the guided object (for example, the central portion) and gradually extend the arrow indicated by the solid line until the two operation buttons 10 are reached. That is, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object so that the tips of the arrows reach the two operation buttons 10 when the operation timing is reached.

As a result, the user can accurately grasp the operation timing even when the operation timing of the operation button 10 at a distant position is instructed by the sequence image, particularly even when the instruction by the sequence image disappears in a short time. Therefore, the user can easily find the operation button 10 to be operated next, and can concentrate on measuring the pressing timing. As a result, since the user can concentrate on the operation of the game, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the game. However, the object display unit 62 may display the guidance object so as not to show the process of reaching the operation timing. In this case, although the process of reaching the operation timing of the guided object is not shown, the object display unit 62 may change the guided object in another manner.

Further, the guidance object may be an image that continues to change even after reaching the operation timing. As an example, the guidance object that gradually changes so that the arrow extends reaches the operation button 10 to be operated next at the operation timing. Then, after reaching the operation timing, the guidance object may change so as to gradually disappear (color becomes lighter). Further, the guidance object may be displayed at the same time as the sequence image display timing, or may be displayed before or after the sequence image display timing. For example, the guidance object may be displayed while the sequence image is displayed at the sequence image display timing and then the sequence image is changing.

The display mode of the guided object is not limited to the broken line or the solid line. For example, the guiding object may be represented by a line, a plurality of points, a moving light or shadow, a moving figure, or the like. Further, when the guidance object is displayed by a line, the line type is not limited to a broken line or a solid line, and may be a dotted line, a line including an arrow, and a line not including an arrow. In addition, the guidance object may not be displayed for the operation buttons 10 that should be operated in order or at the same time. For example, if the time interval between the operation timings of the operation button 10 to be operated in advance and the operation button 10 to be operated subsequently is shorter or longer than a predetermined range, the guidance object may not be displayed. Further, when the distance between the operation button 10 to be operated in advance and the operation button 10 to be operated subsequently is shorter or longer than a predetermined range, the guidance object may not be displayed.

The image display unit 63 displays an image different from the sequence image. As an example, when the operation of the operation button 10 by the user is detected, the image display unit 63 displays an effect image different from the sequence image in a display range including the outside of the operation button 10. In addition, the evaluation unit 64 evaluates the user's operation by comparing the input timing and the operation timing that the user has performed with the operation button 10. In this case, the image display unit 63 displays the effect image based on the evaluation result by the evaluation unit 64. The detection unit 65 detects the operation of the operation button 10 by the user, specifically, the input timing by the user. For example, the detection unit 65 acquires a signal transmitted by contact between the inner rubber member 12 and the contact point of the substrate 13. As a result, the detection unit 65 acquires the operated operation button 10 and its input timing. The image display unit 63 can acquire the detection information from the detection unit 65 and detect the user's operation on the operation button 10.

The evaluation unit 64 acquires the input timing from the detection unit 65 and compares it with the operation timing of the sequence data. Then, when the input timing is close to the operation timing, the evaluation unit 64 stores a high evaluation in the game machine memory 35. On the other hand, when the input timing is far from the operation timing, the evaluation unit 64 stores a low evaluation in the game machine memory 35. The image display unit 63 can display an image showing the evaluation result by the evaluation unit 64 in addition to or in place of the effect image. The image display unit 63 can acquire the evaluation result from the evaluation unit 64.

[Display of sequence image and guidance object]
Subsequently, the display mode of the sequence image and the guided object will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6 and 7. Note that FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 are schematic enlarged views of the display unit 31 as viewed from above, and the display unit 31 is provided with a total of 16 operation buttons 10.

As shown in FIG. 5, the display unit 31 has an operation button 10 as an operation range to be operated by the user, and a display range R2 associated with the operation button 10. For example, the display range R2 shown by the broken line in FIG. 5 is set corresponding to each operation button 10 so as to surround the operation button 10, and extends to the outside of the operation button 10. Alternatively, the display range R2 may include at least a portion of the operation buttons 10. For example, the display range R2 may include a frame-shaped range set along the inner edge of the operation button 10.

Further, the display range R2 includes a sequence display area R1 in which a sequence image is displayed and another display area R3 in which an image different from the sequence image is displayed. In FIG. 5, the inside of the operation button 10 is the sequence display area R1. Further, the other display area R3 is a frame-shaped area indicated by shading. That is, the other display area R3 is located outside the sequence display area R1.

The sequence image display unit 61 corresponds to each of the operation buttons 10 to be operated, the sequence image S1 to be operated first, the sequence image S2 after the change to be operated subsequently, and the change to be operated last. The sequence image S3 of is displayed. Further, the object display unit 62 displays a plurality of types of guidance objects G1, G2 and G3. The sequence image S1 shows the operation button 10 that has reached the operation timing, and shows the operation button 10 that should be operated first. The sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S1 inside the operation button 10 (that is, within the operation range) together with the character "TOUCH" indicating that the operation timing has been reached.

