JP3890591B2 - GAME SYSTEM, GAME SYSTEM CONTROL METHOD, AND GAME MACHINE - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a game machine that uses a card to play a game, and more particularly to a commercial game machine that uses a card to play a game.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In a play facility where a large number of game machines are installed, for example, a game center, a customer may continue without stopping game play even after the game center closing time has passed. In such a case, the game center side can forcibly stop the game in the middle of playing by turning off the power, but this may cause trouble with the customer. However, if all customers voluntarily stop or end the play, they cannot keep the closing time.
[0003]
Therefore, conventionally, as a processing technology at the time of closing a store in a game center or the like, for example, there is an arcade game machine that prevents coin insertion at a set time. In this game machine, when the closing time of the game center approaches, a warning is given and coin insertion for starting the game is not accepted (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent No. 3331347
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, it cannot be said that the conventional processing technology at the time of closing a game center or the like optimally manages game machines at the time of closing a game center or the like.
[0005]
For example, an arcade game machine that prevents coin insertion at the set time described above will not accept the start of a new game when the store closing time approaches, so it can be used for games that have started before that time. There is no particular consideration. Therefore, if a game that has been started before has not ended even after the closing time, for example, because it took a long time to play, you must wait until the end of the game and keep the closing time I can't. In that case, the game center side can stop the game in the middle of the play by shutting off the power supply, but this lacks consideration for customers who have enjoyed playing for a long time.
[0006]
In particular, some arcade game machines record game results of players on a recording medium such as a magnetic card (hereinafter referred to as “card”) in preparation for the next game play. In a game machine, if the power is cut off with a card mounted, the card cannot be removed. As a result, troubles may occur with the customer, and employees of the game center are forced to perform troublesome operations such as manually removing the cards.
[0007]
Furthermore, in a game machine using such a card, the player can enjoy continuous game development by reflecting the previous game result in the next game by using the information recorded on the card. It is something that can be done. However, if the game is stopped in the middle of play, the game result cannot be reflected in the next game, and the player's willingness to use the card is impaired.
[0008]
The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object thereof is to provide a technique capable of optimally managing a game machine when a store is closed.
[0009]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a technique capable of preventing a trouble caused by closing a store in a game machine using a card.
[0010]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a technique that enables a player to continuously develop a game regardless of the closing time in a game machine using a card.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention for solving the above problems is a game system comprising a game machine having an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and a server configured to be able to communicate with the game machine via a network. The game machine has a game processing means for controlling the progress of the game based on information recorded in the predetermined storage medium, a time counting means for timing the current time, and the time keeping during the progress of the game. When the current discharge time has passed a preset discharge time, the discharge means for discharging the predetermined storage medium from the interface, and the discharge time at which the current time measured during the game progresses is set in advance. And a transmission means for transmitting information related to the progress of the game to the server when the information has elapsed.
[0012]
The game machine further includes notification means for notifying the discharge notice of the predetermined storage medium attached to the interface before the predetermined storage medium is discharged from the interface by the discharge means. .
[0013]
When the predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, the game machine determines whether or not the predetermined storage medium is ejected while the game is in progress, and the predetermined storage medium is And an acquisition means for acquiring information relating to the progress of the game from the server, and a recording means for recording the information relating to the acquired progress of the game in the predetermined storage medium when discharged. The game processing means controls the progress of the game based on the acquired information related to the progress of the game.
[0014]
The information related to the progress status of the acquired game includes information to be reflected in the next game, and the game processing means, based on the information to be reflected in the acquired next game, The next game is started.
[0015]
The acquired information on the progress of the game includes information for restarting the game from a predetermined time after the discharge time, and the game processing means restarts the acquired game. The game is restarted from a predetermined time after the discharge time based on the information for the purpose.
[0016]
The game machine relates to the progress of the game before the predetermined storage medium is ejected when the timed current time has passed a preset ejection time while the game is in progress. It further comprises recording means for recording information on the predetermined storage medium.
[0017]
The recorded information related to the progress of the game is information for specifying a player, and the information related to the progress of the game transmitted to the server is information to be reflected in the next game and / or It is information for resuming the game from a predetermined time after the discharge time.
[0018]
The game machine records information related to the progress of the game in the predetermined storage medium when the current time counted during the game has passed a preset discharge time. When the predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, it is determined whether or not the predetermined storage medium is ejected during the game, and the predetermined storage medium is ejected during the game An acquisition means for acquiring information relating to the progress of the game from the server, wherein the game processing means includes information relating to the progress of the game recorded in the predetermined storage medium, and the server. The progress of the game is controlled based on information that matches a predetermined condition among the acquired information on the progress of the game.
[0019]
The present invention also includes an interface that is detachable from a predetermined storage medium, and records information about the progress of the game on a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the game is over, and allows the game to be discharged from the interface. A game processing means for controlling the progress of the game based on information stored in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface, a time counting means for timing the current time, and the game is in progress In the case, when the current time measured is a preset notice time, a notification means for notifying a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface, and after the discharge notice is notified, When the measured current time becomes a preset discharge time, a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface is stored. Characterized in that and a discharge means for discharging from the serial interface.
[0020]
The apparatus further comprises recording means for recording information relating to the progress of the game on the predetermined storage medium before the predetermined storage medium is discharged from the interface by the discharge means.
