JP4572245B2 - Image processing program, image processing apparatus, and image processing control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing program, and more particularly to an image processing program capable of displaying an image in which the influence of peripheral dimming is reproduced on an image display unit. The present invention also relates to an image processing apparatus and an image processing control method realized by the image processing program.

  Conventionally, when an object placed in a virtual space is photographed by a virtual camera, various image processing techniques have been applied to display the photographed image on a monitor.

  In general, in an actual camera having a physical lens, if the angle of view of the camera is increased, peripheral dimming tends to occur in an image taken by the camera. On the other hand, since the virtual camera does not have a physical lens, even if the angle of view of the virtual camera is increased, the peripheral dimming did not occur in the image taken by the virtual camera.

  Thus, there is a great difference in the presence or absence of peripheral dimming between an image taken by an actual camera and an image taken by a virtual camera. For this reason, when an image taken by a virtual camera is displayed on a monitor in the same way as an image taken by an actual camera, it is necessary to reflect the influence of peripheral dimming on the image taken by the virtual camera. coming out. Therefore, conventionally, the influence of the peripheral light reduction is reflected in the image by applying a filter for peripheral light reduction to the image taken by the virtual camera.

For example, in a conventional baseball game, the influence of peripheral dimming is reflected on a replay screen or the like (see Non-Patent Document 1). In this baseball game, the image of the image taken by the virtual camera is subjected to a filter that darkens the periphery of the image taken by the virtual camera, thereby reproducing the influence of the peripheral dimming on the image.
Professional baseball spirits 4, Konami Digital Entertainment, PS3, released on April 1, 2007

  In a conventional baseball game, a filter that darkens the periphery of the image captured by the virtual camera (peripheral dimming filter) is applied to the image captured by the virtual camera. It was reproduced in.

  The conventional peripheral dimming filter simply darkens the periphery of the image taken by the virtual camera. For this reason, the conventional peripheral light reduction filter can darken the periphery of the image only at a certain rate. Specifically, the extent to which peripheral dimming generally varies depending on the angle of view of the camera, that is, the amount of light. However, the conventional peripheral light reduction filter can darken the periphery of an image only at a certain rate even when the angle of view of the virtual camera, that is, the amount of light changes. For this reason, even if an image captured by a virtual camera is filtered with a peripheral dimming filter, peripheral dimming similar to that of an image captured by an actual camera is realistic in an image captured by a virtual camera. It was difficult to reproduce.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to reproduce realistic peripheral dimming in an image taken by a virtual camera.

An image processing program according to claim 1 is a program for causing a computer capable of displaying an image reproducing the influence of ambient light reduction on an image display unit to realize the following functions.
(1) A first image storage function for storing first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by a virtual camera in a storage unit.
(2) A second image storage function for storing, in the storage unit, second image data corresponding to a dimming image for dimming the peripheral portion of the image.
(3) A second image adjustment function that causes the control unit to execute a process of adjusting the second image data in accordance with the angle of view of the virtual camera.
(4) A monitor image generation function for generating monitor display image data in which the peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data. .
(5) An image display function for displaying, on the image display unit, an image that reproduces the influence of peripheral dimming using monitor display image data whose peripheral portion is dimmed.

  In this image processing program, in the first image storage function, first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is stored in the storage unit. In the second image storage function, the second image data corresponding to the dimming image for dimming the peripheral portion of the image is stored in the storage unit. In the second image adjustment function, a process of adjusting the second image data according to the angle of view of the virtual camera is executed by the control unit. In the monitor image generation function, monitor display image data in which the peripheral portion is dimmed is generated by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data. The In the image display function, an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming is displayed on the image display unit using the monitor display image data in which the peripheral part is dimmed.

  In this case, when a certain image is taken with a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera, the first image data corresponding to this image is stored in the storage unit. In addition, second image data corresponding to a dimming image for dimming the peripheral portion of the image is stored in the storage unit. Then, adjustment according to the angle of view of the virtual camera is executed by the control unit on the second image data. Then, the process of superimposing the adjusted second image data (adjusted second image data) on the first image data corresponding to the image captured at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is performed by the control unit. Executed. In this way, image data for monitor display with the peripheral portion dimmed is generated, and an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming is generated using the monitor display image data with the peripheral portion dimmed. Is displayed on the image display section.

  Thus, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the dimming image data (second image data) adjusted according to the angle of view of the virtual camera is used as the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera. ), The effect of peripheral dimming according to the angle of view of the virtual camera can be reflected in the image taken by the virtual camera. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image processing program according to the first aspect, wherein the amount of light corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated based on the first image data stored in the storage unit. Is executed by the control unit. And the process which adjusts 2nd image data according to a light quantity is performed by the control part. The former function is realized in the light quantity evaluation function, and the latter function is realized in the image light quantity adjustment function. These light quantity evaluation function and image light quantity adjustment function are included in the second image adjustment function.

  In this case, based on the image data (first image data) photographed by the virtual camera, the light quantity of the image photographed by the virtual camera, that is, the light quantity corresponding to the angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated. Then, the dimming image data (second image data) is adjusted in accordance with the amount of light. For this reason, in the invention which concerns on Claim 2, the influence of peripheral light reduction can be correctly reflected with respect to the image image | photographed with the virtual camera. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be accurately reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image processing program according to the second aspect, the process of converting the first image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit. Then, the gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.

  In this case, the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera is converted into grayscale image data. Then, gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is calculated, and the light amount corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated using the gradation data. Thus, in the invention according to claim 3, as long as there is image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera, the amount of light of the image captured by the virtual camera can be evaluated. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing program according to the third aspect, the process of converting the first image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit. Then, processing for converting the grayscale image data into 1-pixel grayscale image data is executed by the control unit. The gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data of one pixel is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the light amount corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera. These functions are realized in the light quantity evaluation function.

  In this case, the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera is converted into grayscale image data. Then, the grayscale image data is converted into 1-pixel grayscale image data. Then, gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data of one pixel is calculated, and the light quantity corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated using the gradation data. As described above, according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to evaluate the light quantity of the image captured by the virtual camera based on the gradation data of the 1-pixel grayscale image data. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

  In an image processing program according to a fifth aspect, in the image processing program according to the third aspect, the process of converting the image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit. Then, gradation data indicating the gradation of grayscale image data is recognized by the control unit. And the process which averages gradation data is performed by the control part. Then, the averaged gradation data is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera. These functions are realized in the light quantity evaluation function.

