JP2021142443A - Game machine, control method used for the same, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game machine capable of managing play media on the basis of a user.SOLUTION: A game machine GM provides a card game played through a monster defined by a parameter. While the game machine GM fetches player identification information from a key card SC for recording player identification information including information of a player ID for identifying each player, the game machine GM records reproduction information including parameter contents and information of the player ID and fetches reproduction information from a character card KC of a type differing from that of the key card SC. Based on the fetched result, the game machine GM compares information of the player ID included in the player identification information with information of the player ID included in the reproduction information, thus classifying a monster defined by the parameter contents included in the reproduction information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to a game machine or the like that provides a game played through a play medium defined by a parameter.

There are game consoles that provide games that are played through a play medium defined by a parameter. As one of such game machines, there is known a game machine that acquires the parameters of a character used in a game as a play medium through a barcode in a character card (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2002-301264

In a game machine such as Patent Document 1, a plurality of types of cards on which a predetermined image is printed in advance are used as character cards. Therefore, the owner of each character card is not managed. Therefore, for example, when a plurality of character cards are used, they cannot be classified into cards owned by a specific player and cards owned by other players. Therefore, it is not possible to make a difference in handling between the card of a specific player and the card of another player. On the other hand, there are also game machines that print the player's name on each card as information that can identify the owner. In this case, the owner of each card is specified by the name of the player, but the user is not specified. Therefore, the relationship between the user and each card is not always clear. For example, the first card can be considered a user-owned card, but it may not be correct.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game machine or the like capable of managing a play medium based on a user.

The game machine of the present invention is a game machine (GM) that provides a game played through a play medium defined by a parameter, and records player identification information including player identification information for identifying each player. The player information acquisition means (30) that acquires the player identification information from the identification recording medium (SC), and the reproduction information including the contents of the parameters and the player identification information are recorded, and the identification recording medium and the type. Based on the reproduction information acquisition means (30) for acquiring the reproduction information from at least one play recording medium (KC), the player information acquisition means, and the acquisition results of the reproduction information acquisition means. By comparing the player identification information included in the player identification information with the player identification information included in the reproduction information, the play media defined by the contents of the parameters included in the reproduction information are classified. The medium classification means (30) is provided.

According to the present invention, the player identification information of the identification recording medium and the player identification information of the play recording medium are compared, and the play media are classified based on the result. Further, the types of the identification recording medium and the play recording medium are different. Therefore, for example, the identification recording medium can be used as a dedicated means for identifying the user. Then, after identifying the user, the play medium can be classified based on the player identification information of the user. Thereby, the play medium can be managed based on the user. The difference between the types of the identification recording medium and the play recording medium is, for example, the difference due to the difference in the type of recorded information (including the difference in function and use), and the difference in the physical type of the recording medium itself. including. For example, even if the contents of the parameters are different, they are considered to be the same type as long as they include the same type of information called parameters. As an example, character cards that only define different characters are considered to be of the same type.

In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the reproduction information acquisition means acquires the reproduction information from a plurality of play recording media as the at least one play recording medium, and the play medium classification means is the play medium classification means. By comparing the player identification information included in the player identification information with the player identification information included in each reproduction information, if it matches the player identification information of the player identification information, it belongs to the first category. If it does not match the player identification information of the player identification information, the play medium defined by the contents of the parameters included in each reproduction information may be classified so as to belong to the second classification. In this case, based on the player identification information of the identification recording medium, the play medium of the play recording medium that matches this is classified into the first category, and the play medium of the play recording medium that does not match this is classified into the second category. being classified. Therefore, for example, each play medium can be classified into a classification indicating a user's play medium and a classification indicating a play medium other than the user. Thereby, each play medium can be managed separately from the play medium of the user and the play medium other than the user.

In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the second classification may limit at least a part of the game elements in the game as compared to the first classification. In this case, the user's play medium can be given preferential treatment. This makes it possible to promote the use of the play medium owned by the player. The game elements include, for example, various images such as items, characters, and backgrounds, in-game options such as game development, and various functions related to the progress of the game. In addition, the game element may include various elements related to the game.

In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the player identification information includes authentication information for authenticating the owner, and the play medium classification means is authenticated by the user as the owner based on the authentication information. After that, the play medium may be classified. In this case, the user can be identified more reliably. The authentication information includes, for example, a password.

In one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the identification recording medium does not record the contents of the parameters on the identification recording medium, while the contents of the parameters are recorded on the play recording medium. Therefore, the type may be different from that of the play recording medium. In this case, the play medium cannot be defined during the game even if the identification recording medium is used. Therefore, the properties of the identification recording medium can be more specialized in identifying the user. Thereby, for example, various recording media unrelated to the game can be used as the identification recording medium while including the player identification information. For example, as such an identification recording medium, a card that guarantees identity such as a driver's license or a health insurance card, a credit card, or the like may be used.

As one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, an aspect further including an identification recording medium generation means (32) for generating the identification recording medium by recording the player identification information on a recording medium is adopted. May be good. In this case, the game machine can provide a recording medium for identification.

