JP2024090234A - Information processing device, information processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of play in competitive events.
[Solution] The information processing device has a reception unit that receives a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game before the game starts, a control unit that, when the player does not hold a second game medium that can be acquired in the game, controls so that an event using parameters of the first game medium cannot be executed against a second object different from a first object operated by a player who does not hold the second game medium, and, when the player holds the second game medium, controls so that an event targeting a second object different from the first object operated by a player holding the second game medium can be executed, and a consumption control unit that consumes the second game medium held by the player operating the first object when the first object requests the second object to execute an event.
[Selected figure] Figure 10

Description

Application for exception to loss of novelty has been filed

The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program.

Patent document 1 describes a server device that includes "a game image generating means for generating a tiled game image of a player character, an enemy character, and a plurality of types of panels, and receives an input for each turn to select adjacent panels of the same type from among the plurality of types of panels starting from the player character, and imparts a game effect according to the type of the selected panel, and also moves an enemy character on the game image each turn, and inflicts damage on the player character according to the relative positional relationship between the player character and the enemy character."

Patent No. 5559920

By the way, in games where attacking opportunities are given in alternating order, there is no fun in strategically choosing who to challenge or when to fight.

The present invention provides a game that enhances the strategic nature of play in competitive events.

One aspect of the present invention is an information processing device having: a reception unit that receives a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game before the start of the game; a control unit that, when the player does not hold a second game medium that can be acquired in the game, controls so that an event using parameters of the first game medium cannot be executed for a second object different from a first object operated by a player not holding the second game medium, and, when the player holds the second game medium, controls so that an event for a second object different from a first object operated by a player holding the second game medium can be executed; and a consumption control unit that, when the first object requests the second object to execute an event, consumes the second game medium held by the player operating the first object.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of play in competitive events.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the flow of a game assumed in the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game space assumed in the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an alter-ego object stops at a spot for a certain period of time. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play screen displayed on the information terminal of a player. 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of a medium object used in a game. 1 is a diagram for explaining how to obtain points, in which (A) shows the arrangement of the hand card area just before all the white color cards are collected, (B) shows the arrangement of the hand card area just after all the white color cards are collected, and (C) shows the arrangement of the hand card area after points are obtained. 1 is a diagram for explaining the acquisition of points through automatic exchange, in which (A) shows the arrangement of the hand placement area just before all white color cards are collected, (B) shows the arrangement of the hand placement area just after all white color cards are collected, and (C) shows the arrangement of the hand placement area after points are acquired. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a server used in the first embodiment. 11A is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a battle event execution control unit, in which (A) illustrates how to handle a request to execute a battle event when player A corresponding to an avatar object does not hold an attack card, and (B) illustrates how to handle a request to execute a battle event when a player corresponding to an avatar object holds an attack card. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of functions of a battle event execution control unit. FIG. 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining the consumption of attack cards in response to a request to execute a battle event, in which (A) is a play screen before a request to execute a battle event is made, and (B) is a play screen after a request to execute a battle event is made. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a play screen when a player of an avatar object who has been requested to execute a battle event is holding an attack card. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display of a play screen when a player of an avatar object who has been requested to execute a battle event does not have an attack card. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a processing operation executed by a color card movement control unit. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a server used in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the display of a play screen when a function for displaying the number of attack cards by area is enabled. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the play screen when the function of displaying the number of attack cards by area is enabled. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the play screen when the function of displaying the number of attack cards by area is enabled. 1 is a diagram for explaining the difference between the play screen viewed by the player and the play screen viewed by viewing user X. (A) is the play screen displayed on the information terminal of the player who is the viewing destination of viewing user X, and (B) is the play screen displayed on the information terminal of viewing user X. 13 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a spatial map used in embodiment 3. FIG. A figure explaining the timing of displaying a spatial map based on sub-function 2 of embodiment 3. A figure explaining the difference between the play screen viewed by the player and the play screen viewed by the viewing user by executing sub-function 2 in embodiment 3. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a server used in embodiment 4. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a spatial map displayed by a player card movement control unit, which identifiably displays the location of an area in which there is an avatar object weaker than the avatar object of the player being viewed. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of a spatial map that displays, by the player card movement control unit, identifiably the position of an area in which there is an avatar object that is weaker than the avatar object of the player being viewed. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a selection process of two types of spatial maps. 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating the movement of medium cards when a player watched by a viewing user who satisfies a second predetermined condition wins a battle event, in which (A) shows the movement of medium cards when the player who is the winner of the battle event holds the last card, and (B) shows the movement of medium cards when the player who is the winner of the battle event does not hold the last card. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a spatial map displayed on a play screen of a viewing user who satisfies a third predetermined condition.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The embodiment described below is merely an example of a form for carrying out the present invention, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.
Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the following embodiments. For example, various modifications or improvements to the contents described in the embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.
The various functional units described below are realized through the execution of programs by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or other processors.

<Terminology>
First, the terms used in the embodiments will be described.
The term "program" is used as a general term for the OS (Operating System) and application programs.
"Game" refers to a computer game. The virtual space in which a game takes place is called the "game space." The setting of a game space may be, for example, a virtual city or a virtual country.
A "player" refers to a user who plays a game by operating an information terminal.

The information terminals operated by players are classified into dedicated and general-purpose terminals.
Dedicated machines include stationary game machines installed in game arcades, for example.
General-purpose devices include, for example, smart glasses, headsets, and smartphones that can be carried or worn by players. Smart glasses are glasses-type devices equipped with a small display and a light-guiding component that focuses the image displayed on the display on the retina.

The information terminals that execute the game include not only the information terminals operated by the players (hereinafter also referred to as "player terminals"), but also servers located on the Internet or other networks.
When a game is executed on a server, the player's terminal is used as a so-called input/output device, that is, the player's terminal is used to display images related to the game and to input operations.
"Play screen" refers to the image displayed on the player's terminal. The play screen is generally a moving image. However, there is no prohibition on a still image being displayed on the play screen.

The play screen can be viewed by other users (excluding other players). In the following, other users who view the play screen are referred to as "viewing users" or "viewers." The information terminal operated by the viewing user or viewer is referred to as the "viewing user's terminal" or "viewer's terminal."
In the case of the embodiment described later, the viewing user can view only one play screen at a time. The relationship between the viewing user and the play screen (or player) being viewed is managed by the server. For example, the accounts of the viewing user and the player are used.

In addition, in order to switch the play screen being viewed by the viewing user, permission from the player currently viewing may be requested, or the viewing user may be free to do so.
However, if the players before and after the switch are in a competitive relationship, fairness between the players may be ensured through comments posted by viewing users.
For example, control may be performed so that the viewing user cannot view information that affects the progress of the game and is included in the play screen being viewed, switching of viewing destinations may be restricted, and posting of comments after switching may be restricted.

Games executed on a server include, for example, online games and social games. Social games are games that use SNS (Social Networking Service) as a platform.
The game can be played by one player alone (hereinafter also referred to as "single play"), or by multiple players who have a predetermined relationship (hereinafter also referred to as "multiplayer").
Depending on the game, it may only be possible to play single player, only multiplayer, or the option to choose between single player and multiplayer.

Multiplayer games include, for example, games in which players compete against other players (hereafter referred to as "competitive games"), games in which players compete against other players for game results (hereafter also referred to as "competitive games"), and games in which players cooperate to achieve a common goal (for example, clearing the game) (hereafter also referred to as "cooperative games"). Note that even competitive games may include competitive play against other players within the game.
Incidentally, the form of multiplayer also includes play in which multiple players cooperate to play against or compete against other players (hereinafter referred to as "cooperative play").

Although each player in cooperative play can play as an independent player, they participate in the game as a so-called group or team (hereinafter referred to as a "group"). Note that multiple players in cooperative play may have a master-servant relationship or an equal relationship. A master-servant relationship is one in which a specific player is solely supported by the other players. On the other hand, an equal relationship is one in which there is no fixed master-servant relationship and players cooperate with each other.
Incidentally, the other players you will be playing against may be players who have chosen single play, or players who are participating in the game as a group.
In the embodiment assumed below, at least one of the players is a user, but at least one of the players may be represented by a processor. This form may appear as a single-player game, but it is a type of multiplayer game.

A "comment" refers to a post or the contents of a post that a viewing user uploads to a player as a destination. A comment is composed of a character string (text), a stamp, an icon, etc. A comment may also be called a "chat."
The "predetermined value" refers to information that can be exchanged on a network, such as electronic money, crypto assets, points, etc. In the following, a comment that consumes the predetermined value is referred to as a "tipping comment," and a comment that does not consume the predetermined value is referred to as a message.
Hereinafter, a player who broadcasts a play screen is also referred to as a "broadcasting user." Furthermore, among viewing users, a player who competes in a game against the broadcasting user who is the viewing target is also referred to as a "participating user."

<First embodiment>
<System Configuration>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment.
The information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a server 10 that executes a game, information terminals 20 (20A, 20B, 20C, 20X, 20Y) operated by players and viewing users, and a network N that connects these so that they can communicate with each other.

FIG. 1 shows player A, player B, player C, viewing user X, and viewing user Y as examples of players and viewing users.
The three players and two viewing users are shown for the convenience of explanation, and the actual number of players may be one, two, four or more. Also, the number of viewing users may be zero, one, three or more.
However, in the case of the single play described above, there is only one player. Also, although a player is required to execute the game, there may be zero viewing users.
In the following, when there is no distinction between players and viewing users, they will simply be referred to as users.

In the case of the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1, an information terminal 20A operated by player A, an information terminal 20B operated by player B, an information terminal 20C operated by player C, an information terminal 20X operated by viewing user X, and an information terminal 20Y operated by viewing user Y are connected to the server 10 via a network N.
Hereinafter, the information terminals 20A, 20B, 20C, 20X, and 20Y will be collectively referred to as "information terminal 20."
The network N is, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a mobile communication system such as 4G or 5G. The network N may be a wired network or a wireless network. Also, the network N may be a combination of a wired network and a wireless network.

The server 10 is composed of one or more computers. The server 10 may be an on-premise server or a cloud server. Examples of cloud servers include IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), and SaaS (Software as a Service). The server 10 is an example of an information processing device.
The information terminal 20 is a terminal operated by a user who uses the distribution service provided by the server 10 .
The information terminal 20 may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook or desktop computer, a game terminal, a head-mounted terminal (a so-called headset), or a glasses-type terminal (a so-called smart glasses). The information terminal 20 has a communication function with the network N.

<Server hardware configuration>
The server 10 comprises a processor 11 that controls the overall operation of the terminal, a memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, and a communication interface 14. The processor 11 and each device are connected via a bus or other signal lines 15.
The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU.
The memory 12 is composed of a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which a BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and the like are stored, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) used as a work area for the processor 11 .

The auxiliary storage device 13 is, for example, a hard disk device or a semiconductor storage device. In addition to the game program, the auxiliary storage device 13 stores, for example, information on the game space, information on players participating in the game, play screens of each player, information on viewing users who are viewing the play screens, information on comments posted by viewing users, and the like.
Information on players and viewing users is linked to accounts and other information that identifies each user.
The comment information includes the content of the comment, whether or not a predetermined value has been consumed, and the amount of the predetermined value consumed.
The communication interface 14 is a device that enables communication with an external terminal such as the information terminal 20. The communication interface 14 is required to have a function for realizing communication according to the network N used for communication.

Like the server 10, the information terminal 20 has a processor, a memory, an auxiliary storage device, and a communication interface, and further has a touch sensor, operation buttons, a display, a camera, a microphone, a speaker, and the like.
A device that integrates a touch sensor and a display is called a touch panel. The touch sensor, operation buttons, camera, and microphone make up an input device, while the display and speaker make up an output device.
The information terminal 20 in this embodiment is used as an input/output device for the server 10 .