  In this case, the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera is converted into grayscale image data. Then, gradation data indicating the gradation of grayscale image data is calculated for each pixel, and the gradation data of each pixel is averaged. Then, the light amount corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated using the averaged gradation data. Thus, according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the amount of light of the image captured by the virtual camera can be evaluated based on the gradation data of the grayscale image data of each pixel. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

  The image processing program according to claim 6 is the image processing program according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the peripheral portion of the image is dimmed in accordance with the gradation data of the first image data after conversion. Transparency data for prescribing is set by the control unit. Then, based on the transparency data, a process for adjusting the density of the second image data is executed by the control unit. These functions are realized in the image light quantity adjustment function.

  In this case, transparency data for defining the degree to which the peripheral portion of the image taken by the virtual camera is dimmed according to the grayscale data of the grayscale image data (first image data after conversion) is set. Is done. Then, based on this transparency data, the density of the image data for dimming (second image data) is adjusted. Thus, according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the amount of light of the image photographed by the virtual camera, that is, the gradation of the gray scale image is determined based on the image data for dimming (first number) via the transparency data. 2 image data). For this reason, if the image data for dimming is superimposed on the image data captured by the virtual camera, similar to the image captured by the actual camera, even in the image captured by the virtual camera, Dimming can be reproduced.

  In an image processing program according to a seventh aspect, in the image processing program according to the sixth aspect, the transparency data of the gravity center position of the dimming image is recognized by the control unit as the first transparency data. Then, the transparency data of the peripheral part of the image for dimming is recognized by the control unit as the second transparency data according to the gradation data for which the light quantity is evaluated. Based on the first transparency data and the second transparency data, the transparency data of the light reduction image between the gravity center position of the light reduction image and the peripheral portion of the light reduction image is the third transparency data. Is set by the control unit. And the process which adjusts the light and shade of 2nd image data based on 1st transparency data, 2nd transparency data, and 3rd transparency data is performed by a control part. These functions are realized in the image light quantity adjustment function.

  In this case, based on the transparency data (first transparency data) of the center of gravity of the image for dimming and the transparency data (second transparency data) of the peripheral portion of the image for dimming (the second transparency data), The transparency data (third transparency data) of the light reduction image between the light and the peripheral portion of the light reduction image is set. Then, based on the transparency data, the density of the image data for dimming (second image data) is adjusted. In this way, in the invention according to claim 7, the light intensity of the image photographed by the virtual camera, that is, the gradation of the gray scale image is determined by the image data for dimming (first image) via the transparency data. 2 image data). For this reason, if the image data for dimming is superimposed on the image data captured by the virtual camera, similar to the image captured by the actual camera, even in the image captured by the virtual camera, Dimming can be reproduced.

  An image processing apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is an image processing apparatus capable of displaying on the image display unit an image that reproduces the influence of peripheral light reduction. The image processing apparatus includes first image storage means for storing first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by a virtual camera in a storage unit, and dimming for dimming a peripheral portion of the image. A second image storage unit that stores second image data corresponding to the image in the storage unit, and a second image that causes the control unit to execute a process of adjusting the second image data according to the angle of view of the virtual camera. Monitor image generation for generating monitor display image data in which the peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data and the adjustment unit And image display means for displaying on the image display section an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming using image data for monitor display whose peripheral area is dimmed.

  An image processing control method according to a ninth aspect is an image processing control method controlled by a computer capable of displaying an image reproducing the influence of peripheral light reduction on an image display unit. This image processing control method includes a first image storing step for storing first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by a virtual camera in a storage unit, and dimming for dimming a peripheral portion of the image. A second image storing step for storing second image data corresponding to the image for use in the storage unit, and a process for adjusting the second image data in accordance with the angle of view of the virtual camera. A monitor image for generating image data for monitor display in which the peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the control unit to execute an image adjustment step and a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data A generation step, and an image display step of displaying an image in which the influence of the peripheral light reduction is reproduced on the image display unit using the monitor display image data whose peripheral part is dimmed.

  In the present invention, the image data for dimming (second image data) adjusted according to the angle of view of the virtual camera is superimposed on the image data (first image data) photographed by the virtual camera, so that the virtual The influence of peripheral dimming according to the angle of view of the camera can be reflected in the image taken by the virtual camera.

  Specifically, based on the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera, the light amount of the image captured by the virtual camera, that is, the light amount corresponding to the angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated. Then, the dimming image data (second image data) is adjusted in accordance with the amount of light. Then, by superimposing the second image data adjusted here (second image data after adjustment) on the first image data corresponding to the image captured at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera, The effect of peripheral dimming according to the angle of view can be reflected in the image taken by the virtual camera.

  Thereby, in the image photographed by the virtual camera, the realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in the same manner as the image photographed by the actual camera.

[Configuration and operation of game device]
FIG. 1 shows a basic configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Here, a home video game device will be described as an example of the video game device. The home video game apparatus includes a home game machine body and a home television. The home game machine body can be loaded with a recording medium 10, and game data is read from the recording medium 10 as appropriate to execute the game. The contents of the game executed in this way are displayed on the home television.

  The game system of the home video game apparatus includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an image display unit 3, an audio output unit 4, and an operation input unit 5, which are connected via a bus 6. Is done. The bus 6 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. Here, the control unit 1, the storage unit 2, the audio output unit 4, and the operation input unit 5 are included in the home game machine body of the home video game apparatus, and the image display unit 3 is included in the home television. It is.

  The control unit 1 is provided mainly for controlling the progress of the entire game based on the game program. The control unit 1 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 7, a signal processor 8, and an image processor 9. The CPU 7, the signal processor 8, and the image processor 9 are connected to each other via the bus 6. The CPU 7 interprets instructions from the game program and performs various data processing and control. For example, the CPU 7 instructs the signal processor 8 to supply image data to the image processor. The signal processor 8 mainly performs calculation in the three-dimensional space, position conversion calculation from the three-dimensional space to the pseudo three-dimensional space, light source calculation processing, and image and audio data generation processing. ing. The image processor 9 mainly performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result and the processing result of the signal processor 8.

  The storage unit 2 is provided mainly for storing program data and various data used in the program data. The storage unit 2 includes, for example, a recording medium 10, an interface circuit 11, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12. An interface circuit 11 is connected to the recording medium 10. The interface circuit 11 and the RAM 12 are connected via the bus 6. The recording medium 10 is for recording operation system program data, image data, audio data, game data including various program data, and the like. The recording medium 10 is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) cassette, an optical disk, a flexible disk, or the like, and stores operating system program data, game data, and the like. The recording medium 10 also includes a card type memory, and this card type memory is mainly used for storing various game parameters at the time of interruption when the game is interrupted. The RAM 12 is used for temporarily storing various data read from the recording medium 10 and temporarily recording the processing results from the control unit 1. The RAM 12 stores various data and address data indicating the storage position of the various data, and can be read / written by designating an arbitrary address.

