JP6626920B2 - Game equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a game device that executes a music game.

  Conventionally, a game (a so-called music game) in which points are calculated by performing a button operation at a predetermined timing in accordance with music has been known. A game device that executes this game moves an icon (object) indicating the timing of a button operation along a predetermined route according to music. The player operates the buttons so as to coincide with the timing at which the icon reaches a predetermined position. The game device evaluates the correlation between the timing at which the icon reaches a predetermined position and the timing of the button operation, and displays a point.

  For example, the game device described in Patent Literature 1 presents a score display to a player when a music game is started. In the score display, a plurality of symbols representing different sounds are arranged at appropriate intervals in accordance with the rhythm of the music used in the game, and the TP bar is moved over the plurality of symbols (notes) to enter. Displays the timing of the operation.

JP 2001-246160 A

  The game device described in Patent Literature 1 is provided with a mode (2P mode) for two players to enjoy a game in a battle format. In the 2P mode provided in the conventional game device, each player only participates in the game at the same time, and it is difficult to communicate between the players during the game.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game device that facilitates communication between players during a music game.

In order to solve the above problems, a game device of the present invention executes a game for executing a game for determining an input operation for specifying a position in the game screen using an input device on a target displayed on the game screen. processing means, during the execution of the game, judgment means for the target of the input operation when not appear within a preset from the position in the game screen, to determine the indication of transmission of a message And message processing means for transmitting a message in response to the message transmission instruction.

  According to the present invention, it is easy to communicate between players during a music game.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game system according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game server 10. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of player data 31b stored in a storage unit 31. FIG. 3 is a view showing an example of data stored in a game server 10. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 20 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of a bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d according to the embodiment. The perspective view which expanded the periphery of the operation devices 56a and 56b. The figure which shows the cross section in the AA line shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a situation where a player uses the game device 20. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an operation device 56a. FIG. 15 is an exemplary perspective view showing the external configuration of the operation device 56a shown in FIG. 14 in a state where an external cover is removed. The top view of the operation device 56a. The side view of the operation device 56a. The figure which shows the detail of the structure for enabling the operation part 56a2 of the operation device 56a to move in a horizontal direction. The figure which shows the detail of the structure for enabling the operation part 56a2 of the operation device 56a to move in a horizontal direction. The figure which shows the structure of the support mechanism for supporting the shaft member 73. The figure which shows the cross section in the BB line shown to Fig.18 (a). The figure which expands and shows the periphery of the base 74 shown in FIG. The figure which shows the state at the time of operation which moves the operation part 56a2 to a horizontal direction. The figure which expands and shows the periphery of the base 74 shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the game device 20 according to the embodiment. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the overall operation of the game device 20 according to the embodiment. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a demonstration process. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a function selection window displayed on a display 51. 9 is a flowchart illustrating start processing. The figure which shows the example of a display of a card use confirmation screen. The figure which shows an example of the screen for game mode selection. The figure which shows the example of a display of a music selection screen. The figure which shows the example of a display of the difficulty selection screen at the time of solo play selection. The figure which shows the example of a display of an item selection screen. The figure which shows the example of a display of the difficulty selection screen at the time of cooperation play selection. 9 is a flowchart showing a game process. 9 is a flowchart showing input determination processing during solo play. The figure which shows an example of the game screen 120 for solo play. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows the specific example of a traveling route and a target. The figure which shows an example of the game screen 120 for cooperative play. 9 is a flowchart showing input determination processing during cooperative play. The figure which shows an example of the game screen 120 for cooperative play. The figure which shows the example of a display of the game screen 120 at the time of match play. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a traveling route setting process. The figure which shows the example which changes a traveling route. The figure which shows the example which changes a traveling route. The figure which shows the example which changes a traveling route. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a checkpoint process. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a checkpoint process. The figure which shows the example of a display of a surprise roulette. The figure which shows the example of a change of the game screen (progress route) according to the icon selected from the surprise roulette. The figure which shows an example of the game screen on which the progress route was displayed. The figure which shows an example of the game score screen (performance result screen) at the time of solo play. The figure which shows an example of the game score screen (performance result screen) at the time of solo play. The figure which shows an example of a reward screen. 5 is a flowchart for explaining automatic music selection processing. The figure which shows an example of a music selection screen. The figure which shows an example of a music selection screen. 9 is a flowchart illustrating game processing during in-store battle play (match play). 9 is a flowchart showing input determination processing during in-store battle play (match play). The figure which shows the detail of message data 92m. The figure which shows an example of the game screen in the battle game in which the message was displayed. The figure which shows an example of another display form of a message. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a result display process. The figure which shows an example of the battle result screen displayed by a result display process. The figure which shows an example of the acquisition condition which gives an evaluation point with respect to a player, and the acquired number of stars. The figure which shows an example of a star acquisition screen. 11 is a flowchart showing hidden music unlock processing. The figure which shows an example of a hidden music unlock screen. The figure which shows an example of an item acquisition screen.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the game system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, in the game system according to the present embodiment, a game server 10 is connected to a system of a plurality of stores 14-1,..., 14-x nationwide via a network 12 including the Internet or the like. ing.

  For example, in the store 14-1, a plurality of (eight in FIG. 1) game devices 20 are interconnected via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network). The game device 20 according to the present embodiment can perform solo play by one player, cooperative play by two players, and in-store battle play (match play) in which the player of another game device 20 competes. Further, the plurality of game devices 20 are connected to the network 12 via the host device 21. Therefore, the game device 20 can communicate with the game server 10 and can transmit and receive various data. Note that a configuration in which the game device 20 can directly communicate with the game server 10 via the network 12 may be employed.

  Although FIG. 1 shows an example in which eight game devices 20 are provided in the store 14-1, one or more game devices 20 are provided in the stores 14-2,..., 14-x. It is assumed that In the store 14-1 in which the plurality of game devices 20 are provided, in-store battle play (match play) can be performed between the game devices 20 in the store.

  The game devices 20 of the stores 14-1,..., 14-x can upload and store player data including operation data such as game results to the game server 10 by executing the game.

  The game executed by the game device 20 in the present embodiment is a music game that is executed together with the reproduction output of the music by selecting the music. When a music piece is selected, the game device 20 displays, along with the playback output of the music piece, a progress route that changes in accordance with the music piece, for example, in a game screen representing a three-dimensional space, and for each player along this progress route. Move (flight) the determined object (character, avatar). Then, while moving the object along the traveling route, a target (various objects) indicating the timing of the input operation appears in accordance with the traveling route, and data input by a player operation on the input device is displayed in accordance with the target. The input timing is determined based on the input timing, and effects such as screen display and sound output are executed according to the determination result, and point calculation and evaluation are performed.

  The game device 20 according to the present embodiment is provided with, for example, two operation devices as input devices for receiving an input operation of a player. In the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, the same data is input regardless of which of the two operation devices is operated if the operation is the same. Therefore, the player can arbitrarily use the two operation devices so as to be easily operated. The details of the operation device and the game will be described later.

  The game server 10 manages various data related to the game executed by the game devices 20 in the stores 14-1,..., 14-x. Details of the data managed by the game server 10 will be described later (FIGS. 3 and 4).

  The mobile terminal 16 is realized by, for example, another electronic apparatus provided with a touch screen as an input device operated by a player, for example, a smartphone, a slate PC, a mobile phone, a portable game machine, or the like. The mobile terminal 16 can receive the game data by communicating with the game server 10 via the network 12 and execute the game. Further, the mobile terminal 16 can be used to register data used when the player plays a game on the game device 20 in the game server 10 in advance. For example, message data used when in-store battle play (match play) is executed by the game device 20 can be registered. The mobile terminal 16 accesses the game server 10 by executing a dedicated application program for registering data in the game server 10, whereby various arbitrarily created message data can be registered in advance. Details of the message data will be described later. The data registered from the mobile terminal 16 to the game server 10 is not limited to message data, but includes data relating to objects (characters, avatars) and data individually managed by players (player management data described later). May be.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the game server 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the game server 10 has a control unit 30, a storage unit 31, and a communication interface 32.