[0021]
The information relating to the progress of the game is information to be reflected in the next game, and the game processing means starts the next game based on the acquired information to be reflected in the next game. It is characterized by doing.
[0022]
The information related to the progress of the game is information for resuming the game from a predetermined time after the discharge time, and the game processing means is based on the information for resuming the acquired game. The game is resumed from a predetermined time after the discharge time.
[0023]
Further, the present invention includes a game machine that includes an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and that discharges the predetermined storage medium from the interface when a game ends, a server configured to be able to communicate with the game machine, A control method for a game system comprising: a step of controlling the progress of a game based on information recorded in the predetermined storage medium; a step of measuring a current time; and a progress of the game During the game, when the measured current time has passed a preset ejection time, the ejection step of ejecting the predetermined storage medium from the interface, and the timed current time during the progress of the game When a preset discharge time has passed, the server records information related to the progress of the game on the server. A step of transmitting, and when the ejected predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, a step of acquiring information related to the progress of the game from the server, and a progress of the acquired game Recording the related information on the predetermined storage medium, and controlling the progress of the game based on the acquired information on the progress of the game.
[0024]
The present invention also includes an interface that is detachable from a predetermined storage medium, and records information about the progress of the game on a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the game is over, and allows the game to be discharged from the interface. A control method for a machine, the step of controlling the progress of the game based on the information stored in the predetermined storage medium, the step of timing the current time, and the timing of the game in progress A notification of a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the current time set is a preset notice time; and the time measured after the notification of the discharge notice When a predetermined ejection time is reached, a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface is removed from the interface. Characterized in that it comprises a step of out, the.
[0025]
The present invention is also an information processing program for causing a computer system to execute the game system control method.
[0026]
The present invention is also an information processing program for causing a computer to execute the game machine control method.
[0027]
The present invention is a game system in which a plurality of game machines provide a predetermined game by communicating via a network, and the plurality of game machines are respectively installed in a store having a closing time. The game processing means for controlling the progress of the game according to the operation of each player with respect to the plurality of game machines, and communication from the first game machine among the plurality of game machines is canceled by closing the store where the game machine is installed An acquisition means for acquiring the player information of the first game machine at the time of the cancellation, the game processing means includes the acquired player information of the first game machine. A virtual player is generated on the basis of this, and the generated virtual player is set as an opponent of the player of the second game machine that has played against the player of the first game machine. , And controlling the progress of the game.
[0028]
The present invention is also a game system comprising one or more game machines provided with an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and a server connected to the game machines via a network, The server includes a first management unit that manages information related to closing of the store in which the game machine is installed, a second management unit that manages the progress of the game in the game machine, and a clock unit that counts the current time. And a first transmission means for transmitting a discharge instruction for the predetermined storage medium to the game machine when the measured current time has passed the discharge time managed by the first management means; In the course of the game, when the timed current time has passed a preset discharge time, an acquisition method for acquiring information related to the progress of the game from the game machine And a second transmission means for transmitting information related to the progress of the acquired game to the game machine when the discharged predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface of the game machine. Feature game system.
[0029]
In this specification, a product invention can be understood as a method invention, and a method invention can be understood as a product invention. The above invention can also be realized as a recording medium or a program product that records a program for causing a computer to realize a predetermined function. The recording medium includes, for example, a memory such as a RAM and a ROM in addition to a hard disk (HD), a DVD-RAM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, and the like. The computer includes, for example, a so-called microcomputer in which a so-called central processing unit such as a CPU or MPU performs predetermined processing by interpreting a program.
[0030]
Further, in this specification, the term “means” does not simply mean a physical means, but includes a case where the functions of the means are realized by software or a hardware circuit. Further, the function of one means may be realized by two or more physical means, or the functions of two or more means may be realized by one physical means.
[0031]
Furthermore, the means in this specification can be realized by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Execution by a combination of hardware and software corresponds to execution in a computer system having a predetermined program, for example. Even if the function of one means is realized by two or more pieces of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software, the function of two or more means is one piece of hardware, software or hardware and software. It may be realized by a combination.
[0032]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, in order to realize an optimal closing process in both the customer and the store, a closing process means for executing various processes when the closing time approaches is provided. Specifically, the various processes by the store closing processing means include a process of stopping acceptance of a new game using a card when the store closing time approaches, a process of recording information about the player on the card when the store closing time approaches, and the store closing time The process includes a process for forcibly ejecting a card when approaching, and a process for registering information relating to the progress of the game (for example, information about the player and information for resuming the game) into the server when the closing time approaches.
[0033]
In addition, the present embodiment is characterized by including a restart processing means for executing various processes based on a card that is forcibly ejected so that the player can restart the game interrupted by closing. . Specifically, the various processes by the restart processing means are processing for acquiring information relating to the progress of the game from the server, and recording information relating to the acquired progress of the game (for example, information relating to the player) on the card. The processing includes processing, processing for restarting the game based on information on the progress of the acquired game (for example, information for restarting the game), and the like.
[0034]
[Overall configuration of game system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a game system according to the present invention. As shown in the figure, the game system is configured such that a game machine (client) 10 and a server 20 can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication network (network) 30. The game machine 10 is installed in each of a game center A as a store,..., A game center Z, and includes a card interface (not shown) to which a card 40 as a predetermined storage medium can be attached. One or more game machines 10 are installed in the store.