Further, the sequence image S2 shows the operation button 10 that reaches the operation timing second. Then, the sequence image S3 shows the operation button 10 that reaches the operation timing third. The sequence images S2 and S3 change so that the area increases with the passage of time, and specifically, the circular blank area at the center becomes smaller with the passage of time. That is, the sequence image S2 includes a small circular blank area, and the sequence image S3 includes a large circular blank area. As a result, the user can grasp the operation timing by looking at the sequence image that changes with the passage of time. Although the image is not displayed in the circular blank area of FIG. 5, a circular image may be displayed instead of the circular blank area.

Further, the sequence image display unit 61 causes the sequence image S3 to be displayed on the two operation buttons 10. The two operation buttons 10 on which the sequence image S3 is displayed are both operated third. In other words, the operation timings of the two operation buttons 10 arrive at the same time. Therefore, the two operation buttons 10 are buttons that should be operated at the same time. The sequence image display unit 61 may change the sequence image in four or more steps or continuously.

The object display unit 62 displays guidance objects G1 and G2 in which sequence images S1, S2 and S3 are displayed and a plurality of operation buttons 10 to be operated in order are associated with each other. That is, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance objects G1 and G2 so as to indicate the operation order of the plurality of operation buttons 10. In the example of FIG. 5, the guidance object G1 includes a broken line portion and an arrow portion indicated by a solid line. Further, the guidance object G2 includes only the broken line portion. As a result, the user can grasp the operation order of the operation buttons 10, so that it becomes easier to find the operation button 10 to be operated next, and the user can concentrate on measuring the pressing timing. As a result, since the user can concentrate on the operation of the game, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the game.

That is, the object display unit 62 extends the arrow from the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed toward the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed, that is, the operation button 10 to be operated next. Change the guidance object G1. In this case, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G1 at the object display timing that precedes the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be operated next. After that, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object G1 so as to indicate the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be operated next.

Further, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G2 so as to connect one of the two operation buttons 10 on which the sequence image S3 is displayed and the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed. Alternatively, the object display unit 62 may display two guidance objects G2 so as to connect both the operation buttons 10 on which the sequence image S3 is displayed and the operation buttons 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed. .. In this case, the object display unit 62 displays the two guidance objects G2 so as to change.

Further, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G3 so as to connect the two operation buttons 10 on which the sequence image S3 is displayed, that is, the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time. In the example of FIG. 5, the guidance object G3 includes only the alternate long and short dash line portion, and the display mode is different from that of the guidance objects G1 and G2 including the broken line portion. That is, when the operation buttons 10 having the same operation timing are associated with the plurality of operation buttons 10, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance objects G1 and G3 having a mode different from the guidance objects G1 and G2 indicating the operation order. There is.

As a result, the user can easily distinguish between the operation buttons 10 to be operated in order and the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time. In a game in which a plurality of operation buttons 10 are operated at the operation timing indicated by the sequence image, it may be difficult to distinguish between the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time and the operation buttons 10 to be operated in order. .. In particular, the operation buttons 10 to be operated in order in a short time and the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time can be easily distinguished from each other by different display modes of the guidance objects. As described above, in the example of FIG. 5, both the broken line portion and the arrow portion indicated by the solid line are treated as guidance objects, and the timing at which the broken line portion is started is treated as the object display timing. Alternatively, the timing at which the display of the arrow portion is started may be treated as the object display timing.

The guide objects G1 and G2 and the guide object G3 may be different in color, brightness, density, size (thickness), shape, etc., instead of or in addition to having different line types. Further, the guidance objects G1 and G2 and the guidance object G3 may have different display modes. As an example, the guidance objects G1 and G2 may be displayed blinking, and the guidance object G3 may be displayed so as not to blink. Further, the speed at which the arrow extends in the guidance objects G1 and G2 and the speed at which the arrow extends in the guidance object G3 may be different. The object display unit 62 may display the guidance objects G1, G2, and G3 in a mode selected by the user from the plurality of display modes.

Further, the display modes of the two are different so that the guidance objects G1 and G2 change so as to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing, while the guidance objects G3 do not change so as to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing. May be good. Alternatively, the display modes of the two are different so that the guidance object G3 changes to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing, while the guidance objects G1 and G2 do not change to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing. May be good.

The guidance object G3 that associates the plurality of operation buttons 10 having the same operation timing may be a frame line surrounding the plurality of operation buttons 10. In this case, the object display unit 62 may change the guidance object G3 so that the guidance object G3 gradually appears as the operation timing is approached. Alternatively, the object display unit 62 may change the guidance object G3 so that the displayed guidance object G3 gradually disappears.

Further, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance objects G1, G2 and G3 on the guidance path L connecting the plurality of operation buttons 10. The guidance path L is a path indicated by a chain line connecting the associated operation buttons 10 to each other, and is located outside each of the plurality of operation buttons (in the example of FIG. 5, for convenience, the guidance objects G1 and G2). And G3 and the induction path L are shown in a staggered state). As an example, the guidance path L is set in an area between the operation buttons 10 and an area between the operation buttons 10 and the inner edge of the display unit 31. Alternatively, the guidance path L may be set only in the area between the operation buttons 10.