  The control unit 30 controls the entire game server 10 based on programs and data stored in the storage unit 31, manages data stored in the storage unit 31, and communicates with the game device 20 and the mobile terminal 16. Various kinds of processing such as data transmission / reception via the CPU 32 are executed. The control unit 30 realizes various functions by executing a game data management program 31a stored in the storage unit 31 by a processor (a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor)).

  The functions realized by the control unit 30 include, for example, a player data processing unit 30a, a ranking data processing unit 30b, and a game data processing unit 30c.

  The player data processing unit 30a processes various data related to the game executed by the player for each player ID presented by the player to the game device 20 using a card. The player data processing unit 30a performs various processes such as processing of various data (player management data) set for each player ID and recording and updating of a game result (including operation data and the like) received from the game device 20. I do. The player data processing unit 30a can add and edit player management data (message data described later) in accordance with an instruction from the mobile terminal 16 connected via the communication interface 32. The player data processing unit 30a receives an instruction from the mobile terminal 16 and adds message data when the player ID or the password (set separately) is identified as a valid player through the mobile terminal 16, To edit.

  The ranking data processing unit 30b creates various ranking data based on game results (including player results) corresponding to a plurality of players (player IDs).

  The game data processing unit 30c processes game data (defining a traveling route and a target in a game screen) for executing a game on the mobile terminal 16 and the game device 20. It executes distribution of game data, additional recording of game data uploaded from the mobile terminal 16 and game data corresponding to new music, and the like.

  The storage unit 31 stores programs and data for controlling the game server 10. The programs stored in the storage unit 31 include a game data management program 31a for managing various data for executing a game in the game device 20, in addition to a basic program (OS (Operating System)).

  The game data management program 31a includes a player data processing program 31a1 for implementing the player data processing section 30a, a ranking data processing program 31a2 for implementing the ranking data processing section 30b, and a game data processing section 30c. The game data processing program 31a3 is included.

  The data recorded in the storage unit 31 includes player data 31b, ranking data 31c, and game data 31d.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the player data 31b stored in the storage unit 31. As shown in FIG. 3, the player data 31b includes data 41 to 4m for each player ID corresponding to each of the players 1 to m. FIG. 3 shows, for example, player management data 41a and player operation data 41c as data 41 corresponding to the player 1.

  The player management data 41a is data stored when the player executes a game by designating a player ID, and includes various data related to the game set for each player ID. For example, the player management data 41a includes a player ID (identification information), a store ID, a play area, a player name, a custom image, a player experience value, a class, a level, a title, an acquired item, an acquired star number 41a1, a player record, and message data. 41a2, data such as unlocked music and volume data.

  The player ID is for identifying the player. For example, the player ID is read from the game card (storage medium) owned by the player by the game device 20 and notified to the game server 10. The store ID is for identifying the store where the game device 20 is installed, and is notified from the game device 20 together with the player ID, for example. The play area indicates, for example, an area including the store indicated by the store ID, and is represented by, for example, a prefecture. The player name is used to identify the player, and is represented, for example, by a character string (for example, 8 alphanumeric characters) arbitrarily designated by the player when newly registering a game card (player ID). The custom image is an image (avatar, character) representing the player created by the player, and is configured by combining images of a background, a symbol (mark, character), and an effect (decoration), for example. Each part that makes up the custom image can be obtained (purchased) by consuming points by the player, acquired as a prize for event play different from the normal game, or even after a specific number of plays. it can.

  Each data of the player experience value, the class, the level, the title, the acquired item, and the player's performance is updated based on a game result (including a first evaluation and a second evaluation described later) executed in the game device 20. It is.

  The player experience value is a parameter that is added when the player executes the game. The player experience value is added according to the number of game executions, and is added according to the opponent and the result of the in-store competition play. For example, if the player wins by playing against another player of a class or level higher than the class or level of the player, more experience value is added according to the difference between the class or level.

  The level is a parameter obtained when the player experience value rises to a predetermined level. The classes are for classifying the levels of the players, and are classified into, for example, a beginner class (BEGINNER CLASS), an intermediate class (MIDDLE CLASS), an advanced class (ADVANCED CLASS), and a master class (MASTER CLASS). The class is defined to be promoted when a rating (RATING) of a predetermined number of songs or more is obtained for a condition (game) of a predetermined difficulty level (mode) determined for each level of the player, for example, a game (music) of a predetermined difficulty level (mode). Have been.

  The class is referred to for performing player-specific control such as limiting music that can be selected by the player. The title is obtained when a game result satisfying a specific condition is obtained or when a player consumes points, and is represented by a specific character string (for example, 15 characters). The title is used to identify the player together with the player name, and a plurality of levels (for example, 10 levels) are defined. Higher-level titles are rarer and harder to obtain. Game results that meet the specific conditions for obtaining titles include the number of faces that cleared songs of a predetermined difficulty level, the total number of wins, and the top prizes in various rankings.Title levels are defined according to each condition. ing.

  The acquired item indicates an item acquired by the player. The item can be acquired after the game is over (hidden song unlock processing described later) or when the level is increased according to the game result. The items are used at the time of playing the game, and change the contents of the game to be more advantageous for the player, or enable the player to execute the game in a play style different from normal play. For example, by setting items before the game so that items can be used during the game, the input operation required by the player can be changed to a simple operation, the judgment on the input operation can be made advantageous to the player, hints can be given. Presenting, changing the timing at which the target appears, and the like. In a play style different from normal play, for example, a game may be executed by performing an input operation on the operation device while standing at a position different from that in normal play.

  The acquired star number 41a1 indicates an evaluation point (hereinafter, may be referred to as “star number”) given to the player based on the result of the in-store battle play (match play). The evaluation points are given when the game content of the player satisfies various preset acquisition conditions as well as the win / loss and the game score of the in-store battle play (details of the acquisition conditions are shown in FIG. 77). The number of obtained stars 41a1 is sequentially added when the number of obtained stars 41a1 is obtained after a game of in-store battle play (match play). When the number of acquired stars 41a1 reaches a predetermined number, an advantage is given to the player, such as a special title being given or a song usable in the game being added (banned).

  The player record is a history of various data related to each game executed by the player, for example, a game execution date and time, a song or difficulty selected as a game target, a ranking obtained as a game result, an acquired point, and the like.

  The message data 41a2 indicates a message transmitted and received between players during a game when performing in-store battle play (match play). In the message data 41a2, a message is added and edited according to an instruction from the mobile terminal 16, for example. The message is associated with each operation (operation direction, press) of an input device (for example, two operation devices) provided in the game device 20 and various predetermined game situations (see FIG. 72). You can register. It is assumed that the message data used in the in-store match play (match play) is, for example, a player registered in advance using the mobile terminal 16 and also prepared in the game device 20 as default data in advance.

  The unlocked music is a specially provided music among the music used in the game, and is used in the game by performing a predetermined operation by a hidden music unlocking process (described later) executed after the game ends. Indicates songs that can be performed. In the player data, data indicating a setting status according to a predetermined operation on the unlocked music is recorded for each player.

  The volume data indicates a volume level when the player uses headphones during the execution of the game. The volume data is data in which a volume-adjusted level is recorded when the player uses headphones during the execution of the game (when headphones are connected to a headphone terminal described later), and the player uses the headphones in the next game. Used to adjust the initial level when used.

  The player management data 41a is used when displaying player information on the game device 20 (for example, a player matching screen, a game result display screen, and a ranking display screen when performing in-store battle play).

  The player operation data 41c indicates a past game result of the player when the player executes the game on the game device 20. The player operation data 41c includes, for example, the latest operation data when the player last played, the date and time when the data was created, and the high score for each of a plurality of game difficulty levels (simple, normal, hard, expert) for one music piece. Includes the high score operation data and the date and time when the data was generated. The operation data includes, for example, data indicating a determination result (GREAT, COOL, GOOD, MISS) and a score (play score, total score, etc.) for the input operation.

