JP5220350B2 - Program, information storage medium, and image generation system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation system.

  Conventionally, an image generation system (game system) that generates an image viewed from a virtual camera (given viewpoint) in an object space (virtual three-dimensional space) in which an object such as a character imitating a sports player is placed and set Is known and is popular as a place to experience so-called virtual reality. Taking an image generation system capable of enjoying a tennis game as an example, a player operates his / her character using an operation unit such as a game controller, and a ball shot by an opponent character operated by another player or a computer. Enjoy the game by hitting back with a racket.

  In such a tennis game, it is common to employ an operation interface in which the player hits the ball by pressing an operation instruction button on the game controller at the timing when the ball flies to the character.

  However, with such an operation interface, it is not possible to determine what kind of shot action is to be performed by the character before the player presses the action instruction button of the character. That is, if the player presses the top spin or slice shot operation instruction button immediately before the shot timing, for example, the trajectory of the hit ball can be changed to the top spin or slice trajectory. It was difficult to make the motion according to the topspin or slice shot motion.

  In order to solve the problems as described above, the present inventor has developed a prior input system capable of instructing a character's movement prior to the timing at which the ball (moving body) is shot (captured) by the character. doing. According to this prior input system, for example, when the player presses the top spin or slice action instruction button before the shot timing, not only the trajectory of the ball but also the motion of the character up to the shot timing, the top spin and slice It becomes possible to make the motion faithfully reproduce the motion.

However, when such a prior input system is adopted, it has been found that there is a problem that the time until the shot timing changes depending on the player's prior input timing, and the motion playback time is not constant. did.
JP-A-8-90638 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-90046

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program, an information storage medium, and an image generation system capable of realizing a motion reproduction process suitable for a prior input system. It is in.

  The present invention is an image generation system for generating an image, which is input when a player makes a prior input instructing the action of the character prior to the timing when the moving object is shot or captured by the character. An input receiving unit that receives the preceding input, a moving body control unit that performs control processing of the moving body shot or captured by the character, and the character control process based on the received operation data of the preceding input. A character control unit that performs the motion, a motion data storage unit that stores the motion data of the character, a motion playback unit that plays back the motion of the character based on the motion data, and a process for changing the playback speed of the motion of the character A playback speed change unit, wherein the playback speed change unit The degree of change in the first reproduction speed in the first period, which is the period from the timing of the preceding input to the first timing, is determined from the first timing to the timing when the hit event of the character and the moving object occurs. This is related to an image generation system that performs a reproduction speed change process that is larger than the degree of change in the second reproduction speed in the second period.

  In the present invention, when the player makes a preceding input for instructing the movement of the character prior to the timing when the moving object is shot or captured by the character, the preceding input is accepted and based on the operation data of the preceding input. Character control processing is performed. In addition, the motion of the character is reproduced based on the motion data, and the process for changing the motion reproduction speed is performed. In this case, in the present invention, the motion playback period is a first period from the preceding input timing to the first timing, and a second period from the first timing to the hit event occurrence timing. It is divided into periods. When the motion playback speed change process is performed, the degree of change in the first playback speed in the first period is greater than the degree of change in the second playback speed in the second period. In this way, it is possible to prevent a situation in which an unnatural motion is reproduced due to a change in the reproduction speed in the second half of the shot operation or the capture operation, and it is possible to realize a motion reproduction process suitable for the preceding input system.

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the playback speed changing unit is configured to determine the arrival time of the moving body at the hit position where the hit event is generated and the playback time of the motion. A first change magnification that is a change magnification of the first reproduction speed in the first period and a second change magnification that is a change magnification of the second reproduction speed in the second period are set. May be.

  In this way, it is possible to realize change magnification setting processing according to, for example, the time ratio between the arrival time of the moving object and the reproduction time.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the reproduction speed changing unit obtains the first change magnification when the second change magnification is set to 1 and the obtained change magnification is obtained. When the first change magnification is larger than the first threshold value, the first change magnification is decreased and the second change magnification is increased, and the obtained first change magnification is the first change magnification. If the threshold value is smaller than 2, the first change magnification may be increased and the second change magnification may be decreased.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the first change magnification becomes too large or too small and unnatural motion reproduction is performed.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the motion data storage unit associates the data of the partition frame for specifying the frame that partitions the first and second periods with each motion. And the playback speed changing unit may perform the playback speed changing process by specifying the first timing based on the data of the partition frame.

  In this way, the first timing can be made different for each motion, and more appropriate and diverse motion reproduction can be realized.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the motion data storage unit includes the first motion data in which the motion playback speed is changed and the second motion in which the motion playback speed is not changed. The reproduction speed changing unit may perform the reproduction speed changing process when the first motion is selected based on the action instruction of the character by the preceding input.

  In this way, the first motion that requires the playback speed change process and the second motion that does not require the playback speed change process can be categorized and processed, so the processing can be made more efficient.

  Further, in the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the motion playback unit, when the second motion is selected based on the action instruction of the character by the preceding input, When the playback time of the motion is acquired and the playback time is longer than the arrival time of the moving object at the hit position where the hit event occurs, the motion playback is performed from the middle of the second motion. When the reproduction time is shorter than the arrival time, the second motion may be reproduced after performing another motion reproduction.

  In this way, when the second motion is selected, the difference between the arrival time and the length of the reproduction time can be absorbed without performing the reproduction speed changing process.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the motion playback unit may determine that the arrival time of the moving body at the hit position where the hit event is generated is the length of the second period. If it is shorter than the second time, the motion of the character may be reproduced without performing the reproduction speed changing process.

  In this way, it is possible to cope with the case where the timing of the preceding input of the player is too late, and it is possible to realize an operation assist suitable for the preceding input system.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the motion reproduction unit has a movement distance of the character on the game field within the arrival time of the character in the second period. If the moving distance is shorter than the movement distance, the motion of the character may be reproduced without performing the reproduction speed changing process.

  In this way, it is not necessary to perform a useless reproduction speed changing process, so that the process can be made more efficient.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the second period set by the first timing may be a period set as a period during which the character's foot is not slid. Good.

  The image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention include a hit position calculation unit that obtains a hit position that is a position where a hit event occurs between the character and the moving object (or a computer as the hit position calculation unit). The motion playback unit selects and plays back the motion data based on the arrival time of the moving body at the hit position determined by the hit position calculation unit and the operation instruction data of the preceding input. May be.

  In this way, it is possible to select the optimal motion data according to the length of the arrival time and the operation instruction of the player.

  In the image generation system, the program, and the information storage medium according to the present invention, the playback speed changing unit is configured to perform the first period based on the playback time of the selected motion data and the arrival time of the moving body. A first change magnification that is a change magnification of the first reproduction speed at the second and a second change magnification that is a change magnification of the second reproduction speed in the second period may be set.

  In this way, it is possible to set the first and second change magnifications according to the difference between the reproduction time and the arrival time.

  Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described. In addition, this embodiment demonstrated below does not unduly limit the content of this invention described in the claim. In addition, all the configurations described in the present embodiment are not necessarily essential configuration requirements of the present invention.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 shows an example of a block diagram of an image generation system (game system) of the present embodiment. Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 1 are omitted.

  The operation unit 160 is for a player to input operation data, and the function can be realized by a direction key, operation button, analog stick, lever, microphone, touch panel display, or the like.

  The storage unit 170 serves as a work area for the processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its function can be realized by a RAM (DRAM, VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 170 can be configured by a volatile memory that loses data when the power is turned off, but is a storage device that is faster than the auxiliary storage device 194. Then, the game program and game data necessary for executing the game program are held in the storage unit 170.

  An information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs, data, and the like, and functions thereof by an optical disk (CD, DVD), HDD (hard disk drive), memory (ROM, etc.), and the like. realizable. The processing unit 100 performs various processes of the present embodiment based on a program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, in the information storage medium 180, a program for causing a computer (an apparatus including an operation unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, and an output unit) to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute processing of each unit). Is memorized.