  The image display unit 3 is provided mainly for outputting image data written in the RAM 12 by the image processor 9 or image data read from the recording medium 10 as an image. The image display unit 3 includes, for example, a television monitor 20, an interface circuit 21, and a D / A converter (Digital-To-Analog converter) 22. A D / A converter 22 is connected to the television monitor 20, and an interface circuit 21 is connected to the D / A converter 22. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 21. Here, the image data is supplied to the D / A converter 22 via the interface circuit 21, where it is converted into an analog image signal. The analog image signal is output as an image to the television monitor 20.

  Here, the image data includes, for example, polygon data and texture data. Polygon data is the coordinate data of vertices constituting a polygon. The texture data is for setting a texture on the polygon, and is composed of texture instruction data and texture color data. The texture instruction data is data for associating polygons and textures, and the texture color data is data for designating the texture color. Here, the polygon data and the texture data are associated with the polygon address data indicating the storage position of each data and the texture address data. In such image data, the signal processor 8 coordinates the polygon data in the three-dimensional space indicated by the polygon address data (three-dimensional polygon data) based on the movement amount data and the rotation amount data of the screen itself (viewpoint). Conversion and perspective projection conversion are performed, and the data is replaced with polygon data (two-dimensional polygon data) in a two-dimensional space. Then, a polygon outline is constituted by a plurality of two-dimensional polygon data, and texture data indicated by the texture address data is written in an internal area of the polygon. In this way, an object in which a texture is pasted on each polygon, that is, various characters can be expressed.

  The audio output unit 4 is provided mainly for outputting audio data read from the recording medium 10 as audio. The audio output unit 4 includes, for example, a speaker 13, an amplifier circuit 14, a D / A converter 15, and an interface circuit 16. An amplifier circuit 14 is connected to the speaker 13, a D / A converter 15 is connected to the amplifier circuit 14, and an interface circuit 16 is connected to the D / A converter 15. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16, where it is converted into an analog audio signal. The analog audio signal is amplified by the amplifier circuit 14 and output from the speaker 13 as audio. The audio data includes, for example, ADPCM (Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation) data and PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) data. In the case of ADPCM data, sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above. In the case of PCM data, by converting the PCM data into ADPCM data in the RAM 12, the sound can be output from the speaker 13 by the same processing method as described above.

  The operation input unit 5 mainly includes a controller 17, an operation information interface circuit 18, and an interface circuit 19. An operation information interface circuit 18 is connected to the controller 17, and an interface circuit 19 is connected to the operation information interface circuit 18. The bus 6 is connected to the interface circuit 19.

  The controller 17 is an operation device used by the player to input various operation commands, and sends an operation signal according to the operation of the player to the CPU 7. The controller 17 includes a first button 17a, a second button 17b, a third button 17c, a fourth button 17d, an up key 17U, a down key 17D, a left key 17L, a right key 17R, and an L1 button 17L1, L2. A button 17L2, an R1 button 17R1, an R2 button 17R2, a start button 17e, a select button 17f, a left stick 17SL and a right stick 17SR are provided.

  The up direction key 17U, the down direction key 17D, the left direction key 17L, and the right direction key 17R are used, for example, to give the CPU 7 a command for moving a character or cursor up, down, left, or right on the screen of the television monitor 20. .

  The start button 17e is used when instructing the CPU 7 to load a game program from the recording medium 10.

  The select button 17f is used when instructing the CPU 7 to make various selections for the game program loaded from the recording medium 10.

  The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are stick type controllers having substantially the same configuration as a so-called joystick. This stick type controller has an upright stick. The stick is configured to be tiltable from an upright position around the fulcrum in a 360 ° direction including front, rear, left and right. The left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR pass through the operation information interface circuit 18 and the interface circuit 19 with the values of the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate having the upright position as the origin as operation signals according to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the stick. To the CPU 7.

  The first button 17a, the second button 17b, the third button 17c, the fourth button 17d, the L1 button 17L1, the L2 button 17L2, the R1 button 17R1, and the R2 button 17R2 correspond to the game program loaded from the recording medium 10. Various functions are allocated.

  Each button and each key of the controller 17 except for the left stick 17SL and the right stick 17SR are turned on when pressed from the neutral position by an external pressing force, and return to the neutral position when the pressing force is released. It is an on / off switch that turns off.

  The schematic operation of the home video game apparatus having the above configuration will be described below. When a power switch (not shown) is turned on and the game system 1 is turned on, the CPU 7 reads image data, audio data, and a program from the recording medium 10 based on the operating system stored in the recording medium 10. Read data. Some or all of the read image data, audio data, and program data are stored in the RAM 12. Then, the CPU 7 issues a command to the image data and sound data stored in the RAM 12 based on the program data stored in the RAM 12.

  In the case of image data, based on a command from the CPU 7, first, the signal processor 8 performs character position calculation and light source calculation in a three-dimensional space. Next, the image processor 9 performs a process of writing image data to be drawn into the RAM 12 based on the calculation result of the signal processor 8. Then, the image data written in the RAM 12 is supplied to the D / A converter 17 via the interface circuit 13. Here, the image data is converted into an analog video signal by the D / A converter 17. The image data is supplied to the television monitor 20 and displayed as an image.

  In the case of audio data, first, the signal processor 8 generates and processes audio data based on a command from the CPU 7. Here, processing such as pitch conversion, noise addition, envelope setting, level setting, and reverb addition is performed on the audio data, for example. Next, the audio data is output from the signal processor 8 and supplied to the D / A converter 15 via the interface circuit 16. Here, the audio data is converted into an analog audio signal. The audio data is output as audio from the speaker 13 via the amplifier circuit 14.

[Outline of various processes in game devices]
The game executed in this game machine is, for example, a baseball game. In the present game machine, an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming is displayed on the television monitor 20. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram for explaining functions that play a major role in the present invention.

  The camera setting means 50 is the first coordinate data for the camera for defining the position (viewpoint) of the virtual camera in the virtual game space, and for the camera for defining the viewing direction of the virtual camera with reference to the position of the virtual camera. The second coordinate data and the angle-of-view data for defining the angle of view of the virtual camera are recognized by the CPU 7, thereby setting the virtual camera in the virtual game space.

  In this means, the first coordinate data for the camera for defining the position of the virtual camera in the virtual game space, the second coordinate data for the camera for defining the viewing direction of the virtual camera with reference to the position of the virtual camera The virtual camera is set in the virtual game space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize the angle of view data for defining the angle of view of the virtual camera.