By displaying the guidance object on the guidance path L, it is possible to prevent the sequence image and the guidance object from overlapping. As a result, the guidance object can be displayed while displaying the sequence image. Further, the guidance path L may be displayed inside the operation button 10 (inside the operation range). For example, in FIG. 5, the guidance path L'is set through the inside of the operation button 10. In this case, the guidance object G1 displayed on the guidance path L'is displayed so as to pass through the inside of the operation button 10.

In FIG. 5, three operation buttons 10 are associated with the operation buttons 10 to be operated in order. However, the object display unit 62 may associate two or four or more operation buttons 10 as operation buttons 10 to be operated in order. Further, in FIG. 5, two operation buttons 10 are associated with each other as the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time. However, the object display unit 62 may associate three or more operation buttons 10 as operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time.

As shown in FIG. 6, at the second object display timing, the object display unit 62 changes and displays the guidance object G1. That is, the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed, that is, the operation button 10 that has reached the operation timing, is displayed with the guidance object G1 changed so that the tip of the arrow reaches it. As an example, the object display unit 62 reads out and displays the changed guidance object G1 with reference to the image data D3. As a result, the user can easily understand that the operation button 10 shown on the guidance object G1 has reached the operation timing.

Further, the object display unit 62 extends the arrow from the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed toward the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed, that is, the operation button 10 to be operated next. The guidance object G2 is being changed. Further, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object G3 so as to indicate the operation timing of the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time. In the example of FIG. 6, the guidance object G3 includes a two-dot chain line portion and an arrow portion indicated by a solid line. That is, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object G3 so that the arrow extends toward the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed, that is, the operation button 10 to be operated at the same time.

Further, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G4 so as to indicate the operation order of the plurality of operation buttons 10. In the example of FIG. 6, the guidance object G4 includes only the broken line portion. As a result, the user can grasp the operation button 10 to be operated following the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S2 is displayed. The object display unit 62 makes the speed at which the arrows on the guidance objects G1 and G2 extend different from the speed at which the arrows on the guidance objects G3 extend.

Further, the object display unit 62 makes the display positions of the guidance objects G2, G3, and G4 different according to the positions of the plurality of operation buttons 10 associated with the guidance objects G2, G3, and G4. That is, the positions where the guidance objects are connected (the positions where the changes of the guidance objects start and end) are different depending on the mutual positions of the plurality of associated operation buttons 10. Specifically, in FIGS. 6 and 7, the operation button 10'is connected to the guidance object G2 on the left side, is connected to the guidance object G3 on the upper side, and is connected to the guidance object G4 on the lower side.

In this way, when associating one operation button 10 with the other operation button 10', the object display unit 62 connects with the guidance object at a portion close to one operation button 10 in the other operation button 10'. Can be made to. As a result, even when a plurality of operation buttons 10 included in a close range are associated with each other, it is possible to prevent the guidance objects from intersecting or overlapping. Therefore, the user can accurately grasp the instruction by the guidance object. However, the guidance objects may be displayed so as to intersect or overlap. In this case, the display modes of the two may be different so that the intersecting or overlapping guidance objects can be clearly distinguished from each other.

As an example, when the object display unit 62 associates the operation button 10 located above with the operation button 10'positioned below, the object display unit 62 connects the guidance object on the upper side, the right side, or the left side of the operation button 10'positioned below. .. Further, when the object display unit 62 associates the operation button 10 located on the right side with the operation button 10'positioned on the left side, the object display unit 62 displays a guidance object on the upper side, the right side, or the lower side of the operation button 10'located on the left side. Connect. Further, when the object display unit 62 associates the operation button 10 located on the left side with the operation button 10'positioned on the right side, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object on the upper side, the left side, or the lower side of the operation button 10'located on the right side. Connect. When the object display unit 62 associates the operation button 10 located below with the operation button 10'positioned above, the object display unit 62 connects the guidance object on the lower side, the right side, or the left side of the operation button 10'positioned above.

However, when one operation button 10 and the other operation button 10'are opposed to each other, the object display unit 62 is placed on the other side of the other operation button 10'excluding the side facing the one operation button 10. , Connect with the guidance object. If the guidance objects are connected to the opposite sides, the guidance objects become short, and it becomes difficult for the user to recognize the change and grasp the operation timing. Therefore, the user can accurately grasp the operation timing by connecting the opposite sides while avoiding each other and lengthening the guidance object.

In FIG. 6, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence images S1, S2, and S3 corresponding to each of the operation buttons 10 to be operated. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 does not display the sequence image on the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed in FIG. That is, the sequence image display unit 61 erases the sequence image S1. As a result, the user can grasp that the operation timing of the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed has elapsed. The rear end of the guidance object G1 is connected to the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed. However, the rear end of the guidance object G1 may be separated from the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed. In this case, the object display unit 62 may change the guidance object G1 so that the rear end gradually separates from the operation button 10.