[0035]
The player can operate the game machine 10 to play a predetermined game alone, or can play a battle game or the like with a player at another game center via a network.
[0036]
[Configuration of game console and server]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game machine and the server constituting the game system according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the game machine 10 includes a control means 101 that controls the entire game machine, a storage means 102 that stores a game program, a closing process program, a restart process program, and the like, an input means 103 that accepts player operations, Display means 104 for displaying a game image, a message accompanying closing, and the like.
[0037]
Specifically, the control means 101 reads out a game program from the storage means 102 and executes it to execute a game processing means for controlling the progress of the game, and reads out the store closing processing program from the storage means 102 and executes it. The processing means and the restart processing means for reading the restart processing program from the storage means 102 and executing it are configured.
[0038]
The game machine 10 also includes a closing time setting unit 105 for setting various conditions relating to the closing process, a timer 106 for measuring the current time, and a communication unit 107 for transmitting / receiving predetermined information to / from the server 20. In the closing time setting means 105, closing time and processing conditions for executing each process are set. As the closing time, the closing time of the store where the game machine 10 is installed is set as time information (for example, 22:00). On the other hand, the processing condition is a condition for executing various processes in time series as the closing time approaches, and a condition (for example, ○ minutes before the closing time) is set with the closing time as the starting time. It should be noted that the store closing time and processing conditions may be set in advance, or may be set and changed as appropriate according to the type of game, customer base, store conditions, and the like. In this embodiment, the closing time is set for each day of the week.
[0039]
The game machine 10 is attached to the card interface 111 for attaching the card 40, the recording means 108 for recording information about the player in the predetermined storage area 401 of the card 40 attached to the card interface 111, and the card interface 111. Reading means 110 for reading information relating to the player from a predetermined storage area 401 of the card 40.
[0040]
Here, the card 40 is for recording information about the player (game results, etc.). In the present embodiment, this corresponds to a magnetic card, and the player's game results and the like are stored in the storage area 401 as magnetic data.
[0041]
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the storage area 401 of the card 40. The storage area 401 stores a card ID for uniquely identifying a card. In addition, the storage area 401 includes information related to the player (title name, rank, etc.), data indicating the remaining number of times the card is used, and data indicating whether the card is forcibly ejected before the game ends (forced ejection). Flag).
[0042]
Note that the information stored as information about the player is data determined by the end of the game (for example, “the results of the past eight battles integration”) and data determined during the game (shaded in the figure). Data, for example, “total number of stations”), the former is updated after the game ends, while the latter is updated while the game is in progress under predetermined conditions.
[0043]
When the game processing means is instructed to start the game via the input means 103, the game processing means executes the game program stored in the storage means 102. When a game using a card is selected, the game program of the storage means 102 is executed based on the information stored in the storage area 401 of the card 40, so that the game result of the player can be obtained. To reflect. When the game is over, the player's game results and the like are recorded in the storage area 401 of the card 40 as information about the player.
[0044]
The store closing processing unit executes a store closing processing program stored in the storage unit 102. The closing process program is an interrupt routine for a game program that is executed at predetermined time intervals of, for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds. The closing processing means acquires the current time from the timer 106 and the closing time and processing conditions from the closing time setting means 105, and executes the closing process based on these. Further, the information acquired from the game processing means is recorded in the storage area 401 of the card 40 or the database 202 of the server 20 under a predetermined condition. A detailed flow of the closing process will be described later.
[0045]
In addition, when the predetermined storage medium 40 is mounted on the card interface 401, the restart processing unit executes the restart processing program stored in the storage unit 102. The restart processing means acquires player information from the database 202 of the server 20 and stores it in the storage area 401 of the card 40 under predetermined conditions, acquires information for restarting the game, and restarts the game. The detailed flow of the restart process will be described later.
[0046]
On the other hand, the server 20 includes a communication unit 210 for transmitting / receiving predetermined information to / from the game machine 10 and a database 202 for recording and managing information received from the game machine 10. The database 202 registers and manages information transmitted from the game machine 10 in a predetermined table, searches for predetermined information in response to a request from the game machine 10, and returns the search result. The data structure of the database 202 will be described in detail later.
[0047]
[Basic game flow using cards]
Here, the flow of processing of a game using cards will be described with reference to FIG. Here, a mahjong game will be described as an example of a game using cards. When credit is inserted from the player (S301; Yes), the game machine 10 displays the mahjong game title screen (S302), and when the start button is selected (S303; Yes), whether or not a card has been inserted. Is determined (S304).
[0048]
When the card is inserted, the game machine 10 determines whether or not to perform the restart process, and if so, executes the restart process (S306). The restart process will be described in detail later.
[0049]
In the case where the restart process is not performed and the normal game is selected (S307), the CPU battle (playing a game with the CPU as an opponent. In other words, the opponent is a virtual player controlled by the CPU. Yes, information and operations of the virtual player are preset as an algorithm of the CPU) (S314). The player can play a game based on the game information stored in the card. If a card is inserted and card update is selected (S308), a card update process is executed (S309). In the card update process, the game information of the player stored in the card before update is stored in the updated card.
[0050]
On the other hand, if no card is inserted and a game without a card is selected (S311), the game machine 10 starts a CPU battle not using a card (S314). If no card is inserted but card creation is selected (S312), a card creation process is executed (S313). In the card creation process, a new card is created by registering the player name and the like in the card.