Various recording media may be adopted as the identification recording medium. For example, in an embodiment in which the game machine of the present invention provides a recording medium for identification, a card-shaped printable medium is used as the recording medium, and the player identification information is included in accordance with a predetermined standard. A printer (32) that records the player identification information on the printable medium by printing the generated two-dimensional code on the printable medium may be used as the identification recording medium generation means.

In addition, the game machine may provide various games. For example, in one aspect of the game machine of the present invention, the game may be configured so that the contents of the parameters change according to the game result. Further, in such an embodiment, as an example, the game machine of the present invention has the contents of the changed parameters after changing according to the game result as the contents of the parameters, and the player identification information for identifying the player. A play recording medium generation means (32) for generating the play recording medium by recording the player identification information included in the information and the reproduction information including the information on the recording medium may be further provided. In this case, the game machine can provide a recording medium for play. Further, it is possible to provide a highly unique play recording medium. Therefore, the interest of the game can be improved. Further, when the use of the recording medium for own play is promoted, the play of the game can be further promoted.

Further, various recording media may be adopted as the recording medium for play. For example, in an embodiment in which the game machine of the present invention provides a recording medium for play, a card-shaped printable medium is used as the recording medium, and the printing medium is generated in accordance with a predetermined standard so as to include the reproduction information. A printer (32) for recording the reproduction information on the printable medium by printing the two-dimensional code on the printable medium may be used as the play recording medium generation means.

The control method of the present invention is applied to a game machine (GM) that provides a game played through a play medium defined by a parameter, and records player identification information including player identification information for identifying each player. The player information acquisition procedure for acquiring the player identification information from the identification recording medium (SC) and the reproduction information including the contents of the parameters and the player identification information are recorded, and the type is different from the identification recording medium. The player identification information is based on the reproduction information acquisition procedure for acquiring the reproduction information from at least one play recording medium (KC) and the acquisition results of the player information acquisition procedure and the reproduction information acquisition procedure. By comparing the player identification information included in the reproduction information with the player identification information included in the reproduction information, a play medium classification means for classifying the play media defined by the contents of the parameters included in the reproduction information. I have.

Further, the computer program for a game machine of the present invention is a player for identifying each player from a computer (30) incorporated in a game machine (GM) that provides a game played through a play medium defined by a parameter. The player information acquisition means for acquiring the player identification information from the identification recording medium (SC) for recording the player identification information including the identification information, the contents of the parameters, and the reproduction information including the player identification information are recorded. Acquisition of reproduction information acquisition means for acquiring the reproduction information from at least one play recording medium (KC) having a type different from that of the identification recording medium, and acquisition of the player information acquisition means and the reproduction information acquisition means. Based on the result, the play medium defined by the contents of the parameters included in the reproduction information by comparing the player identification information included in the player identification information with the player identification information included in the reproduction information. It is configured to function as a play medium classification means for classifying. The game machine of the present invention can be realized by executing the control method or the computer program of the present invention.

In the above description, reference numerals of the accompanying drawings are added in parentheses to facilitate understanding of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form.

As described above, according to the present invention, the play medium can be managed based on the user.

The figure which shows the outline of the whole structure of the game system to which the game machine which concerns on one form of this invention is applied. The figure which shows schematic appearance of the game machine which concerns on one form of this invention. An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a game card generated by a game machine. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating the relationship between a key card and a character card. An explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the key card and the progress of the game. The figure which shows an example of the contents of a character card schematically. The figure which shows an example of the contents of a key card schematically. The figure which shows the structure of the main part of the control system of a game system. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of the key card issuance processing routine. The figure which shows an example of the flowchart of the game preparation processing routine.

Hereinafter, a game system to which the game machine according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of an overall configuration of a game system to which a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 includes a center server 2 and a plurality of game machine GMs. The game machine GM is connected to the center server 2 via the network 3. The game machine GM is a commercial (commercial) game machine that allows a player to play a game within a range corresponding to the price in exchange for consumption of a predetermined price. As an example, the game machine GM provides a card game in exchange for consumption of a predetermined consideration. An appropriate number of game machine GMs are installed in commercial facilities such as stores 4. The center server 2 is not limited to an example composed of one physical device. For example, one logical center server 2 may be configured by a group of servers as a plurality of physical devices. Further, the center server 2 may be logically configured by using cloud computing. Further, the game machine GM may function as the center server 2.

Further, the user terminal 5 is connected to the center server 2 via the network 3. The user terminal 5 is a kind of network terminal device that exerts various functions by executing software distributed from the center server 2. In the example of FIG. 1, a mobile phone (including a smartphone) is used as an example of the user terminal 5. Further, as the user terminal 5, for example, various network terminal devices such as a personal computer, a portable game machine, and a portable tablet terminal device that can be connected to a network and are used for personal use of the user are used. good.

As an example, the network 3 is configured to realize network communication by using the TCP / IP protocol. Typically, the network 3 is configured by combining the Internet as a WAN and the intranet as a LAN. In the example of FIG. 1, the center server 2 and the game machine GM are connected to the network 3 via the router 3a, and the user terminal 5 is connected to the network 3 via the access point 3b.