As shown in FIG. 7, at the third object display timing, the object display unit 62 changes and displays the guidance object G2. That is, the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed, that is, the guidance object G2 changed so that the tip of the arrow reaches the operation button 10 that has reached the operation timing is displayed. As an example, the object display unit 62 reads out and displays the changed guidance object G2 with reference to the image data D3. As a result, the user can easily understand that the operation button 10 shown on the guidance object G2 has reached the operation timing.

Further, the object display unit 62 extends an arrow from the operation button 10'where the sequence image S1 is displayed toward the operation button 10 where the sequence image S2 is displayed, that is, the operation button 10 to be operated next. , The guidance object G4 is changed. Further, the object display unit 62 changes the guidance object G3 so as to indicate the operation timing of the operation buttons 10 to be operated at the same time. In the example of FIG. 7, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G3 changed so that the tip of the arrow reaches the operation button 10 that has reached the operation timing.

In FIG. 7, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence images S1 and S2 corresponding to each of the operation buttons 10 to be operated. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 does not display the sequence image on the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed in FIG. That is, the sequence image display unit 61 erases the sequence image S1.

[Display flow of sequence images and guidance objects]
Subsequently, the display flow of the sequence images S1, S2, S3 and the guidance object G1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 shows the display flow of the sequence images S1, S2, and S3 by the sequence image display unit 61, and FIG. 9 shows the display flow of the guided object G1 by the object display unit 62.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the game is started, the sequence image display unit 61 displays sequence images S1, S2, and S3 that change so as to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing. That is, the sequence image display unit 61 reads out the sequence image display timing of the sequence images S1, S2, and S3 corresponding to each operation button 10 with reference to the sequence data D5 (S801). Then, the sequence image display unit 61 determines whether or not the sequence image display timing (first display timing) of the first displayed sequence image S3 has been reached with reference to the elapsed time from the start of the game. (S802). If the first display timing has not been reached (NO in S802), the sequence image display unit 61 repeats the determination step. On the other hand, if the first display timing has been reached (YES in S802), the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S3 with reference to the image data D3 (S803).

Then, when the sequence image display timing (second display timing) of the changed sequence image S2 displayed subsequently has been reached (YES in S804), the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S2 (S805). ). If the second display timing has not been reached (NO in S804), the sequence image display unit 61 repeats the step of determining whether or not the second display timing has been reached.

Subsequently, when the sequence image display timing (third display timing) of the changed sequence image S1 displayed when the operation timing is reached has been reached (YES in S806), the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S1. Display (S807). If the third display timing has not been reached (NO in S806), the sequence image display unit 61 repeats the step of determining whether or not the third display timing has been reached. After that, the sequence image display unit 61 erases the sequence image S1 and ends the process. The sequence image display unit 61 repeats the process of FIG. 8 until the reference process of the sequence data D5 is completed. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 performs the same processing on all the operation buttons 10.

As shown in FIG. 9, when the game is started, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G1 that associates the operation timings of the plurality of operation buttons on the guidance path L that connects the plurality of operation buttons. First, the object display unit 62 reads out the object display timing of the guidance object G1 in the display unit 31 with reference to the sequence data D5 (S901). Then, the object display unit 62 determines whether or not the object display timing has been reached with reference to the elapsed time from the start of the game (S902). If the object display timing has not been reached (NO in S902), the object display unit 62 repeats the determination step.

If the object display timing has reached the object display timing (YES in S902), the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G1 with reference to the image data D3 (S903). Here, the object display timing is the operation timing of at least one of the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be operated in advance and the operation button 10 to be operated subsequently (the sequence image display of at least one of them). It is set based on (equivalent to timing). Specifically, the object display timing precedes at least the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be operated after the operation button 10 to be operated first among the plurality of associated operation buttons 10. For example, in the case of a plurality of operation buttons 10 associated with the order from the first to the second, the object display timing of the guidance object G1 precedes the operation timing of at least the second operation button 10.

Therefore, the object display timing of the guided object may be later than the operation timing of the operation button 10 that should be operated in advance. However, if the object display timing is before the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be operated in advance, the guidance object is displayed for a longer time, so that the user can operate the operation button to be operated in succession. There is a high possibility that the operation timing of 10 can be determined more accurately. When the operation timings of the plurality of associated operation buttons 10 are simultaneous, the object display timing precedes the operation timings of the operation buttons 10 that should be operated at the same time. That is, the guidance object is displayed before the operation timing of the operation buttons 10 that should be operated at the same time.

Then, if the object display timing (first change timing) of the changed guidance object G1 has been reached (YES in S904), the object display unit 62 displays the changed guidance object G1 shown in FIG. 6 (S905). ). That is, the guidance object G1 changes so as to indicate the operation timing of the operation button 10 to be subsequently operated. If the first change timing has not been reached (NO in S904), the object display unit 62 repeats the step of determining whether or not the first change timing has been reached.