[0051]
When a game using a card is started, the game machine 10 transmits information for managing the game on the server to the server 20. When the server 20 receives the information transmitted by the game machine 10, it records this in the database.
[0052]
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of information transmitted from the game machine 10 to the server 20 at the start of the game. As shown in the figure, from the game machine 10, a “game status” indicating the game status, a “cascade serial ID” that identifies the game machine 10, and a “store ID” that identifies the store where the game machine 10 is installed. Then, the “card ID” of the loaded card is transmitted. Upon receiving these pieces of information, the server 10 registers and manages the information on the database 202. Thereby, the situation of the game using the card can be managed by the server 20.
[0053]
Further, when the store closing process is started due to the close of the store closing time (S315; Yes), the process proceeds to the store closing process (S316). The closing process will be described in detail later.
[0054]
On the other hand, if the store closing process is not started, the game is continued. If an opponent appears while the game is continuing, an interpersonal battle may be started. The game machine 10 displays the result on the display when the game of the CPU battle or the interpersonal battle ends (S317). In the case of a game using a card, the player's score is recorded on the card.
[0055]
Thereafter, the game machine 10 ends the game, ejects the card, and registers that the game is ended in the server 20 (S316). Note that if the player selects to continue the game, the process may return to STEP 314 and continue the game.
[0056]
As described above, when the player's game play does not take place at the store closing time, the game result is stored in the player's card and then discharged. Thereby, the player can reflect the result of the current game play in the next game.
[0057]
[Closed processing]
Next, a case will be described in which the game closing process is applied to the game because the game play is prolonged and the game does not end at the closing time. 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing the flow of the store closing process of the game system. The game machine 10 reads the current time information from the timer 106 and the store closing time and processing conditions from the store closing time management means 105 (S401).
[0058]
The game machine 10 determines whether or not to execute the store closing process in accordance with the processing conditions defining the start of the store closing process. Here, “45 minutes before the closing time” is set as the processing condition for starting the closing processing. Therefore, the game machine 10 determines whether or not it is 45 minutes before the closing of the store based on the closing time and the current time (S402), and when it is determined, the closing processing is started. Specifically, a card reception end notice message is displayed on the screen (S403). For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, a message such as “minutes until the end of card acceptance” is displayed at a position on the screen where the progress of the game is not hindered. Thereby, the player can recognize that the closing of the store is approaching and that the reception end time of the card is approaching. Note that the message may be pronounced from a predetermined output device.
[0059]
Next, the game machine 10 determines whether or not to end the card reception in accordance with the condition that specifies the end of the card reception (S404). Here, “30 minutes before closing time” is set as a condition for stipulating the end of card acceptance. Therefore, the game machine 10 determines whether or not it is 30 minutes before closing based on the closing time and the current time, and if so, displays a card reception end message on the screen ( S405). For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, a message such as “card acceptance has been completed” is displayed. In addition, the game machine 10 stops accepting new games using cards (S406). Thereafter, the player cannot start a new game using the card. A new game that does not use a card can be started.
[0060]
Further, the game machine determines whether or not a game using the card is being executed (S407), and if it is determined that the game is being performed, recording of information relating to the player on the card is started (S408). . That is, the recording on the card is changed from a game unit to a predetermined division unit that is divided according to the progress of the game. The information to be recorded on the card is information determined during the progress of the game among the information on the player. Here, since the mahjong game is applied, game information is recorded in station units (S409). Note that the content of the game information to be recorded and the recording method on the card can be set as appropriate according to the required specifications.
[0061]
Next, the game machine 10 determines whether or not to display a card discharge notice in accordance with the conditions defining the card discharge notice (S411). Here, “15 minutes before closing time” is set as a condition for prescribing the card discharge notice. Therefore, the game machine 10 determines whether it is 15 minutes before closing based on the closing time and the current time, and if so, displays a card discharge notice message on the screen. (S412). For example, as shown in FIG. 11 (C), a message such as “It is ○ minutes until card ejection” is displayed. Thereby, the player can recognize that the forced ejection time of the card is approaching.
[0062]
Next, the game machine 10 determines whether or not the card is forcibly discharged according to a condition that prescribes the forced discharge of the card (S413). Here, “10 minutes before the closing time” is set as a condition for forcibly discharging the card. Therefore, the game machine 10 determines whether or not it is ten minutes before the closing based on the closing time and the current time, and if it is determined that it is, the card as shown in FIG. Is displayed on the screen (S414). Further, the fact that the card has been forcibly discharged is recorded in the card 40 and registered in the server 20 (S415). Here, the forced ejection flag recorded in the storage area 401 of the card 40 is rewritten to ON. Further, the forced discharge flag stored in the database 202 of the server 20 can be rewritten to ON. Thereafter, the game machine 10 forcibly discharges the card (S416).
[0063]
In FIG. 7, in order to show the state of the card when the card is discharged by the closing process before the game ends, the data before the card discharge and the data after the card discharge are shown in comparison. As shown in the figure, since the card is discharged before the game ends, the data determined by the end of the game (for example, “experience value”, “the results of the past eight front lines”, etc.) is not updated. However, it is understood that data determined by the progress of the game (for example, “total number of stations”, “number of times of agari”, etc.) is updated. It can also be seen that the “forced discharge flag” is ON because of forced discharge.