  For example, when the player executes the game by selecting “Normal” of “Song 1” on the game device 20, operation data indicating a game result is transmitted from the game device 20 to the game server 10 after the game ends. The player data processing unit 30a stores the operation data received from the game device 20 as the latest operation data of “Normal” of “Song 1”. If a high score is obtained, it is also stored as high score operation data.

  Further, the operation data may include data indicating an input operation by the player at the time of executing the game. For example, the data indicating an input operation is time-series data in which data indicating a player's operation (button pressing, operation direction, etc.) on the operation device is associated with a music reproduction time. Input operations required by the player during the game include, for example, hit, slide, hold, scratch, and beat. By including data indicating various input operations in the operation data, it is possible to reproduce the game contents executed by the player in the past based on the data. That is, by displaying a game screen corresponding to the operation data in accordance with the reproduction of the music, a game screen similar to that at the time of executing the game can be displayed.

  In the player operation data 41c shown in FIG. 3, since the player 1 has executed a game for all the difficulty levels (simple, normal, hard, expert) of the "music 1", the player 1 The latest operation data and the high score operation data are stored, but the operation data regarding the music and the difficulty level for which the game is not executed are not stored.

  The player data processing unit 30a stores the same data 42 to 4m as the player 1 shown in FIG. 3 as the player data 31b for each of the players 2 to m who have executed the game by specifying the player ID in the game device 20. .

FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an example of the ranking data 31c stored in the game server 10, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating an example of the game data 31d stored in the game server 10.
As shown in FIG. 4A, the ranking data 31c includes solo play data and cooperative play data respectively corresponding to solo play and cooperative play (described later) that can be executed in the game device 20. Solo play data and cooperative play data include, for example, total score ranking, simple score ranking, normal score ranking, hard score ranking, expert score ranking, number of wins monthly ranking, popular song daily ranking, maximum number of chains, maximum rating, etc. include. Further, the cooperative play data includes data indicating the maximum sync rate. Each ranking is set for each of a plurality of songs included in the game data 31d, for example.

  Based on the data 41 to 4m of each of the players 1 to m included in the player data 31b, the ranking data processing unit 30b tallies the rankings, for example, at regular intervals or every time the data is updated. It is stored as data 31c.

  The simple score ranking, the normal score ranking, the hard score ranking, and the expert score ranking are rankings obtained by summing up the game results of each player for each difficulty level, and store, for example, a predetermined number of players (player IDs) from the top. The total score ranking is a ranking obtained by summing up game results of all difficulty levels. In addition, each ranking can be counted for each music.

  The monthly ranking of the number of wins is a ranking that totals the number of wins (the number of wins of first place) of each player every month, and the daily ranking of popular songs is a ranking that totals the number of times each song is selected as a game object every day. is there.

  The maximum number of chains is a ranking of the number of chains indicating the number of times a correct input operation is continuously performed on a target displayed on the game screen, and the maximum evaluation is a total number determined at the end of one game (music). This is a rating ranking.

  The maximum sync rate included in the cooperative play data is data indicating the maximum degree of coincidence (sync rate) of the input operation during the game between the two players in the cooperative play (details will be described later).

  The ranking data 31c may include data of various rankings other than the ranking described above.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the game data 31d includes, for example, data 31d1, 31d2,..., 31dY corresponding to a plurality of songs 1,. FIG. 4B shows, for example, sound data 31d1a, game screen data 31d1b, and event data 31d1c for executing a game on the game device 20 or the mobile terminal 16 as the data 31d1 corresponding to the music 1. The sound data 31d1a is data for outputting music, sound effects, and the like. The game screen data 31d1b is data including a traveling route to be displayed in accordance with the reproduction of the music, background data for expressing a three-dimensional space, effect data in the game screen, and the like. The event data 31d1c is data relating to an event generated at a predetermined timing according to the traveling route.

FIG. 4C shows an example of the event data 31d1c.
As shown in FIG. 4C, data relating to an event generated at each time is recorded in association with time data indicating the time from the start of the music. The events include, for example, occurrence of various targets and checkpoints. At the check point, for example, during in-store battle play (match play), an icon roulette for rotating and displaying a plurality of icons (the details will be described later) is displayed.

  The game data 31d is provided with data corresponding to each of a plurality of game difficulty levels (simple, normal, hardware, expert) for one music piece. Also, in the game screen data 31d1b of FIG. 4B, it is assumed that the traveling route and the background data are prepared in advance. However, based on the event data 31d1c, the traveling route (linear , Curves, etc.) and background data according to the traveling route.

  The communication interface 32 controls data communication with the portable terminal 16 and the game device 20 (host device 21) via the network 12.

  FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are diagrams illustrating an external configuration of the game device 20 according to the present embodiment. 5 is a perspective view of the game device 20, FIG. 6 is a front view of the game device 20, FIG. 7 is a side view of the game device 20, FIG. 8 is a plan view of the game device 20, and FIG. Are respectively shown in perspective views.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 9, the game device 20 according to the present embodiment includes a first housing 50a, a second housing 50b, a connecting member 50c, and a bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d.
The first housing 50a includes a box-shaped base 50a1 and a thin box-shaped upper housing 50a2 provided on the base 50a1. The display 51 is provided on the front surface (the second housing 50b side) of the upper housing 50a2. The display 51 is constituted by a plasma display (for example, another display such as a liquid crystal display) having a 60-inch display surface of a rectangular shape. 50a2.

  The display 51 is provided in the upper housing 50a2 such that, for example, the lower end is lower than the operation device, and the upper end is above the viewpoint position of a player who operates the operation device in a general state (in the present embodiment, in a standing state). Shall be. By arranging the display surface of the display 51 so as to be vertically long, it is possible to display a dynamic game screen in which the line of sight of the player during the game is largely moved in the vertical direction. Thus, the game screen can be visually recognized in a wide range of the field of view of the player, so that the player can be provided with a sense of immersion in the game. Further, by disposing the display 51 vertically, the installation area of the game apparatus 20 does not greatly increase even on a large screen, so that the installation area of the game apparatus 20 in a game center or the like can be reduced. Space is not required at the time of transfer, and the transfer cost does not increase.

  Speakers 52a and 52b are provided on the upper front surface of the base portion 50a1 so as to be spaced apart from each other. The speakers 52a and 52b have a performance suitable for outputting, for example, sounds in a middle and high range, and are mainly used for outputting music and sound effects during the execution of the game.

  The speakers 52a and 52b are attached to the base 50a1 such that the central axis faces obliquely upward. The mounting positions of the speakers 52a and 52b are lower than the height of the face of the player using the game device 20. For this reason, the sound output from the speakers 52a and 52b is transmitted from below to a player standing in front of the game device 20. Therefore, even if there is noise around the game device 20, the sound output from the speakers 52a and 52b can be effectively transmitted to the player without being mixed with the surrounding noise. Further, a speaker 52c (woofer speaker) for a low frequency range is provided at the center of the lower front surface of the base portion 50a1. The loudspeaker 52c is mainly used together with the loudspeakers 52a and 52b for outputting music and sound effects during game execution.

  A display panel 53 for displaying a game title and the like is supported on an upper part of the upper housing 50a2 by a mounting member 53a such that the panel surface faces in the same direction as the display surface of the display 51. As shown in FIG. 7, one end of the attachment member 53a is attached to the upper end of the upper housing 50a2, and the display panel 53 is attached to the other end via the upper part of the display 51.

  The second housing 50b is provided with functions mainly related to operations by the player. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the second housing 50b includes a left housing 50b1, a right housing 50b2, a bottom housing 50b3, an upper panel 54, and operation devices 56a and 56b.