Subsequently, if the timing for erasing the guidance object G1 (second change timing) has been reached (YES in S906), the object display unit 62 erases the guidance object G1 as shown in FIG. If the second change timing has not been reached (NO in S906), the object display unit 62 repeats the step of determining whether or not the second change timing has been reached. The object display unit 62 repeats the process of FIG. 9 until the reference process of the sequence data D5 is completed. Further, the object display unit 62 performs the same processing on all the guidance objects, and ends the processing when all the guidance objects are no longer displayed.

Alternatively, the sequence image display unit 61 and the object display unit 62 may acquire the operation timing of the operation button 10 with reference to the sequence data D5. In this case, the sequence image display unit 61 and the object display unit 62 calculate back from the operation timing to determine whether or not the sequence image display timing or the object display timing has been reached.

According to the game machine 30 according to the first embodiment described above, a plurality of related operation ranges are indicated by guidance objects. As a result, it is possible to suppress focusing on searching for an image showing the operation timing. Furthermore, a plurality of related operation ranges and their operation timings can be simultaneously indicated by a guidance object. As a result, the user can simultaneously determine a plurality of related operation ranges and their operation timings. Therefore, it is possible to suppress focusing on searching for an image showing the operation timing or being distracted by searching for an image showing the related operation range. As a result, since the user can concentrate on the operation of the game, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the interest of the game. In the first embodiment, the image display unit 63 does not have to display the image in the other display area R3.

As an example, the game program PGB causes the game machine control unit 34 as a computer to function as a sequence image display unit 61 and an object display unit 62. The sequence image display unit 61 displays a changing sequence image so as to indicate the process of reaching the operation timing. Further, the object display unit 62 displays a guidance object for associating the operation timings of the plurality of operation buttons 10 on the guidance path L connecting the plurality of operation buttons 10. Further, the object display unit 62 displays the guided object at the object display timing that precedes the operation timing.

[Transformed form]
The object display unit 62 may determine the display position of the guided object based on the operation timings of the plurality of operation buttons. That is, the object display unit 62 may determine the display position of the guided object by referring to the operation timing included in the sequence data D5. For example, the object display unit 62 determines the operation order of the operation buttons 10 based on the operation timing of each operation button 10 read by referring to the sequence data D5. Then, the object display unit 62 generates and displays the guidance object so that the operation buttons 10 are associated with each other in the determined order. As a result, the object display unit 62 can dynamically generate a guidance object and display the guidance object according to various musical compositions. Further, the object display unit 62 may determine the display position of the guidance objects so that the plurality of guidance objects do not overlap each other.

In addition to the display position, the object display unit 62 may determine whether or not to display the guidance object based on the positional relationship between the associated operation buttons 10. For example, the object display unit 62 determines whether or not the distance between the associated operation buttons 10 is shorter than the predetermined set value, and if it is shorter than the predetermined set value, determines that the guided object is not displayed. You may. This makes it possible to prevent the display of short guidance objects that are difficult for the user to find. Further, the object display unit 62 may generate and display a guidance object so that the display mode differs depending on the conditions. For example, the object display unit 62 determines whether or not the operation timing interval is shorter than the predetermined set value, and if it is shorter than the predetermined set value, the display mode such as the color or type of the guided object is displayed. It may be different.

Further, the sequence image display unit 61 may display the sequence image without referring to the sequence data D5. For example, the sequence image display unit 61 analyzes the music included in the music data D4, determines the display timing of the sequence image based on the frequency pattern of the music, and further determines the operation button 10 for displaying the sequence image. You may. Then, the sequence image display unit 61 causes the display unit 31 to display the sequence image corresponding to the determined operation button 10. As a result, the game machine 30 can provide the game as long as there is music included in the music data D4, even without the sequence data D5. In this case, the game machine memory 35 does not have to store the sequence data D5. Further, the game machine 30 may change the operation button 10 for displaying the sequence image for each play by using a predetermined logic. As a result, the game machine 30 can make the user less likely to get bored. The object display unit 62 determines the display position of the guided object based on the display timing of the sequence image displayed by the sequence image display unit 61 and the operation button 10 on which the sequence image is displayed.

Further, the object display unit 62 may display the guidance object on the operation button 10 that meets a predetermined condition among the plurality of operation buttons 10. As a result, the object display unit 62 can display the guided object only in the range corresponding to the predetermined condition that the time interval of the operation timing or the distance interval of the operation button 10 is within the predetermined range. it can. That is, the object display unit 62 can be associated only with the operation buttons 10 that meet the predetermined conditions. The predetermined condition is, for example, that the operation timings of the plurality of associated operation buttons 10 are included in a predetermined time range or within a predetermined beat range. Further, the predetermined condition includes that the positions of the plurality of associated operation buttons 10 are included in the range of the predetermined distance.