The center server 2 provides various game machine services to the game machine GM or its player. As a service for a game machine, for example, a service that receives identification information of a player from a game machine GM and authenticates the player may be provided. Further, a service may be provided in which the play data of the authenticated player is received from the game machine GM and saved, or the play data to be saved is provided to the game machine GM. Further, the service for the game machine includes a service for distributing and updating the program or data of the game machine GM via the network 3, and matching the users when a plurality of users play a common game via the network 3. Matching services and the like may be included.

Further, the center server 2 provides various Web services to the user of the user terminal 5 via the network 3. The Web service includes, for example, a game information service that provides various information about a game provided by a game machine GM. The Web service also includes a distribution service that distributes various data or software (including updates of data and the like) to each user terminal 5. Further, the Web service also includes services such as a community service that provides a place for interaction by users such as information transmission, exchange, and sharing, and a service that assigns a user ID for identifying each user.

The game machine GM will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the appearance of a game machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the game machine GM includes a housing 6. A control panel CP, a monitor MO, and a speaker SP are provided on the upper part of the housing 6. The monitor MO is located above the control panel CP. Further, the speaker SP is arranged further above the monitor MO. In addition to the control panel CP, the game machine GM is provided with various input devices and output devices such as a volume operation switch, a power switch, and a power lamp, which are provided in a normal business game machine. , FIG. 2 omits the illustration of them.

The control panel CP is provided with a direction selection operation unit CP1 capable of selecting a direction, a button CP2 that can be used for determination, a code reader 7, and a coin slot SO. The code reader 7 is configured to be able to read a two-dimensional code and output a signal according to the reading result. Various game cards 8 are inserted into the code reader 7. A two-dimensional code is printed on the game card 8. The code reader 7 reads this two-dimensional code. Further, a card ejection port EO1 and a coin ejection port EO2 are provided on the front surface of the housing 6. The card ejection port EO1 is used for ejecting the game card 8 generated inside the housing 6. The control panel CP is provided with various operation units such as buttons that can be used for determining operations, etc., but their illustrations are omitted.

Next, the game card 8 generated by the game machine GM will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the game card 8 generated by the game machine GM. As shown in FIG. 3, the game card 8 generated by the game machine GM includes a key card SC as an identification recording medium and a character card KC as a play recording medium. The character card KC is a card for defining each monster used in the card game provided by the game machine GM. The character card KC is used for recording and reproducing each monster.

On the other hand, the key card SC is a different type of card from the character card KC. Specifically, the key card SC is used to identify each player. That is, the character card KC is used directly to play (progress) the game, while the key card SC is used to assist the play. As an example, the key card SC includes player identification information. Further, the player identification information includes player ID information as player identification information for identifying each player. The player ID is given based on the individual information that depends on each player individually. The individual information includes, for example, personal information such as name, gender, date of birth, and age. The individual information is provided by the player, for example, through an operation on the control panel CP of the game machine GM. All or part of the individual information is displayed on the key card SC. The player-specific information may include all or part of the individual information as at least a part thereof.

Further, the key card SC also displays a key image that changes according to the content of each individual information. That is, the display content of the key card SC changes according to each individual information. Therefore, the key card SC is highly unique. The key card SC is used, for example, to specify the play data of each player and reflect the past game results and the like in the card game based on the play data. Further, as an example, a two-dimensional code is printed on the key card SC and the character card KC. Then, through the two-dimensional code, the key card SC and the character card KC provide the game machine GM with information on various parameters for defining the monster or information for specifying the player. Details of the key card SC and the character card KC will be described later.

Next, the card game provided by the game machine GM will be described. The game machine GM provides a card game by using the key card SC and the character card KC. The card game is a type of game in which a monster defined by a character card KC prepared by a player is reproduced during the game and used as a play medium. In the game, battles, missions, etc. are executed through the monster reproduced by the character card KC. Battles and missions may be performed by multiple monsters. In such a case, a plurality of character cards KC may be used to reproduce the monster. Furthermore, Monster grows through those battles and missions. That is, the training of the monster reproduced by the character card KC is also provided as a game element. Then, the monster that has grown through the play of the game is further generated as a character card KC. Therefore, the monsters in the game are continuously nurtured through the character card KC. Further, since the character card KC is generated based on the game result, it is highly unique.

Further, as described above, the types of the key card SC and the character card KC are different. As a result, the key card SC and the character card KC have different uses (functions) from each other. Specifically, the character card KC is used to reproduce (or store) the monster as a play medium, while the key card SC is used to identify the player, that is, to identify the user of each character card KC. .. Then, the player ID information of the key card SC, that is, the user information is reflected in, for example, the progress of the game and the generated character card KC.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the key card SC and the character card KC. As shown in FIG. 4, when the key card SC is used, the information of the player ID provided by the key card SC is included in the two-dimensional code of the generated character card KC. More specifically, the two-dimensional code CG2 of the key card SC includes player identification information. Further, the player identification information includes player ID information. Therefore, the player ID information is provided to the game machine GM via the two-dimensional code CG2 of the key card SC. On the other hand, the two-dimensional code CG1 is also printed on the character card KC. This two-dimensional code is generated so as to include the player ID information provided by the key card SC in addition to the information of various parameters that define the monster. Therefore, the player ID information is also recorded on the character card KC. As a result, the owner of each character card KC is managed through the player ID included in the two-dimensional code CG1. In this way, the player ID information of the key card SC is reflected in each character card KC.