<Game Flow>
The flow of the game assumed in this embodiment will be described below.
2 is a diagram for explaining the flow of the game assumed in embodiment 1. Note that the symbol S shown in the diagram stands for "step."
First, before the start of the game, matching is performed for users (who are not players at this stage) who will participate in the game (step 1). There are various methods for matching. For example, there is a method in which a predetermined number of users are selected by lottery from among users who applied to participate during the application period. The player of the game assumed in this embodiment is required to bring one of his/her own character cards into the game. Of course, depending on the type of game, bringing in a character card is not required.

When the players participating in the game have been determined and the selection of character cards to be used in the game for all players has been determined, the game begins (step 2). A character card is one of the items (hereinafter referred to as a "medium object") used in the game.
The game is in progress when the game starts (step 3), and ends when a game ending condition is met (step 4).
In the game assumed in this embodiment, ranking is basically determined in descending order of game scores (hereinafter referred to as "scores") acquired during the game. Therefore, the score is a parameter used in determining the outcome of the game.

However, the media objects available in the game include one bottom card. A player who holds onto the bottom card until the end is set to last place, regardless of their score. For example, a player with the highest score will be ranked last if they hold onto the bottom card until the end. In this sense, the bottom card is a media object that affects the progress of the game. The bottom card is also a media object that is related to winning or losing the game. The bottom card is also a media object that gives an unfavorable game effect to the player who holds it.

In addition, in the game assumed in the embodiment, after the end of the game, an opportunity is provided to accept votes from players who have held the lowest card until the end (step 5). In this vote, each player must vote for a player other than himself.
Once all players' votes have been confirmed within the time limit, the game will move on to confirming the voting results. Players who have not voted within the time limit will be considered as having not voted. In addition, the votes of players who hold the lowest card until the end will be considered as invalid votes.

As a result of the voting, those who answer correctly will be given a special reward in addition to the reward based on their ranking.
If no one answers correctly, the player who has kept the lowest card until the end will be ranked first, regardless of the score at the end of the game. This determines the final ranking (step 6). When the final ranking is determined, the player is given, for example, points, experience points, a title, special points for the attack power and HP of the character card used in the game, weapons that can be used in other games, magic and other abilities, new attributes, attribute level-ups, etc.
The games from step 2 to step 4 are what is called an in-game, and the vote in step 5 is what is called an out-game.

Incidentally, it is also possible to execute one or more "special games" before the game starts or at the start of the game after matching of users. For example, the special game is executed before the avatar objects of each player are placed in the game space.
Any type of special game may be used, but it may be a game in which the same options are presented to each player's information terminal 20 and the selection of an option by each player is accepted as a vote, for example. In the case of this type of game, the results of the vote may be displayed on each player's information terminal 20, or players who voted for an option with a large number of votes and players who voted for an option with a small number of votes may be displayed in a distinguishable manner.

For example, a player who voted for the option with the most votes may be given a bonus of a certain number of points that can be earned during the game when the game starts. In this case, the player may start playing the game with, for example, 5 points earned at the start of the game.
The benefit here is not limited to the award of points, but may also be the award of a color card or an attack card that can be used in the game. The number of cards awarded may be one or more. The benefit may also be an effect that gives an advantage in the game, such as increasing the attack power of a character card that the player has brought into the game.

On the other hand, players who voted for the option with the fewest votes may be allowed to start the game with, for example, the bottom card. If multiple players voted for the option with the fewest votes, one player selected by lottery is given the bottom card. As mentioned above, the player who holds the bottom card until the end of the game will be in last place, so a player who starts the game with the bottom card will be at a disadvantage compared to other players. Therefore, a player who starts playing with the bottom card will be at a disadvantage compared to other players. The player who will be holding the billiards may be notified to the other players at the start of the game.

In addition, a player who voted for the option with the fewest votes may be given an effect that puts them at a disadvantage in the game, such as lowering the attack power of a character card that the player brought into the game. When this type of effect is given, the disadvantageous effect may be given to all of the multiple players who voted for the option with the fewest votes.
The above-mentioned benefits and effects may be awarded for each special game, or may be awarded based on the overall ranking of multiple special games.

In this embodiment, the game is played multiple times, with the game flow shown in Fig. 2 counting as one round. Note that since the players for each round of the game are determined by the matching in step 1, the players for each round are not necessarily the same.
Hereinafter, a certain in-game will be referred to as a first game, and the next or subsequent in-game will be referred to as a second game.
However, the first game and the second game do not have to be the same type of game, that is, the first game and the second game may be different types of games.

<Game space>
3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game space 100 assumed in the first embodiment. The game space 100 shown in FIG. 3 is composed of three areas 101A, 101B, and 101C. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the areas 101A, 101B, and 101C, they will be referred to as areas 101. The area 101 is, for example, a room or a country. The area 101 is an example of a space that constitutes the game space 100.
The number of areas 101 in Figure 3 is just an example, and depending on the game there may be one, two, or four or more. In the case of Figure 3, the three areas 101A, 101B, and 101C are each connected to the other areas by a passageway.

Although the case where the game space 100 is composed of three areas 101A, 101B, and 101C has been described with reference to FIG. 3, the game space 100 may be composed of a plurality of stages.
3, spots 102A, 102B, and 102C where medium objects to be used in the game are distributed are disposed in three areas 101A, 101B, and 101C. In the following, when there is no need to distinguish between the spots 102A, 102B, and 102C, they will be referred to as spots 102.

3, one spot 102 is arranged in one area 101, but multiple spots 102 may be arranged in one area 101, or there may be an area 101 with no spots 102 arranged therein. The form in which the spots 102 are displayed varies depending on the game. For example, a jar, a treasure chest, a shop, a church, or a swamp may be used to display the spots 102.
At least one medium object is associated with each spot 102, and a medium object selected by lottery is given to a player's avatar (i.e., an avatar) that stops near a spot 102 for a certain period of time.

4 is a diagram for explaining a state in which the ghost object stops for a certain period of time at the spot 102. In FIG. 4, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
4, an avatar object 103A of player A, an avatar object 103B of player B, and an avatar object 103C of player C are added. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the avatar objects 103A, 103B, and 103C, they will be referred to as avatar objects 103.

4, the position of the avatar object 103A of player A overlaps with the spot 102A in the area 101 A. If this state continues for a certain period of time or more, one of the medium objects linked to the spot 102A is given to player A.
On the other hand, the position of the avatar object 103B of the player B in the area 101B is far from the spot 102B in the area 101B. Therefore, no medium object is given to the player B from the spot 102B. Similarly, no medium object is given to the player C.

The condition for granting a medium object is not limited to when the avatar object 103A of player A stops with its position overlapping the spot 102A for a certain period of time.
For example, a medium object may be given from the spot 102A simply by the position of the avatar object 103A of the player A overlapping with the spot 102A.
Alternatively, the condition for granting the bonus may be that the player A enters within a predetermined range (for example, within a predetermined distance) of the spot 102A. In this case, the avatar object 103A of the player A does not need to be stationary as long as the avatar object 103A enters within the predetermined range.

Furthermore, it is also possible to set a condition that the avatar object 103A of the player A enters the area 101A in which the spot 102A is located. In any case, the condition for providing the medium object can be determined for each game.
In this embodiment, the medium objects distributed at spot 102 are assumed to be the aforementioned bottom cards, "color cards," and "attack cards." Note that the aforementioned character cards are also an example of medium objects, but differ from the bottom cards distributed within the game in that they are brought into the game by the player.
The color cards assumed in this embodiment are colored in one of five colors: red, blue, yellow, white, and black. Of course, the colors are not limited to those exemplified, and the number of colors is not limited to five.

In the game assumed in this embodiment, points are awarded when the colors of the color cards held by the player match.
In this embodiment, one point is awarded each time the colors of two color cards match. The points are accumulated for each player. The accumulated points (score) are used to determine the ranking at the end of the game.
Another reward may be two matching color cards tied to the player's acquisition item area.

A player who has an attack card has the right to request that another player execute a battle event (hereafter referred to as an "event") using the parameters of a character card, subject to the consumption of the attack card (removal from the player's hand), and the right to choose how to respond to the request. Since it is a right, players are free to exercise it.
Therefore, a player who has an attack card may choose not to request the execution of a battle event targeting an avatar object operated by another player.
In this embodiment, when an attack card placed in the hand card area 205 (see FIG. 5) is tapped by a player, the attack card is considered to have been consumed.
Among players corresponding to a plurality of alter-ego objects 103 existing in one area 101, the player who first instructs the consumption of an attack card is regarded as the player who requests the execution of a battle event to the other alter-ego objects 103.

Furthermore, a player who receives a request to execute a battle event can choose to either consume attack cards that he or she possesses, or can choose not to consume them.
For a player who has received a request to execute a battle event, if the attack card placed in the hand-card area 205 is tapped by the player, the attack card is considered to have been consumed. On the other hand, if the attack card placed in the hand-card area 205 is not tapped by the player, the attack card is considered not to have been consumed.
A player who receives a request to execute a battle event from another one of the multiple alternate body objects 103 present in one area 101 is regarded as a player who responds to the request to execute a battle event.

It should be noted that, regarding a player who has received a request to execute a battle event, the following three stories are possible.
(1) When choosing to spend the attack cards held: Winning or losing is determined by the value of the attack power parameter (hereinafter referred to as "attack power") of the character card placed in each player's hand area 205.
A player who holds a character card with a relatively large attack power value will be the winner, and a player who holds a character card with a relatively small attack power value will be the loser.
The winning player acquires one of the color cards held in the hand of the losing player. The "attack power parameter" here is an example of a parameter.

Generally, the winner cannot choose the color of the color card they receive from the loser. However, depending on the rules of the game, the winner may choose a color card that matches the color of the color card they hold, or the winner may specify the desired color for the loser.
If the losing player does not have any color cards, no color cards are transferred from the losing player to the winning player, and instead, one point from the losing player may be transferred to the winning player.
Also, if the attacking powers are the same, the battle event is considered a draw and no color cards are moved. However, if the attacking powers are the same, the player who requested the battle event may win, or the player who was requested to play the battle event may win.

Note that two or more color cards may be transferred from the loser to the winner. When multiple color cards are transferred, color cards of different colors are transferred. This is because, when color cards of the same color match, they are removed from the hand, so there are no color cards of the same color in the hand. Therefore, color cards of the same color cannot be transferred from the loser to the winner.
By moving different colored cards from the losers to the winners, the chances of matching colors on the winning side are increased.

(2) If the player does not choose to consume the attack cards he or she holds, the player who requested the battle event will be the winner, and the player who was requested will be the loser. In this case, the winning player will take one of the color cards held by the losing player.

(3) When no attack card is held: The player who requested the execution of the battle event is the winner, and the player who was requested is the loser. In this case, the winning player takes one of the color cards held by the losing player.

<Play screen>
Next, the play screen displayed on the information terminal 20 of each player will be described.
The play screen is also distributed to viewing users associated with each player via the server 10. The play screen is basically distributed in real time, but accumulated distribution is also possible. For example, when the play screen is viewed in a time-shifted manner, the play screen accumulated in the server 10 is distributed to the viewing user.
On the play screen, for example, an image seen from the viewpoint of a player who controls the movement and motion of an avatar object 103 (see FIG. 4) is displayed.

5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a play screen 200B displayed on the information terminal 20B of player B. The play screen 200B shown in FIG. 5 is an example immediately after the start of play. The play screen 200B is a screen used by player B to operate the alternate self object 103B. For this reason, the alternate self object 103B is displayed near the center of the area screen 201.
5, the avatar object 103B of the player B is located in the area 101B, so the spot 102B in the area 101B is also displayed.
In the following, when distinguishing between players or viewing users, the play screens will be referred to as 200A, 200B, 200C, 200X, and 200Y, and when referring to them collectively, they will be referred to as the play screen 200.

At the top of the play screen 200, information columns for supporting the play of player B are displayed. In the case of FIG.
The number of colors that must be matched to clear the game is displayed in the quota column 202. In the case of FIG. 5, it is "25 remaining." In other words, it is necessary to obtain at least 50 color cards from the spots 102 and match the colors of the color cards in hand.
The exchange timing notice field 203 displays the number of seconds until the next card exchange time.
The score column 204 displays the total number of points acquired in the game (i.e., the score).