  Here, the first coordinate data for the camera, the second coordinate data for the camera, and the view angle data of the virtual camera, which are recognized by the CPU 7 as initial conditions when the game is started, are stored in the RAM 12. . These data are stored in the RAM 12 when the game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12. Further, when at least one of the first coordinate data for the camera, the second coordinate data for the camera, and the view angle data of the virtual camera is changed, each changed data is stored in the RAM 12. Then, each data stored in the RAM 12 is recognized by the CPU 7.

  The shooting space defining means 51 has a function of defining the shooting space in the virtual game space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize boundary data for defining the shooting space to be shot by the virtual camera in the virtual game space. I have.

  In this means, in the virtual game space, the photographing space is defined as the virtual game space by causing the CPU 7 to recognize the boundary data for defining the photographing space to be photographed by the virtual camera.

  Here, a predetermined area inside all spaces (view space) that enter the field of view of the virtual camera is defined as a space displayed on the monitor 20, that is, a shooting space (view cone area). In other words, a predetermined area inside all space (view space) that falls within the angle of view of the virtual camera is defined as a shooting space. This shooting space is defined by setting the camera-side surface (first surface) and the surface away from the camera (second surface) at predetermined positions in the virtual game space. For example, by causing the CPU 7 to recognize two predetermined position coordinate data (first surface boundary data and second surface boundary data) based on the position of the virtual camera, the first surface and the first surface Two sides are defined in the virtual game space.

  Here, the position of the first surface and the position of the second surface for defining the shooting space are defined in advance in the game program, but the user can specify the positions of the first surface and the second surface. It may be set arbitrarily.

  The first image storage means 52 has a function of storing, in the RAM 12, first image data corresponding to an image taken at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera. In this means, first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is stored in the RAM 12.

  Here, when an object inside the shooting space is shot by the virtual camera, a process of projecting the object inside the shooting space onto a two-dimensional plane is executed by the control unit. By this process, an image (first image data) captured with a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is generated.

  Specifically, here, when the object inside the shooting space is shot by the virtual camera, the depth data indicating the depth at which the object inside the shooting space is located with reference to the viewpoint of the virtual camera, It is stored in the Z buffer RAM 12. This process corresponds to a process of projecting an object inside the imaging space onto a two-dimensional plane. Based on the depth data stored in the Z buffer RAM 12, image data (first image data) corresponding to an object inside the shooting space is stored in the frame buffer RAM 12. In this way, the first image data corresponding to the image captured at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is stored in the RAM 12.

  The second image storage means 53 has a function of storing, in the RAM 12, second image data corresponding to a dimming image for dimming the peripheral portion of the image. In this means, the second image data corresponding to the dimming image for dimming the peripheral portion of the image is stored in the RAM 12.

  Here, the second image data as the initial condition is stored in the RAM 12. The image corresponding to the second image data is an image in which the density gradually increases concentrically from the position of the center of gravity of the image. Specifically, the image corresponding to the second image data is completely transparent at the center of gravity of the image, and the density of black gradually increases concentrically from the center of gravity of the image. In this image, the density of the image is gradually changed by changing the gradation stepwise in a concentric manner from the position of the center of gravity of the image (by gradation processing). The second image data corresponding to the image as the initial condition is defined in advance by the game program and stored in the RAM 12.

  The second image adjustment unit 54 has a function of causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of adjusting the second image data in accordance with the angle of view of the virtual camera.

  The second image adjustment unit 54 includes a light amount evaluation unit 54a and an image light amount adjustment unit 54b. The light quantity evaluation unit 54 a has a function of causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of evaluating the light quantity corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera based on the first image data stored in the RAM 12. The image light amount adjusting unit 54b has a function of causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of adjusting the second image data according to the light amount.

  In the second image adjustment unit 54, the CPU 7 executes a process for adjusting the second image data in accordance with the angle of view of the virtual camera as follows.

  In the light quantity evaluation means 54a, the CPU 7 executes a process for evaluating the light quantity corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera based on the first image data stored in the RAM 12.

  Here, in the light quantity evaluation unit 54a, the CPU 7 executes processing for converting the first image data stored in the RAM 12 into grayscale image data. Then, the gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is recognized by the CPU 7 as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.

  Specifically, the CPU 7 executes processing for converting the first image data stored in the RAM 12 into grayscale image data. Then, the CPU 7 executes a process of converting the grayscale image data into 1-pixel grayscale image data. The gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data of one pixel is recognized by the CPU 7 as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.

  In the image light amount adjusting means 54b, the CPU 7 executes a process for adjusting the second image data in accordance with the light amount.

  Here, transparency data for defining the degree to which the peripheral portion of the image is dimmed is set by the CPU 7 in accordance with the gradation data for which the amount of light has been evaluated. Then, a process for adjusting the density of the second image data based on the transparency data is executed by the CPU 7.

  Specifically, the transparency data of the gravity center position of the dimming image is recognized by the CPU 7 as the first transparency data. Then, the transparency data of the peripheral portion of the dimming image is recognized by the CPU 7 as the second transparency data according to the gradation data for which the light quantity is evaluated. Based on the first transparency data and the second transparency data, the transparency data of the light reduction image between the gravity center position of the light reduction image and the peripheral portion of the light reduction image is the third transparency data. Is set by the CPU 7. The third transparency data is calculated by the CPU 7 based on a linear function or a multi-order function with the first transparency data and the second transparency data as initial conditions. That is, the third transparency data is calculated by the CPU 7 using linear interpolation using a linear function or multi-order interpolation using a multi-order function. Then, a process for adjusting the density of the second image data based on the first transparency data, the second transparency data, and the third transparency data is executed by the CPU 7. Note that the linear function or multi-order function used here is defined in advance in the game program and is stored in the RAM 12.

  The monitor image generating means 55 has a function of generating image data for monitor display whose peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the CPU 7 to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data. It has. In this means, the CPU 7 executes a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data, thereby generating monitor display image data in which the peripheral portion is dimmed.

  Here, by superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data, the first image data and the adjusted second image data are combined, and the peripheral display is dimmed. Image data is generated. Thereby, the light quantity of the peripheral part of the image image | photographed with the predetermined angle of view with the virtual camera is adjusted, and the monitor display image with the peripheral part dimmed is generated.

  The image display means 56 has a function of displaying on the television monitor 20 an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming using image data for monitor display whose peripheral portion is dimmed. With this means, an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming is displayed on the television monitor 20 using the monitor display image data whose peripheral portion is dimmed.

  Here, the monitor display image data whose peripheral portion is dimmed is supplied to the television monitor 20 based on a display command from the CPU 7. As a result, an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming is displayed on the television monitor 20.