  The display unit 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), or the like. The sound output unit 192 outputs the sound generated by the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, or the like.

  The auxiliary storage device 194 (auxiliary memory, secondary memory) is a storage device used to supplement the capacity of the storage unit 170, and can be realized by a memory card such as an SD memory card or a multimedia card, an HDD, or the like. The auxiliary storage device 194 is detachable, but may be built-in. The auxiliary storage device 194 is used to save save data such as the game midway results, personal image data and music data of the player (user), and the like.

  The communication unit 196 communicates with the outside (for example, another image generation system, a server, or a host device) via a wired or wireless network, and functions as a communication ASIC, a communication processor, or the like. It can be realized by hardware and communication firmware.

  Note that a program (data) for causing a computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment is obtained from an information storage medium of a server (host device) via an information storage medium 180 (or storage unit 170, auxiliary storage) via a network and communication unit 196. May be distributed to the device 194). Use of an information storage medium by such a server (host device) can also be included in the scope of the present invention.

  The processing unit 100 (processor) performs game processing, image generation processing, sound generation processing, and the like based on operation data from the operation unit 160, a program, and the like. The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the storage unit 170 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, GPU, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

  The processing unit 100 includes an input receiving unit 102, an object space setting unit 104, a game calculation unit 106, a moving body control unit 108, a character control unit 110, a motion playback unit 112, a playback speed change unit 113, a hit position calculation unit 114, and a determination. Unit 116, virtual camera control unit 118, image generation unit 120, and sound generation unit 130. In addition, it is good also as a structure which abbreviate | omits these some components (for example, hit position calculating part, determination part).

  The input receiving unit (operation data acquiring unit) 102 performs processing for receiving an operation input from the player. For example, the operation of the operation unit 160 by the player is monitored, and the operation instruction data (motion instruction data, direction instruction data) input by the operation unit 160 when the player operates the operation unit 160 for a character operation instruction or the like. Operation information such as is acquired.

  In this embodiment, the input receiving unit 102 precedes the timing when the moving body (ball) is shot (hit, kick) or captured (catch, keep) by the character. When the player inputs the operation instruction data), the input preceding input is accepted. Here, for example, the preceding input is an input for determining a motion (motion) of the character from at least the timing at which the preceding input is performed to the timing at which the moving object is shot or captured. For example, when a preceding input that instructs a hit operation (shot operation such as top spin or slice) is performed, a motion specified by the operation instruction data of the preceding input is reproduced, and at the hit timing (shot timing, capture timing) The character performs a hit motion (shot motion, capture motion) of the moving body (ball, play object). In this way, it is possible to select and play back the motion (for example, one motion data) specified by the preceding input from the timing of the preceding input to at least the hit timing, thereby realizing a realistic and high-quality motion expression. it can.

  The object space setting unit 104 includes model objects (characters, robots, cars, fighters, balls, missiles, bullets, etc.), game fields (court, ground), walls, buildings, trees, maps (terrain), courses (roads). Various kinds of objects (objects composed of primitive surfaces such as polygons, free-form surfaces or subdivision surfaces) representing display objects such as display objects are arranged and set in the object space. In other words, the position and rotation angle of the object in the world coordinate system (synonymous with direction and direction) are determined, and the rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, and Z axes) is determined at that position (X, Y, Z). Arrange objects.

  For example, the shape data storage unit 171 of the storage unit 170 stores shape data (polygon data) for determining the shape of an object (model object) such as a character. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the object data storage unit 172 stores object data such as the position, rotation angle, moving speed, moving direction, and the like of these objects in association with the object numbers.

  The object space setting unit 104 performs an object setting (arrangement) process in the object space using the shape data and the object data. The object data in the object data storage unit 172 is sequentially updated by a movement control process in the moving body control unit 108 and the character control unit 110.

  The game calculation unit 106 performs game calculation processing. Here, as a game calculation, a process for starting a game when a game start condition is satisfied, a process for advancing the game, a process for calculating a game result, or a process for ending a game when a game end condition is satisfied and so on.

  The moving body control unit (moving body calculation unit) 108 performs control processing of a moving body (play object) such as a ball that moves in the object space. For example, control processing (arithmetic processing) for moving or operating the moving body is performed. That is, processing for moving the moving body in the object space (in the game space) is performed based on an algorithm for determining the moving trajectory of the moving body and various data. For example, a simulation process is performed in which movement information (position, rotation angle, speed, or acceleration) and movement information (part object position or rotation angle) of the moving body are sequentially obtained for each frame (1/60 second). A frame is a unit of time for performing a moving / movement process (simulation process) and an image generation process of a moving object.

  The character control unit (character calculation unit) 110 performs control processing of a character imitating a human or the like (for example, a sports player). For example, a control process for moving or moving the character is performed. That is, processing for moving and moving the character in the object space is performed based on operation data input by the player through the operation unit 160, algorithms for determining character movement and motion, and various data. For example, a simulation process for sequentially obtaining character movement information and motion information for each frame based on operation data is performed.

  In this embodiment, the moving body control unit 108 performs control processing (movement control processing) of a moving body such as a ball (play object) shot or captured by the character. Further, the character control unit 110 performs a character control process (movement control process) based on the operation data of the preceding input received by the input receiving unit 102. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the trajectory data of the moving body that moves by the control process is stored in the trajectory data storage unit 175. For example, when the opponent character operated by the computer or another player shots (hits) a moving body such as a ball, as shown in FIG. 3, the moving body position (predicted position) in each frame with the shot frame as the first frame is shown. Is stored as orbit data.

  The motion playback unit 112 performs motion playback processing. That is, motion reproduction processing (motion processing, motion generation processing) for causing the character to perform motion (animation) is performed. This motion reproduction process can be realized by reproducing the motion of the character based on the motion data stored in the motion data storage unit 173.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a model object MOB representing a character or the like includes a plurality of part objects (waist 12, chest 14, neck 16, head 18, upper right arm 20, right forearm 22, right hand 24, left upper arm 26, left Forearm 28, left hand 30, right crotch 32, right shin 34, right foot 36, left crotch 38, left shin 40, left foot 42). The positions and rotation angles (directions) of these part objects (parts) are the positions of the bones B0 to B19 constituting the skeleton model (positions of the joints J0 to J15) and the rotation angles (the bones of the child relative to the parent bone). Relative rotation angle). Note that these bones and joints are virtual and are not actually displayed objects.

  For example, the position and rotation angle of these bones (part objects, joints) are stored in the motion data storage unit 173 as motion data. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the rotation angles α, β, γ, etc. around the X, Y, and Z axes of the child bone BMC with respect to the parent bone BMP are stored as motion data.

  The structure of the motion data is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, and various modifications can be made. For example, only the rotation angle of the bone may be included in the motion data, and the bone position (joint position) may be included in the model data of the model object. In addition to the bones B1 to B19 in FIG. 4, auxiliary bones that assist the deformation of the model object by the motion bones may be provided.

In addition, the motion data stored in the motion data storage unit 173 can be created by attaching a sensor to a person in the real world and performing motion capture. However, the motion data is generated by physical simulation (simulation using physical calculation. Or may be generated in real time by motion blending. In addition, in order to reproduce realistic motion with a small amount of motion data, motion reproduction may be performed using inverse kinematics or the like. FIG. 6 shows an example of the data structure of motion data used in this embodiment. . The motion file stores the data of each motion described in FIGS. 4 and 5 (such as the rotation angle of the bone). That is, data of each motion for expressing each operation such as “front ball shot”, “normal shot from step”, “normal shot from small run”, “running shot”, and the like is stored. As shown in FIG. 6, the motion data storage unit 173 stores the data of the section frames and shot frames in association with the motion.