The card exchange time refers to the timing at which a medium object is automatically exchanged between two or more avatar objects 103 in the game space 100 when the two or more avatar objects 103 satisfy a predetermined positional relationship. In other words, it refers to the timing at which a medium object selected without a player's operation is automatically exchanged. Hereinafter, this timing will be referred to as "automatic exchange timing."
The predetermined positional relationship may be, for example, that the distance between two or more avatar objects 103 in the game space 100 is within a predetermined distance, or that two or more avatar objects 103 are located in the same area 101 .

In this embodiment, the automatic exchange timing is executed once every 30 seconds. Therefore, in the exchange timing notice field 203, a numerical value is displayed in a countdown manner with a maximum value of 30 seconds. In the example of Fig. 5, "20 seconds until card exchange time" is displayed. Note that 30 seconds is just an example.
In the present embodiment, the medium objects to be exchanged at the automatic exchange timing are either color cards or bottom cards among the medium objects tied to the player. Therefore, attack cards and character cards are excluded from the objects to be exchanged.
Therefore, even if two or more avatar objects 103 satisfy a predetermined positional relationship at the automatic exchange timing, automatic exchange of medium objects will not be executed unless the player is holding a color card and a bottom card.

In this embodiment, the processor 11 (see FIG. 1) randomly selects one medium object to be exchanged at the automatic exchange timing.
The processor 11 may select exchange objects in order of the oldest acquisition time of the medium objects linked to each avatar object 103, or conversely, may select exchange objects in order of the newest acquisition time.
In any case, the player is not and cannot be involved in the selection of the medium object to be exchanged. In other words, the game of this embodiment does not provide a function for the player to decide through trading the type of medium object to be exchanged.
By providing the opportunity for automatic exchange of media objects between players, the opportunities for matching color cards and transferring bottom cards between players are increased.

In addition, a hand card area 205 of player B is displayed at the bottom of the play screen 200. In the case of Fig. 5, only the character card C1 brought into the game space 100 by player B is placed in the hand card area 205. The play screen 200 shown in Fig. 5 is the screen immediately after the start of the game.
In the hand area 205, medium objects provided in the spot 102B, medium objects exchanged with other players, and medium objects acquired from other players as a winner of a battle event are also placed.

However, the maximum number of medium objects that can be placed in the hand area 205 is 5. As described above, since character cards are cards that player B brings into the game space 100, the maximum number of medium objects that can be obtained in the game that can be placed in the hand area 205 is 4. In Fig. 5, the positions where unobtained medium objects are placed are indicated by dashed lines.
When five medium objects are placed in the hand area 205 , even if the avatar object 103 moves to the spot 102 , a new medium object cannot be obtained from the spot 102 .

Furthermore, when five medium objects are placed in the hand area 205, a new medium object cannot be obtained even if the player wins a battle event against another player.
However, even if five medium objects are placed in the hand area 205, a forced exchange of medium objects can be executed because the number of medium objects placed in the hand area 205 does not change even if a medium object is exchanged.

6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a medium object used in a game, in which eight types of medium objects are illustrated.
The character card C1 is composed of a picture of a character (hereinafter also referred to as "character"), a value indicating the magnitude of the attack power (e.g., "Attack: 1000"), and a value indicating the magnitude of HP (e.g., "HP: 150") In addition, the character card C1 may also indicate, for example, the character's defense power, skills, and attributes.
The character card C1 here is an example of a first game medium.
HP, also called stamina value (parameter value), represents the vitality required to play. HP is set for each character.

"Attack power" refers to the strength of the damage inflicted on the opponent character. Therefore, a character with a high attack power value (parameter value) can inflict more damage on the opponent character than a character with a low attack power value. Conversely, a character with a low attack power value will inflict less damage on the opponent character than a character with a high attack power value.
In addition, attack power can also be evaluated based on the range of the attack (defined as two-dimensional space in the case of two dimensions, and three-dimensional space in the case of three dimensions), the time the attack lasts, the number of attacks, the hit rate, and the number of enemy characters that can be hit simultaneously.

"Defensive power" refers to the level of resistance to damage from attacks by opposing characters. For this reason, a character with a high defensive power value (parameter value) will lose less vitality than a character with a low defensive power value. Conversely, a character with a low defensive power value will lose more vitality than a character with a high defensive power value.

"Skill" refers to a special skill (ability) that provides an advantage in the game. Examples of skills include skills that nullify or reduce damage, skills that increase attack power etc. when combined with a specific attribute, skills that increase movement or movement speed when combined with a specific attribute, skills that recover or increase HP when combined with a specific attribute, and skills that stop or reduce attacks from other avatar objects 103.

An "attribute" is one piece of information that gives a character's characteristics. Attributes include, for example, fire, water, lightning, earth, and wood. One or more attributes are given to a character. Attributes may be given permanently or temporarily.
In many cases, compatibility is determined between attributes. For example, a character with a water attribute is strong against a character with a fire attribute, a character with a lightning attribute is strong against a character with a water attribute, and a character with a fire attribute is strong against a character with a wood attribute.

In addition, attributes in the broad sense also include the attack power, defense power, speed, skills, and obstacles mentioned above. For example, a character card C1 that has a defense power large enough against the attack power of another character card C1 will need to make many attacks to reduce the vitality value of the other character card C1 to "0". For this reason, this other character card C1 has poor compatibility with the certain character card C1.

Color card C2 is a red card, color card C3 is a blue card, color card C4 is a yellow card, color card C5 is a white card, and color card C6 is a black card. In Fig. 6, for convenience of explanation, the color of each card is represented by letters. In reality, the entire card may be displayed in a specific color, or the picture or letters drawn on the card may be in a specific color. Also, a specific color may be displayed in only a part of each card.
A plurality of color cards C2 to C6 are prepared in the game. For example, 40 of each color card are prepared. However, the number of color cards may be unlimited. The color cards C2 to C6 are an example of a third game medium.

As described above, the attack card C7 is a card that is used not only to request another player to execute a battle event using the character card C1, but also to select a response to the request to execute the battle event. A plurality of attack cards C7 are also prepared in the game. For example, 40 cards are prepared. The number of cards may be unlimited. The attack card C7 here is an example of the second game medium.
As described above, the bottom card C8 is a card that determines the ranking of the player who has held the bottom card until the end of the game, and only one bottom card is prepared in the game. The bottom card C8 is also used for voting to guess the player who has held the bottom card until the end of the game. The bottom card C8 here is an example of the fourth game medium.

<Earn points>
Here, a method for acquiring points that are used for ranking at the end of the game will be described.
7A and 7B are diagrams for explaining how points are acquired. (A) shows the arrangement of the hand-card area 205 immediately before the white color cards C5 are collected, (B) shows the arrangement of the hand-card area 205 immediately after the white color cards C5 are collected, and (C) shows the arrangement of the hand-card area 205 after points are acquired.

The change in the arrangement of the hand card area 205 shown in FIG.
(a) When a color card is obtained from spot 102 (b) When the winner of a competitive event obtains a color card from the loser In the game assumed in this embodiment, when two color cards of the same color match in the hand-card area 205, the two corresponding color cards are removed from the hand-card area 205, and at the same time, one point is added to the player's score.

8 is a diagram for explaining the acquisition of points by automatic exchange. (A) shows the arrangement of the hand card area 205 just before the white color cards C5 are collected, (B) shows the arrangement of the hand card area 205 just after the white color cards C5 are collected, and (C) shows the arrangement of the hand card area 205 after points are acquired. In FIG. 8, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the automatic exchange of medium objects at the automatic exchange timing, when two color cards in hand area 205 match in color, the two corresponding color cards are removed from hand area 205 and one point is awarded. However, in the case of automatic exchange, when acquiring one medium object from the exchange partner, one medium object is passed from one's own hand area 205 to the exchange partner, so the number of cards in hand in (B) and (C) is one less than in FIG. 7.

<Server functional configuration>
Next, the functional configuration of the server 10 will be described.
Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the server 10 used in the embodiment 1. Note that the functional configuration shown in Fig. 9 is an example of a functional unit realized through the execution of a program.
The server 10 has a character card receiving unit 111 , a battle event execution control unit 112 , an attack card consumption control unit 113 , a correspondence display control unit 114 , a color card movement control unit 115 , and a memory unit 120 .
Of these, the storage unit 120 is realized by the memory 12 (see FIG. 1) and the auxiliary storage device 13 (see FIG. 1).

<Information stored in the storage unit>
Prior to describing the functional units, an example of information stored in the storage unit 120 will be described.
The memory unit 120 shown in FIG. 9 stores player information 121, viewing user information 122, spatial layout information 123, spot information 124, exchange timing information 125, medium object distribution rules 126, battle event operation rules 127, voting operation rules 128, final ranking determination rules 129, etc.

The player information 121 is information about the players who play the game. In the example of FIG.
The player information 121 includes, for example, a user ID (account) that identifies the user, identification information of the group to which the user belongs, the IP address of the information terminal 20, position information of the avatar object 103 (see FIG. 4) in the game space 100 (see FIG. 3), information on the character card C1 (see FIG. 6) used in the game, information on the medium objects C2 to C8 arranged in the hand card area 205, information on the color cards C2 to C6 that were erased from the hand card area 205 because the colors of two color cards matched (in other words, information on the items stored in the acquired item area), the time when the color cards C2 to C6 were exchanged, the total value of points acquired in the game (i.e., the score), rewards awarded according to final ranking, and the elapsed time from starting viewing of the play screen to be viewed.

Identification information of a group to which a user belongs (hereinafter referred to as "group identification information") is information that is set when the user is matched (see FIG. 2). The group identification information may be defined by a number or code such as "1", "2", etc., or may be defined by a name such as "Group A", "Group B", etc. If the player can select or input a name, the selected or input name is stored as the group identification information.
The group identification information is used to identify whether or not there is a competitive relationship between players. The presence or absence of a competitive relationship defines the relationship in a multiplayer game.

Players with the same group identification information belong to the same group, that is, they are in a cooperative relationship in the multiplayer game. Play by players in a cooperative relationship is an example of cooperative play.
On the other hand, players with different group identification information belong to different groups, which means that they are in a competitive relationship in the multiplayer game.

The viewing user information 122 is information on viewing users who view the play screen. In the example of FIG.
The viewing user information 122 includes, for example, a user ID (account) identifying the viewing user, an IP address of the information terminal 20, an ID identifying the play screen being viewed (ID linked to the player's account), a user ID (account) identifying the player linked to the play screen being viewed, viewing time of the play screen being viewed, an ID identifying the play screen being viewed before switching to the play screen being viewed, information identifying an event that was progressing on the play screen before switching to the play screen being viewed, the content and posting time of the message or tip comment, reward for posting the message or tip comment, whether or not comments can be posted, and specific players who are permitted to post comments.

The contents of the tip comment include information on the consumption amount (face value), and a user ID and IP address that identify the payment destination of the specified value.
Rewards for posting include, for example, option rights to increase the offensive and defensive powers of the character card C1 owned by the viewing user, option rights that can be used as a player when playing other games, and items and character cards C1 that can be used in other games.

The user ID and the like stored as the player information 121 and the viewing user information 122 are linked to data relating to instructions and operations received from the information terminal 20 of the player or the viewing user, for example.
Alternatively, the user ID etc. is identified based on the IP address etc. of the information terminal 20 which is the source of the instruction or operation to the server 10 , and is stored in the player information 121 or the viewing user information 122 .