  The left housing 50b1 is arranged on the bottom housing 50b3 formed in a substantially thin box shape so as to match the left end, and the right housing 50b2 is arranged on the bottom housing 50b3 so as to match the right end. I have. A space is provided between the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2, that is, below the second housing 50b, as shown in FIGS. Therefore, as shown in the front view of FIG. 6, the front of the speaker 52c provided on the base portion 50a1 is not blocked by the second housing 50b, and the sound output from the speaker 52c is easily transmitted to the outside. ing. Further, the space below the second housing 50b can be used by a player to place luggage.

  The left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2 have a shape in which an inclined surface is formed on the upper surface and the inclined surface is extended obliquely rearward. A speaker 52d is provided near the upper end of the left housing 50b1 extending diagonally rearward, and a speaker 52e is provided near the upper end of the right housing 50b2 extending diagonally rearward.

  The upper panel 54 is provided so as to cover above the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2. The upper panel 54 is formed of, for example, a translucent member, and forms a horizontal plane in a range that covers the upper part of the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2. The upper panel 54 is provided with circular openings at two symmetrical locations, and the upper portions (operation portions) of the operation devices 56a and 56b protrude.

  The operation devices 56a and 56b are supported by the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2 in accordance with the position of the opening of the upper panel 54, so that the operation surface is horizontal when not operated by the player. (Details are shown in FIG. 11).

  Between the operation devices 56a and 56b, a headphone terminal 57 and a volume button 58 (for example, two buttons upward and downward, or a dial type) may be provided. By attaching a headphone plug to the headphone terminal 57, sound can be output from the headphone instead of the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and 52e (or the sound is output from the headphone in parallel with the output from the speaker). May be done). The volume of the sound output to the headphones can be adjusted by the volume button 58. Further, an earphone or a further speaker can be connected to the headphone terminal 57.

  A coin slot 61 and a card reader 63 are provided on the upper inclined surface of the right housing 50b2. A coin is inserted into the coin insertion slot 61 by a player when the game apparatus 20 is used. The card reader 63 reads data from a game card (storage medium) storing card-specific data (player ID) by non-contact proximity wireless communication. The player can read the player ID recorded on the game card by bringing the game card close to (over) the card reader 63. In addition, a coin payout port 62 is provided on the lower front surface of the right housing 50b2. Unusable coins inserted from the coin insertion slot 61 and coins inserted beyond the upper limit of the coin insertion slot 62 are paid out.

  Since the speakers 52d and 52e are provided near the upper ends of the housings extending obliquely rearward of the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2, respectively, as shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 7 and FIG. The upper part is not covered by the panel 54. Further, since the speakers 52d and 52e are provided on the inclined surfaces, the central axis is directed obliquely upward. Furthermore, since the mounting surfaces of the speakers 52d and 52e are inclined toward the center (inside) of the game device 20, as shown in FIG. 8, the central axes of the speakers 52d and 52e operate the operation devices 56a and 56b. To the player standing in front of the game device 20. The mounting positions of the speakers 52d and 52e are lower than the height of the face of the player using the game apparatus 20. For this reason, the sound output from the speakers 52d and 52e is transmitted from below to the player standing in front of the game device 20, similarly to the speakers 52a and 52b. Therefore, even if there is noise around the game apparatus 20, the sounds output from the speakers 52d and 52e can be effectively transmitted to the player without being mixed with the surrounding noise.

  The speakers 52d and 52e have performance suitable for, for example, outputting sounds in a high-frequency range, and are mainly used for outputting sounds (operation sounds) corresponding to operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b during execution of the game. Is done. Since the speakers 52d and 52e are provided in the vicinity of the operation devices 56a and 56b, respectively, by outputting operation sounds in accordance with the operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b, the speakers 52d and 52e are provided to the player as if the operation devices 56a and 56b The impression that the operation sound is emitted can be given.

  The connection member 50c connects the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b arranged so that the display surface of the display 51 faces the operation devices 56a and 56b as shown in FIGS. It is a member of. As shown in FIG. 8, the connecting member 50c includes a left connecting member 50c1 provided near the left end of the game apparatus 20, and a right connecting member 50c2 provided near the right end.

  As shown in FIG. 8, by connecting the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b by the left connecting member 50c1 and the right connecting member 50c2, a space between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b is provided. A space where the installation surface is open is formed.

  As shown in FIGS. 5, 7, and 9, the left connecting member 50c1 and the right connecting member 50c2 connect the two near the bottom of the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b. For this reason, the player can easily enter and exit between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b.

  The operation devices 56a and 56b provided on the second housing 50b are arranged such that the operation surface is horizontal. For this reason, when the player operates the operation devices 56a and 56b while standing in front of the game apparatus 20 facing the display 51 (hereinafter, the standing position of the player in this case is referred to as a first player position), The same operational feeling is obtained in any of the cases where the operation devices 56a and 56b are operated while standing between the body 50a and the second housing 50b (hereinafter, the standing position of the player in this case is referred to as a second player position). Can be provided.

  The second player position is for a case where the player plays with the display 51 on the back side. For example, an advanced game player may store music and the timing of operating the operation devices 56a and 56b during reproduction of the music, so that the user may aim to play without looking at the game screen displayed on the display 51. is there. The second player position can be used when such an advanced game player plays.

  The connecting member 50c (the left connecting member 50c1 and the right connecting member 50c2) can be fixed after adjusting the length to an arbitrary length by providing a structure capable of extending and contracting in the length direction. That is, the distance between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b can be adjusted by changing the length of the connecting member 50c.

  Further, the connecting member 50c may be made detachable from the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b, and a plurality of connecting members 50c having different lengths may be prepared so that the connecting members 50c can be arbitrarily replaced. Also in this case, similarly, the distance between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b can be adjusted.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b have substantially the same size in the horizontal width direction. The width of the first housing 50a is substantially the same as the size of the display 51 in the horizontal direction (short side). That is, although the game device 20 has the large-screen display 51 mounted thereon, the display surface of the display 51 is arranged to be vertically long, and the first housing 50a and the second housing 50a are aligned with the short side of the display 51. Since the housing 50b is configured, the size is prevented from being increased.

  In addition, by adjusting the distance between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b, the size of the game device 20 in the depth direction can be changed. Therefore, the size of the game device 20 is changed according to the installation location. be able to. Further, by making the connecting member 50c detachable from the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b, the game apparatus 20 can be separated into the first housing 50a, the second housing 50b, and the connecting member 50c. . Therefore, when the game device 20 is transported or the like, the transport operation can be facilitated by keeping the game device 20 separated. In addition, by making the attachment member 53a attached to the upper part of the upper housing 50a2 detachable, the height of the first housing 50a can be reduced to facilitate transportation.

  A main control unit for controlling the game device 20 is housed in the first housing 50a (base 50a1), and includes various units provided in the second housing 50b and the connecting member 50c. It is connected via a cable arranged inside. By providing a connector or the like that can be arbitrarily connected / disconnected to a cable for connecting between a control unit or the like housed in the first housing 50a and various units housed in the second housing 50b, Work for connecting and separating the housing 50a and the second housing 50b can be facilitated.

  The bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d is a unit that is used as a platform on which the player rides during the execution of the game, and that generates bodily-acoustic vibration that is linked with the sound of music played during the game.

  FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating the configuration of the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d. As shown in FIG. 10, the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d includes a flat plate 50d1 made of a wooden plate or an aluminum plate, and rubber for vibration isolation provided at a plurality of locations (for example, near four corners) at the bottom of the flat plate 50d1. And the like, and an acoustic vibration module 52f provided on the upper surface near one end of the flat plate 50d1. The acoustic vibration module 52f is provided on, for example, a rectangular surface extending from the center of one side of the flat plate 50d1. A fixed plate 50d3 is attached near the left and right ends of the flat plate 50d1. The height of the bottom surface of the fixed plate 50d3 and the height of the bottom surface of the support member 50d2 match. As shown in FIG. 10, a predetermined space is provided between the fixed plate 50d3 and the rectangular surface extending from the flat plate 50d1. As shown in FIGS. 5, 7, and 8 (illustration is omitted in FIGS. 6 and 9), the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d has a rectangular shape provided with a part of the flat plate 50d1 (the acoustic vibration module 52f is provided). Face) is inserted below the second housing 50b. In this case, the fixed plate 50d3 is located below the height adjuster attached to the bottom surface of the second housing 50b. By fixing (pressing down) the adjuster on the fixing plate 50d3, the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d is stably installed by the weight of the second housing 50b. Therefore, even if the player moves on the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d, the installation position of the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d does not shift.