  The motion parameter storage unit 174 stores motion parameters set for each motion group. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, motion shot frame data and motion playback time (number of playback frames) data included in the motion group are stored as motion parameters. For example, the maximum value and average value of shot frames and playback times in the motion group are stored.

  In this embodiment, the motion reproduction unit 112 reproduces motion data for reproducing a shot or capture preparation operation (for example, takeback operation, running operation, etc.) of a character and a shot operation or capture operation following the preparation operation. To do. In addition, the motion data specified by the hit position finally obtained by the recalculation process is selected and reproduced. In this case, the motion data can be selected based on the arrival time (movement time) of the moving body at the hit position and the operation instruction data of the preceding input.

  The reproduction speed changing unit 113 performs a process for changing the reproduction speed of the character motion. Specifically, the degree of change (degree of change, change magnification) of the first playback speed in the first period, which is the period from the timing of the preceding input to the first timing (foot slip prevention start timing), It is made larger than the degree of change in the second reproduction speed in the second period (foot slip prevention period), which is the period from the timing 1 to the timing when the hit event between the character and the moving object occurs. For example, the arrival time (movement time, movement distance) of the moving object to the hit position (shot position, capture position), which is the generation position of the hit event (shot event, capture event), and the motion playback time (number of playback frames) Based on the above, a first change magnification that is a change rate of the first reproduction speed and a second change magnification that is a change magnification of the second reproduction speed are set. More specifically, the first change magnification when the second change magnification is set to 1 is obtained. When the obtained first change magnification is larger than the first threshold value (first magnification), the first change magnification is reduced and the second change magnification is increased. On the other hand, when the obtained first change magnification is smaller than the second threshold value (second magnification), the first change magnification is increased and the second change magnification is decreased.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the motion data storage unit 173 stores the data of the partition frames in association with each motion. The data of the partition frame is data for specifying a frame that partitions the first and second periods. Specifically, it is data for specifying a period during which it is not desired to slide the character's feet. Then, the playback speed changing unit 113 specifies the first timing (foot slip prevention start period) based on the data of the divided frames, and performs playback speed changing processing.

  The hit position calculation unit 114 obtains a hit position (shot position, capture position) that is a position (location) where a hit event occurs between a character (for example, a racket or a bat possessed by the character) and a moving object (such as a ball). I do. For example, a shot position where the character shots the moving body and a capture position where the character captures the moving body are obtained. That is, the hit check process between the character and the moving object is performed, and the position of the moving object when the hit event occurs is obtained as the hit position. The obtained hit position data is stored in the hit position storage unit 176.

  The determination unit 116 performs a process of determining whether or not the hit position obtained by the hit position calculation unit 114 is a position that satisfies the shot condition or the capture condition of the moving object by the character (the position where the shot or capture is successful). Do. Specifically, when an obstacle (for example, a wall or another character) exists between the character and the hit position, or the second coordinate (for example, Y coordinate) of the moving object at the hit position is a given coordinate range. The hit position is a position that satisfies the shot condition or capture condition when it is not within the height range (for example, within the height range), or when it is determined that the character cannot reach the hit position within the arrival time of the moving object to the hit position. It is determined that it is not.

  If the hit position is not a position that satisfies the shot condition or the capture condition, the hit position calculation unit 114 performs a hit position recalculation process, and moves the hit position, for example. In this case, the process of moving the hit position is repeated until the hit position reaches a position that satisfies the shot condition or the capture condition. For example, the hit position is moved, and it is determined again whether the hit position after the movement is a position that satisfies the shot condition or the capture condition. The movement process and the re-determination process are repeated until these conditions are satisfied. That is, the hit position is moved on the trajectory of the moving body until the hit position becomes a position that satisfies the shot condition or the capture condition.

  Specifically, the hit position calculation unit 114 moves the hit position to the first direction side when the direction from the hit position to the position of the moving body at the timing of the preceding input is the first direction. Perform the process. For example, the hit position is moved in the first direction on the trajectory of the moving body. Alternatively, the hit position is moved on the trajectory of the moving body so that the coordinates of the moving body fall within a given coordinate range. Alternatively, the hit position is moved to a position where the character can reach within the arrival time.

  The virtual camera control unit 118 performs a virtual camera (viewpoint) control process for generating an image that can be seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint in the object space. Specifically, processing for controlling the position (X, Y, Z) or rotation angle (rotation angle about the X, Y, Z axis) of the virtual camera (processing for controlling the viewpoint position, the line-of-sight direction or the angle of view) I do.

  For example, when a character is photographed from behind using a virtual camera, the position or rotation angle (the direction of the virtual camera) of the virtual camera is controlled so that the virtual camera follows changes in the position or rotation of the character. In this case, the virtual camera can be controlled based on information such as the character position, rotation angle, or speed obtained by the character control unit 110. Alternatively, the virtual camera may be controlled to rotate at a predetermined rotation angle or to move along a predetermined movement path. In this case, the virtual camera is controlled based on the virtual camera data for specifying the position (movement path) or rotation angle of the virtual camera.

  The image generation unit 120 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processing (game processing) performed by the processing unit 100, thereby generating an image, writing the image in the drawing buffer 177, and outputting the image to the display unit 190. When generating a so-called three-dimensional game image, model data including vertex data (vertex position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vector, α value, etc.) of each vertex of the model (object) is first input. Based on the vertex data included in the input model data, vertex processing (shading by a vertex shader) is performed. When performing the vertex processing, vertex generation processing (tessellation, curved surface division, polygon division) for re-dividing the polygon may be performed as necessary.

  The sound generation unit 130 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or sounds, and outputs the game sounds to the sound output unit 192.

  Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment may be a system dedicated to the single player mode in which only one player can play, or may be a system having a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play. Further, when a plurality of players play, game images and game sounds to be provided to the plurality of players may be generated using one terminal, or connected via a network (transmission line, communication line) or the like. Alternatively, it may be generated by distributed processing using a plurality of terminals (game machine, mobile phone).

2. Next, a specific example of the method of this embodiment will be described. In the following, the case where the method of the present embodiment is applied to a tennis game will be mainly described. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this, for example, various sports games such as soccer, American football, baseball, and the like. It can also be applied to games.

2.1 Prior Input In the tennis game to which the method of the present embodiment is applied, as shown in FIG. 8, a character CH operated by a player and an opponent character CC operated by a computer or another player are in an object space (virtual three-dimensional On the court set in (Space), hit the ball BL and play. For example, in the world coordinate system of the object space of FIG. 8, the X axis and Z axis (first and third coordinate axes in a broad sense) are set in the plane direction, and the Y axis (second coordinate axis in the broad sense) is set in the height direction. ) Is set, and the origin is set at the center of the coat (net). The character CH moves on the X and Z plane courts based on the operation data input by the player, and hits the ball BL hit by the opponent character CC.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, after the opponent character CC shots the ball BL, the player performs a prior input instructing the action of the character CH. That is, prior to the timing when the character BL shots (or captures) the ball BL (moving body in a broad sense), a prior input is performed to instruct the movement of the character CH. Specifically, the direction of movement of the character CH is instructed with the direction instruction key 50 (joystick, direction instructing unit), and the operation button 61 for instructing the type of shot of the character CH is pressed. Here, the operation buttons 61, 62, 63, and 64 are buttons for instructing top spin, slice, flat, and lob shots, respectively, and the character CH performs a motion according to the instructed shot. In FIG. 9A, since the operation button 61 for instructing the top spin is pressed, the top spin motion data is reproduced.

  The operation of the direction instruction key 50 and the operation button 61 is not necessarily performed simultaneously. For example, the operation of the direction instruction key 50 is performed after the operation button 61 is operated, or the operation button 61 is operated after the direction instruction key 50 is operated. May be.

