JP2022019312A - Game system, game system operation method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To accelerate arbitrary provision of a value medium by a user.SOLUTION: A game system 1 comprises: a game control unit which causes a progress of a game played by a user Ua by consuming a value medium; a medium receiving unit which receives arbitrary provision of the value medium from the user Ua; and a reproduction control unit which causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character in tandem with the progress of a game and when the medium receiving unit receives the provision of the value medium, causes the reproduction device to reproduce a performance effect concerning the virtual character.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a game.

Conventionally, a system has been proposed in which a plurality of users voluntarily give rewards for the provision of various services. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a plurality of users who view a content such as a moving image grant a virtual item to a distributor of the content.

Japanese Patent No. 6001757

However, in conventional systems, it is not really easy to give users sufficient incentives to provide a value medium for a particular service. In consideration of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to promote the provision of a value medium by a user.

In order to solve the above problems, the game system according to one aspect of the present invention provides a game control unit for advancing a game played by a user by consuming a value medium, and an optional provision of the value medium. When the media reception unit accepts from the user and the playback device reproduces the virtual character in parallel with the progress of the game, and the medium reception unit accepts the provision of the value medium, the effect of the virtual character is exhibited. The reproduction device is provided with a reproduction control unit for reproduction.

A method of operating a game system according to one aspect of the present invention is to advance a game played by a user by consuming a value medium, accept an arbitrary provision of the value medium from the user, and proceed with the game. In parallel, the virtual character is reproduced by the reproduction device, and when the provision of the value medium is accepted, the effect of the virtual character is reproduced by the reproduction device.

The program according to one aspect of the present invention includes a game control unit that advances a game played by a user by consuming a value medium, a medium reception unit that accepts an arbitrary provision of the value medium from the user, and the above-mentioned. A reproduction control unit that causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character in parallel with the progress of a game, and causes the reproduction device to reproduce an effect related to the virtual character when the medium reception unit accepts the provision of the value medium. To make the computer system work as.

It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of the game system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram exemplifying the configuration of a management unit. It is a schematic diagram of a guide screen. It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of a game unit. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the process executed by the control device of a game unit. It is a block diagram exemplifying the configuration of a reception device. It is a schematic diagram of a game screen. It is a schematic diagram of a game screen. It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of a control system. It is a schematic diagram of a confirmation screen. It is a schematic diagram of a confirmation screen. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the process which operates a virtual character. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the process performed by the control device of a game unit in relation to the throwing money of a value medium. It is a schematic diagram of the notification data. It is a schematic diagram of a game screen. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the process executed by the control device of a management unit. It is explanatory drawing of the effect when "medal" is selected. It is explanatory drawing of the effect when "coin" is selected. It is explanatory drawing of the effect when "electronic money" is selected. It is a flowchart which exemplifies the specific procedure of the process performed by the control device of a control system. It is a block diagram which illustrates the structure of the communication system in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which illustrates the specific procedure of the process which a terminal apparatus performs in connection with throwing money. It is a schematic diagram of a guide screen in a modification.

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

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game system 1 according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the game system 1 of the first embodiment includes a game device 10 and a control system 20. Although the actual game system 1 includes a plurality of game devices 10, the following description focuses on one game device 10 for convenience.

The game device 10 is installed in, for example, a game facility. The amusement facility is, for example, an entertainment facility such as a game center or a casino, or a commercial facility such as a shopping center. The game device 10 is a computer system that provides a game to a user Ua (that is, a player) in a game facility. The game device 10 used in the casino is also referred to as a gaming machine.

The game device 10 includes a management unit 30 and a plurality of game units 40. Each of the plurality of gaming units 40 is a device used by the user Ua to play a game. One or more users Ua play a game using different gaming units 40. The management unit 30 is a device that controls the progress of the game by each game unit 40. The plurality of gaming units 40 may be integrally configured with the management unit 30, or may be configured separately from the management unit 30.

The control system 20 is a computer system for controlling the operation of the game device 10. For example, a server system installed outside the amusement facility is used as the control system 20. The control system 20 is operated by the administrator Ub. The administrator Ub is a user such as an employee of an organization that operates the control system 20. An event (hereinafter referred to as "special event") in which the administrator Ub remotely manages the progress of the game played by a plurality of users Ua is carried out. The special event is held in the amusement facility for a predetermined period (hereinafter referred to as "implementation period"). Special events will be held multiple times during different implementation periods.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the management unit 30. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the management unit 30 includes a control device 31, a storage device 32, a communication device 33, a reproduction device 34, a lottery device 35, and an image pickup device 36. The management unit 30 is realized not only as a single device but also as a plurality of devices configured as separate bodies from each other.

The control device 31 is composed of, for example, a single or a plurality of processors that control each element of the management unit 30. Specifically, for example, one or more types of processors such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). 3. The control device 31 is configured.

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

The lottery device 35 is a mechanism for executing a physical lottery in which any one of a plurality of lottery elements is randomly selected. Winning / losing of user Ua is determined according to the result of the physical lottery. For example, a rotating disk (roulette) for entering a lottery body such as a sphere into any of a plurality of lottery holes, or a lottery machine for allowing any one of the plurality of lottery bodies to enter one or more lottery holes is a lottery device 35. Illustrated. It should be noted that the electronic lottery for determining the winning / losing of the user Ua by the calculation by the control device 31 may be adopted instead of the physical lottery. The lottery device 35 may be omitted in the configuration in which the electronic lottery is executed.

The image pickup device 36 is a recording device that records the situation of the game in the game device 10. The image pickup apparatus 36 includes, for example, an optical system such as a photographing lens and an image pickup element that converts incident light from the optical system into an electric signal. The image pickup device 36 of the first embodiment generates a moving image showing the situation of the lottery device 35 by taking an image of the lottery device 35.

The playback device 34 reproduces a moving image including video and audio. Specifically, the reproduction device 34 includes a display device 341 for displaying an image and a sound emitting device 342 for emitting a sound. The display device 341 is a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display panel. The sound emitting device 342 is, for example, a speaker. A plurality of users Ua who use different gaming units 40 can watch the video displayed by the display device 341 and the sound emitted by the sound emitting device 342.

The control device 31 of the first embodiment displays the guidance screen Ga illustrated in FIG. 3 on the display device 341. The guidance screen Ga is an image for supporting or guiding each user Ua, and includes an image of the virtual character C. The virtual character C is an object in the virtual space representing an organism that supports or guides the game play by each user Ua. For example, the virtual character C is a virtual facilitator (dealer) who advances the game. The control device 31 controls the operation of the virtual character C in parallel with the progress of the game. Further, the sound emitting device 342 emits the sound of the virtual character C. As understood from the above description, the control device 31 functions as an element (reproduction control unit) that causes the reproduction device 34 to reproduce the virtual character C.

The communication device 33 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 (for example, the Internet) under the control of the control device 31. For example, the control device 31 transmits the situation data Q representing the game situation in the game device 10 to the control system 20 by the communication device 33. Specifically, the situation data Q is data representing the image of the lottery device 35 generated by the image pickup device 36 and the progress of the game. The status data Q is continuously transmitted to the control system 20 within the implementation period of the special event. The communication between the communication device 33 and the communication network 2 may be either wired communication or wireless communication. Further, the communication device 33 communicates with each of the plurality of gaming units 40. The method of communication (for example, wired / wireless) between the communication device 33 and each gaming unit 40 is arbitrary.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the game unit 40. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the game unit 40 includes a control device 41, a storage device 42, a communication device 43, a recording device 44, an operation device 45, a reception device 46, and a display device 47. The game unit 40 is realized not only as a single device but also as a plurality of devices configured as separate bodies from each other.

The control device 41 is composed of, for example, a single or a plurality of processors that control each element of the game unit 40. Specifically, the control device 41 is configured by one or more types of processors such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC. The function of the control device 41 may be mounted on the control device 31.

The storage device 42 is a single or a plurality of memories for storing a program executed by the control device 41 and various data used by the control device 41. For example, a known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium and a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of a plurality of types of recording media is used as the storage device 42. The storage device 42 of the first embodiment stores, for example, the quantity of credits held by the user Ua. The credit is the game value used by the user Ua to play the game.

The recording device 44 of FIG. 4 is an image input system that records the situation of the user Ua. Specifically, the recording device 44 includes an imaging device 441 that captures the image of the user Ua, and a sound collecting device 442 that collects the sound of the user Ua. The control device 41 generates recorded data R representing the image captured by the image pickup device 441 and the sound picked up by the sound collection device 442. Recorded data R is continuously generated during the implementation period of the special event.