On the other hand, FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the relationship between the key card SC and the progress of the game. As shown in FIG. 5, the key card SC provides the game machine GM with player ID information. As an example, the game machine GM uses the player ID for acquiring play data PD. Specifically, the game machine GM first provides the player ID acquired from the key card SC to the center server 2 through the network 3. Then, the play data PD corresponding to the player ID is acquired from the center server 2 via the network 3. The play data PD is data in which information on past achievements such as points acquired during the game, items, the balance of currency used in the game, battle record, and information on the character card KC owned is recorded. That is, the game machine GM acquires the past achievements corresponding to the player ID of the key card SC. Then, based on the past achievements, the game machine GM reflects, for example, items, currencies, etc. acquired in the game in the past in the card game. As a result, these items and the like are used for battles, missions and the like. The player ID is used to reflect the past achievements and the like in the game in this way.

Further, as described above, in a card game, a plurality of monsters may be used in battles and the like. In this case, a plurality of character cards KC are used. On the other hand, as described above, each character card KC is given player ID information in the two-dimensional code CG1. That is, the owner of each character card KC is managed based on the player ID. The character card KC used for playing the game is not limited to that of the same owner. That is, character cards KCs with different owners may be used for battles and the like. Then, the game machine GM also uses the player ID of the key card SC for the classification of these character cards KC. For example, the game machine GM classifies the monsters defined by each character card KC into a player card as the first classification and a participation card as the second classification based on the player ID of the key card SC.

Specifically, the game machine GM compares the player ID of the key card SC with the player ID of the character card KC, and participates in the player card when the key card SC and the player ID match, and participates in the case where they do not match. Classify the monsters of each character card KC so that they belong to each card. Then, the game machine GM makes a difference in the handling in the card game of each monster, for example, according to each classification of the player card and the participating card. That is, as an example, the monster is treated differently in the card game according to each classification of the player card and the participating card. As an example of such a difference, in the game, the classification of participating cards may be limited to some game elements as compared to the classification of player cards. That is, the character card KC monsters classified as participating cards may be used with restrictions in the card game. Further, as an example of the restricted game elements, restrictions on functions such as training of monsters or generation of character cards KC after play may be adopted. In this case, the monster belonging to the participating card does not grow through the battle or the like, and cannot be taken over as the character card KC next time after playing. On the other hand, monsters belonging to player cards do not have such restrictions. In other words, the player card monster grows through play, and after play, it can be taken over as a character card KC from the next time onward. As an example, such treatment differences may occur between classifications. The difference in treatment is not limited to such a form. For example, the options that can be executed by each other may differ between the two classifications. For example, one may participate in a battle, not a mission, and the other may vice versa. That is, various treatment differences may be adopted.

As described above, as an example, the game machine GM uses the player ID provided by the key card SC for the acquisition of the play data PD and the classification of the character card KC. Then, the classification of the play data PD and the character card KC is reflected in the progress of the game. As an example, in this way, the player ID of the key card SC is used for the progress of the game.

Next, the details of the character card KC and the key card SC will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the contents of the character card KC. As shown in FIG. 6, the composite image CI1 is printed on the character card KC. Further, the composite image CI1 includes a basic information area BA, a code information area CA, an image area IA, and a feature information area FA. In these areas BA, CA, IA, and FA, various information that functions as parameters that define the monster is displayed. Also, as mentioned above, monsters grow through the game. That is, the content of each parameter for defining the monster also changes according to the game result. Then, the character card KC is generated based on the contents of the changed parameters after the change. Therefore, these regions BA, CA, IA, and FA are configured as variable regions. That is, the information to be displayed in these areas BA, CA, IA, and FA changes according to the game result.

On the other hand, the positions and ranges of these regions BA, CA, IA, and FA do not change. That is, the boundary line separating these regions BA, CA, IA, and FA from each other is arranged as a fixed portion, that is, a basic format. The composite image CI1 is configured by synthesizing the game result information and the image of the basic format portion so that the information of each parameter is arranged in the variable regions of each region BA, CA, IA, and FA.

For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the card owner information (name) and the monster name information "Shoji no Kiku" are used, and the monster basic information is HP (hit point) "102" and AT (attack). Information such as point) "25" and SP (special point) "42" are combined. Further, in the feature information area FA, level information called "Lv11" indicating the level of the monster, and information such as "Kougeki" or "summoning Lv1" indicating the type of attack of the monster are synthesized. This information can change as the monster grows.

Similarly, the monster image MG is displayed in the image area IA, and the two-dimensional code CG1 for the character card KC is displayed in the code information area CA. The monster image MG corresponds to the monster image reproduced during the game by the character card KC. Therefore, the content of the monster image MG changes according to the growth of the monster. On the other hand, the two-dimensional code CG1 is a code generated so as to include various information in accordance with a predetermined standard. As various information, the two-dimensional code CG1 includes all the information that defines the character card KC. Specifically, it includes the above-mentioned information to be arranged in the areas BA, IA, and FA other than the code information area CA, that is, the information (contents) of each parameter. The two-dimensional code CG1 also includes player ID information. This player ID information is provided from the key card SC as described above. Then, the information to be displayed in each area BA, CA, IA, and FA including the player ID information functions as the reproduction information of the present invention.