  When the preceding input as described above is performed, as shown in FIG. 9B, a hit that is a position where a hit event (shot event) between the character CH (character racket) and the ball BL (moving body) occurs. A position HP (shot position, capture position) is obtained. That is, the position (location) where the ball BL is predicted to be shot (hit) by the character CH is obtained as the hit position HP. For example, the hit position HP is obtained by obtaining the intersection of the trajectory RC specified by the position and moving direction of the character CH at the timing of the preceding input and the trajectory RB of the ball BL.

  Specifically, the trajectory RB of the ball BL is calculated when the opponent character CC hits the ball BL, and the calculated trajectory is stored in the trajectory data storage unit 175 as trajectory data as shown in FIG. The hit position HP is a ball position corresponding to the intersection of the trajectories RC and RB (ball position closest to the intersection) among the data of a plurality of ball positions (moving body positions in each frame) included in the trajectory data of FIG. It can be acquired by selecting the data.

  At this time, the arrival time tr of the ball BL at the hit position HP is also acquired. Specifically, the arrival time tr can be acquired as the number of frames until the ball BL reaches the hit position HP in the trajectory data of FIG.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 9C, a motion (motion data) is selected based on the obtained arrival time tr (number of arrival frames) and the operation instruction data in FIG. 9A. By reproducing the motion, the shot motion of the character CH is expressed.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of motions having different playback times (number of playback frames) are prepared as the motion of each shot. When the top spin is selected in FIG. 9A, a motion with a playback time having a length corresponding to the arrival time tr is selected from a plurality of motions prepared for the top spin. For example, if the arrival time tr is short, a motion with a short reproduction time is selected, and if the arrival time tr is long, a motion with a long reproduction time is selected. Further, by performing a process of changing the motion playback speed, fine adjustment is performed to make the arrival time tr and the length of the playback time coincide.

  As shown in FIG. 9D, when a hit event (shot event) between the character CH and the ball BL occurs, the ball BL strikes back in the direction indicated by the player with the direction key 50 at that time. It is. In FIG. 9D, the higher the degree of coincidence between the occurrence timing of the hit event (shot timing) and the timing at which the player releases the operation button 61, the higher the speed of the ball BL or the more severe in the opponent's court. The ball BL starts to fly. That is, after the operation button 61 is pressed in FIG. 9A, the operation button 61 is continuously pressed, and when the ball BL comes close to the character CH, the operation button 61 is released in a timely manner so that a so-called sump operation is realized. A strong and accurate shot is returned to the opponent's court.

  According to the method of the prior input system shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D, since the motion instructed by the prior input is reproduced without interruption, the motion of the player, the behavior of the ball, the camera angle, etc. are realistic. Can express. In other words, various high-quality motions prepared for each shot can be reproduced, and the player can enjoy the game by using various shots.

  For example, as a method of the comparative example, when the start condition of the take-back operation, which is a preparation operation, is satisfied, the character automatically starts the take-back operation, and then when the player presses an operation button for instructing a shot, A method of hitting a ball can be considered. In this method, after a take back motion (preparation operation motion) is reproduced, when a shot operation is instructed, the shot motion is reproduced. That is, take back motion and shot motion are stored and reproduced as separate motion data. Therefore, the take back motion and the shot motion may not be smoothly connected, and there is a possibility that a real and smooth motion expression cannot be realized.

  In this regard, according to the preceding input system of the present embodiment, the takeback operation (preparation operation) and the shot operation (capture operation) are realized by reproducing one motion data. Accordingly, the take-back operation and the shot operation (follow operation) are smoothly connected, and a more realistic motion expression can be realized.

  For example, in the method of the comparative example, if the ball is high at the hit position, a shot motion for a high ball is played after the normal takeback motion is reproduced. If the ball is low at the hit position, the shot is low after the normal takeback motion is reproduced. The shot motion for the ball will be played. That is, even if the ball is high or low, since the same motion is reproduced for the takeback operation, a realistic motion expression cannot be realized.

  On the other hand, according to the preceding input system of the present embodiment, when the preceding input is performed, the height of the ball at the hit position is predicted, and the takeback operation and the shot operation for a high ball are integrated. Can be selected and reproduced, or a motion in which a take-back operation and a shot operation for a low ball are integrated can be selected and reproduced. Accordingly, it is possible to realize a realistic motion expression with less unnaturalness.

2.2 Change of reproduction speed When the preceding input system as described above is adopted, the arrival time of the ball changes depending on the timing of the preceding input by the player. Then, if a large number of motion data is prepared so as to be able to cope with all such changes in arrival time, there is a problem that the storage capacity of the motion data storage unit 173 is compressed.

  In order to solve such a problem, the present embodiment employs a method of changing the motion reproduction speed in accordance with the length of the ball arrival time (character movement distance). That is, if the character motion playback time is longer than the ball arrival time, the motion fast-forward playback is performed, and if the character motion playback time is shorter, the slow motion playback is performed. In this way, even if the arrival time of the ball fluctuates in accordance with the player's prior input timing, it becomes possible to handle this with a relatively small amount of motion data.

  However, it has been found that when the reproduction speed changing process is performed, a phenomenon in which the character's feet appear to slide is caused. That is, if the moving distance of the character assumed in the motion data is different from the actual moving distance of the character on the game field such as a court, the foot will appear to slip. In particular, the preceding input system of this embodiment realizes smooth and high-quality motion expression by reproducing a character's shot motion using one motion data having a longer playback time than the conventional system. . Therefore, if such a foot slip phenomenon becomes conspicuous, there is a problem that the meaning of realizing a smooth and high-quality motion expression is impaired.

  In order to solve such a problem, in this embodiment, the character motion playback period is divided into first and second periods, and the playback speeds in the first and second periods are changed (change magnification). ) Is adopted.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10A, the motion playback period is divided into a first period T1, which is a period from the timing of the preceding input to the first timing TM1, and from the first timing TM1 to the character and the ball. This is divided into a second period T2, which is a period until the timing of occurrence of the hit event. Then, the degree of change in the first reproduction speed RS1 in the first period T1 is set larger than the degree of change in the second reproduction speed RS2 in the second period T2. That is, when the playback speed has to be changed because the ball arrival time does not match the motion playback time, the playback speed in the period T1 is largely changed compared to the period T2. Then, much of the change in the reproduction speed is absorbed in the period T1, so that the influence of the change in the reproduction speed is as small as possible in the period T2.

  For example, FIG. 11 (A) to FIG. 11 (D) show examples of the player's operation procedure in the prior input, and FIG. 12 (A) to FIG. 14 (B) show examples of game images generated by this embodiment. .

  When the opponent character CC shots the ball BL as shown in the game image of FIG. 12A, the player operates the direction instruction key 50 and the top spin shot operation button 61 as shown in FIG. 11A. The character CH operation instruction is input in advance.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 11B, motion playback is performed at the playback speed RS1 in the first half period T1. That is, in the first half period T1 of the shot motion from the game image of FIG. 12A to the game image of FIG. 13A, the character motion playback speed is set to RS1.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11C, motion playback is performed at the playback speed RS2 in the latter half period T2. That is, in the second half period T2 of the shot operation from the game image of FIG. 13A to the game image of FIG. 14B, the motion playback speed of the character is set to RS2. When a hit event (shot event) of the ball BL occurs as shown in FIG. 11D, the hit ball BL strikes back in the court of the opponent character CC as shown in the game image of FIG. It is.

  For example, the timing TM1 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B is a timing set for each motion, for example, as a start timing for preventing foot slip. That is, even if the foot slip phenomenon of the character CH occurs in the first half period of the shot motion from FIG. 12 (A) to FIG. 13 (A), it is not so noticeable. However, if a foot slip phenomenon occurs in the second half of the shot operation from FIG. 13A to FIG. 14B, the player will notice that there is a risk that the virtual reality will be reduced.