[Outline of ambient light reproduction system in baseball game]
Next, specific contents of the peripheral light reduction reproduction system in the baseball game will be described. The flow shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 will also be described at the same time. FIG. 9 is a flow for explaining the general outline of the baseball game, and FIG. 10 is a flow for explaining the system.

  First, when the game machine is turned on and the game machine is activated, the baseball game program is loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored. At this time, various basic game data necessary for executing the baseball game are simultaneously loaded from the recording medium 10 into the RAM 12 and stored (S1).

  For example, the basic game data includes data related to various images for a three-dimensional game space. The CPU 7 recognizes data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space, such as stadium image data, player character image data, and various object image data. Further, the basic game data includes position coordinate data for arranging data related to various images for the three-dimensional game space in the three-dimensional game space. The basic game data also includes data used in the above system.

  Subsequently, the baseball game program stored in the RAM 12 is executed by the CPU 7 based on the basic game data (S2). Then, the start screen of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20. Then, various setting screens for executing the baseball game are displayed on the television monitor 20. Here, for example, a mode selection screen for selecting a play mode of the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (not shown). In the mode selection screen, the player operates the controller 17 to determine the play mode (S3). The play mode includes, for example, a battle mode in which a favorite team is selected from 12 teams to enjoy a match, a pennant mode in which a favorite team is selected from the 12 teams and a pennant race is played, and the player supervises A training mode for training the player characters of the team from the standpoint of the player, a growth experience mode for experiencing the baseball game from the standpoint of one player character with the Oyori player, and the like are prepared.

  Subsequently, various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4). The various events executed here are, for example, events automatically controlled by the CPU 7 based on an AI program (Artificial Intelligence Program), and events manually controlled by the player based on an input signal from the controller 17. There is a special event. The player character is controlled by automatic control for automatically instructing the player character based on the AI program, manual control for directly instructing the player character based on an input signal from the controller 17, or the like. There is. Thus, in this baseball game, an event is controlled or an instruction is instructed to the player character in accordance with an instruction from the controller 17 or an instruction from the AI program.

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the selected play mode is finished (S5). Specifically, the CPU 7 determines whether or not a command indicating that the play mode has ended is issued. If the CPU 7 determines that an instruction indicating that the play mode has ended has been issued (Yes in S5), the CPU 7 executes a process of storing the game continuation data in the RAM 12. When the game continuation data is stored in the RAM 12, a selection screen for selecting whether or not to end the baseball game is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S6). When an item indicating the end of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (Yes in S6), the CPU 7 executes a process for ending the baseball game ( S7). On the other hand, when an item indicating continuation of the baseball game is selected by operating the controller 17 on the selection screen (No in S6), the mode selection screen in Step 3 (S3) is displayed on the television monitor. 20 is displayed again.

  Unless the CPU 7 determines that an instruction for ending the play mode has been issued (No in S5), various events are executed by the CPU 7 in the play mode selected on the mode selection screen (S4).

  Next, details of the peripheral dimming reproduction system will be described.

  In the following, an example in which the peripheral dimming reproduction system functions in the battle mode is shown. For example, an example in which the peripheral dimming reproduction system functions when the battle mode is selected on the mode selection screen is shown. In particular, in the following, an example in which peripheral light reduction is reproduced in a replay image in the peripheral light reduction reproduction system will be shown.

  In this baseball game, before the battle mode is started, image data (second image data) corresponding to the dimming image D2 for dimming the peripheral portion of the image is stored in the RAM 12 (S100). Here, the second image data as the initial condition is stored in the RAM 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the image D2 corresponding to the second image data is an image whose density increases stepwise in a concentric manner from the center of gravity G of the image. Specifically, in the image D2 corresponding to the second image data, the density of black gradually increases concentrically from the center of gravity position G of the image toward the four corners Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y4 of the image. Yes. In this image, the density of the image is gradually changed by changing the gradation stepwise in a concentric manner from the center of gravity position G of the image (by gradation processing). Here, the second image data is included in the basic game data.

  Then, when the battle mode is started (S101), as shown in FIG. 4, the first coordinate data for the camera for defining the position C1 of the virtual camera for scene reproduction in the three-dimensional virtual game space, scene reproduction. Second coordinate data for the camera indicating the position C2 for defining the viewing direction VD of the virtual camera with reference to the position C1 of the virtual camera for viewing, and angle of view data for defining the angle of view of the virtual camera for scene reproduction GA is recognized by the CPU 7. Thereby, a virtual camera for scene reproduction is set in the three-dimensional virtual game space (S102).

  Here, the coordinate system of the three-dimensional virtual space is defined as shown in FIG. That is, here, the direction in which the visual line direction VD of the virtual camera is projected on the horizontal plane is defined as the Y direction, the height direction is defined as the Z direction, and the directions orthogonal to the Y direction and the Z direction are defined as the X direction. Further, the bottom surface VB of the imaging space in FIG. 4 is provided on the XY plane. A ground plane is defined on the XY plane.

  Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 4, a predetermined area inside all the spaces SK (view space) that falls within the angle of view of the virtual camera for scene reproduction is defined as the imaging space SS (S103). Here, a boundary for defining the depth of the imaging space SS to be imaged by the virtual camera for scene reproduction, for example, a surface VS1 (first surface) on the virtual camera side and a surface VS2 on the side away from the virtual camera ( By setting the second surface) to a predetermined position in the three-dimensional virtual game space, the shooting space SS is defined as the three-dimensional virtual game space.

  Specifically, a process for adding the distance ys1 from the virtual camera position C1 to the first surface VS1 to the y coordinate of the first coordinate data (x1, y1, z1) of the virtual camera position C1 is performed in the control unit. By executing this, the boundary data (x1, y1 + ys1, z1) for the first surface is calculated. Further, the control unit is caused to execute a process of adding a distance ys2 from the virtual camera position C1 to the second surface VS2 to the y coordinate of the first coordinate data (x1, y1, z1) of the virtual camera position C1. Thus, the boundary data (x1, y1 + ys2, z1) for the second surface is calculated. Note that the distances ys1 and ys2 are defined in advance in the game program and stored in the RAM 12. Further, the relationship “ys2> ys1” is established between the distance ys1 and the distance ys2.

  The CPU 7 uses the boundary data for the first surface and the boundary data for the second surface calculated as described above as the position coordinate data of the first surface VS1 and the position coordinate data of the second surface VS2. The first surface VS1 and the second surface VS2 are determined as a three-dimensional virtual game space and the shooting space SS is defined as a three-dimensional virtual game space.