The communication device 43 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 under the control of the control device 41. For example, the control device 41 transmits the recording data R generated by the recording device 44 to the control system 20 by the communication device 43. That is, the recorded data R is continuously transmitted to the control system 20 within the implementation period of the special event. The communication between the communication device 43 and the communication network 2 may be either wired communication or wireless communication. Further, the communication device 43 communicates with the management unit 30.

The operation device 45 is an input device that accepts operations by the user Ua. Specifically, the operation device 45 includes a plurality of controls operated by the user Ua and a touch panel integrally configured with the display device 47.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of processing executed by the control device 41 by executing the program stored in the storage device 42. The game is repeated multiple times during the special event period. The process of FIG. 5 is executed for each game.

The user Ua can instruct the operation device 45 to use a desired amount (that is, bet operation) of the credits held by the user Ua. The control device 41 receives an instruction to use the credit by the user Ua (Sa1). When the waiting period for waiting for the instruction from the user Ua elapses, the physical lottery by the lottery device 35 is executed in the management unit 30.

The control device 41 determines whether the user Ua is won or lost according to the result of the physical lottery by the lottery device 35 (Sa2). The control device 41 executes a settlement process for increasing / decreasing the amount of credits according to the determination result (Sa3). Specifically, when the user Ua is elected, the control device 41 adds the amount corresponding to the amount of credit used to the credit of the user Ua as a reward. Further, when the user Ua is defeated, the control device 41 subtracts the usage amount in the current game from the credit of the user Ua. As understood from the above description, the control device 41 of each game unit 40 functions as an element (game control unit) for advancing the game played by the user Ua. The progress of the game represented by the above-mentioned situation data Q is, for example, in various situations such as the use of credits by each user Ua, the result of a physical lottery by the lottery device 35, or the granting of rewards to each user Ua. be.

The reception device 46 in FIG. 4 is a device that receives a value medium from the user Ua. The value medium is a tangible or intangible medium that the user Ua consumes to play the game. In the game device 10 of the first embodiment, a credit of a quantity corresponding to the quantity of the value medium received by the reception device 46 is given to the user Ua.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the reception device 46. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the reception device 46 includes a first reception unit 461, a second reception unit 462, and a third reception unit 463 that receive different types of value media.

The first reception unit 461 accepts the payment of medals by the user Ua. A medal is a token, which is an example of a tangible value medium, and is divided into a physical medal (token), which is a tangible value medium, and an electronic medal, which is an intangible value medium. The first reception unit 461 for receiving physical medals includes, for example, a transport path for transporting the physical medals supplied by the user Ua to the slot, and a counting machine for counting the physical medals. The first reception unit 461 for receiving electronic medals is a communication device that communicates with a management server device (not shown) that manages electronic medal accounts for each user Ua. That is, the first reception unit 461 executes a withdrawal process for transferring an electronic medal from an account managed by the management server device to the game device 10. A reader for transferring the electronic medal to the game device 10 from a recording medium such as an IC card on which the electronic medal is recorded may be used as the first reception unit 461.

The second reception unit 462 accepts coins, which is an example of a tangible value medium, from the user Ua. For example, the second reception unit 462 includes a transport path for transporting coins inserted into the insertion slot by the user Ua, and a counting machine for counting the coins. The second reception unit 462 may accept banknotes from the user Ua.

The third reception unit 463 accepts electronic money from the user Ua. Electronic money is an intangible value medium recorded as electronic data on a recording medium such as an IC card. For example, a reader that executes electronic payment of electronic money by short-range wireless communication with a recording medium, or a communication device that executes electronic payment by communication with an electronic payment server is used as the third reception unit 463.

As described above, the reception device 46 of the first embodiment can receive a plurality of types of value media. The user Ua selectively pays the desired value medium among a plurality of types of value media (medals, coins, and electronic money) to the reception device 46. A credit amount corresponding to the payment amount of the value medium is given to the user Ua. For example, it is assumed that a credit of a quantity obtained by multiplying the quantity of medals (physical medals or electronic medals) received by the first reception unit 461 from the user Ua by the conversion rate α is given to the user Ua. The conversion rate α is a predetermined positive number. As described above with reference to FIG. 5, the user Ua uses the credit to play the game. That is, the user Ua can play the game by consuming the value medium.

As described above, the user Ua can arbitrarily provide the value medium consumed for playing the game for the virtual character C (hereinafter referred to as "throwing money"). The throwing of the value medium does not mean the provision of the value medium required for playing or progressing the game, but the provision of the value medium at the discretion of the user Ua. For example, throwing money is an act in which the user Ua voluntarily provides a value medium from the feeling of supporting the virtual character C. That is, the presence or absence of money thrown by the user Ua does not affect the start or progress of the game. In the first embodiment, the user Ua can selectively throw money for a desired type of value medium among a plurality of types of value media consumed for playing a game. The control device 41 transmits the notification data N for notifying the tossed money by the user Ua to the control system 20 and the management unit 30 by the communication device 43.

The display device 47 of FIG. 4 displays an image under the control of the control device 41. The display device 47 is composed of a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device 47 of the first embodiment displays the game screen Gb of FIG. 7 under the control of the control device 41. The game screen Gb is an image visually recognized by the user Ua for playing the game.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the game screen Gb includes a play image Gb1 and an operation image Gb2. The game of the first embodiment is a bingo game using a lottery card in which a plurality of lottery elements (specifically, numbers) are arranged in a matrix. A lottery card is displayed on the play image Gb1. The control device 41 determines that the user Ua has won when the lottery elements sequentially selected by the physical lottery among the plurality of lottery elements of the lottery card are arranged in one row (vertical / horizontal / diagonal).

The operation image Gb2 is a button for the user Ua to instruct the throwing of the value medium. When the user Ua operates the operation image Gb2, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a plurality of option Gb3 corresponding to different types of value media are displayed. The user Ua selects one option Gb3 corresponding to the desired value medium used for throwing money from among a plurality of types of value media.

FIG. 8 illustrates a state in which three options Gb3 of “medal”, “coin”, and “electronic money” are displayed. The "medal" option Gb3 in FIG. 8 is a button for the user Ua to instruct the throwing money using the virtual medal. The virtual medal is a value medium (virtual medal) corresponding to a part of the credit held by the user Ua. Further, the option Gb3 of the "coin" is a button for instructing the throwing of coins using the coins accepted by the second reception unit 462. The option Gb3 of the "electronic money" is a button for instructing the throwing money using the electronic money accepted by the third reception unit 463.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the control system 20. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the control system 20 includes a control device 21, a storage device 22, a communication device 23, an operation device 24, a sound collection device 25, and a reproduction device 26. The control system 20 is realized not only as a single device but also as a plurality of devices configured as separate bodies from each other.

The control device 21 is composed of, for example, a single or a plurality of processors that control each element of the control system 20. Specifically, the control device 21 is configured by one or more types of processors such as a CPU, GPU, DSP, FPGA, or ASIC.

The storage device 22 is a single or a plurality of memories for storing a program executed by the control device 21 and various data used by the control device 21. For example, a known recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium and a magnetic recording medium, or a combination of a plurality of types of recording media is used as the storage device 22.

The operation device 24 is an input device that receives operations by the administrator Ub. Specifically, the operation device 24 includes a plurality of controls operated by the administrator Ub and a touch panel integrally configured with the display device 261. The sound collecting device 25 collects the sound produced by the administrator Ub. The control device 21 generates voice data V representing the sound picked up by the sound picking device 25. Voice data V is continuously generated during the implementation period of the special event.

The communication device 23 communicates with the control system 20 via the communication network 2 under the control of the control device 21. For example, the communication device 23 receives the status data Q transmitted from the management unit 30, and the recorded data R and the notification data N transmitted from each gaming unit 40. The status data Q and the recorded data R are continuously received during the implementation period of the special event. The communication between the communication device 23 and the communication network 2 may be either wired communication or wireless communication.

The control device 21 of the first embodiment transmits voice data V representing the voice of the administrator Ub to the management unit 30 by the communication device 23. The voice data V is continuously transmitted to the management unit 30 during the implementation period of the special event.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the control device 31 of the management unit 30 uses the voice represented by the voice data V received from the control system 20 by the communication device 33 (spoken voice “game start!”) As the voice of the virtual character C. The sound is emitted from the sound emitting device 342. The voice obtained by converting the voice quality of the voice of the administrator Ub may be emitted from the sound emitting device 342 as the voice of the virtual character C. As described above, the voice of the virtual character C is continuously emitted from the sound emitting device 342 of the management unit 30 during the implementation period of the special event.

The playback device 26 of FIG. 9 reproduces a moving image including video and audio. Specifically, the reproduction device 26 includes a display device 261 for displaying an image and a sound emitting device 262 for emitting a sound. The display device 261 is a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The sound emitting device 262 is, for example, a speaker. The administrator Ub can watch the video displayed by the display device 261 and the sound emitted by the sound emitting device 262.