  That is, generally, since the moving speed of the character CH is high in the first half of the shot motion, it is not so noticeable even if the foot slips. On the other hand, since the moving speed of the character CH becomes slow in the second half of the shot motion, it becomes noticeable when the foot slips and is noticed by the player.

  Therefore, in this case, for example, the timing of FIG. 13A is set to the foot slip prevention start timing TM1. In the foot slip prevention period T2, the change in the reproduction speed is minimized as compared with the period T1 so that the foot slip is as inconspicuous as possible. In this way, when the motion playback speed changing process is performed, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the image quality is degraded due to the occurrence of foot slip.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 6, the motion data storage unit 173 stores partition frame data for specifying frames that divide the periods T <b> 1 and T <b> 2 in association with each motion. For example, in FIG. 15, the timing TM1 of motion 1 is specified by the segment frame DF1 associated with motion 1 (motion file 1), and the timing of motion 2 is identified by the segment frame DF2 associated with motion 2 (motion file 2). TM1 is specified. For example, in “front ball shot 1” in FIG. 6, 32 frames, which are division frames, are set as foot slip prevention start frames. The frames from 32 frames to 41 frames, which are shot timing frames, are set in the foot slip prevention period, and the change in the reproduction speed is minimized. Similarly, in “normal shot 1 from step” in FIG. 6, 15 frames are set as a foot slip prevention start frame. From the 15th frame to the 24th frame, which is a shot frame, is set as a foot slip prevention period, and the change in the playback speed is minimized.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 10B, the change rate of the reproduction speed RS1 in the period T1 is calculated based on the arrival time tr of the ball (moving body) at the hit position and the motion reproduction time tm. A change magnification m1 of 1 is set, and a second change magnification m2 that is a change magnification of the reproduction speed RS2 in the period T2 is set. That is, when the playback time tm is longer than the arrival time tr, fast-forward playback is required, so the change magnifications m1 and m2 are set to a value of 1 or more to increase the motion playback speed. On the other hand, when the playback time tm is shorter than the arrival time tr, slow playback is required, so the change magnifications m1 and m2 are set to a value of 1 or less to slow down the motion playback speed.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the reproduction speed change magnification m1 in the period T1 when the reproduction speed change magnification m2 in the period T2 is set to 1 is obtained. .

  For example, in FIG. 16A, since the playback time tm is longer than the arrival time tr, fast-forward playback is required. Therefore, in this case, the change rate m1 of the reproduction speed RS1 in the period T1 is set to a value larger than 1, and the change in the reproduction speed due to fast-forwarding is absorbed only in the period T1 side, Do not reach. In this way, the playback speed is not changed in the period T2 after the timing TM1, so that it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a foot slip phenomenon due to fast-forwarding.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 16B, since the playback time tm is shorter than the arrival time tr, slow playback is required. Therefore, in this case, the change magnification m1 is set to a value smaller than 1 so that the change in the reproduction speed due to the slow reproduction is absorbed only on the period T1 side and not on the period T2 side. As a result, the occurrence of a foot slip phenomenon due to slow playback can be prevented.

  In this way, in FIGS. 16A and 16B, only the change magnification m1 in the period T1 is changed while the change magnification m2 in the period T2 is kept at 1. In this way, the foot slip phenomenon in the period T2, which is a conspicuous period for the player, can be prevented, but if the change magnification m1 is made too large or too small, the difference in the reproduction speed between the periods T1 and T2 will be caused. It may stand out and the player may feel unnatural.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17A, it is determined whether or not the change magnification m1 when the change magnification m2 is set to 1 is larger than the first threshold value mth. If it is large (m1> mth), the change magnification m1 is decreased and the change magnification m2 is increased. That is, when the change magnification in the period T1 when m2 is 1 is m1, the change magnification in the period T1 is set to m1 ′ <m1, and the change magnification in the period T2 is m2 ′> m2 = 1. Set to.

  In this case, the relationship of m1 ′> m2 ′ is established. That is, it is assumed that the change magnification m1 when the change magnification m2 is set to 1 is too large, for example, m1 = 1.4. In this case, for example, the change in the playback speed is set such that m1 ′ = 1.3 (<m1 = 1.4) and m2 ′ = 1.1 (> m2 = 1). The reproduction speed is averaged not only for the period T1 but also for the period T2.

  As shown in FIG. 17B, when the change magnification m1 when the change magnification m2 is set to 1 is smaller than the second threshold value mtl, the change magnification m1 is increased. The change magnification m2 is reduced. That is, when the change magnification in the period T1 when m2 = 1 is m1, the change magnification in the period T1 is set to m1 ′> m1, and the change magnification in the period T2 is set to m2 ′ <m2 = 1. To do.

  In this case, the relationship of m1 ′ <m2 ′ is established. That is, it is assumed that the change magnification m1 when the change magnification m2 is set to 1 is too small, for example, m1 = 0.6. In this case, for example, the change in the playback speed is set such that m1 ′ = 0.7 (> m1 = 0.6) and m2 ′ = 0.9 (<m2 = 1). The reproduction speed is averaged not only for the period T1 but also for the period T2.

  According to the method shown in FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B, the degree of foot slip in the period T2 can be reduced, and the difference between the reproduction speeds in the periods T1 and T2 increases and becomes noticeable. Can be prevented.

2.3 Specific Example of Reproduction Speed Change Process Next, a specific example of the reproduction speed change process will be described in the present embodiment with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 18 and 19.

  First, the arrival time tr of the ball to the hit position (shot position) is obtained (step S21). Then, a motion is selected based on the operation instruction data of the preceding input, the arrival time tr, etc. (step S22). For example, when a top spin operation is instructed by a prior input, a motion whose playback time tm is close to the arrival time tr is selected from a plurality of top spin motions.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the selected motion is a motion for changing the playback speed (first motion) (step S23). For example, for the motion (second motion) such as “smash”, “missing”, “volley that returns instantly”, and “shot while moving forward”, the playback speed is not changed in this embodiment. This is because in these motions, there is no need to change the playback speed itself, or it becomes unnatural if the playback speed is changed.

  For example, FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B show examples of smash motion game images. In FIGS. 20A and 20B, the character CH is smashing the ball BL that floats higher into the court of the opponent character CC. If the motion playback speed is changed in such a smash, an unnatural situation such as a loss of smash speed will occur. In addition, since the moving distance of the character CH is short in the smash, there is no problem that the foot looks slippery. In addition, there is no need or meaning for changing the playback speed in motion such as idling or volleying that returns instantly. Therefore, these motions (second motion) are classified in advance in step S23 of FIG. 18 so that the reproduction speed changing process of this embodiment is not performed. By doing so, useless playback speed change processing is not performed in these motions, and the processing can be made more efficient.

  If it is determined in step S23 of FIG. 18 that the selected motion is a motion that does not change the playback speed (second motion), the playback time tm of the motion is acquired (step S24). That is, the number of playback frames (total number of frames) stored in association with each motion is acquired as the playback time tm. Then, it is determined whether or not the reproduction time tm is longer than the ball arrival time tr (step S25).

  If tm> tr, the motion is reproduced from the middle (step S26). That is, only the latter half part is reproduced without reproducing the first half part of the motion. In this case, the motion blending process of the motion that the character was performing before the midway playback and the midway playback motion (the motion of the frame that starts the midway playback) is performed so that the motion appears to change smoothly. .

  On the other hand, if tm> tr is not satisfied, the motion is reproduced after performing another motion reproduction such as a standby motion (step S27). In other words, when other motions such as a ready motion and a normal running motion are being played back for the time being, and it is determined that the remaining playback time matches the arrival time tr, it is selected in step S22. Starts motion playback.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the motion data storage unit 173 stores the data of the first motion whose motion playback speed is changed and the second motion (for example, smash, idling, volley) whose motion playback speed is not changed. Remember. Then, as shown in step S23 of FIG. 18 and the processing of FIG. 19, the reproduction speed changing unit 113 reproduces the reproduction when the first motion (first motion group) is selected by the character movement instruction by the prior input. Perform speed change processing.