[0064]
When the game machine 10 forcibly ejects the card, the game machine 10 starts registering information about the player and information for resuming the game in the server 20 (S417). These pieces of information are registered in units of stations (S418).
[0065]
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of information transmitted from the game machine 10 to the server 20 after forced card ejection. Here, the same information as the information recorded on the player's card is transmitted from the game machine 10 to the server 20. Specifically, it can be seen that the game machine 10 transmits a card ID and information related to the player and is registered in the database 202 of the server 20. In the figure, data indicated by shading is data that is confirmed and updated during the progress of the game. In this way, even if the card is ejected, player information associated with the progress of the subsequent game can be secured in the server.
[0066]
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of information transmitted from the game machine 10 to the server 20 after forced card ejection. In addition to the information shown in FIG. 9, information for the player to resume the game is transmitted from the game machine 10 to the server 20. For example, card IDs of all players participating in the game, information on the progress of the game (station, game record data), and the like.
[0067]
The game machine 10 registers information related to the player and information for resuming the game in the server 20 until the game ends, and when the game ends (S419), transmits information to the server 20 that the game has ended. (S420). As a result, the server 20 updates the game status from “game start” to “game end”. On the other hand, when the game machine 10 is turned off while the game is not finished, the fact that the game is finished is not registered in the server, and the server 20 is connected to the network connection between the game machine 10 and the server 20. It is determined that the game has been interrupted upon completion. Then, the server 20 records “game interruption” in the game status. Thereby, the game status is updated from “game start” to “game interruption”.
[0068]
As described above, according to the store closing process according to the present embodiment, when the store closes, the card discharge notice message is displayed, and then the card is forcibly discharged even if the game has not ended. Therefore, the card mounted on the game machine can be surely discharged before the power of the game machine is shut off due to the closing of the store. As a result, it is possible to prevent troubles with customers due to the card being unable to be taken out, and to release store employees from troublesome and complicated work such as manually taking out the card.
[0069]
Further, according to the store closing process according to the present embodiment, when the store closes, information on the game is written to the card even if the game is not finished. Accordingly, the player can continue information acquired by the player during the game play (for example, the number of times of raising and the number of transfers) to the next game, and can show his / her results to other players. become.
[0070]
[Resume processing]
Next, the restart process of the game system will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the restart process of the game system.
[0071]
When the card 40 is inserted (S601), the game machine 10 determines whether or not the card 40 has been forcibly discharged last time (S602). Specifically, the card ID of the card is read from the inserted card 40, and the forced discharge flag corresponding to the card ID is referred to from the database 202 of the server 20 based on the read card ID (see FIG. 8). ). In addition, it can also carry out by referring to the forced discharge flag memorize | stored in the card | curd 40. FIG.
[0072]
When the forced discharge flag of the database 202 is ON (S603; Yes), the game machine 10 determines that the forced discharge has been performed, acquires information on the player after the forced discharge from the database 202, and acquires the acquired information. Information about the player is recorded on the card 40 (S604). Specifically, player information as shown in FIG. 9 is acquired. Thereby, the game results after the card is discharged are written in the card 40 of the player.
[0073]
Next, after the game machine 10 is forcibly discharged, the game machine 10 determines whether or not the game is over (S606). Specifically, the game status corresponding to the card ID is referred to from the database 202 of the server 20 based on the read card ID (see FIG. 8).
[0074]
When the game status in the database 202 is “game end”, the game machine 10 determines that the game has ended (S607; Yes), starts a normal game, and sets the forced discharge flag in the database 202. “OFF” is set (S609). On the other hand, if the game status in the database 202 is not “game end”, that is, “game is interrupted”, it is determined that the game has not ended (S607; No). And the progress of the previous game is displayed on the screen (S608). Specifically, information for resuming the game as shown in FIG. 10 is acquired, and intermediate progress information based on the information is displayed on the screen.
[0075]
The player can remember the status of the game interrupted halfway last time and can select the game start state based on the progress information displayed on the screen (S610). For example, the player can select whether to start the game from the beginning of the interrupted station, start the game from the middle of the interrupted station, or start a normal game.
[0076]
When the game machine 10 selects “start the game from the beginning of the interrupted station” by the player, the game machine 10 executes the game based on the information for restarting the game acquired from the database 202, thereby The game can be started from the beginning of the station where the is interrupted (S611). When resuming the interrupted game, the CPU becomes an opponent instead of the other three players. Accordingly, since the CPU is the opponent for the item that is the subject of competition between the players, control is performed so that it does not fluctuate even if it is settled. Note that “OFF” is set in the forced discharge flag of the database 202, and the game status is set to “game start” (S611).
[0077]
On the other hand, the game machine 10 executes the game based on the information for restarting the game acquired from the database 202 when the player selects “start the game from the middle of the interrupted station”. The player can start the game from the middle of the interrupted station (S612). In this case, the CPU is the opponent as described above. Note that “OFF” is set in the forced discharge flag of the database 202, and the game status is set to “game start” (S612).
[0078]
Further, when the game machine 10 selects “start a normal game” from the player, the game machine 10 executes the game without using the game resumption information acquired from the database 202, so that the player A normal game can be started (S613). Note that “OFF” is set to the forced discharge flag of the database 202, and the game status is set to “game start” (S613).
[0079]
As described above, according to the restart process according to the present embodiment, when a card that is forcibly ejected at the previous game play is inserted, the player information after the forcible ejection is acquired from the server and recorded on the card. did. According to this, the player can continue the information acquired by the player after the card is ejected (for example, the number of risings and the number of transfers) to the next game.