  Further, the bodily sensible acoustic vibration unit 50d (acoustic vibration module 52f) is connected to the second housing 50b via the cable 50d4. The cable 50d4 is provided with a connector that can be arbitrarily connected / disconnected to the cable accommodated in the second housing 50b. This facilitates connection / separation between the second housing 50b and the bodily sensation sound vibration unit 50d, so that operations such as movement of the game apparatus 20 can be facilitated.

  The acoustic vibration module 52f generates acoustic vibration based on the same signal as an audio signal for outputting sound from, for example, a low-range sound speaker 52c (woofer speaker), and generates vibration due to sound pressure or a flat plate 50d1. Is transmitted to the player via the. The acoustic vibration module 52f can generate vibration in conjunction with music by generating vibration based on the same audio signal as the low-range sound speaker 52c.

Next, details of the operation devices 56a and 56b will be described.
FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the periphery of the operation devices 56a and 56b. As shown in FIG. 11, the operation devices 56a and 56b are attached such that the upper portions operated by the player project from the openings provided in the upper panel 54. The operation devices 56a and 56b are arranged symmetrically left and right, and when the player stands at the center facing the second housing 50b, the player can operate the same distance with the left and right hands. Also, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, since the operation surfaces of the operation devices 56a and 56b are arranged to be horizontal, the player can operate at any one of the first player position and the second player position. However, the same operational feeling can be obtained.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a cross section taken along line AA shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 12, the operation device 56a is provided between a first support member 56b11 having a prismatic shape extending upward from a side surface of the left housing 50b1 and the left housing 50b1 and the right housing 50b2. Is supported by a prism-shaped second support member 56b12 horizontally disposed above.

  A coupling member 56a1 having a coupling portion for coupling the first support member 56b11 and the second support member 56b12 is provided on a side surface of the operation device 56a. The operation device 56a is brought into a stable state by engaging the first support member 56b11 and the second support member 56b12 with the coupling member 56a1 and fixing them with screws or the like.

  The coupling member 56a1 of the operation device 56a is fixed to the first support member 56b11 and the second support member 56b12 on the side facing the display 51, that is, on the back side of the operation device 56a. Therefore, when the player stands at the first player position (the front position of the game device 20 (the second housing 50b) facing the display 51) in order to use the game device 20, the attachment portion by the coupling member 56a1 is hidden. Become invisible. Therefore, by making the upper panel 54 transparent (or translucent), the operating device 56a appears to be floating in the air.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a situation where the player uses the game device 20.
FIG. 13 is an example of a state in which the player is operating the operation devices 56a and 56b while standing at the first player position (the illustration of the bodily-acoustic vibration unit 50d is omitted). As shown in FIG. 13, the operation surfaces of the operation devices 56a and 56b are set to a height that allows the player to easily operate the player with the elbows bent slightly.

  Further, since a space is provided between the first housing 50a and the second housing 50b, the player standing in the first player position has the lower end of the display 51 below the operation devices 56a and 56b. Even if it does, the game screen displayed on the display 51 can be visually recognized to the lower end without the upper panel 54 obstructing. Further, since the display screen of the display 51 is arranged to be vertically long, the upper end of the display 51 is higher than the viewpoint position of the player as shown in FIG. Therefore, it is possible to provide the player with a dynamic game screen that allows the player to visually recognize the game screen in a wide range of view and move his or her line of sight greatly in the up-down direction, so that the player can be immersed in the game.

Next, a detailed configuration of the operation devices 56a and 56b will be described.
The operation devices 56a and 56b in the present embodiment have the same configuration. Hereinafter, the operation device 56a will be described as an example, and the description of the operation device 56b will be omitted.

  14 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the operation device 56a, FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the operation device 56a shown in FIG. 14 with an external cover removed, and FIG. 16 is a plan view of the operation device 56a. FIG. 17 and FIG. 17 show side views of the operation device 56a, respectively.

  As shown in FIGS. 14 to 17, an operation unit 56a2 operated by a player is provided above the operation device 56a. The operation unit 56a2 is configured by a substantially cylindrical column, and a member having a bottom formed with a diameter larger than the column at the bottom of the column. A flat operation surface is formed on the upper part of the operation device 56a, so that the player can operate with the palm or finger placed thereon. The operation unit 56a2 is configured as a push button, and a predetermined stroke amount (for example, 2 to 3 mm) is pressed by a player. Pressing of the operation unit 56a2 is detected by a switch housed inside. The operation unit 56a2 is held such that the operation surface is horizontal when not operated by the player, and is operated by the operation unit 56a2 when the player performs an operation to move the operation surface in the horizontal direction (range of 360 °). It is configured to move in a direction.

  Therefore, the operation on the operation unit 56a2 includes an operation of pressing the operation unit 56a2 (push button), an operation of moving the operation unit 56a2 in the horizontal direction, and an operation of moving the operation unit 56a2 in the horizontal direction while the operation unit 56a2 is pressed. .

  A light 56a3 is accommodated in the center of the operation unit 56a2. The light 56a3 is used for game effects such as lighting (or blinking) in response to an operation on the operation unit 56a2, for example.

  An upper cover 56a4 is provided on the outer periphery of the bottom of the operation unit 56a2 in a range larger than the diameter of the bottom. On the upper cover 56a4, for example, lights 56a5 are provided at four positions. The light 56a5 is disposed so as to emit light upward, and is used for game effects such as lighting (or blinking) according to an operation on the operation unit 56a2 or a game situation.

  The side surface of the operation device 56a is covered with an external cover 56a6. The outer cover 56a6 is formed of, for example, a transparent member. As shown in FIG. 15, inside the operation device 56a, a plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) panels 70 are arranged along the outer periphery of the operation device 56a. In the present embodiment, for example, eight LED panels 70 are arranged at equal intervals. For example, four LEDs 70a are arranged in one LED panel 70 in the vertical direction, and are controlled so as to individually light (or blink) or change the display color. Since the outer cover 56a6 is formed of a transparent member, the player can visually recognize the lighting (flashing) of the LED panel 70 (LED 70a). For example, by turning on a plurality of LEDs 70a in order from the bottom at regular intervals for all the LED panels 70, it is possible to produce an effect in which the ring of light rises. The display pattern of the LED panel 70 is changed in accordance with an operation on the operation device 56a or a game situation, or at random, and is used for a game effect.

Next, a configuration in which the operation unit 56a2 of the operation device 56a is movable will be described.
18 and 19 are diagrams illustrating details of a configuration for enabling the operation unit 56a2 of the operation device 56a to move in the horizontal direction. FIG. 18A is a diagram showing an appearance of a mounted state, and FIG. 18B shows an internal configuration excluding a part of the member (bearing member 75) shown in FIG. 18A. FIG. FIGS. 19A and 19B are views showing the configuration of the bottom. FIG. 19A is a diagram in which a part of the configuration shown in FIG. 19B is omitted.

  At the bottom of the operation unit 56a2, two plate-like members 71 extending perpendicular to the operation surface of the operation unit 56a2 are attached to be separated from each other. The other end of the plate member 71 is attached to a flat member 72 parallel to the operation surface of the operation section 56a2. Since the two plate members 71 are separated from each other, the operation portion 56a2 can be stably supported.

  One end of a rod-shaped shaft member 73 is attached to the plate-shaped member 71 so as to coincide with the central axis of the operation device 56a (operation portion 56a2). The plate member 71, the plane member 72, and the shaft member 73 are integrated, and function as a support member having a predetermined length for supporting the operation portion 56a2.