  On the other hand, as shown in steps S23 and S24, the motion reproducing unit 112 reproduces the second motion when the second motion (second motion group) is selected by the action instruction of the character by the preceding input. Get time. Then, as shown in steps S25 and S26, when the reproduction time tm is longer than the arrival time tr of the ball at the hit position, the motion reproduction is started from the middle of the second motion. On the other hand, when the reproduction time tm is shorter than the arrival time tr, reproduction of the second motion is started after performing other motion reproduction such as standby motion.

  In this way, the first motion that requires the playback speed change process and the second motion that does not require the playback speed change process can be categorized and processed, so that the processing efficiency can be improved.

  If it is determined in step S23 of FIG. 18 that the selected motion is a motion that requires a playback speed change process, the playback time tm of the motion (first motion) is acquired (step S31). Also, a second time t2 that is the length of the foot slip prevention period T2 before the shot is acquired (step S32). That is, the length (number of frames) of the period T2 shown in FIG. This can be obtained, for example, from the number of frames of the trajectory data in FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether tr <t2 (step S33). If tr <t2, the motion is reproduced as it is in accordance with the impact of the shot (step S42). That is, the motion is reproduced without performing the reproduction speed changing process.

  On the other hand, if tr <t2, the movement distance LCH of the character CH on the game field (court) within the arrival time tr is acquired (step S34). Further, the movement distance L2 in the motion of the character CH in the foot slip prevention period T2 is acquired (step S35). These movement distances LCH and L2 can be obtained based on, for example, the arrival time tr and time t2, the movement speed of the character CH, motion parameters (reproduction time), and the like.

  Next, it is determined whether LCH <L2 (step S36). If LCH <L2, the motion is reproduced as it is in accordance with the impact of the shot (step S42).

  On the other hand, if LCH <L2 is not satisfied, as described in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the period T1 when the reproduction speed change magnification m2 in the period T2 is set to 1 is used. The reproduction speed change magnification m1 is obtained (step S37).

  Next, it is determined whether m1> mth (step S38). That is, it is determined whether or not the motion playback speed RS1 in the period T1 set by the change magnification m1 is too fast. When m1> mth, as described with reference to FIG. 17A, the change magnification m1 is decreased (slowed) and the change magnification m2 is increased (accelerated), so that the overall reproduction speed is increased. Are averaged (step S39).

  Next, it is determined whether m1 <mtl (step S40). That is, it is determined whether or not the motion playback speed RS1 in the period T1 set by the change magnification m1 is too slow. If m1 <mtl, as described in FIG. 17B, the change magnification m1 is increased (fastened) and the change magnification m2 is reduced (slowed), so that the entire reproduction speed is increased. Are averaged (step S41).

  As shown in steps S31, S32, S33, and S42 of FIG. 19, in the present embodiment, the motion reproducing unit 112 determines that the arrival time tr of the ball (moving body) at the hit position is the length of the period T2. When the time is shorter than the time t2, the motion of the character CH is reproduced without changing the reproduction speed.

  For example, in FIG. 21A, the player performs a prior input by operating the direction instruction key 50 and the operation button 61. However, at the timing of the preceding input in FIG. 21A, the ball BL has already approached the hit position HP, and the time tr until the ball BL reaches the hit position HP is very short.

  That is, the player makes a prior input immediately before the ball BL reaches the hit position, and as shown in FIG. 21B, the arrival time tr is longer than the time t2, which is the length of the foot slip prevention period T2. Is shorter. In such a case, it is meaningless to change the playback speed of the motion, and it is necessary to immediately play back the motion.

  Therefore, in such a case, for example, the motion having the shortest reproduction time is selected from the plurality of motions, and the motion is reproduced as it is in accordance with the impact of the shot without performing the change processing of the motion reproduction speed. That is, without reproducing the first half of the motion, only the second half of the motion corresponding to the length of the arrival time tr is reproduced, and only the shot timing of the motion and the arrival timing of the ball BL at the hit position HP are matched. .

  In this way, even when the player's operation is immature and the timing of the preceding input is too late, this can be dealt with, and operation assist suitable for the preceding input system can be realized.

  As shown in steps S34, S35, and S36 of FIG. 19, in this embodiment, the motion reproducing unit 112 determines that the movement distance LCH of the character CH on the game field within the arrival time tr is the character CH in the period T2. When the movement distance L2 is shorter than the movement distance L2, the motion of the character CH is reproduced without performing the reproduction speed changing process.

  For example, in FIG. 22A, since the player's prior input is delayed, the movement distance LCH of the character CH up to the hit position HP on the game field is short. This moving distance LCH corresponds to, for example, the distance from the position of the character CH to the hit position HP at the time when the preceding input is performed.

  On the other hand, the movement distance of the character CH when the motion is reproduced is assumed for each motion of the character CH, and the movement distance L2 in FIG. 22B is the motion of the character CH in the foot slip prevention period T2. It corresponds to the moving distance.

  For example, it is assumed that the moving distance L2 of the motion in the foot slip prevention period T2 is 3 m and the actual moving distance LCH of the character CH on the game field is 2 m. In this case, since the movement distance L2 of the motion in the period T2 is longer than the actual movement distance LCH, even if the motion reproduction speed is changed, the foot slip phenomenon cannot be prevented.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, when LCH <L2, the motion is reproduced as it is without changing the motion reproduction speed. In this way, it is not necessary to perform a useless reproduction speed changing process, so that the process can be made more efficient.

  In this embodiment, as shown in step S21 of FIG. 18 and FIG. 23A, when the player makes a prior input, the hit position HP that is the shot position of the ball BL is obtained, and the ball BL to the hit position HP is obtained. The arrival time tr is acquired. Then, based on the acquired arrival time tr and the operation instruction data (for example, data for instructing top spin or slice) of the preceding input, a motion to be reproduced is selected, and as shown in step S31 in FIG. The playback time tm of the selected motion is acquired.

  For example, in the advance input system, the length of the arrival time tr changes according to the advance input timing of the player. That is, the arrival time tr becomes longer if the preceding input timing is earlier, and tr becomes shorter if the preceding input timing is earlier. In this case, if a motion corresponding to all the changes in the arrival time tr is prepared, the amount of motion data increases and the storage capacity is compressed.

  In this regard, in the present embodiment, only a certain number of motions are prepared, and a motion whose playback time is close to the arrival time is selected from these motions. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, a motion is selected based on the playback time parameter set for each motion group and the arrival time. The difference between the length of the reproduction time and the length of the arrival time is adjusted by a reproduction speed changing process. By doing so, it is possible to realize a variety of motion expressions suitable for the prior input system using motion data with a data amount that is not so large.

  In this embodiment, as shown in steps S37 to S41 in FIG. 19 and FIG. 23B, the change magnifications m1 and m2 in the periods T1 and T2 are set based on the acquired arrival time tr and playback time tm. Set. For example, when the arrival time tr is shorter than the motion playback time tm, the change magnifications m1 and m2 are set to 1 or more so that the fast-forward playback of the motion is performed. On the other hand, when the arrival time tr is longer than the motion reproduction time tm, the change magnifications m1 and m2 are set to 1 or less so that the slow motion reproduction is performed.

  At this time, in this embodiment, as shown in steps S37 to S41 in FIG. 19, the reproduction speed is changed so that the degree of change in the reproduction speed in the period T1 is larger than the degree of change in the reproduction speed in the period T2. The change process is performed. By doing in this way, as shown in the game image of FIG. 24 (A)-FIG. 26 (B), the reproduction | regeneration of the motion by which the slip of the foot was prevented was succeeded.

  That is, for example, FIG. 24B is set to the timing TM1 of the foot slip prevention start period, and in the series of motion from FIG. 24B to FIG. Motion is played.