The control device 21 of the first embodiment causes the playback device 26 to play a moving image showing the situation of the game device 10 in real time during the implementation period of the special event. Specifically, the control device 21 causes the sound emitting device 262 to emit the sound represented by the recorded data R received from each game unit 40. That is, the sound produced by each user Ua is emitted from the sound emitting device 262.

Further, the control device 21 displays the confirmation screens Gc (Gc_a, Gc_b) of FIGS. 10 and 11 according to the status data Q received from the management unit 30 and the recorded data R and the notification data N received from each game unit 40. It is displayed on the display device 261. The confirmation screen Gc_a exemplified in FIG. 10 is an image including a reference area Gc1, a reference area Gc2, a reference area Gc3, a reference area Gc4, and an operation area Gc5. The confirmation screen Gc_b exemplified in FIG. 11 is a screen in which the reference area Gc2 and the reference area Gc3 in the confirmation screen Gc_a of FIG. 10 are replaced with the reference area Gc6 and the reference area Gc7 of FIG. The reference area Gc1, the reference area Gc4, and the operation area Gc5 are common to the confirmation screen Gc_a and the confirmation screen Gc_b.

The confirmation screen Gc_a of FIG. 10 and the confirmation screen Gc_b of FIG. 11 are alternately switched according to the operation from the administrator Ub to the operation device 24. The reference area Gc6 and the reference area Gc7 in FIG. 11 may be included in the confirmation screen Gc_a in FIG. That is, switching of the confirmation screen Gc may be omitted.

In the reference area Gc1, the video represented by the recorded data R transmitted from each game unit 40 is displayed. That is, an image showing the situation (for example, facial expression or behavior) of each user Ua is displayed in the reference area Gc1 in parallel with the progress of the game. By listening to the reference area Gc1 displayed by the display device 261 and the sound emitted by the sound emitting device 262, the administrator Ub can change the status of each user Ua in real time in parallel with the progress of the game. I can grasp it.

In the reference area Gc2 and the reference area Gc3 of the confirmation screen Gc_a, the status of the tossed money represented by the notification data N received from each game unit 40 is displayed. Specifically, in the reference area Gc2, the history H of the money thrown by each user Ua is displayed. Specifically, the quantity (hereinafter referred to as “provided amount”) X of the value medium used by the user Ua for the money thrown and the type Y of the value medium are displayed for each money thrown by the user Ua.

In the reference area Gc3 of the confirmation screen Gc_b, the result of totaling the amount of money provided by each user Ua X is displayed. Specifically, the total value x1 of the value medium provision amount X by the plurality of users Ua and the total value x2 of the value medium provision amount X for each user Ua are referred to for each of the plurality of types of value media. It is displayed in the area Gc3. By visually recognizing the reference area Gc2 and the reference area Gc3, the administrator Ub can grasp the situation of the money thrown by each user Ua in real time in parallel with the progress of the game.

The image of the virtual character C is displayed in the reference area Gc4. The operation area Gc5 is an area for receiving an operation instruction of the virtual character C from the administrator Ub. Specifically, in the operation area Gc5, a plurality of operations that can be executed by the virtual character C are arranged as candidates for selection by the administrator Ub. For example, the action of the virtual character C smiling (smiling), the action of the virtual character C waving (waving), the action of the virtual character C clapping (clapping), and the action of the virtual character C being pleased (pleasing). Is placed in the operation area Gc5.

The administrator Ub selects the operation to be executed by the virtual character C from the operation area Gc5 by operating the operation device 24. The control device 21 causes the virtual character C displayed in the reference area Gc4 to execute the operation instructed by the administrator Ub. Therefore, the administrator Ub can confirm the operation of the virtual character C instructed by himself / herself in real time in parallel with the progress of the game. The virtual character C in the reference area Gc4 may be operated according to the result of detecting the movement of the body of the administrator Ub. For example, the operation of the administrator Ub may be estimated by the analysis (for example, motion capture) of the image captured by the image pickup device (not shown), and the virtual character C may execute the operation.

In the reference area Gc6 and the reference area Gc7 on the confirmation screen Gc_b of FIG. 11, an image corresponding to the status data Q transmitted from the management unit 30 is displayed. Specifically, in the reference area Gc6, a moving image of the lottery device 35 represented by the situation data Q is displayed. In the reference area Gc7, the progress status of the game represented by the status data Q is displayed. For example, a character string or an image representing various situations such as the use of credits (bet) by each user Ua, the result of a physical lottery by the lottery device 35, or the granting of a reward to each user Ua is in the reference area Gc7. Is displayed. By visually recognizing the reference area Gc6 and the reference area Gc7, the administrator Ub grasps the situation of the game in the game device 10 (particularly the situation of the lottery by the lottery device 35) in real time in parallel with the progress of the game. can.

As illustrated above, the administrator Ub describes the situation of each user Ua (reference area Gc1 and the reproduced sound by the sound emitting device 262) and the situation of money thrown by each user Ua (reference area Gc2 and reference area Gc3). , While checking the status of the virtual character C (reference area Gc4) and the status of the game (reference area Gc6 and reference area Gc7), select an appropriate operation of one of the plurality of operations in the operation area Gc5. At the same time, it is sounded to the sound collecting device 25. For example, when the user Ua executes the tossed money, the administrator Ub selects an action that the virtual character C is pleased with from the operation area Gc5, and pronounces a word thanking the user Ua to the sound collecting device 25. .. The virtual character C displayed in the reference area Gc4 executes an operation in response to an instruction from the administrator Ub. Therefore, the administrator Ub can select the operation from the operation area Gc5 and sound the sound to the sound collecting device 25 while confirming the operation of the virtual character C.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of the process of operating the virtual character C in response to an instruction from the administrator Ub. The processing of FIG. 12 is executed in parallel with the display of the confirmation screens Gc (Gc_a, Gc_b) exemplified in FIGS. 10 and 11 and the operation of the operation area Gc5 and the reception of voice to the sound collecting device 25. The voice data V representing the voice of the administrator Ub collected by the sound collecting device 25 is transmitted from the control system 20 to the management unit 30 in parallel with the processing of FIG. As described above, the control device 31 of the management unit 30 that has received the voice data V causes the sound emitting device 342 to emit the sound represented by the voice data V.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the control device 21 of the control system 20 waits until the administrator Ub selects any of the plurality of operations in the operation area Gc5 (Sb1: NO). When an operation is selected (Sb1: YES), the control device 21 generates control data D that specifies the operation selected by the administrator Ub (Sb2). The control device 21 transmits the control data D from the communication device 23 to the management unit 30 (Sb3).

The control device 31 of the management unit 30 receives the control data D transmitted from the control system 20 by the communication device 33 (Sc1). The control device 31 causes the virtual character C to execute the operation specified by the control data D (Sc2). That is, the control device 31 functions as an element (reproduction control unit) that operates the virtual character C in response to an instruction (specifically, operation selection) from the administrator Ub to the control system 20. According to the above configuration, it is possible to change the virtual character C in various ways according to various situations that can be grasped by the administrator Ub (for example, the situation of each user Ua's play or the situation of throwing money).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of an operation performed by the game device 10 in relation to the throwing of a value medium. Each control device 41 of the plurality of gaming units 40 executes the process of FIG. 13 in parallel.

The user Ua who desires to throw money in the value medium operates the operation image Gb2 of the game screen Gb illustrated in FIG. 7. Then, the user Ua selects one of the plurality of options Gb3 (FIG. 8) displayed by operating the operation image Gb2. The control device 41 waits for the selection of the value medium by the user Ua (Sd1: NO).

When the user Ua selects a value medium (Sd1: YES), the control device 41 determines whether or not the user Ua has selected a "medal" (Sd2). The user Ua who selects the "medal" specifies the amount X of the virtual medal to be used for throwing money by operating the operation device 45. When the user Ua selects a "medal" (Sd2: YES), the control device 41 accepts the designation of the virtual medal provision amount X from the user Ua (Sd3). The control device 41 subtracts the quantity corresponding to the provided quantity X specified by the user Ua from the credit of the user Ua (Sd4). For example, the control device 41 subtracts the amount obtained by multiplying the provided amount X by the conversion rate α from the credit of the user Ua. That is, the control device 41 receives the tossed money of the virtual medal from the user Ua. "Medal" option by user Ua The selection of Gb3 corresponds to the instruction of throwing money using a virtual medal (credit).