The spatial layout information 123 is information related to the layout of the game space 100. The spatial layout information 123 is so-called map information. The spatial layout information 123 identifies the layout of the game space 100, for example, as illustrated in Fig. 3, and makes it possible to identify the position of the avatar object 103.
The spot information 124 is information such as the positions of the spots 102 arranged in the game space 100, the types and numbers of the color cards C2 to C6 linked to each spot 102, the number of attack cards C7 linked to each spot 102, and the presence or absence of a bottom card C8 linked to the spot 102. Note that, in the case where the color cards C2 to C6 and the attack cards C7 linked to each spot 102 are replenished indefinitely every time they are distributed to the avatar object 103, the spot information 124 does not need to include the types and numbers of the color cards C2 to C6 and the number of the attack cards C7.

The exchange timing information 125 is information that indicates the exchange timing that is executed periodically. Specifically, it is the count value of a counter that counts down from 30 seconds to 0 seconds. The timing specified by the exchange timing information 125 is common to all players. In other words, the same timing is applied regardless of where the player's avatar object 103 is located within the game space 100. The counter that gives the count value of the exchange timing information 125 starts at the same time as the game begins. Furthermore, when the counter's count value reaches 0, it is reset to 30 and starts counting down. This operation is executed repeatedly until the end of the game.

The media object distribution rules 126 define the rules for providing a media object to the avatar object 103 in the spot 102 .
The rules include preconditions for distribution, such as a requirement that the avatar object 103 overlaps with the spot 102 for a certain period of time or more.
The rules also include a rule for randomly selecting one of the medium objects to be assigned to the avatar object 103 that satisfies the prerequisites, specifically, the color cards C2 to C6, the attack card C7, and, if present, the bottom card C8.
This rule also includes, as an exception to distribution, a case in which the player to be awarded has five medium objects in his/her hand 205 .

The battle event operation rules 127 prescribe operation rules relating to the battle event.
One of the operating rules is a rule regarding a player who is requested to execute a battle event by a player who holds an attack card C7.
In the case of this embodiment, it is stipulated that the avatar object 103 of the player requesting the execution of a battle event and the avatar object 103 of the player being requested to execute a battle event are in the same area 101. Therefore, it is not possible to request the execution of a battle event to be made to an avatar object 103 of a player that is in an area 101 different from the area 101 in which the avatar object 103 of the player requesting the execution of a battle event is located.
Of course, it may also be possible to request an avatar object 103 in a different area 101 to execute a battle event.

Another operating rule is a rule for when a request to execute a battle event is received from another player.
According to these rules, when a player is requested to participate in a battle event and holds an attack card C7, the player can choose between participating in the battle event by consuming the attack card C7 that he or she holds, or becoming the loser of the battle event by not consuming the attack card C7 that he or she holds.
It is described that if a player who is requested to execute a battle event does not have the attack card C7, the player will automatically become the loser of the battle event.

Another of the operational rules is a rule for determining the outcome of a battle event. This rule states that the outcome is determined by the attack power of the character card C1 placed in each player's hand area 205. Specifically, the player with the greater attack power is the winner, and the player with the lesser attack power is the loser. This rule also describes how to handle cases where the attack powers are the same. For example, it could be a draw, the player who made the request would be the winner, or the player who was requested would be the winner. Which rule is adopted is determined for each game.

Another rule is a rule regarding the transfer of color objects from the loser to the winner. This rule specifies that one randomly selected card from the color cards held by the loser is transferred to the winner. In other words, neither the winner nor the loser is involved in the selection of the color card to be transferred.
The exceptions to movement are when the loser has no color cards, or when the winner's hand already reaches the maximum number of cards.

In these cases, even if the outcome of the battle event is decided, the movement of color cards is not executed.
However, if a color card of the same color as the color card selected by the loser is present in the winner's hand area 205, the color card may be allowed to be moved and an opportunity may be provided for points to be awarded.
Furthermore, when the movement of the color card cannot be executed due to the application of the exception rule, the consumed attack card C7 may be returned to the avatar object 103 of each player.
At this time, only the winner may return the attack card C7, because it would be a great disadvantage for the winner if the attack card C7 was consumed and the winner could not obtain a color card.

However, if the winning side is the side that requested the execution of the battle event and the player who requested the execution of the battle event did not have a color card, a rule may be possible in which the attack card C7 is not returned as a penalty.
Also, if at the time when a request for execution of a battle event is made, either the requester or the requested party does not hold a color card in the hand area 205, the request for execution of the battle event may be invalidated and the battle event may not be started. In this case, the attack card C7 is not consumed.

The voting rules 128 define the rules for an outgame in which the player who holds the lowest card C8 until the end of the game is selected.
The rules stipulate that all players are given one vote, that they must vote for the other player they think is holding the last card within the time limit, that players who do not vote within the time limit will be treated as having not voted, that the vote of a player who holds the last card C8 until the end will be invalid, that players who answer correctly will be given a special reward in addition to the reward based on their ranking, and that if no one answers correctly, the player who held the last card until the end will be ranked first.

The final ranking decision rule 129 stipulates that, in principle, the ranking of players is decided in descending order of scores at the end of the game, and if no one votes correctly, the player holding the lowest card C8 will be ranked first regardless of the score, and second place and below will be decided in descending order of scores.

<Processing Executed in Functional Unit>
The specific processing contents executed by the character card reception unit 111, the battle event execution control unit 112, the attack card consumption control unit 113, the correspondence display control unit 114, and the color card movement control unit 115 will be described below.
In addition, the premise for these functions is a multiplayer game, hereafter referred to as "game."
In the following description, the avatar object requesting the execution of a battle event will be referred to as avatar object 103A operated by player A, and the avatar object being requested to execute a battle event will be referred to as avatar object 103B operated by player B.

<Character card reception desk>
The character card reception unit 111 is a functional unit that receives the selection of the character card C1 to be used by the player in the game before the start of the game. The character card reception unit 111 is executed during the period from when the players who will participate in the game are determined to when the game starts. However, the game does not start until all the players have selected the character card C1 to be used in the game.
The character card receiving unit 111 here is an example of a receiving unit.

<Battle Event Execution Control Unit>
The battle event execution control unit 112 here is an example of a control unit that controls the execution of a battle event.

<Sub-function 1>
When a player (e.g., player A) does not hold an attack card C7 that can be obtained in the game, the battle event execution control unit 112 controls so that a battle event using the attack power (an example of a parameter) of the character card C1 cannot be executed against an avatar object 103 (second object) other than the avatar object 103A (first object) operated by the player (e.g., player A) who does not hold the attack card C7, and when a player (e.g., player A) holds the attack card C7, the battle event execution control unit 112 controls so that a battle event can be executed against an avatar object 103 other than the avatar object 103A operated by the player (e.g., player A) who holds the attack card C7.

10 is a diagram for explaining an example of functions of the battle event execution control unit 112. (A) shows how a request to execute a battle event is handled when player A corresponding to the alternate object 103A does not hold an attack card, and (B) shows how a request to execute a battle event is handled when player A corresponding to the alternate object 103A holds an attack card. In FIG. 10, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in FIG. 4.
As shown in FIG. 10, whether or not a battle event will be executed depends on whether player A, corresponding to the avatar object 103A that is the requestor, holds an attack card C7, and is unrelated to whether player B, corresponding to the avatar object 103B that is the recipient of the request, holds an attack card C7.
It should be noted that a request for a battle event is premised on player A instructing the hand placement area 205 to consume the attack card C7.

<Sub-function 2>
The battle event execution control unit 112 has a sub-function of permitting a request to execute a battle event for a second object (e.g., avatar object 103B corresponding to player B) that is in the same area 101 as the first object (e.g., avatar object 103A corresponding to player A) among a plurality of areas 101 in which the first object can move, and not permitting a request to execute an event for a second object (e.g., avatar object 103C corresponding to player C) that is in a different area 101 from the first object among a plurality of areas 101 in which the first object can move.

Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of functions of the battle event execution control unit 112. In Fig. 11, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the case of FIG. 11, both the avatar object 103A of player A and the avatar object 103B of player B are located in the area 101A.
Therefore, when the battle event execution control unit 112 accepts consumption of an attack card C7 from player A, it allows a request to execute a battle event against the alternate body object 103B located in the same area 101A as the alternate body object 103A. On the other hand, the battle event execution control unit 112 does not allow a request to execute a battle event against the alternate body object 103C located in an area 101C different from that of the alternate body object 103A.

When three or more avatar objects 103 exist within the area 101A, the avatar object 103 to be the request destination is determined according to a predetermined rule.
One of the predetermined rules is a rule that determines the avatar object 103 designated by the player as the request destination. In this case, the player can proactively select the destination of the battle event request.
Another of the predetermined rules is a rule that determines the request destination based on the distance in the game space 100 from the requesting avatar object 103 (hereinafter referred to as "distance"). For example, this rule may determine that the avatar object 103 that is the shortest distance from the requesting avatar object 103 is the request destination, or that the avatar object 103 that is the longest distance from the requesting avatar object 103 is the request destination. Which distance is to be used may be determined by the game side, or may be determined in advance by the player. In this case, the request destination for the battle event is automatically determined.

Another possible predefined rule is to determine the destination of a request based on the progress of the requesting player's play or the color of the color card placed in the hand area 205.
The progress of the play here can be specified, for example, by the size of the acquired score or the provisional rank. For example, it is possible to determine the avatar object 103 of a player who has a higher score or provisional rank than the player himself as the request destination, or it is also possible to determine the avatar object 103 of a player who has a lower score or provisional rank than the player himself as the request destination.
Also, it is possible to determine as the request recipient a player who is likely to have color cards of the same color if he or she wins the battle event.

As another predetermined rule, it is also possible to determine as the request destination the avatar object 103 of a player who has placed in the hand area 205 a character card C1 whose attack power is lower than that of the character card C1 placed in the hand area 205 by the requesting player. In this case, the requesting player always wins the battle event, and therefore can always obtain one color card from the requesting player.
When this rule is adopted, each player will proactively request a battle event against other avatar objects 103 that exist in the same area 101 as the avatar object 103 that the player is controlling.
However, when a battle event is requested, it may happen that the attack power of the character card C1 held by a player corresponding to another avatar object 103 is higher than the attack power of the character card C1 held by the requesting player. In this case, the player who requested the battle event will always be the loser.

<Attack card consumption control section>
The attack card consumption control unit 113 is a functional unit that, when a avatar object 103A (first object) operated by player A requests the avatar object 103B (second object) operated by player B to execute a battle event, consumes an attack card C7 held by player A, who is operating the avatar object 103A that made the request.
The attack card consumption control unit 113 here is an example of a consumption control unit.

12 is a diagram for explaining the consumption of an attack card C7 accompanying a request to execute a battle event. (A) is a play screen 200A before a request to execute a battle event is made, and (B) is a play screen 200A after a request to execute a battle event is made. In FIG. 12, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
On a play screen 200A (see FIG. 12A ) before a request to execute a battle event is made, player A, who is the requester of the battle event, is holding an attack card C7 in the hand area 205. When player A taps the attack card C7 on this play screen 200A, a request to execute a battle event that consumes the attack card C7 is uploaded from the information terminal 20A to the server 10.

As a result, after the execution of the battle event is requested, the attack card C7 disappears from the hand placement area 205 on the play screen 200A (see FIG. 12(B)). The disappearance of the attack card C7 means that the attack card C7 has been consumed.
The attack card C7 may disappear from the play screen 200A when the outcome of the battle event is decided.

<Corresponding display control unit>
The correspondence display control unit 114 here is an example of a correspondence control unit that controls the content to be displayed on the play screen 200 of a player who has been requested to execute a battle event.

<Sub-function 1>
The response display control unit 114 has a sub-function 1 that, when another player B, who is operating the avatar object 103B (second object) for which a battle event has been requested to be executed, is holding an attack card C7, displays on the play screen 200B a selectable response to the request to execute a battle event targeting the avatar object 103B.
13 is a diagram for explaining a display example of the play screen 200B in a case where player B of the avatar object 103, who has been requested to execute a battle event, is holding an attack card C7. In Fig. 13, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in Fig. 5.