  Further, as shown in steps S38 to S41 in FIG. 19, according to the present embodiment, a situation in which the change magnification m1 becomes too large or too small is prevented. Therefore, the motion in the period T1 and the motion in the period T2 come to be naturally connected, and as shown in FIGS. 24A to 26B, the natural and smooth motion while preventing the slipping of the foot. Expression can be realized.

2.4 Hit Position Calculation Processing Next, a specific example of hit position calculation processing will be described. For example, when a prior input system as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D is employed, there is a problem that inconvenience occurs if the hit position HP predicted in FIG. 9B is not an appropriate position. There is. FIG. 27 shows a flowchart of hit position calculation processing that can solve such a problem.

  First, it is determined whether or not a prior input (shot operation) has been performed by the player (step S1). For example, in FIG. 9A, when both the direction instruction key 50 and the operation button 61 (or 62 to 64) are operated, it can be determined that the preceding input has been performed. And the operation information of the received prior input is acquired (step S2). For example, operation instruction data (direction instruction data, shot instruction data) from the direction instruction key 50 and the operation button 61 is acquired.

  Next, the position and moving direction of the character CH are acquired based on the acquired operation information (motion instruction data) (step S3). For example, the position and moving direction of the character CH at the timing when the preceding input is performed are acquired. In this case, the movement direction is obtained based on the direction instruction data of the direction instruction key 50 or the like.

  Next, the trajectory of the ball BL is acquired (step S4). Specifically, the trajectory data in FIG. 3 is read. Then, as shown in FIG. 9B, a hit position HP (shot position) is obtained from the trajectory of the character CH and the trajectory of the ball BL (step S5). For example, the ball position (orbit point) corresponding to the hit position HP is selected from the trajectory data of the ball BL. That is, the hit position HP is obtained by selecting the ball position corresponding to the intersection (the ball position closest to the intersection) from the ball positions (moving body positions) of the trajectory data already calculated at the timing of the prior input. .

  Next, it is determined whether or not there is an obstacle between the hit position HP and the character CH (step S6). If there is no obstacle, it is determined whether or not the height of the ball BL at the hit position HP is within an appropriate height range (step S7). If it is within the appropriate height range, it is determined whether or not the character CH has reached the hit position HP (shot position) within the arrival time tr of the ball BL (step S8).

  If the determination of each shot condition (capture condition) shown in steps S6, S7, and S8 is “NO”, a recalculation process for obtaining an optimum hit position before and after the obtained hit position is performed (step S9). ). That is, the hit position is recalculated to move the hit position. Then, the process of steps S6 to S9, which is a hit condition determination process and a hit position movement process, is repeated until the hit position reaches a position that satisfies the shot condition (capture condition).

  On the other hand, when all the shot conditions in steps S6, S7, and S8 are “YES”, the motion data is selected based on the operation instruction data of the preceding input and the finally obtained hit position. (Step S10), the selected motion data is reproduced (Step S11). Specifically, for example, the arrival time tr of the ball BL is obtained based on the finally obtained hit position HP. Then, the motion that can be reproduced within the arrival time tr is selected from the shot motions selected by the player according to the preceding input. For example, a comparison process between the arrival time tr and the motion playback time is performed to select an optimal motion, and a motion playback speed changing process is performed if necessary.

  As shown in steps S6, S7, and S8 of FIG. 27, in this embodiment, it is determined whether or not the hit position is a position that satisfies the shot condition (capture condition) of the moving object by the character. As shown in step S9, when the hit position is not a position satisfying the shot condition (capture condition), the hit position recalculation process is performed. Thereafter, returning to step S6, it is determined again whether or not the hit position after the recalculation process satisfies the shot condition, and the process is repeated until the shot condition is satisfied. That is, the process of moving the hit position is repeated until the hit position reaches a position that satisfies the shot condition. That is, the hit position is moved on the ball trajectory until the shot condition is satisfied.

  As described above, if the final hit position is obtained by repeated processing, the initial hit position obtained by the player's prior input can be moved little by little to obtain the final hit position. Therefore, hit position recalculation processing (correction processing) that reflects the player's intention about the prior input to some extent can be realized. In addition, if the hit position is moved on the trajectory of the ball in the recalculation process, the hit position obtained by the recalculation process can be guaranteed as a place where the hit event (shot event) of the character and the ball occurs. Become.

  If it is determined that the hit position is a position that satisfies the shot condition, motion data is selected and reproduced based on the finally obtained hit position and the like as shown in steps S10 and S11.

  In this way, when the hit position HP predicted in FIG. 9B is not a position that satisfies the shot condition, the hit position is corrected, and the character CH can shot the ball BL at an appropriate hit position. It becomes like this. That is, in the prior input system, the predicted hit position HP may become a position that is not suitable for the shot of the ball BL. However, according to the method of the present embodiment, the appropriateness of the ball BL is also appropriate in such a case. Shot becomes possible. Therefore, it is possible to realize shot processing suitable for the prior input system, and to realize both real and high-quality motion reproduction and appropriate shot processing.

3. Hardware Configuration FIG. 28A shows a hardware configuration example capable of realizing the present embodiment.

  The CPU 900 (main processor) is a multi-core processor including a plurality of CPU cores 1, CPU cores 2, and CPU cores 3. The CPU 900 includes a cache memory (not shown). Each of the CPU cores 1, 2, and 3 is provided with a vector calculator and the like. Each of the CPU cores 1, 2, and 3 can execute, for example, two H / W thread processes in parallel without performing a context switch, and a multi-thread function is supported by hardware. A total of three CPU cores 1, 2, and 3 can execute six H / W thread processes in parallel.

  The GPU 910 (drawing processor) performs vertex processing and pixel processing to realize drawing (rendering) processing. Specifically, according to the shader program, the vertex data is created / changed and the drawing color of the pixel (fragment) is determined. When an image for one frame is written into the VRAM 920 (frame buffer), the image is displayed on a display such as a TV via a video output. The main memory 930 functions as a work memory for the CPU 900 and the GPU 910. Further, in the GPU 910, a plurality of vertex threads and a plurality of pixel threads are executed in parallel, and a multi-thread function of drawing processing is supported by hardware. The GPU 910 is also provided with a hardware tessellator. The GPU 910 is a unified shader type in which the vertex shader and the pixel shader are not distinguished in terms of hardware.

  The bridge circuit 940 (south bridge) is a circuit that controls the flow of information inside the system, and incorporates a controller such as a USB controller (serial interface), a network communication controller, an IDE controller, or a DMA controller. The bridge circuit 940 implements an interface function among the game controller 942, the memory card 944, the HDD 946, and the DVD drive 948.

  Note that the hardware configuration capable of realizing the present embodiment is not limited to FIG. 28A, and may be, for example, a configuration as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 28B, the CPU 902 includes a processor element PP and eight processor elements PE1 to PE8. The processor element PP is a general-purpose processor core, and the processor elements PE1 to PE8 are processor cores having a relatively simple configuration. The architectures of the processor element PP and the processor elements PE1 to PE8 are different, and the processor elements PE1 to PE8 are SIMD type processor cores that can simultaneously perform the same processing on a plurality of data with one instruction. Thereby, multimedia processing such as streaming processing can be executed efficiently. The processor element PP can execute two H / W thread processes in parallel, and each of the processor elements PE1 to PE8 can execute one H / W thread process. Therefore, the CPU 902 can execute a total of 10 H / W thread processes in parallel.

  In FIG. 28B, the GPU 912 and the CPU 902 are closely linked, and the GPU 912 can perform the rendering process directly on the main memory 930 on the CPU 902 side. Further, for example, the CPU 902 can perform geometry processing to transfer vertex data, or easily return data from the GPU 912 to the CPU 902. It is also easy for the CPU 902 to perform rendering pre-processing and post-processing, and the CPU 902 can execute tessellation (plane division) and dot fill. For example, the CPU 902 can perform a process with a high level of abstraction, and the GPU 912 can perform a detailed process with a low level of abstraction.