  The other end of the shaft member 73 is penetrated through a hole provided in the center of the base 74. The shaft member 73 is provided with a support mechanism in the length direction. The support mechanism has a configuration in which the shaft member 73 (the operation unit 56a2) is movably supported in the X direction and the Y direction shown in FIG. 18B by two orthogonal first shafts 78 and second shafts 76. .

  FIGS. 20A and 20B are diagrams illustrating a configuration of a support mechanism for supporting the shaft member 73. FIG. 20B is a side view of the first axis 78 taken along the line CC shown in FIG. 18A, and FIG. 20A is a plan view taken along the line DD shown in FIG. FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the support mechanism includes a first shaft 78 that rotatably supports the shaft member 73, a bearing member 77 that supports the first shaft 78, and a rotation of the bearing member 77. It comprises a first shaft 78 and a second shaft 76 orthogonal to the first shaft 78. The second shaft 76 is rotatably supported by a bearing member 75.

  As shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the shaft member 73 can be rotated by the first shaft 78. Further, the bearing member 77 supporting the first shaft 78 can be rotated by the second shaft 76. Therefore, the shaft member 73 is rotatable by the two orthogonal first shafts 78 and second shafts 76.

  By combining the two first shafts 78 and the second shaft 76, the operation unit 56a2 can be moved to the entire horizontal range (360 ° range). The support member that supports the operation unit 56a2 rotates about the first shaft 78 and the second shaft 76. For this reason, the operation part 56a2 provided at the distal end of the support member does not accurately move horizontally but draws an arc around the axis. However, by shortening (narrowing) the movable distance (range) of the operation unit 56a2, it is possible to give the player the feeling of moving horizontally.

  As shown in FIG. 19B, a spring 79 is wound around an end of the shaft member 73 that penetrates the base 74. The spring 79 presses a circular member 80 movable along the shaft member 73 on the bottom side of the base 74. The surface of the member 80 on the base 74 side is formed to be perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft member 73. Therefore, when the operation unit 56a2 is not operated by the player, the member 79 and the bottom surface of the base 74 are brought into close contact with each other by the spring 79 pressing the member 80. Is held. In this case, since the shaft member 73 is maintained at the center by the spring 79, the operation surface of the operation portion 56a2 is horizontal. When the player releases the hand after the operation unit 56a2 is operated to move in the horizontal direction by the player, the shaft member 73 is returned to the original position by the spring 79.

  The member 80 is made of, for example, a hard plastic (polyacetal or the like). At the bottom of the base 74, switches 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d are attached at four places around the member 80. The switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d are turned on when the member 80 comes into contact with the movable part.

  FIG. 19A shows an arrangement of the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, and 84d excluding the spring 79 and the member 80 from the shaft member 73. As shown in FIG. 19A, the movable parts of the switches 84a and 84c are arranged with the shaft member 73 interposed therebetween, and the movable parts of the switches 84b and 84d are arranged with the shaft member 73 interposed therebetween. The movable portions of the switches 84a and 84c are arranged, for example, so as to coincide with the axis of the first shaft 78, and the movable portions of the switches 84b and 84d are arranged, for example, so as to coincide with the axis of the second shaft 76. . That is, the switches 84a and 84c and the switches 84b and 84d are arranged on orthogonal lines having the position of the shaft member 73 as an intersection.

  When the operation of moving the operation unit 56a2 in the horizontal direction is performed, the shaft member 73 is rotatably supported by the first shaft 78 and the second shaft 76. Therefore, the shaft member 73 is moved with the movement of the operation unit 56a2. The end of moves. When the end of the shaft member 73 moves, the member 80 attached to the shaft member 73 comes into contact with any of the movable parts of the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d arranged around the shaft member 73. Thus, it is possible to detect in which direction the end of the shaft member 73 has been moved based on which of the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d has been turned on. That is, the direction opposite to the moving direction of the end of the shaft member 73 can be determined as the operation direction of the operation section 56a2 by the player.

  By providing the four switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d, four directions in which the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d are individually turned on (front-back, left-right directions) and two adjacent members 80 are turned on. It is possible to determine a total of eight operation directions (four directions (left and right diagonal directions)). In this embodiment, four switches 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d are provided so that eight operation directions can be detected. However, instead of the switches 84a, 84b, 84c and 84d, all directions (360 °) may be mounted with a detector (sensor) capable of detecting the moving direction.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a cross section taken along line BB shown in FIG. 18A, and FIG. 22 is an enlarged diagram showing the periphery of the base 74 shown in FIG. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a state where the operation unit 56a2 is not operated by the player.
As shown in FIG. 21, the operation unit 56a2 forms a push button, and is provided with a switch 85 for detecting that the operation unit 56a2 has been pressed.

  A buffer member 82 made of rubber or the like is provided near the base 74 of the shaft member 73. In addition, a buffer member 81 is provided on the base 74 at an interval according to a range in which the operation unit 56a2 is allowed to move between the buffer member 82 and the buffer member 82. As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, when the operation portion 56a2 is not operated, the shaft member 73 is maintained in a vertical state by the spring 79, so that there is a gap between the buffer members 81 and 82.

  The base 74 has a hole 83 for allowing the shaft member 73 to pass therethrough. The diameter of the hole 83 is determined in accordance with the range in which the movement of the operation portion 56a2 is allowed, so that the gap between the hole 83 and the shaft member 73 is ensured so that the shaft member 73 can move.

  FIG. 23 shows a state where the operation unit 56a2 is operated to move in the horizontal direction, and FIG. 24 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the base 74 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 23, the operation unit 56a2 is operated to move rightward. Therefore, the lower end of the shaft member 73 moves to the left. At this time, before the shaft member 73 comes into contact with the inner surface of the hole 83, the buffer members 81 and 82 come into contact. Thereby, the impact when the player operates the operation unit 56a2 can be reduced. In addition, since the diameter of the hole 83 is determined according to the range in which the operation unit 56a2 is allowed to move, the operation unit 56a2 does not move beyond the allowable range. This makes it possible to prevent the support mechanism and the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d from being damaged.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 24, the member 80 moves with the shaft member 73 and thus contacts the movable portion of the switch 84a disposed on the left side of the shaft member 73. As a result, the switch 84a is turned on.

  Thereafter, when the player's operation on the operation unit 56a2 is completed, the spring 79 acts to press the bottom of the base 74 via the member 80, and as shown in FIGS. Return to the position.

  As described above, in the game apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment, various input operations can be performed by mounting the operation devices 56a and 56b that can simultaneously perform the pressing operation and the moving operation in the horizontal direction. That is, it is possible to select an operation method that is easy for each player to operate by combining the operations on the two operation devices 56a and 56b while performing only the simple operations of the pressing operation and the moving operation in the horizontal direction.

Next, game control executed in the game device 20 according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the game device 20 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 25, the game device 20 includes a control unit 90, a storage unit 92, a display controller 93, an input interface 94, a sound controller 95, a writing controller 96, a coin sensor 97, and a communication interface 98.

  The control unit 90 controls the entire game device 20, and executes the basic programs (OS (Operating System)) and various application programs (including the game program 92 a) stored in the storage unit 92 to control each unit. Control. The control unit 90 realizes various functions for executing a game controlled in accordance with an input operation on the display 51 by executing a game program 92 a stored in the storage unit 92 by a processor (CPU or DSP). I do.

  The functions realized by the control unit 90 include a start processing unit 90a (demo processing unit 90a1), a player matching process 90b, a game processing unit 90c (game screen display processing unit 90c1, an operation determination processing unit 90c2, a battle processing unit 90c3, The game sound processing unit 90c4, the message processing unit 90c5), the game result processing unit 90d (the result display unit 90d1, the unlock processing unit 90d2), the player data processing unit 90e, and the input control unit 90f.

  The start processing unit 90a executes start processing until the game is started. In the start processing, demonstration processing for displaying a game screen for demonstration, processing for newly registering a game card and reading data from the game card, point charge processing, game mode selection processing (solo play, cooperative play, in-store play, etc.) (Match play), event play), music selection processing, and difficulty selection processing.