In the hand placement area 205 of the play screen 200B shown in FIG. 13, a character card C1, a red color card C2, and an attack card C7 are arranged.
Therefore, a dialogue box 211 pops up in the center of the play screen 200B, notifying the player that a battle event has been requested by another player A and asking the player to select a response.
The dialog box 211 here is an example of a sub-screen that displays selectable responses to a request to execute a battle event.

A dialog box 211 shown in FIG. 13 is composed of a notification 211A, corresponding buttons 211B and 211C, and a remaining time display 211D until a selection can be made.
13, the notification 211A states "A request for a battle event has been received," and indicates that the requester is A. However, the notification 211A may simply indicate the fact that the person has become the opponent in the battle event, such as "A request for a battle event has been received."
In the case of Fig. 13, the corresponding button 211B is labeled "Accept," and the corresponding button 211C is labeled "Do not respond." Note that the label notation shown in Fig. 13 is an example. By operating the corresponding button 211B or the corresponding button 211C, the player can select his/her own response to a request to execute a corresponding event.

When the corresponding button 211B is operated, the outcome is determined by comparing the offensive power of the character card C1.
On the other hand, if the corresponding button 211C is operated, the player who operated the corresponding button 211C is determined to be the loser of the battle event, but the attack card C7 in hand is not consumed.
The remaining time until selection display 211D displays, for example, a count value that is counted down from an initial value. In the case of this embodiment, the initial value is 3 seconds. In the case of FIG. 13, "2 seconds" is displayed as the count value.

If neither the corresponding button 211B nor the corresponding button 211C is operated before the count value of the remaining time until selection display 211D reaches 0 seconds, the content of the response is determined based on a predetermined rule.
For example, a player may decide to "accept" or "not respond" to a request to execute a battle event. Which option to choose is determined before the game starts. Which option to choose may be presented as a game rule, or the player may register in advance which option he or she desires.

<Sub-function 2>
The response display control unit 114 has a sub-function 2 of not displaying a response to a request to execute an event targeting the avatar object 103B on the play screen 200B when another player B operating the avatar object 103B (second object) for which a battle event is requested to be executed does not hold an attack card C7.
14 is a diagram for explaining a display example of the play screen 200B in a case where player B of the avatar object 103 for which execution of a battle event has been requested does not have an attack card. In FIG. 14, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in FIG. 13.

In the hand placement area 205 of the play screen 200B shown in FIG. 14, the character card C1 and the red color card C2 are placed, but the attack card C7 is not placed.
Therefore, a dialogue box 212 pops up in the center of the play screen 200B to inform the player that a battle event has been requested by the other player A and that the player A will be the loser.
The dialog box 212 shown in FIG. 14 is made up of a notification 211A notifying the player that a request to execute a battle event has been made, and a notification 211E notifying the player that the player will lose the battle event.

The notification message 211A shown in Fig. 14 is the same as the notification message 211A in Fig. 13. However, it is also possible to adopt a different message. For example, it may be "A battle event will be held" or "The execution of a battle event has been requested."
The dialog box 212 shown in FIG. 14 is a sub-screen for notifying the player that he or she will be the loser as a result of the execution of the battle event, and therefore does not display the corresponding buttons 211B and 211C.
This is because the attack card C7 is not held in the hand area 205. Therefore, Player B is not given the opportunity to choose whether or not to consume his/her own attack card C7.
In the case of Fig. 14, the notification 211E states "Since you do not have an attack card, you have lost." Of course, this notification is just an example.

<Color card movement control unit>
The color card movement control unit 115 here is an example of a medium movement control unit. The color card movement control unit 115 is a functional unit that controls the movement of color cards from the loser side to the winner side determined by the execution of a battle event.
In this embodiment, the color card movement control unit 115 is provided with three sub-functions according to whether or not player B, who is controlling the avatar object 103B for which a battle event has been requested to be executed, holds an attack card C7 and the response to be taken if player B holds an attack card C7.

<Sub-function 1>
The color card movement control unit 115 has a sub-function 1 that moves at least one color card held by the losing (i.e., loser) side of a battle event executed between the avatar object 103A (first object) requesting the execution of a battle event and the avatar object 103B (second object) requested to execute a battle event to the winning (i.e., winner) side when another player B, who is operating the avatar object 103B (second object) that has been requested to execute a battle event, selects to consume an attack card C7.

<Sub-function 2>
The game device has a sub-function 2 that transfers at least one color card held by the other player B to the player A who is operating the avatar object 103A (first object) requesting the execution of the battle event, when the other player B who is operating the avatar object 103B (second object) who is requested to execute the battle event does not select to consume the attack card C7.

<Subfunction 3>
The game device has a sub-function 3 that, when another player B who is operating the avatar object 103B (second object) that has received a request to execute a battle event does not hold an attack card C7, moves at least one color card held by the other player B to player A who is operating the avatar object 103A (first object) that is requesting the execution of the battle event.

<Processing Operation>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the processing operation executed by the color card movement control unit 115.
Processor 11 (see FIG. 1), which has started the game, determines whether or not a request to execute a battle event has been accepted (step 11).
While execution of a battle event is not requested (i.e., while no player has instructed the consumption of the attack card C7), a negative result is obtained in step 11. In this case, processor 11 repeats the determination of step 11.
If a request to execute a battle event has been accepted (i.e., if a player who has instructed to consume the attack card C7 has appeared), a positive result is obtained in step 11 .

In this case, processor 11 determines whether or not the player requested to execute the battle event holds attack card C7 (step 12).
If the requesting player does not hold the attack card C7, a negative result is obtained in step 12. In this case, processor 11 moves one of the color cards held by the requesting player to the requesting player (step 13). This processing operation corresponds to sub-function 3 described above.
On the other hand, if the requested player holds attack card C7, a positive result is obtained in step 12. In this case, processor 11 determines whether or not the player to whom the battle event has been requested has selected a response (step 14).

If the requested player selects the response, a negative result is obtained in step 14. In this case, processor 11 proceeds to step 13. This processing operation corresponds to sub-function 2 described above.
On the other hand, if the requested player does not select a response, a positive result is obtained in step 14. In this case, processor 11 moves one of the color cards held by the losing player to the winning player (step 15). This processing operation corresponds to sub-function 1 described above.
When step 13 or step 15 is executed, processor 11 ends the started series of processes and prepares to receive a request to execute the next battle event.

<Effects Obtained in the First Embodiment>
According to the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, two cards are required to execute a battle event in a multiplayer game: an attack card C7 used to request a battle event and select a response, and a character card C1 used to determine the outcome of the battle event. This makes it possible to enhance the strategic nature of the play, compared to a case where a battle event is executed using only the character card C1, for example.
The attack card C7 is used not only to request the execution of a battle event, but also to select a response to the request, which allows each player to have a higher level of strategy compared to a battle event that is automatically executed using only the character card C1.

<Embodiment 2>
In this embodiment, a new function provided in the server 10 will be described on the basis of the information processing system 1 (see FIG. 1) described in the first embodiment.
Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the server 10 used in the second embodiment. In Fig. 16, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in Fig. 9.
As shown in FIG. 16, in this embodiment, an attack card number display control unit 116 is added.
The attack card number display control unit 116 used in this embodiment is a functional unit that displays the total number of attack cards C7 present in an area 101 on an area 101 basis when the game space 100 is composed of at least one area 101.

17 is a diagram for explaining a display example of the play screen 200A when the function for displaying the number of attack cards C7 by area is active. In FIG. 17, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
FIG. 17 shows a play screen 200A of player A who is holding an attack card C7, and an enlarged view of the space map 213 displayed on the play screen 200A.
17, the space map 213 is displayed near the upper right of the play screen 200A, but the display position may be arbitrary. For example, the space map 213 may be displayed near the lower right or on the left side of the play screen 200A.

In addition, the space map 213 may be automatically displayed as a pop-up on the play screen 200 of the corresponding player while the player is holding the attack card C7, or may be displayed on the play screen 200 on the condition that the player instructs the display of the space map 213 via a button not shown.
When the space map 213 is displayed by a command from the player, the space map 213 may be displayed in a relatively large area (e.g., about half the area of the play screen 200) near the center of the screen for several seconds (e.g., 2 seconds). Since the display size of the space map 213 is increased, it becomes easier to check the number of attack cards C7 present in each area.

Moreover, the display of the space map 213 may be limited to a case where a predetermined value has been consumed. A player who has consumed the predetermined value has an advantage over other players due to the display of the space map 213.
In addition, the display of the spatial map 213 may be limited to players whose scores are less than a predetermined value, and not displayed to players whose scores are greater than the predetermined value. By employing this control method, players with smaller scores can be given an advantage over players with larger scores.

The display of the spatial map 213 may be limited to players with a low playing record (e.g., few plays, low attack power of the character card C1), and not displayed for players with a high playing record (e.g., many plays, high attack power of the character card C1). By adopting this control method, relatively weaker players can be given an advantage over relatively strong players. Note that the evaluation of playing records may be an absolute evaluation using a threshold value, or a relative evaluation between players.

The spatial map 213 may also be displayed on the play screen 200 of a player who does not have the attack card C7. Even in the case of a player who does not have the attack card C7, the spatial map 213 may be displayed as a pop-up on the play screen 200 only when the player issues a command to display the map using a button (not shown).
In the case of FIG. 17, it is shown that there are two attack cards C7 in area 101A, zero attack cards C7 in area 101B, and one attack card C7 in area 101C.

For example, if an avatar object 103A operated by player A and an avatar object 103B operated by another player B are located in area 101A, player A can know in advance from the display of space map 213 that player B, who will be his opponent when he requests the execution of a battle event, is holding attack card C7. When a battle event is executed, the outcome is determined by the level of attack power of character card C1, so the outcome is not known until the battle event is executed. This allows player A to avoid executing a battle event with player B in advance.

On the other hand, since it is clear that there is no player holding attack card C7 in area 101B, it is possible to predict that if the player moves to area 101B and requests the execution of a battle event, he or she will definitely be the winner.
In the case of the space map 213 shown in FIG. 17, the current position of the player may be shown on the space map 213, although it is not shown in the area 101A where the avatar object 103 of player A is located.
Incidentally, the contents of the space map 213 displayed on the play screen 200A are also displayed on the play screens 200 of all viewing users who have Player A as the viewing destination.

18 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the play screen 200A when the function for displaying the number of attack cards C7 by area is enabled. In FIG. 18, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 17 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
18, the area 101A in which the avatar object 103A of player A is located is displayed in color on the space map 213 of the play screen 200A viewed by player A. This makes it easier for player A to determine whether or not to request the execution of a battle event to player B.

19 is a diagram for explaining another display example of the play screen 200A when the function for displaying the number of attack cards C7 by area is active. In FIG. 19, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 17 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the case of the space map 213 shown in FIG. 19, the avatar objects 103 in each area 101 are also displayed.
For example, an avatar object 103A and an avatar object 103B are displayed in the area 101A. Meanwhile, the number of attack cards C7 in the area 101A is two. Since player A holds only one attack card C7, player A can know that player B also holds one attack card C7.

An avatar object 103D is displayed in area 101B. However, the number of attack cards C7 present in area 101B is 0. This indicates that player D does not have any attack cards C7.
An avatar object 103C is displayed in the area 101C. Also, the number of attack cards C7 present in the area 101C is one. This shows that the player C is holding the attack card C7.
The number of avatar objects 103 in each area may be displayed numerically.

<Effects Obtained in the Second Embodiment>
In the case of the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, the total number of attack cards C7 is displayed for each area 101, which can help a player who holds an attack card C7 to decide whether or not to request the execution of a battle event. Specifically, it becomes easier to predict whether or not another player who will be the opponent holds an attack card C7. As a result, it is possible to improve the strategic nature of play that utilizes a battle event.

<Third embodiment>
In this embodiment as well, on the premise of the information processing system 1 (see FIG. 1) described in the first embodiment, other display functions of the attack card number display control unit 116 described above will be described.