  When the processing of each unit of the present embodiment is realized by hardware and a program, a program for causing the hardware (computer) to function as each unit of the present embodiment is stored in the information storage medium. More specifically, the program instructs a processor (CPU, GPU), which is hardware, to pass data if necessary. And a processor implement | achieves the process of each part of this invention based on the instruction | indication and the passed data.

  Although the present embodiment has been described in detail as described above, it will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made without departing from the novel matters and effects of the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the present invention. For example, in the specification or drawings, terms (ball, X, Y, Z coordinates, etc.) described at least once together with different terms (moving body, first, second, third coordinates, etc.) having a broader meaning or the same meaning May be replaced by the different terms anywhere in the specification or drawings.

  Further, the prior input process, the motion reproduction process, the reproduction speed change process, the hit position calculation process, and the like are not limited to those described in the present embodiment, and techniques equivalent to these are also included in the scope of the present invention. The present invention can be applied to various games other than tennis games. Further, the present invention is applied to various image generation systems such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, a system board for generating game images, and a mobile phone. it can.

The example of the block diagram of the image generation system of this embodiment. Examples of character and ball object data. Example of ball trajectory data. Example of model object and skeleton structure. Explanatory drawing of parent-child relationship of bone. An example of character motion data. Examples of motion parameters. An example of setting an object space in a tennis game. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9D are explanatory diagrams of a prior input system. FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are explanatory diagrams of the motion reproduction speed changing method of the present embodiment. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D are explanatory diagrams of the motion reproduction speed changing method of the present embodiment. 12A and 12B show examples of game images generated by this embodiment. FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are examples of game images generated by this embodiment. FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are game image examples generated according to the present embodiment. Explanatory drawing of the method using division frame data. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are explanatory diagrams of specific examples of motion playback speed change processing. FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B are explanatory diagrams of a specific example of motion playback speed change processing. The flowchart explaining the motion reproduction speed change process of this embodiment. The flowchart explaining the motion reproduction speed change process of this embodiment. 20A and 20B show examples of game images generated by this embodiment. FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B are explanatory diagrams of a technique for playing back a motion without performing a motion playback speed change process. 22A and 22B are explanatory diagrams of a technique for reproducing a motion without performing a motion reproduction speed changing process. FIGS. 23A and 23B are explanatory diagrams of a method for setting the change magnification based on the arrival time and the reproduction time. 24A and 24B show examples of game images generated by this embodiment. FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B are game image examples generated according to the present embodiment. FIG. 26 (A) and FIG. 26 (B) are examples of game images generated by this embodiment. The flowchart explaining the hit position calculation process of this embodiment. FIG. 28A and FIG. 28B are hardware configuration examples.

Explanation of symbols

100 processing unit, 102 input receiving unit, 104 object space setting unit,
106 game calculation unit, 108 moving body control unit, 110 character control unit,
112 motion playback unit, 113 playback speed change unit, 114 hit position calculation unit,
116 determination unit, 118 virtual camera control unit, 120 image generation unit, 130 sound generation unit,
160 operation unit, 170 storage unit, 171 shape data storage unit,
172 Object data storage unit, 173 Motion data storage unit,
174 Motion parameter storage unit, 175 orbit data storage unit,
176 hit position storage unit, 177 drawing buffer, 180 information storage medium,
190 Display unit, 192 Sound output unit, 194 Auxiliary storage device, 196 Communication unit

Claims (13)

An input receiving unit that receives an input prior input when a player performs prior input instructing the movement of the character prior to the timing at which the moving object is shot or captured by the character;
A moving body control unit that performs control processing of the moving body shot or captured by the character;
A character control unit that performs control processing of the character based on the received operation data of the preceding input;
A motion data storage unit for storing the motion data of the character;
A motion playback unit that performs motion playback of the character based on the motion data;
As a playback speed changing unit for performing the playback speed changing process of the motion of the character,
Make the computer work,
The playback speed changing unit
The degree of change in the first reproduction speed in the first period, which is the period from the preceding input timing to the first timing, is the timing at which the hit event between the character and the moving object occurs from the first timing. A program characterized by performing a reproduction speed changing process that is larger than the degree of change of the second reproduction speed in the second period, which is a period up to. In claim 1,
The playback speed changing unit
A first change magnification that is a change magnification of the first reproduction speed in the first period based on the arrival time of the moving body at the hit position where the hit event is generated and the reproduction time of the motion And a second change magnification which is a change magnification of the second reproduction speed in the second period. In claim 2,
The playback speed changing unit
The first change magnification when the second change magnification is set to 1 is obtained, and when the obtained first change magnification is larger than a first threshold value, the first change magnification is calculated. When the change magnification is decreased and the second change magnification is increased, and the obtained first change magnification is smaller than a second threshold value, the first change magnification is increased and the first change magnification is increased. A program for reducing the second change magnification. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3,
The motion data storage unit
Storing partition frame data for identifying a frame partitioning the first and second periods in association with each motion;
The playback speed changing unit
A program for specifying the first timing based on data of the partition frame and performing the reproduction speed changing process. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 4,
The motion data storage unit
Storing data of the first motion in which the playback speed of the motion is changed and data of the second motion in which the playback speed of the motion is not changed,
The playback speed changing unit
A program for performing the reproduction speed changing process when the first motion is selected based on an action instruction of the character by the preceding input. In claim 5,
The motion playback unit
When the second motion is selected based on the action instruction of the character by the preceding input, the playback time of the second motion is acquired, and the playback time is a hit position where the hit event is generated When it is longer than the arrival time of the moving object to the position, motion playback is performed from the middle of the second motion, and when the playback time is shorter than the arrival time, another motion playback is performed. A program for playing back the second motion later. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6.
The motion playback unit
If the arrival time of the moving object at the hit position where the hit event is generated is shorter than the second time which is the length of the second period, the playback speed changing process is not performed. A program for reproducing the motion of the character. In claim 7,
The motion playback unit
If the moving distance of the character within the arrival time on the game field is shorter than the moving distance of the character in the second period, the playback speed changing process is not performed. A program characterized by reproducing the motion of a character. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 8.
The program according to claim 1, wherein the second period set by the first timing is a period set as a period during which the character's foot is not slid. In any one of Claims 1 thru | or 9,
As a hit position calculation unit for obtaining a hit position that is a position where a hit event occurs between the character and the moving body,
Make the computer work,
The motion playback unit
A program for selecting and reproducing motion data based on the arrival time of the moving body at the hit position determined by the hit position calculation unit and the operation instruction data of the preceding input. In claim 10,
The playback speed changing unit
Based on the reproduction time of the selected motion data and the arrival time of the moving body, a first change magnification which is a change magnification of the first reproduction speed in the first period, and the second A program for setting a second change magnification which is a change magnification of the second reproduction speed in the period of time.   A computer-readable information storage medium, wherein the program according to any one of claims 1 to 11 is stored. An image generation system for generating an image,
An input receiving unit that receives an input prior input when a player performs prior input instructing the movement of the character prior to the timing at which the moving object is shot or captured by the character;
A moving body control unit that performs control processing of the moving body shot or captured by the character;
A character control unit that performs control processing of the character based on the received operation data of the preceding input;
A motion data storage unit for storing the motion data of the character;
A motion playback unit that performs motion playback of the character based on the motion data;
A playback speed changing unit for performing a playback speed changing process of the motion of the character;
Including
The playback speed changing unit
The degree of change in the first reproduction speed in the first period, which is the period from the preceding input timing to the first timing, is the timing at which the hit event between the character and the moving object occurs from the first timing. An image generation system characterized by performing a reproduction speed changing process that is larger than the degree of change of the second reproduction speed in the second period, which is a period up to.

Images