  Note that the boundary in the width direction of the shooting space SS to be shot by the virtual camera for scene reproduction is defined by the first angle-of-view data GAxy in the width direction of the virtual camera for scene reproduction (see FIG. 4). Also, the boundary in the height direction of the shooting space SS to be shot by the virtual camera for scene reproduction is defined by the second angle-of-view data GAyz in the height direction of the virtual camera for scene reproduction (see FIG. 4). ). Thus, here, the view angle data GA of the virtual camera for scene reproduction is composed of the first view angle data GAxy in the width direction and the second view angle data GAyz in the height direction.

  Subsequently, when a game event is started and a play is executed (S104), the CPU 7 determines whether or not the executed play is a replay target play (S105). Here, the play to be replayed is defined in advance in the game program. In the following, an example is shown in which the play when the runner character K1 is present on the third base and the hit or outfield fly is released by the batter character is defined as the play to be replayed.

  Specifically, the executed play is a replay target play prescribed in the game program, for example, when a runner character exists on the third base and a hit or an outfield fly is released by the batter character. The CPU 7 determines whether or not there is.

  Here, for example, when the runner character is present on the third base, the CPU 7 assigns a numerical value “1” as the flag value indicating the output situation at the third base. Further, when there is no runner character in the third base, a numerical value “0” is assigned by the CPU 7 as a flag value indicating the output situation in the third base. By making the CPU 7 recognize the value of this flag, it is determined by the CPU 7 whether or not the runner character is present at 3 cm.

  Also, for example, when a hit is released by the batter character, the value “1” corresponding to the hit, the value “2” corresponding to the second hit, the value “2” corresponding to the third hit, and the value “3” corresponding to the third hit Any one of “3” and a numerical value “4” corresponding to the home run is assigned by the CPU 7. Then, when the outfield fly is released by the batter character, the CPU 7 assigns a numerical value “11” corresponding to the outfield fly as the value of the result data indicating the hit result. In the case of a result other than the above, the numerical value “0” is assigned by the CPU 7 as the value of the result data indicating the hitting result. By causing the CPU 7 to recognize the value of the result data, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the batter character has hit or hit the outfield fly.

  Here, when the CPU 7 determines that the executed play is a replay target play (Yes in S105), coordinate data and image data for reproducing the motion of the character related to the replay target play are stored in the RAM 12. Stored in For example, when a runner character exists on the third base and a hit or outfield fly is released by the batter character, the characters related to the play to be replayed are a runner character, a catcher character, and a referee character. Therefore, in this case, the coordinate data and image data of the runner character being played, the catcher character being played, and the referee character being played are stored in the RAM 12. Here, the coordinate data and image data of the ball being played are also stored in the RAM 12 (S106).

  The coordinate data of the ball is calculated based on the ball trajectory equation. For example, the ball trajectory equation is a function of position and time. In this ball trajectory equation, the position of the ball in a predetermined frame is calculated by advancing the time by 1/60 (sec) with reference to the time of the ball delivery position. Note that variables and constants for configuring the ball trajectory equation are defined in advance in the game program.

  Subsequently, based on the data stored in the RAM 12 here, the CPU 7 executes a process of re-executing the play to be replayed (play that has already been executed) in the three-dimensional virtual game space.

  First, the CPU 7 recognizes coordinate data of each of a plurality of characters located inside the three-dimensional virtual game space. For example, when a runner character exists on the third base and the batter character hits or flies outfield, the coordinate data of the runner character that enters the home base, the catcher character that catches the ball, and the referee character is 1 The CPU 7 recognizes each frame. Here, the coordinate data of each character recognized by the CPU 7 is the data stored in the RAM 12 in step 106 (S106).

  Next, the CPU 7 recognizes the coordinate data of the ball moving within the three-dimensional virtual game space. For example, if a runner character exists on the 3rd base and the batter character hits or flies outfield, the coordinate data of the ball sent from the fielder character that caught the ball to the catcher character is 1 frame (1 / Every 60 sec). Here, the coordinate data of the ball recognized by the CPU 7 is the data stored in the RAM 12 in step 106 (S106).

  Here, for each frame, the coordinate data of a plurality of characters and the coordinate data of the ball are recognized by the CPU 7, and depth data indicating the depth at which an object inside the shooting space is located with reference to the viewpoint of the virtual camera. Are stored in the RAM 12 for the Z buffer. This process corresponds to a process of projecting an object inside the imaging space onto a two-dimensional plane. Then, based on the depth data stored in the Z buffer RAM 12, image data (first image data) obtained by shooting an object inside the shooting space is stored in the frame buffer RAM 12. In this way, the first image data corresponding to the image shot at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera is stored in the RAM 12 for each frame (S107).

  Further, when the first image data is stored in the RAM 12, the angle-of-view data of each frame image captured by the virtual camera is stored in the RAM 12 (S108). For example, when the play to be replayed is gradually closed up (zoomed), the value of the field angle data of the image of each frame gradually becomes a small value as the frame progresses. In this case, different angle of view data is stored in the RAM 12 for each frame or several frames. On the other hand, when the play to be replayed is reproduced in a fixed state without being closed up, the value of the angle of view data of the image of each frame becomes a constant value. In this case, constant angle of view data is stored in the RAM 12 in each frame.

  Subsequently, processing for adjusting image data (second image data) corresponding to the dimming image D2 according to the angle of view of the virtual camera stored in the RAM 12 is executed by the CPU 7 as follows. .

  First, based on the first image data of each frame stored in the RAM 12, the CPU 7 executes a process for evaluating the light amount corresponding to the angle of view of the virtual camera in each frame. For example, the CPU 7 executes a process of converting the first image data of each frame into grayscale image data. Then, processing for converting the grayscale image data of each frame into grayscale image data of 1 pixel is executed by the CPU 7 (see S109 and FIG. 8). Then, the gradation data KG1 indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data of 1 pixel of each frame is recognized by the CPU 7 as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to the angle of view of the virtual camera of each frame (S110). Then, gradation data KG1 indicating the gradation of grayscale image data of one pixel of each frame is stored in the RAM 12.

  In these processes, the first image data of each frame is converted into grayscale image data, whereby the intensity of the light amount of each frame image is evaluated based on the grayscale image density. Then, by converting the grayscale image data of each frame into 1-pixel grayscale image data, the average intensity of the light intensity of the image of each frame is evaluated. That is, the average intensity of the light intensity of the image of each frame is evaluated by the gradation data KG1 indicating the gradation of the gray scale image data of 1 pixel of each frame.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when the gradation of each frame is expressed by 256 bits of 8-bit, the gradation data KG1 of each frame takes a value from “0 to 255”. In this case, when the gradation data KG1 is “0”, it corresponds to “black”, and when the gradation data KG1 is “255”, it corresponds to “white”. Here, considering the relationship between gradation and light amount, an image with a small value of gradation data KG1 corresponds to an image with a small amount of light, and an image with a large value of gradation data KG1 corresponds to an image with a large amount of light. To do.