For example, when the time interval of the operation timing is long, the display time of the guidance object becomes long, and the user cannot accurately grasp the operation timing. Therefore, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object on the operation button 10 whose time interval is shorter than a predetermined length. As a result, it is possible to prevent the display time of the guided object from becoming long. Further, when the time interval of the operation timing is short, the display time of the guidance object becomes short, the guidance object disappears immediately, and the user cannot accurately grasp the operation timing. Therefore, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object on the operation button 10 whose time interval is longer than a predetermined length.

Further, when the distance between the operation buttons 10 is long, the guidance object is displayed in a detour so as to avoid a large number of operation buttons 10 (in other words, the guidance object becomes too long), or a large number of operation buttons are displayed. It may be displayed so as to be superimposed on 10. In addition, the guidance object becomes long, and the time for the user to search for the operation button 10 becomes long. Therefore, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object on the operation button 10 whose distance interval is shorter than a predetermined length. As a result, it is possible to suppress the lengthening of the guided objects and reduce the possibility of overlapping guided objects. Further, when the distance between the operation buttons 10 is short, the guidance object becomes short, and it becomes difficult for the user to find the operation button 10. Therefore, the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object on the operation button 10 whose distance interval is longer than a predetermined length. The method of calculating the distance interval between the operation buttons 10 is not particularly limited. For example, the distance between the center points of the operation buttons 10 may be calculated as the distance between the operation buttons 10.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10, 11 and 12. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the image display unit 63 displays an image different from the sequence image. In the description of the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the same reference numbers will be given to the components already described, and the description thereof will be omitted. Unless otherwise specified, the components with the same reference numerals perform substantially the same operations and functions, and the effects thereof are also substantially the same.

In a game in which the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image on the operation button 10, the sequence image may be continuously displayed on the same operation button 10. In this case, if an image different from the sequence image (for example, an effect image) is displayed on the operation button 10, the display interval of the sequence image may be limited. That is, the sequence image to be continuously displayed cannot be displayed on the operation button 10 until the display of the effect image displayed by pressing the operation button 10 disappears. Therefore, the display interval of the sequence image becomes long.

Therefore, the image display unit 63 of the second embodiment displays an image different from the sequence image displayed by the sequence image display unit 61 in the sequence display area in another display area different from the sequence display area. As a result, for example, the effect image can be displayed in another display area immediately after the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image on the operation button 10. Then, the sequence image display unit 61 causes the operation button 10 to display the sequence image to be continuously displayed without waiting for the display of the effect image to disappear. As a result, each display area is divided, so that different images can be displayed while the sequence image is being displayed. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images. Note that the different images include, in addition to the effect image corresponding to the user's operation, an instruction image instructing the operation content, an evaluation image showing the evaluation result, and the like.

The display of an image different from the sequence image by the image display unit 63 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10, 11 and 12. 10, 11, and 12 are schematic enlarged views of the display unit 31 as viewed from above.

As shown in FIG. 10, a plurality of operation buttons 10 as a plurality of operation ranges to be operated by the user are provided in the display unit 31. Further, the display unit 31 has two types of display ranges R2A and R2B including the operation buttons 10. The display ranges R2A and R2B are all associated with the operation buttons 10, and are shaded in FIG. 10. That is, the display ranges R2A and R2B display images related to the corresponding operation buttons 10.

The display range R2A includes the inner and outer regions of the operation button 10. Further, the display range R2A includes a sequence display area R1A on which the sequence image S1 is displayed. The sequence display area R1A includes at least a part of the area inside the operation button 10. Then, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S1 in the sequence display area R1A, and the object display unit 62 displays the guidance object G1. Further, the display range R2A includes another display area R3A on which an image different from the sequence image S1 is displayed. In FIG. 10, the image display unit 63 displays an effect image E including a plurality of stars in another display area R3A as the different image.

Specifically, the user presses down the operation button 10 at the timing when the sequence image S1 is displayed on the operation button 10. Then, the detection unit 65 acquires the operated operation button 10 and its input timing. Then, the image display unit 63 detects the user's operation on the operation button 10 and displays the effect image corresponding to the user's operation as a different image. That is, the image display unit 63 acquires the detection information from the detection unit 65 and detects the user's operation on the operation button 10. The guidance object G1 is also displayed in a part of the display range R2A. Alternatively, the object display unit 62 may display the guidance object G1 so as not to overlap the display range R2A. Further, the sequence display area R1A may coincide with the operation button 10 (operation range).

The display range R2B includes a sequence display area R1B on which a sequence image is displayed. The sequence image display unit 61 displays a substantially rectangular sequence image S4 in the sequence display area R1B. The sequence image S4 corresponds to the operation button 10 ″ and changes so as to show the process of reaching the operation timing of the operation button 10 ″. The sequence image S4 has a broken line portion and a solid line portion forming a corner portion. Then, it gradually becomes smaller so as to indicate the operation timing of the operation button 10 ″. Further, the display range R2B includes another display area R3B.