<Sub-function 1>
In this embodiment, the attack card number display control unit 116 is added with a sub-function 1 that, when a viewing user (e.g., viewing user X) viewing the play screen 200A of player A who is controlling an avatar object 103A (first object) requesting the execution of a battle event satisfies a predetermined condition, displays on the play screen 200X of viewing user X the number of attack cards C7 held by the avatar object 103B (second object) which is the opponent in the battle event and is located within at least one area 101, in an identifiable manner on a avatar object 103 basis, for a period of time according to the predetermined condition.

It should be noted that the "viewing user X" here is an example of a first viewing user.
In addition, the "prescribed conditions" here include, for example, posting a tip comment to the player watching, giving a prescribed value to the player watching, giving a gift purchased by consuming a prescribed value to the player, and paying a prescribed value to the operator providing the game venue.
The "time according to a predetermined condition" is determined, for example, by the magnitude of the predetermined value. For example, the display time when the consumed predetermined value is 500 points is 15 seconds, when the consumed predetermined value is 1000 points is 30 seconds, and when the consumed predetermined value is 2000 points is 45 seconds.
Basically, the time for which the spatial map 213 is displayed is lengthened in proportion to the amount of the consumed predetermined value.

In this embodiment, the space map 213 is not displayed on the play screen 200 viewed by the player, but the space map 213 is displayed on the play screen 200 viewed by the viewing user, provided that certain conditions are met.
20 is a diagram illustrating the difference between a play screen 200A viewed by player A and a play screen 200X viewed by viewing user X. (A) is the play screen 200A displayed on the information terminal 20A of player A, who is the viewing destination of viewing user X, and (B) is the play screen 200X displayed on the information terminal 20X of viewing user X. In FIG. 20, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the present embodiment, the space map 213A is not displayed on the play screen 200A viewed by the player A, but the space map 213A is displayed on the play screen 200X viewed by the viewing user X.
The viewing user X can inform the player, who is the viewing destination, of the information read from the displayed spatial map 213A by posting a comment.
In other words, a viewing user X who satisfies a predetermined condition can support the play of the player he or she is viewing by posting a comment.
It should be noted that the spatial map 213A here is different from the above-mentioned spatial map 213 (see FIGS. 17 to 19).

Fig. 21 is a diagram for explaining a display example of a space map 213A used in embodiment 3. In Fig. 21, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 19 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the case of the spatial map 213 shown in Figure 19 described above, the number of attack cards C7 was displayed per area 101, but in the case of the spatial map 213A shown in Figure 21, the number of attack cards C7 is displayed per avatar object 103.
For example, in the case of Figure 21, the speech bubble 214 corresponding to the clone object 103A displays a "1", the speech bubble 214 corresponding to the clone object 103B displays a "1", the speech bubble 214 corresponding to the clone object 103C displays a "1", and the speech bubble 214 corresponding to the clone object 103D displays a "0".
This allows the viewing user X to distinguish on the screen whether or not each avatar object 103 is holding the attack card C7.

<Sub-function 2>
In the above-mentioned sub-function 1, when viewing users who satisfy specified conditions appear at approximately the same time (when the periods during which the spatial map 213A is displayed for each viewing user overlap), the spatial map 213A is displayed on the play screen 200 corresponding to each viewing user.
In this case, multiple viewing users can, at their own discretion, notify the player at the viewing location of the information they have acquired through spatial map 213A by posting a comment.
However, in the case of this sub-function 1, the more the display times of the spatial map 213A viewed by a plurality of viewing users overlap, the more wasteful the predetermined value that is consumed.

For example, even if viewing user X and viewing user Y each consume 500 points as a predetermined value, if there is no overlap in the display time of spatial map 213A, the player can receive support from the viewing users for a total of 30 seconds, but if the display time of spatial map 213A completely overlaps, the player can only receive support from the viewing users for 15 seconds.
It should be noted that the less the overlap in the display time of the spatial map 213A, the longer the time during which the player can receive support from the viewing users. However, the overlapping time still results in waste in the consumption of the predetermined value.

Moreover, overlapping display times of the spatial map 213A means that a plurality of consecutive display times constitute one time period.
However, from the player's perspective, there may be times when the player desires support from the viewing user at a time when support is necessary (for example, when there are multiple other avatar objects around the avatar object 103 corresponding to the player).

Therefore, the attack card number display control unit 116 is added with a sub-function 2 that, when a viewing user Y (second viewing user) who has the same viewing destination as viewing user X (first viewing user) satisfies a predetermined condition while the number of attack cards C7 attributed to viewing user X (first viewing user) is being displayed, temporarily suspends the display of the number of attack cards C7 attributed to viewing user Y, and executes the display of the number of attack cards C7 at any timing instructed by player A who is operating the avatar object 103A corresponding to the viewing destination.

22 is a diagram for explaining the timing of displaying the spatial map 213A based on the subfunction 2 of the embodiment 3. The vertical axis is the time axis.
FIG. 22 shows a time axis corresponding to viewing user X who is a viewing destination of player A, a time axis corresponding to viewing user Y who is a viewing destination of player A, and the time axis of player A.
In the case of Fig. 22, a viewing user X posts a tipping comment at time T1. Since the posting of the tipping comment satisfies a predetermined condition, the display of the space map 213A starts at the same time as time T1. In the case of Fig. 22, the predetermined value consumed as the tipping comment is 500 points. Therefore, the space map 213A is displayed for 15 seconds.

On the other hand, the viewing user Y posts a tipping comment at time T2. Here, time T2 is included in the period during which the space map 213A is displayed on the information terminal 20X of the viewing user X. Therefore, if the display of the space map 213A starts at the same time as time T2, an overlap in display time occurs as shown in FIG.
However, in the case of sub-function 2 of this embodiment, the display of the space map 213A to the viewing user Y is suspended until an instruction is given by the player A (i.e., time T3).
This allows player A to be involved in the display of the spatial map 213A on the information terminal 20Y of viewing user Y.

23 is a diagram illustrating the difference between a play screen 200A viewed by player A and a play screen 200Y viewed by viewing user Y by execution of sub-function 2 in embodiment 3. (A) is the play screen 200A displayed on the information terminal 20A of player A, who is the viewing destination of viewing user Y, and (B) is the play screen 200Y displayed on the information terminal 20Y of viewing user Y. In FIG. 23, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
As shown in FIG. 23(A), a hold dialog box 215 is displayed on the play screen 200A of player A.
The pending dialog box 215 is made up of an explanatory text 215A that informs the player A of the existence of a pending event, and an execute button 215B.

In the case of FIG. 23A, the explanation 215A reads "There is a pending event. Do you want to execute it?".
It should be noted that a "pending event" refers to a display event on the space map 213A.
The execute button 215B is labeled “Yes.” When the player A taps the execute button 215B, the server 10 detects the tap and displays the space map 213A (see FIG. 21 ) on the information terminal 20Y of the viewing user Y.
In this way, the pending dialog box 215 is popped up on the play screen 200A viewed by Player A, thereby enabling Player A to notice that the display event of the spatial map 213A has been suspended due to the posting of a tip comment by the viewing user.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 23(B), a hold dialog box 216 is displayed on the play screen 200Y of viewing user Y.
The viewing user Y who posted the tipping comment expects the spatial map 213A to be displayed on the play screen 200Y, but the display of the spatial map 213A is controlled to be in a suspended state depending on the timing when the other viewing user X posted the tipping comment.
Therefore, a hold dialogue box 216 shown in FIG. 23(B) is displayed on the play screen 200Y to inform the viewing user Y of the reason why the space map 213A is not displayed.
In the case of FIG. 23B, the pending dialog box 216 displays "Display of space map pending."

<Effects Obtained in the Third Embodiment>
According to the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, a space map 213A indicating the number of attack cards C7 held by each alter ego object 103 can be displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies a predetermined condition. In the case of this embodiment, by satisfying a predetermined condition, the viewing user can support the player he or she is watching.
Furthermore, in the case of this embodiment, if there is an overlap in the display times of spatial map 213A by viewing users who satisfy specified conditions, the player can specify the timing of displaying spatial map 213A to the subsequent viewing user after the specified time has been satisfied, so that the player can receive information support from the viewing user at the timing that he or she desires.

<Fourth embodiment>
In this embodiment as well, new functions provided in the server 10 will be described on the basis of the information processing system 1 (see FIG. 1) described in the first embodiment.
Fig. 24 is a diagram for explaining an example of the functional configuration of the server 10 used in the fourth embodiment. In Fig. 24, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in Fig. 9.
As shown in FIG. 24, in this embodiment, a billiard movement control unit 117 is added.

<Sub-function 1>
The bottom card movement control unit 117 used in this embodiment has a sub-function 1 that, when a rule is established in the game that the player operating the avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103A) holding the bottom card C8 at a predetermined time (here, the end of the game) is the loser, when the avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103A) operated by the player corresponding to the play screen 200 being viewed by a viewing user who meets a second predetermined condition is holding the bottom card C8, identifiably displays the area 101 in which another avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103C) weaker than the corresponding avatar object 103 is located.

The second specified condition here is, for example, posting a tip comment to the player watching, giving a specified value to the player watching, giving a gift purchased by consuming a specified value to the player, and paying a specified value to the operator providing the game venue.
However, the second predetermined condition may be the same as or different from the "predetermined condition" described in the third embodiment.
Even if the second specified condition is the same as the "specified condition" described in embodiment 3, if the player being watched does not hold the billiard card C8, it can be considered as displaying the spatial map 213A.

On the other hand, if the viewing player is holding the bottom card C8, it is not possible to determine whether the viewing user wishes to display the spatial map 213A described in embodiment 3, or to display another avatar object 103 that is weaker than the avatar object 103 of the player corresponding to the viewing player. Therefore, the bottom card movement control unit 117 is provided with a screen for confirming the viewing user's wishes.

In the case of this embodiment, the strength of the alter ego object 103 is judged using, for example, the attack power and score of the character card C1 placed in the hand card area 205 by each player.
As described above, the magnitude of the attack power of the character card C1 is a parameter that determines the outcome of a battle event. As described above, the player with the greater attack power becomes the winner and obtains one of the color cards held by the loser, so the magnitude relationship of the attack powers is an index for evaluating the strength of players in the game.
The size of the score is a parameter that indicates the total number of points that each player has acquired after the start of the game. Since a player with a relatively high score is closer to the end of the game than a player with a relatively low score, the relationship between the scores serves as an index for evaluating the strength of players in the game.

25 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a space map 217 that displays, in an identifiable manner, the positions in the area 101 in which there are avatar objects 103 that are weaker than the avatar object 103A of the player A who is the viewing target, as determined by the player card movement control unit 117. In FIG. 25, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
25, viewing user X is viewing player A. Therefore, on the information terminal 20X of viewing user X, the play screen 200A being viewed by player A is displayed as the play screen 200X.

It should be noted that the space map 217 is displayed on the play screen 200X of the viewing user X. For reference, the space map 217 is not displayed on the play screen 200A of the player A, who is the viewing destination of the viewing user X.
In the case of FIG. 25, the areas 101B and 101C are colored, but the area 101A is not colored.
This display allows the viewing user X to know that there are avatar objects 103 in areas 101B and 101C that the viewing player can defeat in the battle event.
As a result, the viewing user X can inform the viewing player A of information about the areas 101 in which the player A can win in the battle event by posting a comment to the viewing player A.

Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating another example of the display of the spatial map 217A, which displays in an identifiable manner the position in the area 101 where there is an avatar object 103 that is weaker than the avatar object 103A of player A who is being viewed by the player card movement control unit 117.
In FIG. 26, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
The spatial map 217A shown in Fig. 26 depicts the avatar objects 103. Note that in Fig. 26, avatar objects 103 weaker than the avatar objects 103 operated by the viewing player are explicitly displayed, and avatar objects 103 stronger than the avatar objects 103 operated by the viewing player are indicated by dashed lines.