  In general, when the angle of view is wide, the amount of light increases because light can be taken in from a wide range of space. On the other hand, when the angle of view is narrow, light can be taken in only from a narrow space, so the amount of light decreases. FIG. 5 also shows such a relationship.

  Next, a process of adjusting the second image data according to the light amount of each frame is executed by the CPU 7. For example, the CPU 7 sets the transparency data T1, T2, T3 of each frame for defining the degree to which the peripheral portion of the image is dimmed according to the gradation data KG1 of each frame (S111). Then, a process of adjusting the density of the second image data based on the transparency data T1, T2, T3 is executed by the CPU 7 (S112).

  Specifically, the transparency data T1 of the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 is recognized by the CPU 7 as transparency data (first transparency data) corresponding to complete transparency. Since the image is rectangular here, the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 is the intersection position of the diagonal lines of the image (see FIG. 3).

  When the transparency data T1 (first transparency data) of the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 is recognized by the CPU 7, the transparency data T2 of the peripheral portion of the dimming image D2 is converted into the gradation of each frame. The CPU 7 recognizes the transparency data (second transparency data) corresponding to the data KG1.

  Here, the transparency data T2 of the peripheral portion of the dimming image D2 is set by the CPU 7 as follows. For example, as described above, an image with a small value of the gradation data KG1 corresponds to an image with a small amount of light, and an image with a large value of the gradation data KG1 corresponds to an image with a large amount of light (see FIG. 5). . From this, when the value of the gradation data KG1 is small, the amount of light of the image is small, and thus transparency data with high transparency is recognized by the CPU 7. On the other hand, when the value of the gradation data KG1 is large, the amount of light of the image is large, and thus transparency data with high opacity is recognized by the CPU 7. Such a relationship between the transparency and the light amount is defined in advance in the game program (see FIG. 5). The correspondence table is stored in the RAM 12 and is referred to by the CPU 7 as appropriate.

  Subsequently, based on the first transparency data T1 and the second transparency data T2, the transparency of the dimming image D2 between the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 and the peripheral portion of the dimming image D2 Data T3 is set by the CPU 7 as third transparency data. The third transparency data T3 is calculated by the CPU 7 based on a linear function or a multi-order function with the first transparency data T1 and the second transparency data T2 as initial conditions. That is, the third transparency data T3 is calculated by the CPU 7 using linear interpolation using a linear function or multi-order interpolation using a multi-order function. Here, linear interpolation using a linear function is used. When multi-order interpolation using a multi-order function is executed, values defined in advance in the game program are used for the third and higher coefficients of the multi-order function.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first transparency data T1 is defined at the center of gravity G of the dimming image D2, and the second transparency data T2 is the four corners Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4 of the dimming image D2. When defined as (peripheral portion of the dimming image D2), the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 and one corner portion (any one of the four corners) of the dimming image D2 The CPU 7 calculates transparency data T3 (third transparency data) on a straight line connecting the first and second transparency data T1 and T2 as initial conditions. For example, in FIG. 6, transparency data T3 (third transparency data) on a straight line connecting the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 and the corner Y4 of the dimming image D2 is the first transparency data T1. The CPU 7 calculates the second transparency data T2 as an initial condition. Thereby, the transparency data T3 on the straight line from the gravity center G of the dimming image D2 to one corner of the dimming image D2, that is, from the gravity center G of the dimming image D2 Third transparency data T3 corresponding to the distance is calculated.

  Then, transparency data (first transparency data T1, second transparency data T2, and third transparency data T3) from the center of gravity position G of the dimming image D2 to one corner Y4 of the dimming image D2. Based on the above, the CPU 7 executes a process of adjusting the density of the image data (second image data) corresponding to the dimming image D2 for dimming the peripheral portion of the image.

  Here, the first transparency data T1 at the center of gravity G of the dimming image D2 is the transparency data corresponding to complete transparency, and the second transparency data T2 (the dimming data for the periphery of the dimming image D2). (Second transparency data at one corner of the image D2) is transparency data corresponding to the gradation data KG1 of each frame (see remarks in FIG. 5). For this reason, the transparency (transparency corresponding to the third transparency data T3) between the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2 and the peripheral portion of the dimming image D2 is the gravity center position of the dimming image D2. As the distance from G decreases, it decreases or becomes the same transparency as the gravity center position G of the dimming image D2.

  By reflecting the transparency indicated by the transparency data (the first transparency data T1, the second transparency data T2, and the third transparency data T3) having such properties in the second image data, the object inside the imaging space is photographed. The second image data (adjusted second image data) in consideration of the light amount of the image at that time (the light amount of the image D1 corresponding to the first image data) is generated. These processes are executed by the CPU 7 for each frame.

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 executes a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data for each frame, whereby the monitor display image data whose peripheral portion is dimmed in a concentric manner is displayed. Is generated (S113). For example, for the monitor display in which the peripheral portion is dimmed concentrically by superimposing the image D2 corresponding to the adjusted second image data on the image D1 corresponding to the first image data (see FIG. 7). Images are generated. In this way, an image for monitor display is generated in which the amount of light at the periphery of the image taken by the virtual camera is adjusted. Then, image data for monitor display of each frame whose peripheral portion is dimmed is supplied to the television monitor 20 based on a display command from the CPU 7. Then, an image in which the influence of the peripheral dimming is reproduced is displayed on the television monitor 20 (S114).

  Subsequently, the CPU 7 determines whether or not the reproduction of the replay image is completed (S115). That is, the CPU 7 determines whether or not all image data for replay images has been supplied to the television monitor 20. Then, until all the image data for the replay image is supplied to the television monitor 20 (until Yes in S115), the process of step 114 (S114) is repeatedly executed by the CPU 7. On the other hand, when all the image data for the replay image is supplied to the television monitor 20 (Yes in S115), the CPU 7 determines whether or not the game is over (S116). That is, it is determined by the CPU 7 whether or not an instruction to end the game has been issued. And when the command which complete | finishes a game is issued (it is Yes at S116), the process which stores various data in RAM12 is performed (S117). On the other hand, unless an instruction to end the game is issued (No in S116), the processing after Step 105 (S105) is repeatedly executed by the CPU 7.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the image data (first image data) of each frame is converted into grayscale image data. Then, gradation data KG1 indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is calculated. Then, using this gradation data KG1, the amount of light of the image captured by the virtual camera in each frame, that is, the amount of light corresponding to a predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera is evaluated. Then, the dimming image data (second image data) is adjusted in accordance with the amount of light. Then, the dimming image data (second image data) adjusted according to the amount of light of the virtual camera of each frame is superimposed on the image data (first image data) captured by the virtual camera of each frame. Thus, the influence of peripheral dimming according to the angle of view of the virtual camera can be reflected in the image taken by the virtual camera. For this reason, realistic peripheral dimming can be reproduced in an image taken by a virtual camera as well as an image taken by an actual camera.