The sequence display area R1B is located inside the display range R2B and outside the other display area R3B. Further, unlike the sequence display area R1A, the sequence display area R1B is larger than the operation button 10 ″ (operation range), and the sequence image S4 is also displayed outside the operation button 10 ″. The sequence image S4 is also displayed in a region overlapping the frame 14 (a region between operating ranges). However, the sequence image S4 may be displayed while avoiding the area overlapping the frame 14. Further, when another sequence image is displayed, the sequence image S4 may be displayed while avoiding the sequence image. In this case, a part of the sequence image S4 may be displayed in the circular blank area in the center of the sequence images S2 and S3 of FIG. That is, when there is an operation button 10 corresponding to the sequence image S2 or the sequence image S3 and an operation button 10 corresponding to the sequence image S4, a part of the sequence image S4 may be displayed in a circular blank area.

As shown in FIG. 11, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S5, which is smaller than the sequence image S4. The sequence image S5 is displayed outside the operation button 10 ″. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 does not display the sequence image on the operation button 10 on which the sequence image S1 is displayed in FIG. 10. Further, the object display unit 62 changes and displays the guidance object G1.

As shown in FIG. 12, the sequence display area R1B is located outside the operation button 10 (operation range), and the other display area R3B includes at least a part of the operation button 10 ″. Specifically, the other display area R3B coincides with the operation button 10 ″. Alternatively, the other display area R3B may be located inside the operation button 10 ″. Further, the sequence image display unit 61 displays the sequence image S6, which is smaller than the sequence image S5, in the sequence display area R1B.

Then, the image display unit 63 displays the instruction image I including the character string "continuous hit!" In the other display area R3B. When the image display unit 63 determines that the operation timing has been reached with reference to the sequence data D5, the image display unit 63 displays the instruction image I in another display area R3B. The user operates the operation button 10 ″ a plurality of times in a short time according to the instruction of the instruction image I. Alternatively, the other display area R3B may be positioned outside the operation button 10, and the image display unit 63 may display the instruction image I outside the operation button 10. In this case, the sequence image display unit 61 may display the sequence images S1, S2, and S3 inside the operation button 10.

The shape or size of the sequence display area R1B and the other display area R3B may change with the passage of time. For example, the sequence display area R1B may be gradually reduced as in the sequence images S4, S5, and S6. Further, the other display area R3B may gradually increase with the passage of time. In this case, the image display unit 63 may change the indicated image I so as to gradually increase. Further, the other display area R3B may be set to one of the areas in which the operation button 10 is divided into upper and lower parts or the area in which the operation button 10 is divided into left and right.

As described with reference to FIGS. 10, 11 and 12, the sequence display area and the other display areas are included in the display range regardless of the size or shape of the operation button 10. Therefore, the sequence image can be displayed in the operation button 10, and the effect image surrounding the operation button 10 can be displayed. Alternatively, the effect image can be displayed in the operation button 10 and the sequence image surrounding the operation button 10 can be displayed. When giving priority to the display of at least one sequence image, the image display unit 63 may display the image while avoiding the sequence image. For example, when there is a sequence image on the adjacent operation button 10, the image display unit 63 may display the image while avoiding the sequence image. Further, when there is a sequence image, the image display unit 63 may display the image so as to avoid the sequence image and overlap the frame 14. Further, the image display unit 63 may display an image so as to overlap with an image (for example, an effect image) corresponding to the adjacent operation button 10.

According to the game machine 30 according to the second embodiment described above, since each display area is divided, different images can be displayed while displaying the sequence image. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images. In the second embodiment, the object display unit 62 does not have to display the guidance object.

As an example, the game program PGB causes the game machine control unit 34 as a computer to function as a sequence image display unit 61 and an image display unit 63. The sequence image display unit 61 displays a sequence image showing the process of reaching the operation timing for operating the operation button 10. Further, the image display unit 63 displays an image different from the sequence image. The display unit 31 has an operation button 10 to be operated by the user and a display range associated with the operation button 10. The display range includes a sequence display area in which the sequence image is displayed and another display area in which a different image is displayed.

[Transformed form]
As an example, when the image display unit 63 displays an evaluation image showing the evaluation result, the image display unit 63 can display the evaluation image at the timing when the evaluation result is acquired from the evaluation unit 64. Thereby, the user can judge the high or low of the evaluation from the evaluation image. The evaluation image includes characters such as "GOOD" and figures that change according to the evaluation result.

Further, the image display unit 63 may determine the display position of the sequence image and display an image different from the sequence image so as not to overlap the display position. Similarly, the image display unit 63 may determine the display position of the guided object and display an image different from the sequence image so as not to overlap the display position. In addition to the display position, the image display unit 63 may generate and display an image so that the display mode differs depending on the conditions. For example, when the evaluation result is equal to or higher than a predetermined evaluation, the image display unit 63 may change the display mode such as the color, type, and display pattern of the image. Further, the image display unit 63 may analyze the music included in the music data D4 and display the production image or the like based on the frequency pattern or the like of the music.

Hereinafter, various embodiments derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described. In addition, in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, reference numerals shown in the accompanying drawings are added. However, the reference numerals are not added with the intention of limiting the present invention to the illustrated form.