In the case of the spatial map 217A shown in FIG. 26, the viewing user X can obtain not only information about the area 101 in which there are avatar objects 103 that are weaker than the avatar object 103 controlled by the player he is viewing, but also information about their specific locations and number of people.
As a result, the viewing user X can provide more specific information about the area 101 in which a win is possible in the battle event than the spatial map 217 by posting a comment to the player A, who is the person watching.

27 is a flowchart for explaining the process of selecting two types of space maps. The two types of space maps are the space maps 213 and 213A related to the attack card C7 and the space maps 217 and 217A related to the alter ego object 103.
After the game starts, the processor 11 determines whether or not a predetermined condition or a second predetermined condition is satisfied (step 21).
If none of the conditions are met, a negative result is obtained in step 21. In this case, the processor 11 repeats the determination in step 21.

If either condition is met, a positive result is obtained in step 21. In this case, the processor 11 determines whether the predetermined condition and the second predetermined condition are different (step 22).
If the predetermined condition and the second predetermined condition are the same, a negative result is obtained in step 22. In this case, the processor 11 determines whether or not there is an instruction to display the spatial map 213 (213A) (step 23). A screen for selection is displayed on the information terminal 20 operated by the viewing user, and the selection result is received as an instruction from the information terminal 20 of the viewing user.

In the case of an instruction to display the space map 213 (213A), an affirmative result is obtained in step 23. In this case, the processor 11 displays the space map 213 (213A) on the play screen 200 of the viewing user (step 24).
On the other hand, if the instruction is to display the space map 217 (217A), a negative result is obtained in step 23. In this case, the processor 11 displays the space map 217 (217A) on the play screen 200 of the viewing user (step 25).

Meanwhile, if a positive result is obtained in the determination in step 22 (i.e., if the predetermined condition and the second predetermined condition differ), the processor 11 determines whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied (step 26).
If the predetermined condition is satisfied, an affirmative result is obtained in step 26. In this case, the processor 11 displays the space map 213 (213A) on the play screen 200 of the viewing user (step 24).
On the other hand, if the predetermined condition is not satisfied, a negative result is obtained in step 26. In this case, the processor 11 displays the space map 217 (217A) on the play screen 200 of the viewing user (step 25).
The processor 11 ends the series of processes by executing step 24 or 25.

<Sub-function 2>
In addition, the bottom card movement control unit 117 used in this embodiment has a sub-function 2 that, when an avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103A) operated by a player (e.g., player A) corresponding to the play screen 200 being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a second predetermined condition wins a battle event targeting another avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103C), moves the bottom card C8 to a player (e.g., player C) operating the other avatar object 103.

In other words, the bottom card movement control unit 117 has a sub-function 2 that, when the viewing user satisfies the second specified condition and the player executes a battle event and defeats the opponent, acquires a color card from the opponent and at the same time moves the bottom card C8 to the opponent.
In addition, if the player who is the viewing destination of the viewing user who satisfies the second predetermined condition does not hold the bottom card C8, the movement of the bottom card C8 is not executed.

28A and 28B are diagrams illustrating the movement of medium cards when a player watched by a viewing user who satisfies a second predetermined condition wins a battle event. (A) shows the movement of medium cards when the player who is the winner of the battle event holds the bottom card C8, and (B) shows the movement of medium cards when the player who is the winner of the battle event does not hold the bottom card C8.
It should be noted that the avatar object 103A in the drawing is the avatar object 103 operated by player A who is being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies the second predetermined condition.
Also, the alternate body object 103B in the figure is an alternate body object 103 that is weaker than the alternate body object 103A.

Therefore, the avatar object 103A, which requested a battle event based on the comments from the viewing user, wins against the avatar object 103B.
Now, in a game being played by player A etc., one of the color cards held by the loser of a battle event is transferred to the winner.
In addition, if the winner, Player A (i.e., avatar object 103A), is holding the bottom card C8, he or she can move the bottom card C8 to the loser, Player B (i.e., avatar object 103B), as shown in Figure 28 (A).
In addition, if the winner, player A (i.e., avatar object 103A), does not hold the bottom card C8, only one color card is transferred from player B (i.e., avatar object 103B) to player A (i.e., avatar object 103A), as shown in Figure 28 (B).

<Subfunction 3>
The bottom card movement control unit 117 used in this embodiment has a sub-function 3 that displays information about the area 101 in which an attack card C7 can be obtained on the play screen 200 being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a third specified condition, when the game has a rule that the player operating the avatar object 103 (e.g., avatar object 103A) who is holding the bottom card C8 at a specified time (here, the end of the game) is the loser.

The third specified condition here is, for example, posting a tip comment to the player watching, giving a specified value to the player watching, giving a gift purchased by consuming a specified value to the player, and paying a specified value to the operator providing the game venue.
However, the third predetermined condition may be the same as or different from the above-mentioned "predetermined condition" or "second predetermined condition."
In the game assumed in this embodiment, the attack card C7 is distributed at a spot 102 arranged in an area 101.
Therefore, in this embodiment, the billiards movement control unit 117 is provided with a sub-function 3 that displays information about the area 101 in which an attack card C7 can be obtained on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who meets a third specified condition.

29 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a space map 218 displayed on the play screen 200X of a viewing user X who satisfies the third predetermined condition. In FIG. 29, the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 26 are denoted by the same reference numerals.
In the spatial map 218 shown in FIG. 29, the spot 102 is the display target.
In the case of FIG. 29, the spot 102B to which the attack card C7 is dealt is displayed in color, and the spots 102A and 102C to which the attack card C7 is not dealt are displayed in dashed lines.

Therefore, the viewing user X can inform the viewing target player A of the area 101B in which the spot 102B where the attack card C7 can be obtained is located by posting a comment to the viewing target player A.
Furthermore, even if there are spots 102 within one area 101B where attack cards C7 are distributed and spots 102 where attack cards C7 are not distributed, in the case of the spatial map 218 shown in Figure 29, it is possible to identify whether or not attack cards C7 can be distributed on a spot 102 basis, thereby enabling efficient support for player A.

<Effects Obtained in the Fourth Embodiment>
According to the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, a space in which another avatar object weaker than the avatar object of the player being viewed is located can be displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies a second predetermined condition. This function enables the viewing user to support the player being viewed by satisfying the second predetermined condition.

In addition, according to the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, when a player watched by a viewing user who meets the second predetermined condition wins a battle event, it becomes possible to move the bottom card C8 held by that player to the player of the avatar object who lost. This function gives the player watched by a viewing user who meets the second predetermined condition an advantage over obtaining only the color card from the loser.

In addition, according to the control of the server 10 described in this embodiment, the space in which the spot 102 where the attack card C7 is distributed is located can be displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies a third predetermined condition. This function enables a viewing user to support the player they are watching by satisfying the third predetermined condition.

<Other embodiments>
The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, the elements of the embodiments can be appropriately combined.
(1) In the above-described embodiment, three types of medium objects were given as examples to be distributed within the game: "color cards,""attackcards," and "billicards." However, the objects may also be currency used within the game, items traded within the game, monsters and other characters, equipment or abilities equipped to avatar objects or character cards, or so-called playing cards with numbers and pictures drawn on them.

(2) In the above embodiment, points are awarded to the player when the color of one of the color cards C2 to C6 newly associated with the hand card area 205 matches the color of any one of the color cards C2 to C6 already placed in the hand card area 205 (i.e., when two cards match in color), but points may be awarded on the condition that three or more cards match in color.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the maximum number of medium objects C that can be placed in the hand area 205 is set to five, but the maximum number may be six or more, or the limit on the maximum number may be eliminated.

(4) In the above embodiment, when a location condition is satisfied, such as the avatar object 103 operated by the player being located at the spot 102 for a certain period of time or more, one medium object selected from among the medium objects C2 to C8 linked to the target spot 102 is associated with the player's hand area 205 corresponding to the avatar object 103. However, the number of medium objects C that can be granted or obtained at one time at the spot 102 may be two or more.

(5) In the above embodiment, when a location condition is satisfied, such as the avatar object 103 operated by the player being located at the spot 102 for a certain period of time or more, one selected from the medium objects C2 to C8 linked to the target spot 102 is associated with the player's hand area 205 corresponding to the avatar object 103. However, the number of medium objects C granted or obtainable at the spot 102 may be determined randomly each time. For example, it may be 0 or 2.

(6) In the above embodiment, points are awarded when the colors of color cards available in the game are matched, but a specified game effect may also be awarded as a bonus.
For example, an effect of increasing the attack power of the character card C1 brought into the hand may be imparted. The period during which the game effect is activated may be limited to, for example, 30 seconds.
For example, the probability that the medium object distributed to spot 102 will match the color of the cards in one's hand may be increased.
For example, the possibility of matching colors may be increased in the case of automatic exchange with another player.

(7) In the above embodiment, the Biri card C8 was given as an example of a specific object that gives a disadvantageous game effect to the player, but other types of medium objects may be used. For example, a medium object with various roles such as a joker in a card game may be used. In addition, the specific object may be a special color, number, etc.

(8) In the above embodiment, a game effect disadvantageous to a player is activated at the end of a game. However, the game effect may be activated during the game.
For example, a player who holds a specific object may be at a disadvantage in the random selection of medium objects at spot 102 for a certain period of time, may be skipped one or more times from the periodically executed automatic exchange, may be at a disadvantage in medium objects received from other players in the periodically executed automatic exchange, may have a slower in-game movement speed, or may be at a disadvantage in competitive events against other players.

(9) In the above embodiment, the automatic exchange of specific cards between players is performed every 30 seconds. However, the automatic exchange of specific cards between players may be performed irregularly. In this case, the value in the exchange timing notice field 203 changes randomly each time it is performed.

(10) In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which a player brings into the game one of his or her character cards C1, but multiple cards may be brought into the game. On the other hand, in a game in which the character card C1 is not used, it is not necessary to bring in a character card C1. Conversely, multiple character cards C1 may be brought into the game to form a deck.

(11) In the above embodiment, a card-shaped object was given as an example of a medium object used in the game, but it may also be an object representing a character, item, etc. used in the game.

(12) In the above-mentioned third embodiment, a case was described in which the spatial map 213A (see FIG. 21) was displayed on the play screen 200 viewed by the viewing user, but the spatial map 213 (see FIG. 17 to FIG. 19) described in the second embodiment may also be displayed.

(13) In the above-mentioned embodiment 3, a case was described in which the spatial map 213A (see FIG. 21) is displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies a predetermined condition, but the spatial map 213A may also be displayed on the play screen 200 of the player that is the viewing destination of the viewing user who satisfies the predetermined condition.

(14) In the above-mentioned embodiment 4, the spatial maps 217 (see FIG. 25) and 217A (see FIG. 26) are displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies the second predetermined condition. However, the spatial maps 217 and 217A may be displayed on the play screen 200 of the player that is the viewing destination of the viewing user who satisfies the second predetermined condition.

(15) In the above-mentioned embodiment 4, a case was described in which the spatial map 218 (see FIG. 29) is displayed on the play screen 200 of a viewing user who satisfies the third predetermined condition, but the spatial maps 217, 217A may also be displayed on the play screen 200 of the player that is the viewing destination of the viewing user who satisfies the third predetermined condition.

(16) In the above-mentioned third and fourth embodiments, a case was described in which the spatial map 213A, etc. was displayed on the play screen 200 of the information terminal 20 operated by a viewing user who satisfied certain conditions, etc. However, when the player himself satisfies certain conditions, etc., the corresponding spatial map 213A, etc. may be displayed on the play screen 200 of the information terminal 20 operated by the player.

(17) In the above-mentioned third and fourth embodiments, the spatial map 213, etc. is required to satisfy certain conditions before it can be displayed on the play screen 200. However, the spatial map 213, etc. may be displayed on the play screen 200 of the viewing user or player even if the certain conditions are not satisfied.

(18) In the above-described embodiment, the spatial map 213 and the like are displayed on the play screen 200, but information may also be provided by text.