On the other hand, FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the contents of the key card SC. As shown in FIG. 7, the composite image CI2 is printed on the key card SC. Further, the composite image CI2 includes a key image area SC1, a code display area SC2, and a player information area SC3. The key image KI is displayed in the key image area SC1. As described above, the key image KI changes according to the individual information of each player. That is, different key image KIs are displayed in the key image area SC1 according to the individual information of each player. As an example of the key image KI that differs depending on the individual information, the key image KI may include a part of the individual information such as the player's name. That is, the key image KI may change according to the individual information by including the individual information itself. In the example of FIG. 7, the name of the player "Shoji" is included in the key image KI, which is different from the key image KI of other players. Further, as an example, the change according to the individual information is realized by processing a plurality of candidate images based on the processing conditions related to the individual information. Alternatively, it may be realized by combining a plurality of candidate images based on combination conditions related to individual information. Further, the key image KI may be changed according to the player's play performance and the like. For example, the number of plays may be used as a play record. That is, the key image KI may change according to the number of plays. In this case, a new key card SC is generated according to the change in the key image KI.

Further, in the player information area SC3, a part of the player's individual information such as the player's name is displayed. In the example of FIG. 7, the name of the player "Shoji" and the name of the key card SC "recording key" are displayed. Further, the indication "Shoji" indicates that the player "Shoji" is the owner of the key card SC named "Recording Key". Further, the character image KG may be displayed in the player information area SC3. As an example, the character image KG may be set when the key card SC is generated through selection from a plurality of candidate images. Further, the character image KG may be changed according to the player's play performance or the like, as in the case of the key image KI, for example. The change condition of the character image KG does not have to match the change condition of the key image KI. In this case, the uniqueness of the key card SC is further increased.

The two-dimensional code CG2 for the key card SC is displayed in the code display area SC2. The two-dimensional code CG2 is a code generated so as to include various information in accordance with a predetermined standard. The two-dimensional code CG2 includes information for defining the key card SC as various information. As an example, such information includes player identification information (including player ID information) as described above. Further, each information to be displayed in each area SC1 and SC3 other than the code display area SC2, such as information indicating the key image KI, information indicating the player's name, and information indicating the character image KG, defines the key card SC. It may be included in the two-dimensional code CG2 as information. On the other hand, as described above, the key card SC is not used for reproducing the monster, unlike the character card KC. Therefore, the information of the parameter defining the monster is not recorded in the key card SC, and is not included in the two-dimensional code CG2.

Further, as described above, the contents of the respective regions SC1 to SC3 of the composite image CI2 also change according to individual information and the like. Therefore, it functions as a basic format in which the boundary line separating each region SC1 to SC3 is fixedly arranged. Similarly, the inside of each region SC1 to SC3 functions as a variable region. Then, like the character card KC, the composite image CI2 is configured by synthesizing the information to be displayed in each area SC1 to SC3 and the basic format.

Next, a main part of the control system of the game system 1 for realizing the above-mentioned card game will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the control system of the game system 1. As shown in FIG. 8, the center server 2 includes a control unit 10 and a storage unit 11. The control unit 10 is configured as a computer unit in which a microprocessor and various peripheral devices such as an internal storage device (ROM and RAM as an example) necessary for the operation of the microprocessor are combined. An input device such as a keyboard, an output device such as a monitor, and the like may be connected to the control unit 10, but their illustrations are omitted.

The storage unit 11 is connected to the control unit 10. The storage unit 11 is composed of, for example, a large-capacity storage medium such as a magnetic tape so that the storage can be held without supplying power. The server program 15 is stored in the storage unit 11. The server program 15 is a computer program required for the center server 2 to provide various services to the game machine GM and the user terminal 5. When the control unit 10 reads and executes the server program 15, a game machine service management unit 16 and a Web service management unit 17 are provided inside the control unit 10. The game machine service management unit 16 executes the process for providing the above-mentioned game machine service. On the other hand, the Web service management unit 17 executes the processing necessary for providing the above-mentioned Web service. The game machine service management unit 16 and the Web service management unit 17 are logical devices realized by a combination of computer hardware and a computer program. Although various other logical devices may be provided inside the control unit 10, their illustrations are omitted.

Further, the storage unit 11 stores various data that can be referred to when the server program 15 is executed. Such various types of data include, for example, ID management data 22 and the above-mentioned play data PD. The ID management data 22 is data that describes the correspondence between various IDs used in the game system 1. For example, the ID management data 22 also manages the player ID information. The play data PD is data in which information regarding the past play results of each player is described as described above. Then, the play data PD is used, for example, to inherit the play results (past achievements) up to the previous time from the next time onward, or to inherit the setting contents unique to each player. Therefore, the play data PD is managed based on the player ID for identifying each player. That is, the play data PD is a set of data created for each player ID. Therefore, in the play data PD, information related to past achievements such as items is managed for each player ID (associating with the player ID).