The game device 30 operates the display unit 31 having an operation range 10 to be operated by the user, display ranges R2, R2A, and R2B associated with the operation range 10, and an operation for operating the operation range 10. The sequence image display means 61 for displaying the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 showing the process of reaching the timing, and the image E, which is different from the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6. An image display means 63 for displaying I is provided, and the display ranges R2, R2A, and R2B include sequence display areas R1, R1A, and R1B on which the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6 are displayed. The other display areas R3, R3A, and R3B on which the different images E and I are displayed are included.

In the control method of the game apparatus 30 including the display unit 31 having the operation range 10 to be operated by the user and the display ranges R2, R2A, and R2B associated with the operation range 10, the operation range 10 is set. Sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 showing the process of reaching the operation timing to be operated are displayed, and images E, I different from the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 are displayed. In the display range R2, R2A, R2B, the sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B on which the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 are displayed and the different images E, I are displayed. The other display areas R3, R3A, and R3B are included.

The game program of the game device 30 including the display unit 31 having the operation range 10 to be operated by the user, the display ranges R2, R2A, and R2B associated with the operation range 10, and the computer 34. The sequence image display means 61 for displaying the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 showing the process of reaching the operation timing for operating the operation range 10 on the computer 34, and the sequence images S1, S2, S2. The sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 function as image display means 63 for displaying images E and I different from S3, S4, S5, and S6, and the display ranges R2, R2A, and R2B. The displayed sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B and other display areas R3, R3A, R3B on which the different images E and I are displayed are included.

As a result, since each display area is divided, different images E and I can be displayed during the display of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6.

The other display areas R3, R3A, and R3B are located outside the sequence display areas R1, R1A, and R1B. Further, the sequence display areas R1, R1A and R1B include at least a part of the operation range 10, and the sequence image display means 61 displays the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6 in the sequence. The areas R1, R1A, and R1B are displayed, and the image display means 63 displays the different images E and I in the other display areas R3, R3A, and R3B. As a result, the sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B and the other display areas R3, R3A, R3B outside the sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B are separated, so that during the display of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6. Different images E and I can be displayed. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6.

The sequence display areas R1, R1A, and R1B are located outside the operation range 10, and the other display areas R3, R3A, and R3B include at least a part of the operation range 10 to display the sequence image. The means 61 displays the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 in the sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B, and the image display means 63 displays the different images E, I in the other display. Displayed in areas R3, R3A, and R3B. As a result, the sequence display areas R1, R1A, R1B and the other display areas R3, R3A, R3B are separated, so that different images E are displayed during the display of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6. , I can be displayed. Therefore, the difficulty level of the game can be increased by narrowing the display interval of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6.

The display unit 31 has a plurality of the operation ranges 10. Further, the image display means 63 determines the display positions of the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6, and displays the different images E and I so as not to overlap the display positions. Thereby, when the game is provided, different images E and I can be displayed while the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 and S6 are displayed.

The sequence image display means 61 displays the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 at a display timing that precedes the operation timing, and the sequence images S1, S2, so as to indicate the operation timing. By changing S3, S4, S5, and S6, the image display means 63 detects the operation of the user in the operation range 10, and displays the effect image E corresponding to the operation of the user as the different image E. Let me. Thereby, when the game is provided, the effect image E can be displayed while the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, and S6 are displayed.

The game device 30 further includes an evaluation means 64 for evaluating the operation of the user by comparing the input timing performed by the user in the operation range 10 with the operation timing, and the image display means 63 includes. The effect image E is displayed based on the evaluation result by the evaluation means 64. As a result, when the game is provided, the user can determine the degree of evaluation from the effect image E.

The game device 30 further includes a display device 16 arranged on the inner surface side of the display unit 31, and the display device 16 allows the display unit 31 to pass through the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5. S6 or the different images E and I are displayed. As a result, the user can visually recognize the sequence images S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 or different images E, I through the display unit 31.

10: Operation buttons (operation range)
10': Operation button (operation range)
10'': Operation button (operation range)
16: Display device 30: Game device 31: Display unit 32: Operation unit 34: Game machine control unit (computer)
61: Sequence image display unit (sequence image display means)
62: Object display unit (object display means)
63: Image display unit (image display means)
64: Evaluation department (evaluation means)
E: Directed image (different image)
G1: Guidance object G2: Guidance object G3: Guidance object G4: Guidance object I: Instruction image (different image)
L: Guidance path L': Guidance path PGB: Game program R1: Sequence display area R1A: Sequence display area R1B: Sequence display area R2: Display range R2A: Display range R2B: Display range R3: Other display area R3A: Other Display area R3B: Other display area S1: Sequence image S2: Sequence image S3: Sequence image S4: Sequence image S5: Sequence image S6: Sequence image

Claims (1)

A display unit having an operation range to be operated by the user and a display range associated with the operation range.
A sequence image display means for displaying a sequence image showing the process of reaching the operation timing for operating the operation range, and
It is provided with an image display means for displaying an image different from the sequence image.
The display range includes a sequence display area in which the sequence image is displayed and another display area in which the different image is displayed.

Images