[0080]
Further, according to the restart process according to the present embodiment, when a card forcibly ejected at the previous game play is inserted and the game has not ended, information for restarting the game is acquired from the server. The game can be resumed. Therefore, the player can resume the game that was interrupted by power-off from the point of interruption. In addition, since the game can be resumed from the point of interruption, the result of the game can be recorded on the card, so that the game can be continued.
[0081]
[Other embodiments]
The said embodiment is an illustration for demonstrating this invention, and is not the meaning which limits this invention only to the said embodiment. The present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist thereof. For example, although the operation of the function realizing unit has been described sequentially, it is not particularly limited to this. Therefore, as long as no contradiction occurs in the operation, the processing order may be changed or the operations may be performed in parallel.
[0082]
(1) Substituting process for inter-store competition
The closing time varies depending on the store. Therefore, when a player is playing against a player in another store, the store may not be closed at his store, but may be closed at another store. As a result, no response is obtained from players in other stores, and even players in stores that are not closed cannot continue the game.
[0083]
Therefore, during a predetermined time before and after the closing time of each store, if there is no response for a certain time in each player's turn, that player can be processed as a substitute. For example, when a match between stores is started, the closing time of another store is acquired in advance, and if there is no response from the opponent for 10 minutes before and after the closing time of the opponent, the opponent is designated as the player To the game machine or the CPU (virtual player) of the server. In this case, a virtual player (CPU) existing on the game machine or server acquires information of the opponent at the time of switching and takes over. Thereby, the player can continue the game play for the virtual opponent even when the opponent disappears due to closing. In other words, it is possible to prevent the game from being interrupted by a player at a store that is not at the closing time because the closing times are different among the stores.
[0084]
(2) How to record information related to game progress
In the above-described embodiment, a case has been described in which information about the player is recorded on the card when the store closing time approaches, and information about the player and information for resuming the game are registered on the server after the card is discharged. However, the information recorded on the card or server can be changed as appropriate.
[0085]
For example, when the capacity of the card is small, only the card ID for identifying the player is recorded on the card, and other information (for example, the total number of stations, the number of transfers, etc.), along with information for restarting the game It can also be configured to register with the server. In this case, when the card is loaded next time, the server may be searched based on the card ID recorded on the card, and necessary information may be acquired and recorded on the card.
[0086]
For example, when the capacity of the card is large, information for resuming the game may be recorded on the card. Specifically, when a card is discharged, it is assumed that the game is interrupted at the time of discharging, and information relating to the progress of the game at the time of the interruption (for example, the card IDs of all players, the interrupted) Station, all player scores, deposit point bar and score data) are recorded on the card. Thereby, when a card is newly inserted next time, the game can be resumed based on the recorded information, so that the game can be resumed at least from the time of card ejection.
[0087]
In this case, after the card is discharged, information related to the progress of the game is also registered in the server, and information related to the progress of the game at different points in time is recorded on the card and the server. . Therefore, when a card is newly inserted next time, desired information can be selected by comparing information recorded on the card with information registered in the server. For example, by recording information related to the progress of the game together with the time information, the latest information can be selected from the card information and the server information. The information selection conditions can be set as appropriate according to the required specifications of the game.
[0088]
(3) Configuration of a single game machine
In the above embodiment, a game system including a game machine and a server has been described. However, the game system may be configured as a single game machine. In this case, information related to the player after the card is discharged is not registered in the server, but information related to the progress of the game (for example, information related to the player) is recorded on the card until the card is discharged. Can do. Moreover, you may comprise so that these information after card | curd discharge may be recorded on the predetermined memory | storage device with which a game machine is provided. In this case, the storage period of recorded information can be limited according to the capacity of the storage device included in the game machine.
[0089]
(4) When managing on the server
In the above embodiment, the case where the closing time and the like are managed in each game machine has been described, but the closing time (end time) set for each game machine and the game play status are managed by the server. You may comprise. In this case, the server also manages the discharge of the card due to closing of the store or the interruption of the game, and the recording of information on the progress of the game at the time of the discharge to the card or the server. Furthermore, the server also manages the handover of the opponent to the virtual player in the store-to-store battle described above.
[0090]
(5) In addition, as a storage medium, an IC card, a mobile phone, or the like according to required specifications can be used. When a user's mobile phone is used, information can be transmitted and received using e-mail. Therefore, after the mobile phone is forcibly ejected, information regarding the progress of the game may be transmitted by e-mail.
[0091]
(6) Application to other devices
In the above embodiment, the case where the store closing process according to the present invention is applied to a game machine using a card has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is an apparatus installed in a store or the like, and a card is mounted. After that, it is possible to appropriately apply to an apparatus that requires a predetermined time until the player's operation result is recorded on the card. For example, a device that measures a player's physical strength and records the result on a card may be used.
[0092]
(7) Application to other games
In the above embodiment, the mahjong game has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the genre of the game is particularly limited as long as the game progress status and player information can be recorded on the recording medium. It can be applied to games of any genre.