On the other hand, the game machine GM is provided with a control unit 30 as a computer, a storage unit 31, the above-mentioned code reader 7, an identification recording medium generation means, and a printer 32 as a play recording medium generation means. ing. The storage unit 31, the code reader 7, and the printer 32 are all connected to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 is configured as a computer unit in which a microprocessor and various peripheral devices such as an internal storage device (ROM and RAM as an example) necessary for the operation of the microprocessor are combined. In addition to the control panel CP, monitor MO, and speaker SP described above, the control unit 30 also includes various input devices or output devices such as a coin authentication device or a card reader, similar to known game machines. Although they can be connected, their illustration is omitted.

The code reader 7 is a well-known device for reading a two-dimensional code. The code reader 7 reads the two-dimensional code (for example, the two-dimensional codes CG1 and CG2) printed on the game card 8 and outputs a signal according to the reading result to the control unit 30. The printer 32 is a well-known printing device for printing images, symbols (including a two-dimensional code), characters, and the like on a predetermined recording medium. The printer 32 prints the composite images CI1 and CI2 including the two-dimensional codes CG1 and CG2 on the card-shaped printable medium (recordable medium) based on the output signal from the control unit 30, thereby printing the key card SC. Alternatively, a game card 8 such as a character card KC is generated.

The storage unit 31 is composed of, for example, a magnetic recording medium or an optical recording medium, and further, for example, a hard disk drive, a flash SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like so that the storage can be held without supplying power. The game program 34 is stored in the storage unit 31. The game program 34 is a computer program required for the game machine GM to provide a card game. In addition, various data that can be referred to as the game program 34 is executed are also recorded in the storage unit 31. Such data includes, for example, image data, sound effect data, play data PD, and the like. The sound effect data is data for reproducing various sounds such as music. The image data is data for displaying various images (including an image for printing the game card 8) necessary for the game. Further, the image data includes, for example, format data. The format data is data for expressing a basic format portion such as a border for dividing various areas of the game card 8, that is, a fixed portion. That is, the format data is data for expressing the basic formats of the key card SC and the character card KC. Further, at least a part of the play data PD is provided from the center server 2 and stored in the storage unit 31 so as to include a portion associated with the player who executes the game when the game is provided.

Next, the key card issuance process and the game preparation process will be described. The key card issuance process is executed to generate the key card SC. The key card issuance process is realized, for example, by the cooperation of the control unit 30 of the game machine GM and the control unit 10 of the center server 2. More specifically, as an example, the key card issuance process is executed through the game machine service management unit 16 and the control unit 10. On the other hand, the game preparation process is executed as one of the preparations before the start of the card game. More specifically, the game preparation process is executed in order to utilize the player ID of the key card SC for the progress of the game. The game preparation process is executed, for example, through the control unit 30 of the game machine GM. In addition to the key card issuance process and the game preparation process, each of the control units 10 and 30 executes various well-known processes independently or in collaboration with each other. Such well-known processes include, for example, a process for providing a card game such as generation of a character card KC, or a process for providing a game machine service and a WEB service. However, their detailed description will be omitted.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the key card issuance processing routine. The routine of FIG. 9 is repeatedly executed, for example, at a predetermined cycle. In FIG. 9, for simplification, the process in which the game machine service management unit 16 is the execution subject may be described as the center server 2, and the processing in which the control unit 30 is the execution subject may be described as the game machine GM.

When the routine of FIG. 9 is started, in step S11, the game machine GM determines whether or not the start condition is satisfied. The start condition is satisfied, for example, when the key card issuance mode for executing key card issuance is selected. The key card issuing mode is selected, for example, by pressing a button or the like indicating the key card issuing mode. That is, the start condition is satisfied, for example, when the button indicating the key card issuing mode is pressed. If the determination result is a negative result, that is, if the start condition is not satisfied, the game machine GM skips the subsequent processing and ends the current routine.

On the other hand, if the determination result in step S11 is a positive result, that is, if the start condition is satisfied, the game machine GM proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the game machine GM confirms the communication environment of the network 3. Specifically, the game machine GM determines whether or not communication with the center server 2 is possible. If the determination result is a negative result, that is, if communication with the center server 2 cannot be performed, the game machine GM skips the subsequent processing and ends the current routine. That is, if there is a problem in the communication environment of the network 3, the key card SC is not generated.

On the other hand, if the determination result in step S12 is a positive result, that is, if communication with the center server 2 is possible, the game machine GM proceeds to step S13. In step S13, the game machine GM provides the player with an input screen for inputting the individual information, and acquires the individual information of each player through the input result on the input screen. This individual information includes, for example, the name of the player, the selected character image KG, and the like. In the following step S14, the game machine GM requests the center server 2 to issue a player ID.

When the center server 2 receives the request for the player ID from the game machine GM, the center server 2 starts the routine shown in FIG. When the center server 2 starts the routine of FIG. 9, first, in step S21, a unique player ID is generated. Then, in the following step S22, the center server 2 transmits the player ID generated in step S21 to the game machine GM.

On the other hand, when the game machine GM acquires the player ID from the center server 2 in step S15, the game machine GM proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the game machine GM requests the center server 2 to save the individual information input by the player. This storage request includes, for example, individual information to be stored.