(19) In the above-mentioned fourth embodiment, the attack power of the character card C1 and the score obtained in the game were given as examples of indicators of strength between the alter-ego objects 103. However, it may also be the defensive power of the character card C1, the player's HP value, the player's experience points, the ability values of the alter-ego object 103 (e.g., movement speed, skills, attributes), or the type and strength value of an item held by the alter-ego object 103.
When attributes are used as parameters, the strength of a position is determined by the compatibility between the attributes.

When items are used as parameters, the strength of a character's position is determined by the compatibility between the items.
When the strength value of an item is used as a parameter, the strength of the position is determined according to the magnitude relationship of the strength values.
The parameter here may be a player's rank that reflects past playing results.

In addition, when multiple character cards C1 can be brought into the game, or when playing using a deck consisting of multiple character cards, the parameters here may be the overall strength of the multiple character cards (for example, the total attack power and defense power, or the maximum attack power or defense power of the multiple character cards).

<Summary>
The main features of the information processing device, the information processing method, and the program described in the embodiments will be described below.
[General-purpose Project]
It is an object of the present invention to provide a game that has separate cards that are used to request events and select responses, and cards that act during the execution of the events.
Another object of the present invention is to increase the strategic element by requiring multiple types of cards to execute and act on game effects.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 1] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of event play.
[Supplementary Note 1] An information processing device having: a reception unit that receives a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game before the start of a game; a control unit that, when the player does not hold a second game medium that can be acquired in the game, controls so that an event using parameters of the first game medium cannot be executed for a second object different from a first object operated by a player who does not hold the second game medium, and, when the player holds the second game medium, controls so that an event targeting a second object different from the first object operated by a player holding the second game medium can be executed; and a consumption control unit that, when the first object requests the second object to execute an event, consumes the second game medium held by the player operating the first object.
This information processing device can provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of event play.

Issues corresponding to [Supplementary Note 2] One of the objectives of the present invention is to differentiate how information is presented to other players depending on whether or not a second game medium is present.
[Appendix 2] An information processing device as described in Appendix 1, further comprising a response control unit that, when another player operating the second object is holding a second game medium, displays a selectable response to a request to execute an event targeting the second object, and, when the other player operating the second object is not holding the second game medium, does not display a response to the request to execute an event targeting the second object.
This makes it possible to differentiate how information is presented to other players depending on whether or not the second game medium is present.

Issues corresponding to [Supplementary Note 3] One of the objectives of the present invention is to control the movement of the second game content in accordance with the response of the other players.
[Supplementary Note 3] The information processing device described in Supplementary Note 2 further has a medium movement control unit that, if the other player operating the second object who has received the request to execute the event selects to consume the second game medium, moves at least one third game medium held by the losing side of the event executed between the first object and the second object to the winning side, if the other player operating the second object who has received the request to execute the event does not select to consume the second game medium, moves at least one third game medium held by the other player to the player operating the first object, and if the other player operating the second object who has received the request to execute the event does not hold the second game medium, moves at least one third game medium held by the other player to the player operating the first object.
This makes it possible to control the movement of the second game medium in accordance with the response of the other players.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 4] One of the objects of the present invention is to control the execution of an event according to the positional relationship between a first object and a second object.
[Appendix 4] An information processing device described in Appendix 1, wherein the control unit permits a request to execute an event for a second object that is in the same space as the first object among multiple spaces in which the first object can move, and does not permit a request to execute an event for a second object that is in a space different from the first object among multiple spaces in which the first object can move.
This makes it possible to control the execution of an event according to the positional relationship between the first object and the second object.

Issues corresponding to [Supplementary Note 5] One of the objectives of the present invention is to make it possible to confirm the total number of second game media in each space.
[Appendix 5] An information processing device as described in Appendix 4, further having a display control unit that displays, on a space-by-space basis, the total number of second game media present in a space when the game is composed of at least one space.
This makes it possible to check the total number of second game media per space.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 6] One of the objectives of the present invention is to make it possible to identify the number of second game contents held by a second object.
[Appendix 6] An information processing device as described in Appendix 5, in which, when a first viewing user viewing a play screen of a player operating a first object satisfies a predetermined condition, the display control unit displays on the play screen the number of second game media held by second objects located within at least one space in an identifiable manner on a second object basis for a period of time according to the predetermined condition.
This makes it possible to identify the number of second game media held by the second object.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 7] One of the objectives of the present invention is to enable a player to participate in the display of the number of second game contents held by the second object.
[Appendix 7] The information processing device described in Appendix 6, wherein when a second viewing user who is viewing the play screen being viewed by the first viewing user satisfies a predetermined condition while the number of second game media originating from the first viewing user is being displayed, temporarily suspends the display of the number of second game media originating from the second viewing user, and executes the display at any timing instructed by the player operating the first object.
This allows the player to be involved in the display of the number of second game media held by the second object.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 8] One of the objectives of the present invention is to enable the transfer of the fourth game medium from the winner of an event to the loser.
[Appendix 8] An information processing device as described in Appendix 1, in which, when a game has a rule that a player operating an object holding the fourth game medium at a specified time is the loser, when an object operated by a player corresponding to the play screen being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a second specified condition is holding the fourth game medium, a space in which other objects weaker than the object are located is identifiably displayed, and when the object wins an event targeting the other objects, the fourth game medium held by the player operating the object is moved to the player operating the other object.
This makes it possible to transfer the fourth game medium from the winner of the event to the loser.

Issues corresponding to [Supplementary Note 9] One of the objectives of the present invention is to make it possible to identify information about a space in which the second game medium can be obtained.
[Appendix 9] An information processing device as described in Appendix 1, which, when a rule is established in the game that the player operating the object holding the fourth game medium at a specified time is the loser, displays information about the space in which the second game medium can be obtained on the play screen being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a third specified condition.
This makes it possible to identify information about the space in which the second game medium can be acquired.

Problems corresponding to [Supplementary Note 10] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of event play.
[Supplementary Note 10] An information processing method comprising the steps of: a processor accepting, before the start of a game, a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game; a processor controlling, if the player does not possess a second game medium that can be acquired in the game, such that an event using parameters of the first game medium cannot be executed for a second object different from a first object operated by a player not possessing the second game medium; a processor controlling, if the player possesses the second game medium, such that an event targeted at a second object different from a first object operated by a player possessing the second game medium can be executed; and a processor consuming the second game medium possessed by the player operating the first object when the first object requests the second object to execute an event.
This information processing method makes it possible to provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of event play.

Problems corresponding to [Appendix 11] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a game that enhances the strategic nature of event play.
[Appendix 11] A program that executes processing to cause a processor to accept selection of a first game medium to be used in the game before the start of a game, and if a player does not hold a second game medium that can be acquired in the game, to control the processor so that an event using parameters of the first game medium cannot be executed for a second object different from a first object operated by a player not holding the second game medium, and if a player holds the second game medium, to control the processor so that an event targeted at a second object different from a first object operated by a player holding the second game medium can be executed, and if the first object requests the second object to execute an event, to cause the processor to consume the second game medium held by the player operating the first object.
This program allows us to provide a game that brings more strategy to event play.

1...information processing system, 10...server, 11...processor, 12...memory, 13...auxiliary storage device, 14...communication interface, 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20X, 20Y...information terminal, 100...game space, 101, 101A, 101B, 101C...area, 102, 102A, 102B, 102C...spot, 103, 103A, 103B, 103C, 103D...alter ego object, 111...character card reception unit, 112...battle event execution control unit, 113...attack card consumption control unit, 114...correspondence display control unit, 115...color card movement control unit, 116...attack card number display control unit, 1 17...Biri card movement control unit, 120...Memory unit, 121...Player information, 122...Viewer information, 123...Spatial layout information, 124...Spot information, 125...Exchange timing information, 126...Medium object distribution rules, 127...Operation rules for battle events, 128...Operation rules for voting, 129...Rules for determining final ranking, 200...Play screen, 201...Area screen, 202...Quota column, 203...Exchange timing notice column, 204...Score column, 205...Hand placement area, 211, 212...Dialog box, 213, 213A, 217, 217A, 218...Space map, 215, 216...Reserved dialog box

Claims (11)

a reception unit that receives a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game before the start of the game;
when a player does not possess a second game medium that can be acquired within the game, controlling the event using a parameter of the first game medium so that the event cannot be executed with respect to a second object different from a first object operated by a player not possessing the second game medium;
a control unit that, when the second game medium is held by a player, controls the event to be executed with a second object different from a first object operated by the player holding the second game medium;
a consumption control unit that, when the first object requests the second object to execute the event, consumes the second game medium held by a player operating the first object;
An information processing device having the above configuration. When another player who operates the second object is holding the second game medium, displaying selectable responses to a request for execution of the event targeting the second object;
a response control unit that does not display a response to a request to execute the event targeted at the second object when another player operating the second object does not hold the second game medium;
The information processing device according to claim 1 . when another player operating the second object who has received the request to execute the event selects to consume the second game medium, moving at least one third game medium held by a losing side in the event executed between the first object and the second object to a winning side;
when the other player who is operating the second object and who has received the request to execute the event does not select consumption of the second game medium, moving at least one third game medium held by the other player to the player who is operating the first object;
a medium movement control unit that moves at least one third game medium held by another player to a player operating the first object when the other player who has received a request to execute the event does not hold the second game medium;
The information processing device according to claim 2 . The control unit is
permitting a request for execution of the event to the second object that is in the same space as the first object among a plurality of spaces in which the first object can move;
not permitting a request to execute the event to the second object that is in a space different from that of the first object among a plurality of spaces in which the first object can move;
The information processing device according to claim 1 . and a display control unit that displays, when the game is configured in at least one space, a total number of the second game media present in a space on a space-by-space basis.
The information processing device according to claim 4. The display control unit is
when a first viewing user viewing a play screen of a player operating the first object satisfies a predetermined condition, displaying on the play screen, for a period of time according to the predetermined condition, the number of second game contents held by the second object located within at least one space in a manner identifiable for each second object;
The information processing device according to claim 5 . The display control unit is
When a second viewing user viewing the play screen being viewed by the first viewing user satisfies the predetermined condition while the number of the second game media attributed to the first viewing user is being displayed,
temporarily suspending the display of the number of the second game media attributable to the second viewing user, and executing the display at any timing designated by a player operating the first object;
The information processing device according to claim 6. In a case where the game includes a rule that a player who controls an object that is in possession of the fourth game medium at a predetermined time is a loser,
when an object operated by a player corresponding to a play screen being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a second predetermined condition is holding the fourth game medium, displaying in an identifiable manner a space in which another object weaker than the object is located;
when the object wins the event targeting the other object, the fourth game medium held by the player operating the other object is transferred to the player operating the other object;
The information processing device according to claim 1 . In a case where the game includes a rule that a player who controls an object that is in possession of the fourth game medium at a predetermined time is a loser,
displaying information about a space in which the second game medium can be acquired on a play screen being viewed by a viewing user who satisfies a third predetermined condition;
The information processing device according to claim 1 . A process in which a processor receives, before a game starts, a selection of a first game medium to be used by a player in the game;
a process in which, when a player does not possess a second game medium that can be acquired within the game, a processor controls the event using a parameter of the first game medium so that the event cannot be executed for a second object that is different from a first object operated by a player who does not possess the second game medium;
When the second game medium is held by a player, a processor controls the event to be executed, the event being targeted at a second object different from a first object operated by the player holding the second game medium;
a process by a processor, when the first object requests the second object to execute the event, of consuming the second game medium held by a player operating the first object;
An information processing method for performing the above. before the start of a game, causing a processor to accept a selection of a first game medium to be used in the game;
causing the processor to control, when a player does not possess a second game medium that can be acquired within the game, such that an event using a parameter of the first game medium cannot be executed for a second object that is different from a first object operated by a player not possessing the second game medium;
when the second game medium is held by a player, causing a processor to control the event so as to be executable, the event being targeted at a second object different from a first object operated by the player holding the second game medium;
causing a processor to consume the second game medium held by a player operating the first object when the first object requests the second object to execute the event;
A program that executes a process.