The control device 41 executes a process (hereinafter referred to as “notification process”) Sd5 for notifying the control system 20 and the management unit 30 that the user Ua has executed the tossed money using the virtual medal. In the notification process Sd5, the control device 41 transmits the notification data N to the control system 20 and the management unit 30 by the communication device 43.

The notification data N is data for notifying the control system 20 and the management unit 30 of the money thrown by the user Ua. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the notification data N includes the provided amount X of the value medium used by the user Ua for throwing money, the type Y of the value medium, and the identification information Z of the user Ua. including. The type Y of the value medium is a type (virtual medal, coin, or electronic money) selected by the user Ua from the game screen Gb of FIG. The identification information Z is a code string for identifying the user Ua. For example, the identification information Z for identifying the user Ua is included in the notification data N in the authentication process executed at the start of the game by the user Ua. The code string for identifying each gaming unit 40 of the game device 10 may be used as the identification information Z.

When the user Ua does not select the "medal" in FIG. 13 (Sd2: NO), the control device 41 determines whether or not the user Ua has selected the "coin" (Sd6). When the user Ua selects "coins" (Sd6: YES), the control device 41 accepts the payment of coins by the user Ua by the second reception unit 462 (Sd7). User Ua pays a desired amount of coins to the second reception unit 462. The control device 41 calculates the provided amount X corresponding to the amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 (Sd8). The provided amount X is the quantity of virtual medals equivalent to the coins received by the second reception unit 462 (that is, the numerical value obtained by converting the amount of coins into virtual medals). For example, the control device 41 calculates the provided amount X by multiplying the amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 by a predetermined conversion rate β. The conversion rate β is a predetermined positive number. The amount of coins received by the second reception unit 462 may be set as the provided amount X (β = 1). However, according to the configuration in which the amount of coins is converted into the provided amount X based on the virtual medal, the provided amount X of the virtual medal and the provided amount X of the coin can be compared with each other.

The control device 41 causes the user Ua to select whether to use the coin received by the second reception unit 462 for throwing money or to consume it for acquiring credit (Sd9). Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the control device 41 causes the display device 47 to display the option Gb4 representing the execution of the tossed money and the option Gb5 representing the acquisition of credits. The user Ua can select either option Gb4 or option Gb5 by operating the operation device 45. The selection of option Gb4 by the user Ua corresponds to the instruction of throwing money using coins. The control device 41 determines whether or not the user Ua has instructed to throw money (Sd10). That is, it is determined whether or not the user Ua has selected the option Gb4.

The selection of option Gb5 by the user Ua corresponds to an instruction to consume the coins received by the second reception unit 462 for the acquisition of credits. When the user Ua selects the option Gb5 (Sd10: NO), the control device 41 adds the provided amount X to the credit of the user Ua (Sd11). That is, the credit of the provided amount X is given to the user Ua. If option Gb5 is selected, no coins will be thrown. That is, the coins received by the second reception unit 462 are consumed for the user Ua to play the game.

On the other hand, when the user Ua selects the option Gb4 (Sd10: YES), the control device 41 executes the notification process Sd5 without increasing the credit of the user Ua. That is, the management unit 30 and the control system 20 are notified that the user Ua has executed the tossed money using the coin. Specifically, the notification data N in which the value medium type Y is set to "coin" is transmitted from the game unit 40 to the control system 20. As understood from the above description, the control device 41 accepts the tossed money using coins from the user Ua. The coins received by the second reception unit 462 are consumed for throwing money to the virtual character C.

On the other hand, when the user Ua selects "electronic money" (Sd6: NO), the control device 41 accepts the payment of the electronic money by the user Ua by the third reception unit 463 (Sd12). User Ua pays an arbitrary amount of electronic money to the third reception unit 463. The control device 41 calculates the provision amount X corresponding to the amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 (Sd13). The provided amount X is the quantity of virtual medals equivalent to the electronic medals received by the third reception unit 463 (that is, the numerical value obtained by converting the amount of electronic money into virtual medals). For example, the control device 41 calculates the provided amount X by multiplying the amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 by a predetermined conversion rate β. The amount of electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 may be set as the provision amount X. However, according to the configuration in which the amount of electronic money is converted into the provided amount X based on the virtual medal, it is possible to mutually compare the provided amount X of the virtual medal and the provided amount X of the electronic money.

The control device 41 causes the user Ua to select whether to use the electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 for throwing money or for acquiring credits (Sd14). Specifically, the control device 41 causes the display device 47 to display the option Gb4 and the option Gb5 in the same manner as described above with reference to FIG. The selection of option Gb4 by the user Ua corresponds to the instruction of throwing money using electronic money. The control device 41 determines whether or not the user Ua has instructed to throw money (option Gb4) (Sd15).

When the user Ua selects the option Gb5 (Sd15: NO), the control device 41 adds the provided amount X to the credit of the user Ua (Sd16). That is, the credit of the provided amount X is given to the user Ua. When the option Sc6 is selected, the tossing using electronic money is not executed. That is, the electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 is consumed for the user Ua to play the game.

On the other hand, when the user Ua selects the option Gb4 (Sd15: YES), the control device 41 executes the notification process Sd5 without increasing the credit of the user Ua. That is, the management unit 30 and the control system 20 are notified that the user Ua has executed the tossed money using the electronic money. Specifically, the notification data N in which the value medium type Y is set to "electronic money" is transmitted from the game unit 40 to the control system 20. As understood from the above description, the control device 41 accepts the tossed money using the electronic money from the user Ua. The electronic money received by the third reception unit 463 is consumed for throwing money to the virtual character C.

As understood from the above description, the control device 41 functions as an element (media receiving unit) for receiving money thrown from the user Ua using any of a plurality of types of value media. Specifically, the control device 41 has a process of accepting tossed money using virtual medals (Sd3), a process of accepting tossed money using coins (Sd7), and a process of accepting tossed money using electronic money (Sd12). Is selectively executed. The value medium provided by the user Ua by throwing money is recorded as the profit of the provider of the game system 1, the operator of the game system 1 (for example, the administrator Ub), or the operator of the game facility.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an operation executed by the control device 31 of the management unit 30 with respect to the money thrown by the user Ua. When the communication device 33 receives the notification data N from the game unit 40, the process of FIG. 16 is executed.

The control device 31 causes the reproduction device 34 to reproduce the effect according to the type Y of the value medium used by the user Ua for throwing money (Se1-Se5). That is, the mode of the effect changes depending on the type Y of the value medium used for throwing money. The effect is a visual or auditory effect with respect to the virtual character C. For example, the display by the display device 341 or the sound emission by the sound emission device 342 is a typical example of the effect.

First, the control device 31 determines whether or not the type Y of the value medium designated by the notification data N received from the game unit 40 is a "medal" (Se1). When the type Y of the value medium is "medal" (Se1: YES), the control device 31 causes the sound emitting device 342 to emit the sound E1 related to the virtual character C (Se2), as illustrated in FIG. ). Specifically, the control device 31 supplies the voice signal E1 stored in advance in the storage device 32 to the sound emitting device 342 to emit the sound E1. For example, various voices E1 such as calling or cheering for the virtual character C are emitted. Each user Ua can hear the voice E1 emitted from the sound emitting device 342. It is also assumed that the user Ua who executes the throwing money selects a desired voice E1 from a plurality of candidates prepared in advance.

On the other hand, when the value medium type Y is not a "medal" (Se1: NO), the control device 31 determines whether or not the value medium type Y is a "coin" (Se3). When the type Y of the value medium is "coin" (Se3: YES), the control device 31 displays the comment E2 related to the virtual character C on the display device 341 (guidance screen Ga) as illustrated in FIG. Let (Se4). For example, the control device 31 causes the display device 341 to display the comment E2 stored in advance in the storage device 32. For example, various comments E2 such as a call or cheering for the virtual character C are displayed. Each user Ua can visually recognize the comment E2 displayed on the display device 341. It is also assumed that the user Ua who executes the throwing money selects a desired comment E2 from a plurality of candidates prepared in advance. Further, an arbitrary character string input by the user Ua in the operation on the operation device 45 may be displayed on the display device 341 as a comment E2.

On the other hand, when the type Y of the value medium is "electronic money" (Se3: NO), the control device 31 causes the display device 341 to display the image E3 related to the virtual character C as illustrated in FIG. 19 (Se3: NO). Se5). For example, the control device 31 causes the display device 341 (guidance screen Ga) to display the image E3 stored in advance in the storage device 32. For example, various images E3 such as gifts for the virtual character C are displayed. Each user Ua can visually recognize the image E3 displayed on the display device 341. It is also assumed that the user Ua who executes the throwing money selects a desired image E3 from a plurality of candidates prepared in advance. As understood from the above description, the control device 31 functions as an element (reproduction control unit) for causing the reproduction device 34 to reproduce the effect according to the type Y of the value medium used by the user Ua for throwing money.