[0093]
【The invention's effect】
Therefore, according to the present invention, the card mounted on the game machine can be surely discharged before the power of the game machine is shut off due to the closing of the store.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a game system according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game machine and a server that constitute the game system according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a game using cards.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of store closing processing of the game system.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of store closing processing of the game system.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of restart processing of the game system.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure stored in a card.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a database.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a database.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a database.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a message displayed on the screen of the game machine.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Game machine 20 ... Server 30 ... Communication network 40 ... Recording medium 101 ... Control means 102 ... Storage means 103 ... Input means 104 ... Display means 105 ... Closing time setting means 106 ... Timer 107 ... Communication means 108 ... Recording means 110 ... Reading means 111 ... Card interface 401 ... Storage area 201 ... Communication means 202 ... Database

Claims (18)

A game system comprising a game machine having an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and a server configured to be able to communicate with the game machine via a network,
The game machine
Game processing means for controlling the progress of the game based on information recorded in the predetermined storage medium;
A time measuring means for measuring the current time;
When the current time counted while the game is in progress has passed a preset discharge time, information related to the progress of the game is recorded on the predetermined storage medium, and then the predetermined storage medium is stored in the predetermined storage medium. Discharging means for discharging from the interface;
When the current time counted during the game progresses past a preset discharge time, information on the progress of the game is sequentially performed every predetermined time until the game ends or is interrupted. Transmitting means for transmitting to the server for recording to the server;
Equipped with a,
The game processing means searches the database of the server to determine whether the previous game has been interrupted when the ejected predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, and the previous game is interrupted. If it is determined that the game has been resumed, the game is resumed based on the progress data stored up to the point of interruption recorded in the server. gaming system, and if the resumption of the recording medium is selected, which is characterized that you restart the game based on the progress data recorded on the recording medium. The information relating to the progress of the pre Kige over beam, information for restarting the game from a predetermined time of the discharge time later included,
It said game processing means, when resuming the game from a predetermined point before Symbol discharge time later, the game system according to claim 1, characterized in that the opponent virtual player that is controlled by the CPU. The server determines that the game is interrupted when communication from the game machine is interrupted in a state where the game has not ended, and records “game interrupted” in the database. ,
With
The game processing means of the game machine determines that the previous game has been interrupted when "game interrupted" is recorded in the database. gate-time system.   A game machine having an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and a server configured to be able to communicate with the game machine via a network, for playing a battle game with another player via the network A game system,
  The game machine
  Game processing means for controlling the progress of the battle game based on the information recorded in the predetermined storage medium;
  A time measuring means for measuring the current time;
  Discharging means for discharging the predetermined storage medium from the interface when the current time measured during the battle game has passed a preset discharging time;
  Transmission means for transmitting to the server information related to the progress status of the battle game when the current time measured during the battle game has passed a preset discharge time. When,
With
  The game processing means includes
  If the current time measured is within a predetermined time before and after the closing time of each other store set in advance while the battle game is in progress, and there is no response from another player for a certain period of time, the CPU A game system that takes over the progress data of the other player and continues the battle game with a virtual player controlled by the CPU as an opponent. The game machine
Before the said from the discharge means a predetermined storage medium is discharged from the interface, according to claim 1 to 4, further comprising a notification means for notifying the discharge notice predetermined storage medium attached to the interface A game system according to any one of the above. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 information relating to the progress of the game to be recorded in the predetermined storage medium is characterized by including information for identifying the player. A game machine comprising an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and recording information about the progress of the game in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the game is finished, and discharging from the interface,
Game processing means for controlling the progress of the game based on information stored in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface;
A time measuring means for measuring the current time;
A notification means for notifying a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the current time counted in the game is progressing and a preset notice time;
When the current time counted after the notification of the advance notice of discharge becomes a preset release time, information relating to the progress of the game is recorded in the predetermined storage medium and then attached to the interface. Ejecting means for ejecting the predetermined storage medium from the interface;
When the current time counted while the game is in progress has passed a preset discharge time, information on the progress of the game is sequentially provided every predetermined time until the game ends. Transmission means for transmitting to a server configured to be connectable via a network;
Equipped with a,
The game processing means searches the database of the server to determine whether or not the previous game is interrupted when the discharged predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, and the previous game is interrupted. If it is determined that the game has been resumed from the time of interruption by the player's selection, the game is played based on the progress data stored up to the point of interruption recorded in the server. It resumed, if the resumption of the recording medium is selected, the gaming machine characterized that you restart the game based on the progress data recorded on the recording medium. 8. The game machine according to claim 7 , wherein the game processing means uses a virtual player controlled by a CPU as an opponent when restarting the game from a predetermined time after the discharge time .   A predetermined storage medium is provided with an detachable interface, and when a battle game that competes with other players via a network is completed, information on the progress of the battle game is recorded in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface, A game machine that is ejected from the interface,
  Game processing means for controlling the progress of a battle game based on information stored in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface;
  A time measuring means for measuring the current time;
  A notification means for notifying a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the current game time is a preset notice time when the battle game is in progress;
  A discharge means for discharging a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface from the interface when the timed current time is a preset discharge time after the discharge notice is notified;
With
  The game processing means includes