  The player matching process 90b executes a matching process for determining an opponent when instructed to execute in-store competition play (match play) by the player. In the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, a match between four players is executed in the in-store match play. In match play, a match is played by four players who perform input operations on four game devices 20 installed in the same store. The in-store match play is not limited to four players, and may be performed by any number of players as long as the number is two or more.

  The game processing unit 90c controls the game in the game mode specified by the player based on the game data 92b for each music piece received from the game server 10. In the case of in-store battle play, in addition to processing for operation data input by an input operation on the display 51, processing for operation data of an opponent is executed. The game processing unit 90c includes functions of a game screen display processing unit 90c1, an operation determination processing unit 90c2, a battle processing unit 90c3, and a game sound processing unit 90c4.

  The game screen display processing unit 90c1 has a route display function of displaying a progress route on the display 51a in a game space expressing a three-dimensional space based on the game data 92b, and a progress route for changing a display position and a shape of the progress route. A control function, a target display function of displaying a target indicating the timing of an input operation in accordance with a traveling route, and an effect of executing an effect process such as a screen display or a sound output based on a determination result by a determination function of the operation determination processing unit 90c2. Including features. The game screen display processing unit 90c1 can change and display the traveling route in the vertical direction of the display 51 arranged vertically.

  Further, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 includes a determination function of performing an input determination based on an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b and a display position of the target. The operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines, for example, in four stages of GREAT, COOL, GOOD, and MISS in descending order of evaluation.

  The battle processing unit 90c3 controls in-store battle play (match play), and displays the game situation (competition player data including score data, etc.) executed by another player (other game device) as an opponent. Acquisition, score difference calculation, ranking judgment, etc. are executed.

  The game sound processing unit 90c4 controls sound output during execution of the game. The game sound processing unit 90c4 controls sounds output from the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and 52e and the headphone terminal 57 through the sound controller 95. For example, the speakers 52a, 52b, and 52c are mainly used for outputting music and sound effects (BGM) during the game, and the speakers 52d and 52e are used in response to operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b during the game. It is mainly used for outputting the sound (operation sound). Note that it is of course possible to output operation sounds from the speakers 52a, 52b, and 52c, output music and sound effects (BGM) from the speakers 52d and 52e, and change them according to the game situation. As a method of outputting music (BGM), for example, BGM for normal output and BGM (shot BGM) for temporarily outputting can be output, and in a normal state, the shot BGM is muted (volume 0). It is also possible to use a method of producing a game effect by the BGM by releasing the mute of the shot BGM (returning the volume to the original) according to the play result.

  The message processing unit 90c5 exchanges a message with another game device 20 to be an opponent during a game during in-store battle play (match play) or during a process of selecting music to be used for the battle (automatic music selection process). A process for communicating by executing transmission and reception is executed. The message processing unit 90c5 receives, for example, an input operation performed by a player on the operation devices 56a and 56b, or a message transmission determination function that determines an instruction to transmit a message in response to the occurrence of a predetermined game situation. Includes a message display function to determine a message and display it on the game screen.

  During the execution of the game, the message processing unit 90c5 should perform the input operation when the timing of the input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b is a timing not to be evaluated, for example, by the determination function of the operation determination processing unit 90c2. When an input operation is performed at a timing when the target is not displayed, it is determined that an instruction to transmit a message has been issued, and a message corresponding to the content of the input operation is transmitted to another game apparatus 20 as an opponent. The message processing unit 90c5 also determines that a message transmission instruction has been given when a predetermined game situation (for example, the top score, the number of chains exceeds the set value, overtake, etc.) is reached during the game execution. Judgment is made, and a message corresponding to the game situation is transmitted to another game device 20 as an opponent. When a message transmission instruction is given, the message processing unit 90c5 transmits the message data downloaded from the game server 10 and registered by the player in advance, in addition to the message data stored in the storage unit 92 in advance. Can be used for The game result processing unit 90d executes a process on the game result by the game processing unit 90c. The game result processing unit 90d includes functions of a battle result determination unit 90d0, a result display unit 90d1, and an unlock processing unit 90d2.

  The match result determination unit 90d0 determines an evaluation point (second evaluation, indicated by a “star number” given to the player) based on the game result (first evaluation) of the in-store match play (match play). Judgment is made based on preset various acquisition conditions, and displayed on the match result screen. Note that, when the own game device 20 is the host player, the match result determination unit 90d0 determines the evaluation points (stars) including the other game devices 20 (players) that are the opponents. Alternatively, the competition result determination unit 90d0 may cause the game server 10 to execute a process of determining an evaluation point (star), receive the result from the game server 10, and display the result on the competition result screen.

  The result display unit 90d1 displays, on the performance result screen, scores (points) obtained by the player, totals of determination results for input operations, total evaluations (RATING), and the like as game results (first evaluations). In the case of in-store competition play, the game result of the competitor is displayed in the same manner, and the competition rank is displayed.

  The unlock processing section 90d2 controls the hidden music unlock processing executed after the game is over, and displays an unlock screen based on the hidden music data provided from the game server 10 to perform an input operation by the player. Accept. The unlock processing unit 90d2 allows a song provided as a hidden song to be used in the game by performing a predetermined input operation through the unlock screen. The unlock processing unit 90d2 transmits data indicating the setting status set in accordance with the input operation to the game server 10, and stores the data as player data for each player.

  The player data processing section 90e executes processing for various data related to the player, and browses and edits the player management data 41a managed in the game server 10, and other results having a follow / link relationship. Processing such as browsing player information (such as scores) is executed.

  The input control unit 90f controls input data from the operation devices 56a and 56b input through the input interface 94. The input control unit 90f outputs input data (on / off of the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d) depending on whether the player's operation position on the operation devices 56a, 56b is the first player position or the second player position. ) Is determined. For example, even if the player performs the same operation on the operation unit 56a2 of the operation device 56a in the first player position and the second player position, the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d that are turned on are different. The input control unit 90f determines an input operation according to the player position at which the player is operating the operation devices 56a and 56b, and notifies the operation determination processing unit 90c2.

  Note that which of the first and second player positions the player operates the operation devices 56a and 56b may be set by an instruction from the player in a start process by the start processing unit 90a (selection from a menu or selection of a menu). And the presence of the player at the second player position can be determined by detecting the presence of the player by an unillustrated sensor (such as an infrared sensor) or image processing of an image captured by a camera. it can. A sensor or a camera for player detection can be installed on the lower surface of the upper panel 54, for example, with the direction of the display 51 as the detection direction.

  Whether one of the players operating the operation devices 56a and 56b is one or two is photographed by a sensor (such as an infrared sensor) or a camera (not shown) in the same manner as the detection of the first / second player positions. The determination may be made by detecting the image by image processing. In this case, the camera captures an image including a player who operates the operation devices 56a and 56b. Further, a sensor (such as an infrared sensor) can be installed on the lower surface of the upper panel 54, for example, in a direction opposite to the display 51 (a position where the player stands) as a detection direction.

  The storage unit 92 stores programs and data for controlling a game executed on the game device 20. The programs stored in the storage unit 92 include a game program 92a for executing a game in the game device 20, in addition to the basic program. The game program 92a can realize each function of the control unit 90 by being executed by a processor or the like.

  The data stored in the storage unit 92 includes game data 92b, player management data 92c, competitive player management data 92d, ranking data 92f, input operation data 92g, game performance data 92h, competitive result data 92k, and message data 92m. Is included.

  The game data 92b is received from the game server 10 and includes data of a plurality of games (music pieces) that can be executed by the game device 20. The player management data 92c is data received from the game server 10 based on the player ID read from the game card by the card reader 63. The player management data 92c corresponds to the player management data 41a stored as the player data 31b of the game server 10 in association with the player ID. The competitive player management data 92d is data received from the game server 10 based on the player ID read from the game card by the card reader 63. The opponent player management data 92d includes player management data of a player as an opponent during in-store opponent play (match play), and a game situation (eg, opponent player data including score data) acquired by the opponent processing unit 90c3 during an opponent. Includes data shown.