As described above, in the first embodiment, when the tossed money by the user Ua is accepted, the effect of the virtual character C is reproduced. The value medium used for the money thrown by the user Ua is the value medium consumed for playing the game. That is, the value medium consumed for playing the game is also used for reproducing the effect of the virtual character C. Therefore, the opportunity for the user Ua to use the value medium is increased as compared with the configuration in which the value medium for reproducing the effect is required separately from the value medium consumed for playing the game. It is possible.

Further, in the first embodiment, the effect of the effect according to the type Y of the value medium used for the throwing money is reproduced. Therefore, there is an advantage that the incentive to use various value media is given to the user Ua, and the effect of the virtual character C is diversified.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an operation executed by the control device 21 of the control system 20 with respect to the money thrown by the user Ua. When the communication device 23 receives the notification data N from the game unit 40, the process of FIG. 20 is executed.

The control device 21 aggregates the amount X of the value medium provided by the game unit 40 from each user Ua (Sf1). Specifically, the control device 21 sets the total value x1 of the provided amount X of the value medium and the total value x2 for each user Ua for each of the plurality of types of value media (medals, coins, and electronic money). Calculate. The total value x1 of each value medium is a numerical value obtained by totaling the provided amount X of the value medium designated by the notification data N over a plurality of users Ua. Further, the total value x2 for each user Ua for each value medium is a numerical value obtained by totaling the amount X of the value medium provided by the user Ua for one or more past throws. That is, the provided amount X of the value medium is totaled for each of the plurality of users Ua for each type of value medium. As understood from the above description, the control device 21 functions as an element (aggregation processing unit) that aggregates the provided amount X of the value medium received by the game unit 40. By totaling the provision amount X for each reception of the notification data N within the implementation period of the special event, finally, the result of totaling the provision amount X over the entire implementation period is generated. At the end of a special event or at the beginning of a new special event, the result of the value medium aggregation is initialized.

The control device 21 causes the display device 261 to display the history H of the tossed money of the value medium by each user Ua (Sf2). Specifically, the control device 21 displays the history H including the information specified by the notification data N in the reference area Gc2 in chronological order. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the history H including the provided amount X related to the thrown money, the type Y of the value medium, and the identification information Z of the user Ua is displayed on the display device 261. As understood from the above description, the control device 21 functions as an element (notification control unit) for displaying the history H of the value medium thrown by the user Ua on the display device 261. According to the above configuration, since the administrator Ub can grasp the history H of the money thrown by the user Ua, the virtual character C is executed according to the situation of the use of the value medium by the money thrown by the instruction from the administrator Ub. It is possible to make it.

In addition, since the provision amount X is aggregated for each user Ua, there is also an advantage that, for example, the administrator Ub can grasp the tendency of throwing money for each user Ua (for example, the tendency of the amount of provision X or the type of value medium). be. In the first embodiment, since the provided amount X is aggregated for each type of value medium, there is also an advantage that, for example, the administrator Ub can grasp the tendency of throwing money for each type of value medium (for example, the amount of provided amount X). be.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, the control device 21 causes the display device 261 to display the result of totaling the amount X of the value medium provided by each user Ua (Sf3). Specifically, the control device 21 displays the total value x1 of the provided amount X of the value medium and the total value x2 for each user Ua in the reference area Gc3 for each of the plurality of types of value media. According to the above configuration, since the result of totaling the amount X of the value medium provided by the user Ua is notified to the administrator Ub, the administrator Ub performs an operation according to the situation of the money thrown by each user Ua. It is possible to make the virtual character C execute by an instruction.

For example, when the execution of the tossed money by a specific user Ua is grasped from the reference area Gc2, the administrator Ub selects an action that the virtual character C is pleased with from the operation area Gc5, and collects words to thank the user Ua. Sound to device 25. Further, when the stagnation of the money thrown by the user Ua (for example, the total value x1 or the total value x2 is small) is grasped from the reference area Gc3, the administrator Ub performs the operation that the virtual character C is pleased with or the operation of waving the operation area Gc5. Select from.

As described above with reference to FIG. 12, the control data D that specifies the operation according to the instruction from the administrator Ub is transmitted from the control system 20 to the management unit 30 (Sb3). The control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 to execute the operation specified by the control data D (Sc2). As understood from the above description, the virtual character C executes an operation according to the situation of the money thrown by each user Ua. Specifically, the virtual character C executes an operation that reacts to the money thrown by the user Ua. For example, the virtual character C performs an action of appreciating the thrown money or an action of being surprised at the thrown money. That is, the virtual character C operates with the money thrown by the user Ua as an opportunity. Therefore, the incentive to use the value medium for throwing money can be effectively given to the user Ua. Further, when the virtual character C executes the operation selected by the administrator Ub, each user Ua pays attention to the virtual character C, and as a result, the money thrown by each user Ua is promoted.

The control device 31 may cause the virtual character C to perform a predetermined operation in response to the money thrown by the user Ua, triggered by the reception of the notification data N transmitted by the game unit 40. For example, the virtual character C performs an action of appreciating the thrown money or an action of being surprised at the thrown money.

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

The control device 31 of the second embodiment changes the effect of the effect according to the amount X of the value medium provided by the user Ua for throwing money. Specifically, the control device 31 makes the effect different depending on whether the provided amount X is below a predetermined threshold value or exceeds the threshold value.

For example, when the user Ua instructs to throw money using a virtual medal, the volume of the voice E1 emitted by the sound emitting device 342 changes according to the provided amount X. For example, in the control device 31, the sound emitting device 342 reproduces the volume of the voice E1 when the provided amount X exceeds the threshold value so as to be louder than the volume of the voice E1 when the provided amount X falls below the threshold value. Controls the volume of the voice E1 to be played.

When the throwing money using coins is instructed by the user Ua, the condition of the comment E2 displayed on the display device 341 changes according to the provided amount X. For example, the control device 31 displays the display device 341 so that the number of characters of the comment E2 when the provided amount X exceeds the threshold value is larger than the number of characters of the comment E2 when the provided amount X is below the threshold value. Control comment E2.

When the user Ua instructs to throw money using electronic money, the content of the image E3 displayed on the display device 341 changes according to the provided amount X. For example, the control device 31 causes the display device 341 to display an image E3 representing an inexpensive gift when the provided amount X is below the threshold value, and an image representing an expensive gift when the provided amount X exceeds the threshold value. Display E3 on the display device 341.

The same effect as that of the first embodiment is realized in the second embodiment. Further, in the second embodiment, since the effect of the effect changes according to the amount X of the value medium provided by the user Ua, an incentive to provide a large number of value media can be effectively given to the user Ua.

[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the communication system 3 according to the third embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the communication system 3 of the third embodiment includes a game system 1 including a game device 10 and a control system 20, and a distribution system 60 and a terminal device 70. The control system 20, the distribution system 60, and the terminal device 70 can communicate with each other via the communication network 2. The configuration and operation of the control system 20 and the game device 10 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Therefore, the same effect as that of the first embodiment is realized in the third embodiment.

The terminal device 70 is a communication terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer. User Uc uses the terminal device 70. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the terminal device 70 includes a reproduction device 71 and an operation device 72. The playback device 71 reproduces a moving image including video and audio. Specifically, the reproduction device 71 includes a display device for displaying an image and a sound emitting device for emitting sound. The operation device 72 receives an operation by the user Uc. Although there are actually a plurality of terminal devices 70, in the third embodiment, attention is paid to one terminal device 70 for convenience.

The distribution system 60 is a computer system (video distribution server) that distributes a moving image to the terminal device 70. Specifically, the distribution system 60 transmits the moving image data M representing the moving image to the terminal device 70 via the communication network 2.

The control device 21 of the control system 20 in the third embodiment transmits the moving image data M of the moving image including the virtual character C to the distribution system 60 by the communication device 23. The moving image data M represents a moving image including the image of the virtual character C and the sound collected by the sound collecting device 25. For example, the moving image data M representing, for example, the guidance screen Ga displayed on the display device 341 of the game device 10 is transmitted from the control system 20 to the distribution system 60. The transmission of the video data M to the distribution system 60 is executed in real time in parallel with the game play by each user Ua within the implementation period of the special event. As understood from the above description, the control device 21 of the third embodiment functions as an element (video distribution unit) for transmitting video data M to the distribution system 60. The moving image data M generated by the control system 20 may be transmitted to the game device 10 together with the distribution system 60. The control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the display device 341 to display an image (for example, a guidance screen Ga) represented by the moving image data M received from the control system 20.