[Other Embodiments]
(A) In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a home video game apparatus as an example of a computer to which a game program can be applied is used. However, the image processing apparatus is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and a monitor is used. The present invention can be similarly applied to a separate image processing apparatus, an image processing apparatus in which a monitor is integrated, a personal computer or a workstation that functions as an image processing apparatus by executing a game program.

  (B) The present invention includes a program for executing the game as described above and a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded. Examples of the recording medium include a computer-readable flexible disk, a semiconductor memory, a CD-ROM, a DVD, an MO, a ROM cassette, and the like in addition to the cartridge.

  (C) In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the intensity of the light quantity of the image is evaluated by converting the first image data into 1-pixel grayscale image data has been described. The evaluation form is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and any method may be used. For example, the intensity of the light quantity of the image may be evaluated by converting the first image data into gray scale image data and averaging the gray scale data indicating the gray scale of the gray scale image data. Even in this case, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be obtained.

1 is a basic configuration diagram of a video game apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The functional block diagram as an example of the said video game device. The figure for demonstrating the distribution state of the density | concentration of the image corresponding to 2nd image data. The figure for demonstrating the imaging | photography space arrange | positioned in the three-dimensional game space. The figure which shows the relationship between the gradation of the image corresponding to 1st image data, and the transparency for adjusting 2nd image data. The figure for demonstrating the distribution state of the transparency of the image corresponding to 2nd image data. The conceptual diagram of the superimposition of the image corresponding to 1st image data, and the image corresponding to 2nd image data after adjustment. The figure which shows the relationship between the multi-pixel grayscale image and the 1-pixel grayscale image. Flow showing the overall outline of the baseball game. The flowchart for demonstrating a surrounding light reduction reproduction system. The flowchart for demonstrating a surrounding light reduction reproduction system.

Explanation of symbols

1 Control Unit 2 Storage Unit 7 CPU
17 controller 20 television monitor 50 camera setting means 51 photographing space defining means 52 first image storage means 53 second image storage means 54 second image adjustment means 54a light quantity evaluation means 54b image light quantity adjustment means 55 monitor image generation means 56 image display Means D1 Image when an object inside the imaging space is imaged, image corresponding to the first image data D2 image for dimming, image corresponding to the second image data G center of gravity position of the image for dimming Y1, Y2 , Y3, Y4 The four corners of the dimming image, the peripheral part of the dimming image KG1 The gradation data of the grayscale image of 1 pixel T1, T2, T3 Transparency data, first transparency data, second transparency data, Third transparency data

Claims (9)

To a computer that can display the image that reproduces the influence of ambient light reduction on the image display unit,
A first image storage function for storing, in a storage unit, first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by a virtual camera;
A second image storage function for storing, in a storage unit, second image data corresponding to an image for dimming for dimming a peripheral portion of the image;
A second image adjustment function for causing the control unit to execute a process of adjusting the second image data according to the angle of view of the virtual camera;
A monitor image generation function for generating monitor display image data whose peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data; ,
An image display function for displaying on the image display unit an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming using the monitor display image data in which the peripheral part is dimmed;
An image processing program for realizing The second image adjustment function is:
A light amount evaluation function for causing the control unit to execute a process of evaluating the light amount corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera based on the first image data stored in the storage unit;
An image light amount adjustment function for causing a control unit to execute a process of adjusting the second image data according to the light amount;
The image processing program according to claim 1. In the light quantity evaluation function,
Processing for converting the first image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit,
The gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.
The image processing program according to claim 2. In the light quantity evaluation function,
Processing for converting the first image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit,
Processing for converting the grayscale image data into the 1-pixel grayscale image data is executed by the control unit,
The gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data of one pixel is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.
The image processing program according to claim 3. In the light quantity evaluation function,
Processing for converting the image data stored in the storage unit into grayscale image data is executed by the control unit,
Gradation data indicating the gradation of the grayscale image data is recognized by the control unit,
A process of averaging the gradation data is executed by the control unit,
The averaged gradation data is recognized by the control unit as data for evaluating the amount of light corresponding to the predetermined angle of view of the virtual camera.
The image processing program according to claim 3. In the image light quantity adjustment function,
Transparency data for defining the degree to which the peripheral portion of the image is dimmed is set by the control unit in accordance with the gradation data evaluated for the light amount,
A process of adjusting the density of the second image data based on the transparency data is executed by the control unit.
The image processing program according to claim 3. In the image light quantity adjustment function,
Transparency data of the gravity center position of the dimming image is recognized by the control unit as first transparency data,
Transparency data of the peripheral portion of the dimming image is recognized by the control unit as second transparency data in accordance with the gradation data obtained by evaluating the light amount,
Based on the first transparency data and the second transparency data, the transparency data of the dimming image between the gravity center position of the dimming image and the peripheral portion of the dimming image is the third transparency data. Is set by the control unit as
A process for adjusting the density of the second image data based on the first transparency data, the second transparency data, and the third transparency data is executed by a control unit.
The image processing program according to claim 6. An image processing apparatus capable of displaying on the image display unit an image that reproduces the influence of ambient light reduction,
First image storage means for storing first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by a virtual camera in a storage unit;
Second image storage means for storing second image data corresponding to an image for dimming for dimming a peripheral portion of the image in a storage unit;
Second image adjusting means for causing the control unit to execute processing for adjusting the second image data in accordance with the angle of view of the virtual camera;
Monitor image generating means for generating monitor display image data in which the peripheral portion is dimmed by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data; ,
Image display means for displaying on the image display unit an image that reproduces the influence of peripheral dimming using the monitor display image data in which the peripheral part is dimmed;
An image processing apparatus comprising: An image processing control method controlled by a computer capable of displaying an image that reproduces the influence of peripheral dimming on an image display unit,
A first image storing step of storing, in the storage unit, first image data corresponding to an image photographed at a predetermined angle of view by the virtual camera;
A second image storing step of storing, in a storage unit, second image data corresponding to a dimming image for dimming a peripheral portion of the image;
A second image adjustment step for causing the control unit to execute a process of adjusting the second image data according to the angle of view of the virtual camera;
A monitor image generation step of generating image data for monitor display in which peripheral portions are dimmed by causing the control unit to execute a process of superimposing the adjusted second image data on the first image data; ,
An image display step for displaying an image that reproduces the influence of the peripheral dimming on the image display unit using the monitor display image data in which the peripheral part is dimmed;
An image processing control method comprising:

Images