When the center server 2 receives the request for saving the individual information from the game machine GM, the center server 2 proceeds to step S23. In step S23, the center server 2 saves the individual information to be saved this time (for example, the individual information included in the save request). This storage is realized, for example, by updating the contents of the ID management data 22. Alternatively, it may be realized by updating the contents of the play data PD. In the following step S24, the center server 2 notifies the game machine GM of the save result, and ends the current routine.

On the other hand, when the game machine GM receives the notification of the save result from the center server 2, the game machine GM proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the game machine GM generates print data. The print data is, for example, data for expressing the composite image CI2. Therefore, the print data includes, for example, data for displaying the player's name and the like in the player information area SC3 of the key card SC, data for expressing the key image KI, and various information for defining the key card SC. It contains data for expressing the two-dimensional code CG2. Therefore, the generation of print data includes, for example, processing of a candidate image of the key image KI, that is, generation of the key image KI that changes according to individual information. The key image KI includes individual information such as a player's name as an example of changes according to the individual information. Then, in the next step S18, the game machine GM provides the print data to the printer 32 so that the key card SC is printed based on the print data generated in step S17, and performs this routine. finish. As a result, a key card SC including unique player ID information is generated for each key card SC. Further, on the key card SC, not only a part of individual information such as a player's name is displayed in the player information area SC3, but also a key image KI that changes according to the individual information is printed.

On the other hand, FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a flowchart of the game preparation processing routine. The routine of FIG. 10 is executed every time the code reader 7 reads, for example, the key card SC for use in playing a game.

When the routine of FIG. 10 is started, first, in step S31, the control unit 30 refers to the output signal of the code reader 7 and acquires the player ID information provided by the key card SC. In the following step S32, the control unit 30 confirms the communication environment of the network 3. Specifically, the control unit 30 determines whether or not communication with the center server 2 is possible. If the determination result is a negative result, that is, if communication with the center server 2 is not possible, the control unit 30 proceeds to step S34.

On the other hand, if the determination result in step S32 is a positive result, that is, if communication with the center server 2 is possible, the control unit 30 proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the control unit 30 acquires the play data PD from the center server 2. More specifically, the control unit 30 acquires the play data PD from the center server 2 and proceeds to step S34 so as to include at least the portion corresponding to the player ID acquired in step S31.

In step S34, the control unit 30 requests the player to read the character card KC. As an example, this request is realized through a display prompting the character card KC to be inserted into the code reader 7. If the reading is not executed within the predetermined time, the control unit 30 may skip the subsequent processing and end the current routine.

In the following step S35, various information defined by the character card KC inserted in the code reader 7 is acquired based on the reading result of the code reader 7. More specifically, various information included in the two-dimensional code CG1 read by the code reader 7 is acquired. As an example, the various types of information include, as described above, information on parameters that define the monster and information on the player ID.

In the next step S36, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the player ID information included in the information acquired in step S35 matches the player ID information of the key card SC acquired in step S31. If the determination result is a positive result, that is, if the player IDs of the character card KC and the key card SC match each other, the control unit 30 proceeds to step S37. Then, in step S37, the control unit 30 classifies the character card KC acquired in step S35 into a player card, and proceeds to step S39.

On the other hand, if the determination result in step S36 is a negative result, that is, if the player IDs of the character card KC and the key card SC do not match each other, the control unit 30 proceeds to step S38. Then, in step S38, the control unit 30 classifies the character card KC acquired in step S35 into the participating cards, and proceeds to step S39.

In step S39, the control unit 30 further determines whether the character card KC needs to be read. This determination is realized, for example, through a screen that notifies the player whether or not the character card KC needs to be read. Then, when further reading is required on the screen, an operation for instructing continuous reading is executed, and when it is not necessary, an operation for instructing reading unnecessary is executed. In step S39, it is determined whether or not the character card KC needs to be read further through these operations.

When the determination result in step S39 is a positive result, that is, when the operation instructing the need to read the character card KC is executed, the control unit 30 returns to step 34 and executes the subsequent processing again. On the other hand, when the determination result in step S39 is a negative result, that is, when the operation for instructing that the character card KC does not need to be read is executed, the control unit 30 proceeds to step S40. In step S40, the control unit 30 provides the play data PD acquired in step S33 and the classification results of steps S37 and S38 for subsequent processing for the progress of the card game. This offer may be temporary storage to an internal storage device. When the control unit 30 finishes the process of step S40, the control unit 30 ends the current routine. As a result, play data is acquired based on the player ID of the key card SC, and past achievements are reflected in the card game based on the play data. Further, the character card KC is classified based on the player ID of the key card SC, and a difference in handling in the game progress is given to the card game. Further, the character card KC is generated based on the information of the player ID of the key card SC.

As described above, according to this embodiment, not only the player ID information is recorded but also the key image KI is displayed on the key card SC. Since the key image KI changes according to individual information, it is highly unique. Thereby, the distinctiveness in appearance of the key card SC can be improved. Further, such a highly distinguishable key card SC can be provided through the game machine GM. Thereby, for example, the management burden can be reduced as compared with the case where the operator of the store 4 or the like manages the issuance of the key card SC. Furthermore, past achievements and the like can be reflected in the game through the key card SC. Further, the play data PD in which the past achievements and the like are described is managed by the center server 2. As a result, the play data PD can be centrally managed, and the play data PD can be shared with other game machine GMs. This makes it possible to improve the enjoyment of card games.