The distribution system 60 transmits the moving image data M received from the control system 20 to the terminal device 70. The moving image data M is distributed in parallel from the distribution system 60 to the plurality of terminal devices 70. The reproduction device 71 of each terminal device 70 reproduces the moving image represented by the moving image data M. That is, during the implementation period of the special event, the moving image including the virtual character C is reproduced by the reproduction device 71 of the terminal device 70. The user Uc of the terminal device 70 watches the moving image.

By operating the operation device 72 of the terminal device 70, the user Uc of the terminal device 70 can execute the throwing money for the virtual character C to be reproduced by the reproduction device 71. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a specific procedure of an operation executed by the terminal device 70 in relation to throwing money using the terminal device 70.

The user Uc can instruct the throwing money with a desired amount (provided amount X) by operating the operation device 72 while watching the operation of the reproduction device 71 to reproduce. The terminal device 70 waits for an instruction to throw money by the user Uc (Sg1: NO).

Upon receiving the instruction of the tossed money by the user Uc (Sg2), the terminal device 70 executes the electronic payment related to the tossed money (Sg2). Specifically, the terminal device 70 requests an electronic payment server (not shown) to make an electronic payment for an amount (provided amount X) specified by the user Uc.

When the electronic payment is properly completed, the terminal device 70 transmits the notification data N to the control system 20 (Sg3). The notification data N includes the provided amount X specified by the user Uc, the type Y of the value medium, and the identification information Z of the user Uc. As the type Y of the value medium, it is specified that the money is thrown from the terminal device 70. The terminal device 70 may also transmit the notification data N to the management unit 30, and the control device 31 may change the effect depending on any of a plurality of types Y including the money thrown from the terminal device 70. That is, in a configuration in which the effect is changed according to the type Y of the value medium, as the type Y, in addition to the examples (virtual medals, coins, and electronic money) in each of the above-mentioned forms, "throwing money from the terminal device 70" is used. It may be included.

When the notification data N transmitted from the terminal device 70 is received by the communication device 23, the control device 21 of the control system 20 aggregates the provided amount X represented by the notification data N (Sf1). For example, the total value x1 of the provided amount X of the thrown money instructed by the terminal device 70 and the total value x2 of the provided amount X for each user Uc of the terminal device 70 are calculated. The control device 21 causes the display device 261 to display the aggregation result including the total value x1 and the total value x2.

As described above, in the third embodiment, the user of the terminal device 70 for viewing the moving image including the virtual character C can execute the money thrown to the virtual character C. Therefore, it is possible to increase the chances of a large number of users (Ua, Uc) to use the value medium as compared with the configuration in which only the user Ua who plays the game executes the throwing money.

[Modification example]
Each of the above-exemplified forms can be variously modified. Specific embodiments that can be applied to each of the above-mentioned embodiments are illustrated below. Two or more embodiments arbitrarily selected from the following examples may be merged to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

(1) In each of the above-described embodiments, the control data D representing the operation selected by the administrator Ub from the operation area Gc5 is exemplified, but the format of the control data D is not limited to the above examples. For example, motion data representing a change in the position of each part such as a joint in the body of the virtual character C may be used as control data D. For example, motion data representing the body motion of the administrator Ub may be used as control data D. Specifically, the operation of the administrator Ub is estimated by analyzing the image captured by the image pickup device (for example, motion capture), and the control data D representing the operation is transmitted from the control system 20 to the game device 10. You may. Further, an operation command instructing the operation of the virtual character C or an operation program (motion script) in which a command related to the operation of the virtual character C is described may be used as the control data D.

(2) In each of the above-described embodiments, the virtual character C is displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20, but the configuration for notifying the administrator Ub of the operation of the virtual character C is not limited to the above examples. For example, the virtual character C displayed on the display device 261 does not have to exactly match the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341. For example, the virtual character C that simplifies the appearance or operation of the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 may be displayed on the display device 261. Further, a character string or an image (for example, an icon) representing an operation executed by the virtual character C may be displayed on the display device 261.

(3) In each of the above-described embodiments, the voice data V representing the voice pronounced by the administrator Ub is transmitted from the control system 20 to the game device 10, but the method for reproducing the voice of the virtual character C is exemplified above. Not limited to. For example, the voice data V selected by the administrator Ub from the plurality of voice data V prepared in advance may be transmitted from the control system 20 to the management unit 30. Further, the identification information selected by the administrator Ub among the plurality of identification information representing different voices is transmitted from the control system 20 to the game device 10 as voice data V, and the identification information is among the plurality of voices prepared in advance. The sound corresponding to the above may be reproduced in the game device 10.

(4) In each of the above-described embodiments, the display device 341 shared by the plurality of users Ua displays the virtual character C, but the virtual character C (guidance screen Ga) is displayed on the display device 47 installed for each game unit 40. May be displayed. A common virtual character C may be displayed on each display device 47 of the plurality of game units 40, or a separate virtual character C may be displayed for each game unit 40. Further, it is assumed that the display device 341 can be moved to a position and an angle facing a specific user Ua among a plurality of user Ua.

(5) The period during which the user Ua can instruct to throw money may be limited. For example, during the waiting period (Sa1) for receiving the instruction to use the credit by the user Ua, the instruction for throwing money is not accepted, and the instruction for throwing money is received from the user Ua during the lottery period when the physical lottery by the lottery device 35 is executed. Is assumed. Since the user Ua tends to be a gap during the lottery period, the possibility that the user Ua overlooks the reaction of the virtual character C to the thrown money is reduced.

(6) In each of the above-described embodiments, the configuration in which each of the management unit 30 and the game unit 40 independently communicates with the control system 20 is illustrated, but the communication between the game unit 40 and the control system 20 is performed by the management unit 30. It is also assumed that the communication device 33 of the above is relayed. That is, the function of directly communicating with the control system 20 is omitted from the game unit 40.

(7) In each of the above-described embodiments, the notification data N is transmitted to the control system 20 by each of the plurality of game units 40, but the notification data N indicating the status of the tossed money in each of the plurality of game units 40 is stored in the management unit 30. The notification data N representing the result of the aggregation may be transmitted from the management unit 30 to the control system 20. That is, the configuration and processing of directly transmitting the notification data N from each game unit 40 to the management unit 30 may be omitted. Further, in each of the above-described modes, each of the plurality of game units 40 transmitted the recorded data R to the control system 20, but the recorded data R generated in each of the plurality of game units 40 is aggregated in the management unit 30. , The recorded data R representing the result of aggregation may be transmitted from the management unit 30 to the control system 20. That is, the configuration and processing for directly transmitting the recorded data R from each game unit 40 to the management unit 30 may be omitted. On the other hand, in each of the above-described embodiments, the management unit 30 transmits the status data Q to the control system 20, but the status data Q representing the status of the game in each gaming unit 40 is transmitted from the gaming unit 40 to the control system 20. You may.

(8) In each of the above-described embodiments, the control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the reproduction device 34 to reproduce the effect according to the type Y of the value medium according to the notification data N received from the game unit 40. .. However, the control system 20 that has received the notification data N instructs the management unit 30 to have an effect according to the type Y of the value medium, and the management unit 30 gives an effect according to the instruction from the control system 20. It may be reproduced by the reproduction device 34. For example, the control device 21 of the control system 20 determines the type Y of the value medium by the same processing as in step Se1 and step Se3 of FIG. The control device 21 transmits an instruction of the effect effect according to the result of the determination from the communication device 23 to the management unit 30. The control device 31 of the management unit 30 causes the reproduction device 34 to reproduce the effect (Se2, Se4, Se5) according to the instruction received from the control system 20. Even in the above configuration, the same effect as each of the above-mentioned forms is realized.

(9) The main body of each process executed in the game system 1 is not limited to the examples in each of the above-mentioned forms. For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the control device 21 of the control system 20 aggregates the provided amount X, but the control device 31 of the management unit 30 executes the aggregation of the provided amount X, and the aggregation result is obtained by the communication device 33. The control system 20 may be notified.

(10) In each of the above-described embodiments, the result of totaling the provided amount X is displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20, but the totaled result may be displayed on the display device 341 of the management unit 30. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 23, the total value x1 (x1_a, x1_b, x1_c) of the provided amount X is displayed on the display device 341 for each type of value medium. The total value x1_a (cheering points) is a numerical value obtained by totaling the provision amount X of virtual medals for a plurality of users Ua. Similarly, the total value x1_b (comment point) is the total value regarding the amount of coins provided X, and the total value x1_c (present points) is the total value regarding the amount of electronic money provided X. According to the above configuration, the user Ua can grasp the tendency of the money thrown by each user Ua. The total value x1 of the provided amount X may be displayed on the display device 47 of each game unit 40.