  If the current time measured is within a predetermined time before and after the closing time of each other store set in advance while the battle game is in progress, and there is no response from another player for a certain period of time, the CPU A game machine that takes over the progress status data of the other player and continues the battle game with a virtual player controlled by the CPU as an opponent. Control of a game system comprising an interface that includes an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and that discharges the predetermined storage medium from the interface when a game ends, and a server configured to be able to communicate with the game machine A method,
In the game machine,
Controlling the progress of the game based on the information recorded in the predetermined storage medium;
A step of measuring the current time;
While the game is in progress, when the timed current time has passed a preset discharge time, information related to the progress of the game is recorded on the predetermined storage medium, and then the predetermined storage medium is stored. A discharging step of discharging from the interface;
While the game is in progress, when the timed current time has passed a preset discharge time, information on the progress of the game is sequentially displayed every predetermined time until the game ends. Sending to the server for recording to the server;
When the ejected predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, the server database is searched to determine whether the previous game has been interrupted, and it is determined that the previous game has been interrupted. In this case, when restart from the time of interruption is selected by the player's selection, the game is resumed based on the progress data stored up to the point of interruption recorded in the server, If resumption is selected, resuming the game based on the progress data recorded on the recording medium;
A game system control method comprising:   11. The control method according to claim 10, wherein a virtual player controlled by a CPU is used as an opponent when the game is restarted from a predetermined time after the discharge time.   A game machine that includes an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and that finishes a battle game with another player via a network, and that is configured to be able to communicate with the game machine that ejects the predetermined storage medium from the interface A game system control method comprising:
  In the game machine,
  Controlling the progress of the battle game based on the information recorded in the predetermined storage medium;
  A step of measuring the current time;
  A discharging step of discharging the predetermined storage medium from the interface when the timed current time has passed a preset discharging time while the battle game is in progress;
  While the game is in progress, the timed current time has passed a preset discharge time. When, until the battle game is over, sequentially transmitting information related to the progress of the battle game to the server for recording at a predetermined time;
With
  If the current time measured is within a predetermined time before and after the closing time of each other store set in advance while the battle game is in progress, and there is no response from another player for a certain period of time, the CPU A method for controlling a game system, comprising: taking over the progress status data of the other player and continuing the battle game with a virtual player controlled by the CPU as an opponent. A game machine control method comprising an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and when a game ends, information relating to the progress of the game is recorded in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface and discharged from the interface. And
Controlling the progress of the game based on information stored in the predetermined storage medium;
A step of measuring the current time;
In the case where the game is in progress, when the timed current time becomes a preset notice time, notifying a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface;
When the current time counted after the notification of the advance notice of discharge becomes a preset release time, information relating to the progress of the game is recorded in the predetermined storage medium and then attached to the interface. Ejecting the predetermined storage medium from the interface;
When the current time counted while the game is in progress has passed a preset discharge time, information on the progress of the game is sequentially provided every predetermined time until the game ends. Sending to a server configured to be connectable over a network to the server;
When the ejected predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface, the server database is searched to determine whether the previous game has been interrupted, and it is determined that the previous game has been interrupted. In this case, when restart from the time of interruption is selected by the player's selection, the game is resumed based on the progress data stored up to the point of interruption recorded in the server, If resumption is selected, resuming the game based on the progress data recorded on the recording medium;
A game machine control method comprising:   14. The control method according to claim 13, wherein when the game is restarted from a predetermined time after the discharge time, a virtual player controlled by a CPU is used as an opponent.   A predetermined storage medium is provided with an detachable interface, and when a battle game that competes with other players via a network is completed, information on the progress of the battle game is recorded in a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface, A control method of a game machine that is ejected from the interface,
  Controlling the progress of the battle game based on the information stored in the predetermined storage medium;
  A step of measuring the current time;
  A step of notifying a discharge notice of a predetermined storage medium attached to the interface when the timed current time is a preset notice time when the competitive game is in progress; and
  Discharging the predetermined storage medium attached to the interface from the interface when the timed current time becomes a preset discharge time after the discharge notice is notified;
  The current time measured while the battle game is in progress has passed a preset discharge time. When the battle game is over, the information about the progress of the battle game is sequentially recorded every predetermined time to the server that is configured to be connectable via a network until the battle game ends. Sending, and
With
  If the current time measured is within a predetermined time before and after the closing time of each other store set in advance while the battle game is in progress, and there is no response from another player for a certain period of time, the CPU A game machine control method comprising: taking over the progress status data of the other player and continuing the battle game with a virtual player controlled by the CPU as an opponent. An information processing program for causing a computer to execute the game system control method according to claim 10 . An information processing program for causing a computer to execute the game machine control method according to claim 13 . A game system comprising one or more game machines having an interface to which a predetermined storage medium can be attached and detached, and a server connected to the game machines via a network,
The server
First management means for managing information related to closing of the store where the game machine is installed;
Second management means for managing the progress of the game in the game machine;
A time measuring means for measuring the current time;
When the measured current time has passed the discharge time managed by the first management means, information related to the progress of the game is recorded on the predetermined storage medium, and then the predetermined storage medium is recorded . First transmission means for transmitting a discharge instruction to the game machine;
While the game is in progress, when the timed current time has passed a preset discharge time, information on the progress of the game is sequentially displayed every predetermined time until the game ends. Obtaining means for obtaining from the game machine;
A means for determining that the game has been interrupted when communication from the game machine is interrupted in a state where the game has not ended, and for recording “game interruption” in a database;
When said ejected predetermined storage medium is attached to the interface of the game machine, and transmits the information relating to the progress of the acquired game on the gaming machine, is that the "game interruption" in the database record If it is, a game system comprising a second transmission means for transmitting the “game interruption” to the game.

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