Further, a key card SC is provided separately from the character card KC. As a result, the key card SC can be used specifically for identifying the player, more specifically, the user. Further, after identifying the user through the key card SC, the monsters of each character card KC can be classified based on the player ID of the key card SC. As a result, the user's monster and other monsters can be managed separately. In addition, there are some restrictions on monsters owned by non-users. Therefore, the use of the own character card KC is promoted. Further, since the character card KC is generated through the game play, the game play is also promoted. As a result, the fun of the card game can be further improved.

In the above embodiment, the control unit 30 of the game machine GM functions as the player information acquisition means, the reproduction information acquisition means, and the play medium classification means of the present invention by executing the routine of FIG.

The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned form, and can be carried out in an appropriate form. In the above-described form, the two-dimensional codes CG1 and CG2 are printed as codes on the character card KC and the key card SC, respectively. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, a barcode may be used as the code. That is, various codes including various information may be used for the game card 8 by being generated in accordance with a predetermined standard. Further, the form in which various types of information are recorded as a code on a recording medium is not limited. For example, as the recording medium, an optical storage medium such as a DVDROM or a CDROM, or a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM may be used. Such a storage medium includes, for example, an IC card. In this case, instead of printing the composite images CI1 and CI2, data for expressing the composite images CI1 and CI2 may be recorded on these media. Further, such data may be provided to the storage medium by infrared communication or the like. That is, as long as the game machine GM can record or acquire the reproduction information or the player identification information, various media may be adopted as the recording medium.

In the above-described form, information for identifying the user, such as player ID information, is provided through the key card SC. However, the provision of information for identifying the user is not limited to the key card SC. For example, instead of the key card SC (that is, as a recording medium for identification), a card that guarantees the identity such as a driver's license or a health insurance card, a credit card, or the like may be used. Further, in the above-described form, when the key card SC (identification recording medium) is used, the authentication by a password or the like is not performed. However, authentication may be performed to confirm the owner of the identification recording medium. In this case, for example, the routine of FIG. 10 may be executed after authentication, that is, after the user of the identification recording medium is authenticated as the owner through a password or the like. Further, when authentication information for authenticating the owner such as a password is used, this authentication information may be included in the player identification information as an example.

In the above-described embodiment, as an example, the key image KI differs depending on the individual information because the player's name is included as a part of the individual information. However, the change of the key image KI according to the individual information is not limited to such a form. For example, as individual information, the gender, date of birth, and the like may be displayed on the key image KI. Alternatively, the change of the key image KI according to the individual information may be realized by the color, size, shape of the background image, the key image KI itself, or a combination thereof. Further, as an example of the change in shape, a key image KI having various shapes such as a circular shape, a quadrangular shape, and the like may be adopted. Further, the shape of the key image KI and the like may be selected by the player.

In the above-described form, as a difference in the handling of the player card and the participating card, some functions in the game such as generation of the character card KC are restricted. However, the difference in treatment between classifications is not limited to such a form. For example, the character card KC classified as a participating card, that is, the character card KC that does not match the player ID of the key card SC may be restricted in its use in the game. That is, the right to use each character card KC may be strictly determined based on the key card SC. In this case, since the character card KC of another player cannot be used, it is possible to suppress the trade of the actual physical character card KC. As a result, game play can be facilitated.

In the above-described form, each game machine GM provides a card game. However, the game provided by each game machine GM is not limited to such a form. Each game machine GM may provide various games such as an action game, a role playing game, a simulation game, and a shooting game as long as the play medium defined by the parameter is used. Further, the game machine GM is not limited to a commercial game machine. As the game machine GM, for example, a stationary game machine for home use, a portable game machine, or the like may be adopted as appropriate. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the control unit 30 and the storage unit 31 are provided in the game machine GM. However, the game machine of the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, the control unit 30 and the storage unit 31 may be logically provided on the network by using cloud computing. That is, the game machine GM may be configured as a terminal that displays and provides the processing result of the control unit 30 through the network 3.

30 Control unit (computer, player information acquisition means, reproduction information acquisition means, play medium classification means)
32 Printer (Recording medium generation means for identification, Identification medium generation means for play)
GM game machine SC key card (recording medium for identification)
KC character card (recording medium for play)

Claims (1)

A game machine that provides a game that is played through a play medium defined by a parameter.
A player information acquisition means for acquiring the player identification information from an identification recording medium for recording player identification information including player identification information for identifying each player, and
A reproduction information acquisition means for recording the content of the parameter and the reproduction information including the player identification information and acquiring the reproduction information from at least one play recording medium having a type different from that of the identification recording medium. ,
The reproduction is performed by comparing the player identification information included in the player identification information with the player identification information included in the reproduction information based on the acquisition results of the player information acquisition means and the reproduction information acquisition means. Play medium classification means for classifying play media defined by the contents of parameters included in the information, and
A game machine that is characterized by being equipped with.

Images