(11) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the sound emission of the voice E1 and the display of the comment E2 or the image E3 are exemplified, but the mode of the effect of the effect on the thrown money is not limited to the above examples. For example, a process of causing the virtual character C to execute a predetermined operation is also adopted as an effect. Further, the correspondence between the type Y of the value medium used for the throwing money and the mode of the effect is not limited to the examples in each of the above-mentioned forms.

(12) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the effect is changed according to the type Y of the value medium used by each user Ua for throwing money, but the configuration of changing the effect according to the type Y is omitted. May be good. For example, a specific effect may be reproduced regardless of the type Y of the value medium. As described above, in the configuration in which the effect does not depend on the type Y of the value medium, the user Ua uses the credit given to the user Ua in response to the payment of any of the multiple types of value media for throwing money. May be good. That is, regardless of the type of value medium paid by the user Ua, the user Ua can execute the tossed money by using the credit in a unified manner.

(13) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the form in which the value medium is used for the tossed money is illustrated, but the item that can be acquired by the user Ua may be used for the tossed money in exchange for the payment of the value medium. Further, as in each of the above-described forms in which the effect is changed according to the type Y of the value medium, the effect may be changed according to the type of the item used by the user Ua for throwing money. Further, the item may be grasped as an example of the value medium in each of the above-mentioned forms.

(14) In each of the above-described embodiments, the configuration in which the virtual character C displayed on the display device 261 of the control system 20 operates in response to an instruction from the administrator Ub is illustrated. However, the video data representing the virtual character C displayed on the display device 341 of the management unit 30 may be transmitted from the management unit 30 to the control system 20, and the virtual character C represented by the video data may be displayed on the display device 261. ..

(15) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the configuration in which the user Ua executes the tossed money independently of the use of the credit in the game (Sa1) is illustrated, but the tossed money is executed in conjunction with the use of the credit by the user Ua. The configuration to be used is also assumed. For example, when the user Ua accepts a credit award instruction (Sa1), the control device 41 uses the credit to execute a physical lottery (Sa2, Sa3), while a predetermined amount of the credit is used. The process of accepting the thrown money with the quantity multiplied by the coefficient as the provided quantity X is executed.

(16) In each of the above-mentioned forms, medals (physical medals, electronic medals), coins, and electronic money are exemplified as value media, but the types of value media are not limited to the above examples. Examples of the tangible value medium include the above-mentioned physical medals and coins (real money including coins and banknotes), as well as tickets. In addition to the above-mentioned electronic medals and electronic medals, points or credits are exemplified as intangible value media.

(17) In each of the above-described embodiments, a lottery game in which the winning / losing of the user Ua is determined according to the result of the lottery by the lottery process (physical lottery or electronic lottery) is exemplified. Is not limited to the above examples. For example, a book for any game such as a fighting game in which multiple characters fight, a competition game in which multiple users Ua compete in a sports or board game, or a search game in which a character searches for a search location such as a cave or a building. The invention applies.

(18) The function of the control system 20 according to each of the above-described embodiments is realized by the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 21 and the program stored in the storage device 22. Similarly, the function of the game device 10 according to each of the above-described embodiments is realized by the cooperation of one or more processors constituting the control device 31 or the control device 41 and the program stored in the storage device 32 or the storage device 42. To. The program according to each of the above forms may be provided in a form stored in a recording medium readable by a computer and installed in the computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, and an optical recording medium (optical disc) such as a CD-ROM is a good example, but a known arbitrary such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. Recording media in the form of are also included. The non-transient recording medium includes any recording medium other than the transient propagation signal (transitory, propagating signal), and the volatile recording medium is not excluded. Further, in the configuration in which the distribution device distributes the program via the communication network, the storage device that stores the program in the distribution device corresponds to the above-mentioned non-transient recording medium.

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

[Appendix A1]
The game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A1) includes a game control unit (41) for advancing a game played by a user (Ua) by consuming a value medium, and an optional value medium. The media reception unit (41, 46) that receives the provision from the user (Ua) and the medium reception unit (41) that causes the playback device (34) to reproduce the virtual character (C) in parallel with the progress of the game. , 46) includes a reproduction control unit (31) that causes the reproduction device (34) to reproduce the effect of the virtual character (C) when the value medium is provided.

In the above aspect, when the user (Ua) accepts the arbitrary provision of the value medium (so-called throwing money), the effect of the virtual character (C) is reproduced. The value medium provided by the user (Ua) is the value medium consumed for playing the game. That is, the value medium consumed for playing the game is also used for reproducing the effect of the virtual character (C). Therefore, the opportunity for the user (Ua) to provide the value medium is compared with the configuration in which the value medium for reproducing the effect is required separately from the value medium consumed for playing the game. It is possible to increase.

The "virtual character (C)" is a visible object that performs various actions. For example, a biological character that supports or guides a user (Ua) to play a game is an example of a “virtual character (C)”.

"Voluntary provision of value medium" means the voluntary provision of value medium by the user (Ua) (so-called throwing money), which is not necessary for playing or progressing the game.

A "value medium" is a tangible or intangible medium that has value as a consideration for playing a game. Examples of the tangible value medium include physical medals (tokens), physical money (cash such as coins), and tickets. Examples of intangible value media include electronic medals, electronic money (electronic money), credits, and points. The quantity of intangible value media is stored as electronic data in various recording media.

The type of "game" is arbitrary. For example, any kind of game regardless of the content, such as a lottery game in which a reward is given to a user (Ua) by winning in the lottery process, a battle game in which a plurality of users (Ua) play against each other, etc. , Is included in the concept of "game".

The "directing effect" is a visual or auditory effect relating to the virtual character (C). For example, a visual effect of displaying a gift given to a virtual character (C), a visual effect of displaying a character string (for example, a cheering comment) representing a call to a virtual character (C), or a virtual character (C). ), Such as an auditory effect of emitting a voice (for example, cheering), any effect related to the virtual character (C) is included in the concept of "directing effect". That is, the effect that acts on the virtual character (C) from the outside (other than the virtual character) is the "effect effect" (narrow sense). However, an action including an action of the virtual character (C) itself in addition to an effect acting on the virtual character (C) from the outside may be interpreted as a "directing effect" (broad definition).

[Appendix A2]
The game system (1) according to the specific example of the appendix A1 (appendix A2) includes a game device (10) and a control system (20) capable of communicating with each other via a communication network (2), and the game device. (10) includes the game control unit (41), the reproduction control unit (31), and the medium reception unit (41, 46), and the reproduction control unit (31) is the control system (20). The virtual character (C) is operated in response to an instruction from the administrator (Ub) to the above. According to the above aspect, since the virtual character (C) operates in response to the instruction from the administrator (Ub) to the control system (20), various situations (for example, a game) that can be grasped by the administrator (Ub) can be played. It is possible to operate the virtual character (C) in various ways according to the situation of the user (Ua) to play.

[Appendix A3]
In the specific example of the appendix A2 (appendix A3), the control system (20) displays the history (H) of the provision of the value medium by the user (Ua) on the display device (261). Equipped with. According to the above aspect, since the administrator (Ub) can grasp the history (H) of the provision of the value medium by the user (Ua), the administrator (Ub) can perform the operation according to the status of the provision of the value medium. It is possible to make the virtual character (C) execute by the instruction from.

[Appendix A4]
In the specific example of the appendix A3 (appendix A4), the control system (20) includes an aggregation processing unit (21) for totaling the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua), and the notification control unit. (21) causes the display device (261) to display the result of aggregation by the aggregation processing unit (21). According to the above aspect, since the result of totaling the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) is notified to the manager (Ub), the manager can perform the operation according to the provision status of the value medium. It is possible to make the virtual character (C) execute by the instruction from (Ub).

[Appendix A5]
In the specific example of the appendix A4 (appendix A5), the game is a game in which a plurality of users (Ua) including the user (Ua) can play in parallel, and the aggregation processing unit (21) is a game. The quantity of the value medium provided by each user (Ua) is totaled for each of the plurality of users (Ua). According to the above aspect, the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) is totaled for each user (Ua). Therefore, for example, the operator of the game system (1) can grasp the tendency of providing the value medium for each user (Ua).

[Appendix A6]
In any specific example (Appendix A6) of Supplementary A1 to Supplementary A5, the reproduction control unit (31) causes the virtual character (C) to perform an operation in response to the provision of the value medium. In the above aspect, since the virtual character (C) reacts to the provision of the value medium, the incentive to provide the value medium can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[Appendix A7]
In any specific example (Appendix A7) of Supplementary A1 to Supplementary A6, the reproduction control unit (31) changes the effect of the effect according to the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua). In the above aspect, since the effect of the effect changes according to the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua), the incentive to provide a large number of value media can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[Appendix A8]
The game system (1) according to any specific example (Appendix A8) of Supplementary A1 to Supplementary A6 uses video data (M) representing a video including the virtual character (C) and the video data (M) as a terminal. A video distribution unit (21) to be transmitted to a distribution system (60) to be distributed to the device (70) is provided, and the media reception unit (41, 46) includes the user (Ua) who plays the game and the user (Ua). The user (Uc) of the terminal device (70) that reproduces the moving image represented by the moving image data (M) accepts the optional provision of the value medium. According to the above aspect, not only the user (Ua) who plays the game but also the user (Uc) of the terminal device (70) who watches the moving image including the virtual character (C) is an arbitrary value medium. You can make an offer (ie, throw money). Therefore, it is possible to increase the opportunities for a large number of users (Ua, Uc) to use the value medium.

[Appendix A9]
In the operation method of the game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A9), the game played by the user (Ua) is advanced by consuming the value medium, and the optional provision of the value medium is described. When the virtual character (C) is played by the playback device (34) in parallel with the progress of the game after being received from the user (Ua) and the provision of the value medium is received, the effect related to the virtual character (C) is received. The effect is reproduced by the reproduction device (34).

[Appendix A10]
The program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix A10) is a game control unit (41) that advances a game played by a user (Ua) by consuming a value medium, and the optional provision of the value medium is used. The medium reception unit (41, 46) that receives from the person (Ua) and the virtual character (C) are reproduced by the playback device (34) in parallel with the progress of the game, and the medium reception unit (41, 46) reproduces the virtual character (C). When the provision of the value medium is accepted, the computer system functions as a reproduction control unit (31) that causes the reproduction device (34) to reproduce the effect of the virtual character (C).

[Appendix B1]
The game system (1) according to another aspect of the present invention (Appendix B1) is an arbitrary one of a plurality of types of value media and a game control unit (41) for advancing a game played by a user (Ua). The media reception unit (41, 46) that receives the provision from the user (Ua) and the virtual character (C) are reproduced by the playback device (34), and the media reception unit (41, 46) is the value medium. It is provided with a reproduction control unit (31) that causes the reproduction device (34) to reproduce the effect of the virtual character (C) according to the type of the value medium when the offer is accepted. ..

In the above aspect, when the user (Ua) accepts the arbitrary provision of the value medium (so-called throwing money), the effect of the virtual character (C) is reproduced. The effect is an effect according to the type of value medium provided by the user (Ua). Therefore, there is an advantage that an incentive to provide various value media is given to the user (Ua), and the effect of the virtual character (C) is diversified.

The "type" of a value medium means, for example, the classification of a value medium according to its form (tangible / intangible) or function (medal / money). Differences in the quantity of value media are not included in the concept of "type". For example, the first quantity of physical money (for example, 50 yen coin) and the second quantity of physical money (for example, 100 yen coin) are "types" of physical money even if the first quantity and the second quantity are different. Is common.

[Appendix B2]
The game system (1) according to the specific example of the appendix B1 (appendix B2) includes a game device (10) and a control system (20) capable of communicating with each other via a communication network (2), and the game device. (10) includes the game control unit (41), the reproduction control unit (31), and the medium reception unit (41, 46), and the reproduction control unit (31) is the control system (20). The virtual character (C) is operated in response to an instruction from the administrator (Ub) to the above. According to the above aspect, since the virtual character (C) operates in response to the instruction from the administrator (Ub) to the control system (20), various situations (for example, a game) that can be grasped by the administrator (Ub) can be played. It is possible to operate the virtual character (C) in various ways according to the situation of the user (Ua) to play.

[Appendix B3]
In the specific example (Appendix B3) of the appendix B1 or the appendix B2, the reproduction control unit (31) causes the virtual character (C) to perform an operation corresponding to the provision of the value medium. In the above aspect, since the virtual character (C) operates in response to the provision of the value medium, the incentive to provide the value medium can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[Appendix B4]
In any specific example (Appendix B4) of the appendix B1 to the appendix B3, the reproduction control unit (31) changes the effect of the effect according to the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua). In the above aspect, since the effect of the effect changes according to the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua), the incentive to provide a large number of value media can be effectively given to the user (Ua).

[Appendix B5]
The game system (1) according to any specific example (Appendix B5) of the appendices B1 to B4 includes an aggregation processing unit (21) that aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua). .. According to the above aspect, the result of totaling the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) can be used.

[Appendix B6]
In the specific example of Appendix B5 (Appendix B6), the aggregation processing unit (21) aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) for each type of the value medium. According to the above aspect, the quantity of the value medium provided by the user (Ua) is totaled for each type of value medium. Therefore, for example, the operator of the game system (1) can grasp the tendency of providing the value medium for each type of the value medium.

[Appendix B7]
The operation method of the game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix B7) is to advance a game played by a user (Ua) and optionally provide any one of a plurality of types of value media. When the virtual character (C) is reproduced by the reproduction device (34) and the provision of the value medium is received from the user (Ua), the effect of the virtual character (C) is the effect of the value medium. The reproduction device (34) reproduces the effect according to the type.

[Appendix B8]
The program according to one aspect of the present invention (Appendix B8) utilizes the game control unit (41) for advancing the game played by the user (Ua), and the optional provision of any one of a plurality of types of value media. The medium reception unit (41, 46) and the virtual character (C) received from the person (Ua) are reproduced by the playback device (34), and the medium reception unit (41, 46) accepts the provision of the value medium. In this case, the computer system is made to function as a reproduction control unit (31) that causes the reproduction device (34) to reproduce the effect of the virtual character (C) according to the type of the value medium.

1 ... game system, 2 ... communication network, 3 ... communication system, 10 ... game device, 20 ... control system, 21 ... control device, 22 ... storage device, 23 ... communication device, 24 ... operation device, 25 ... sound pickup device , 26 ... Reproduction device, 261 ... Display device, 262 ... Sound release device, 30 ... Management unit, 31 ... Control device, 32 ... Storage device, 33 ... Communication device, 34 ... Reproduction device, 341 ... Display device, 342 ... Release Sound device, 35 ... lottery device, 40 ... game unit, 41 ... control device, 42 ... storage device, 43 ... communication device, 44 ... recording device, 441 ... imaging device, 442 ... sound collecting device, 45 ... operating device, 46. ... Reception device, 461 ... 1st reception unit, 462 ... 2nd reception unit, 463 ... 3rd reception unit, 47 ... display device, 60 ... distribution system, 70 ... terminal device, 71 ... playback device, 72 ... operation device.

Claims (10)

A game control unit that advances the game played by the user by consuming the value medium,
A medium reception unit that accepts the voluntary provision of the value medium from the user,
A reproduction control unit that causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character in parallel with the progress of the game, and causes the reproduction device to reproduce an effect related to the virtual character when the medium reception unit accepts the provision of the value medium. A game system equipped with. It is equipped with a game device and a control system that can communicate with each other via a communication network.
The game device includes the game control unit, the reproduction control unit, and the medium reception unit.
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the reproduction control unit operates the virtual character in response to an instruction from an administrator to the control system. The game system according to claim 2, wherein the control system includes a notification control unit for displaying a history of provision of a value medium by the user on a display device. The control system includes an aggregation processing unit that aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by the user.
The game system according to claim 3, wherein the notification control unit displays the result of aggregation by the aggregation processing unit on the display device. The game is a game that can be played in parallel by a plurality of users including the user.
The game system according to claim 4, wherein the aggregation processing unit aggregates the quantity of the value medium provided by each user for each of the plurality of users. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the reproduction control unit causes the virtual character to execute an operation in response to the provision of the value medium. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the reproduction control unit changes the effect of the effect according to the quantity of the value medium provided by the user. It is provided with a video distribution unit that transmits video data representing a video including the virtual character to a distribution system that distributes the video data to a terminal device.
The medium receiving unit comprises claim 1 comprising accepting an arbitrary provision of the value medium from the user who plays the game and the user of the terminal device which reproduces the moving image represented by the moving image data. The game system according to claim 7. By consuming value media, the game played by the user is advanced,
Accepting the voluntary provision of the value medium from the user,
A method of operating a game system in which a playback device reproduces a virtual character in parallel with the progress of the game, and when the value medium is provided, the playback device reproduces the effect of the virtual character. A game control unit that advances a game played by a user by consuming a value medium,
A medium reception unit that accepts the voluntary provision of the value medium from the user, and
A reproduction control unit that causes a reproduction device to reproduce a virtual character in parallel with the progress of the game, and causes the reproduction device to reproduce an effect related to the virtual character when the medium reception unit accepts the provision of the value medium. A program that makes a computer system work as.

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