  The input operation data 92g is recorded according to the player's operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b during the game, and is operation data indicating the player's input operation, that is, data indicating the push button press and the operation direction of the operation unit. And time-series data in which the song and the music playback time are associated with each other. After the game is over, the input operation data 92g is uploaded to the game server 10 and stored as high score operation data corresponding to, for example, the music played and the difficulty level. The game result data 92h is various data related to the game executed by the player, for example, data such as a music piece selected as a game target, a ranking obtained as a game result, and acquired points.

  The competition result data 92k is data indicating an evaluation point (star) determined by the competition result determination unit 90d0 when in-store competition play (match play) is executed.

The message data 92m is data indicating a message transmitted to another game apparatus 20 (player) to be an opponent during execution of in-store battle play (match play). The message data 92m includes default message data prepared in advance in association with each operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b, and the player when the message data is registered in the game server 10 in advance. And message data specific to the message. If there is message data registered by the player, it is used with priority. The display controller 93 controls display of a game screen, various setting screens, and the like on the display 51a under the control of the control unit 90.
The input interface 94 controls input of data corresponding to an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b under the control of the control unit 90. That is, the input interface 94 inputs data indicating that the switch 85 has been turned on by pressing the push button of the operation device 56a and that the switches 84a, 84b, 84c, 84d have been turned on by moving the operation unit 56a2 in the horizontal direction. I do. Similarly, data from the operation device 56b is input. The input interface 94 outputs input data input from the operation devices 56a and 56b to the control unit 90.
The sound controller 95 controls sound output from the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, 52e and the headphone terminal 57 under the control of the control unit 90 (game sound processing unit 90c4). When a headphone plug is attached to the headphone terminal 57, the sound controller 95 stops sound output from the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and 52e. When the sound controller 95 detects that a headphone plug is attached to the headphone terminal 57, the sound controller 95 sets the volume to an initial value of zero, and thereafter, in response to an up / down instruction by operating the volume button 58, the headphone The level (volume) of the audio signal output from the terminal 57 is adjusted (high / low). By setting the volume to zero each time headphones are connected to the headphone terminal 57, sound can be prevented from being output from the headphones with the volume setting of the player who used the game apparatus 20 last time. Thus, for example, even if the player who has used the game device 20 last time has set the high volume output, the high volume sound is not suddenly output from the headphones connected to the headphone terminal 57. . In addition to the initial value being set to zero, the initial value may be set to a predetermined level (for example, a low volume). Thus, when headphones are connected to the headphone terminal 57, sound is output at a low volume, so that it is possible to confirm that the headphones are connected. The volume setting may be set to the initial value for the next player when the headphones are disconnected from the headphone terminal 57, not when the headphones are connected to the headphone terminal 57.

  When the player has made the card reader 63 read the player ID from the game card (storage medium), the game device 20 receives volume data associated with the player ID in the player data 31b from the game server 10. can do. In this case, the sound controller 95 can set the volume level to be output from the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, 52e according to the volume data. Thereby, since the player automatically adjusts to the volume at the time of playing the game device 20 while using the headphones last time, sound is output at a volume that matches the player's preference. Therefore, the player does not need to adjust the volume by using the volume button 58 every time the player plays the game, which improves the usability.

  The sound controller 95 is connected to an acoustic vibration module 52f provided in the bodily sensation acoustic vibration unit 50d. The sound controller 95 outputs, for example, the same audio signal as the speaker 52c (woofer speaker) to the acoustic vibration module 52f.

  The volume buttons 58a and 58b are connected to the sound controller 95. The volume buttons 58a and 58b are provided, for example, on a control panel for an administrator of the game device 20 housed inside a housing (the right housing 50b2). The volume button 58a is for adjusting the volume of the speakers 52a and 52b (or including the speakers 52c and 52d), and the volume button 58b is for adjusting the volume of the speakers 52a and 52b (or the speakers 52c and 52d). 52e (woofer speaker) for adjusting the volume balance. Accordingly, it is possible to output sounds of appropriate volume and balance from the speakers 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d, and 52e according to the place where the game apparatus 20 is installed and the surrounding environment.

  The lighting controller 96 controls lighting / flashing of the plurality of lights 56a3, 56a5 and the LED panel 70 under the control of the control unit 90. For example, the lighting controller 96 switches lighting or blinking of the lights 56a3 and 56a5 according to the game situation. The lighting controller 96 can change the display pattern and color of the LED panel 70.

The coin sensor 97 detects a coin inserted from the coin insertion slot 61 and notifies the control unit 90 (start processing unit 90a).
The communication interface 98 controls communication with the other game devices 20 and the host device 21 in the store, and communication with the game server 10 via the network 12.

Next, the operation of the game device 20 according to the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart for explaining the overall operation of the game device 20 in the present embodiment.

  When the power is turned on, the game device 20 starts the game program 92a and starts the process by the start processing unit 90a. First, the start processing unit 90a executes a demonstration process by the demonstration processing unit 90a1 (step S1).

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the operation of the demonstration process.
The demo processing unit 90a1 displays a NOTICE screen at a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) at the time of startup (step A1), and shifts to a logo display screen (step A2). When the demonstration process is repeatedly (looped) or performed after the game is over, the demonstration process is started from the display of the logo display screen (step A2).

  When the game processing is not started, the demonstration processing unit 90a1 continues to display a demonstration screen described below on the display 51.

  For example, the demo processing unit 90a1 includes a logo display screen (Step A2) for displaying a maker name or the like, a news screen (Step A3) for displaying a news screen (an image prepared in advance or an image received from the game server 10), and a game. A title screen (step A4), a tutorial screen (step A5) for explaining how to play the game, and a song list screen (step A6) for displaying a list of songs available in the game after a predetermined time has elapsed or for all displays. After the display of the contents is completed, the contents are sequentially switched and displayed.

  Further, the demo processing unit 90a1 reproduces and displays a game screen for demonstration (demo play screen) for a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) for, for example, the first to fifth tunes in the popular tune daily ranking (for example). Step A8). The demo play screen, for example, displays the demo play screen of the most popular music in the first loop, and similarly, displays the demo play screen of the most popular music in the second, third, fourth, and fifth loops. I do.

  When the display of the demonstration screen for one piece of music ends, the demonstration processing unit 90a1 displays a ranking screen of the ranking compiled by the game server 10 or the host device 21 (step A10). The demo processing unit 90a1 alternately displays a total score national ranking screen (step A10a) and a total score in-store ranking screen (step A10b) for each loop.

  The demonstration processing unit 90a1 displays, for example, a message "press a button" in the screen of steps A3 to A10 described above. If there is no credit for the coin, for example, a message prompting to insert the coin “INSERT COIN (S)” is displayed.

  When the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b are pressed while the screens shown in steps A2 to A10 are displayed, the demo processing unit 90a1 displays a function selection window (step A11).

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the function selection window displayed on the display 51.
A plurality of selection items are provided in the function selection window. The cursor is moved by operating one of the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b back and forth, and the selection item is selected by pressing a button. Can be selected. When the function selection window is displayed and there is no input for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), the window is automatically closed.

  The selection items include, for example, "CLOSE" for instructing to close the window, "START GAME" for instructing to shift to the start screen, "VIEW TUTORIAL" for instructing to display the tutorial by skipping the demo loop, and "Demo loop". Instruct to display the song list by skipping, "Show the song list", Instruct the display of the total score national ranking by skipping the demo loop, "See the national ranking", Instruct the display of the total score in-store ranking by skipping the demo loop "See in-store rankings" is included. The demonstration processing unit 90a1 shifts the processing according to the selection item selected by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b.

  Note that when “view song list” is selected, the demo processing unit 90a1 accepts a card scan by the card reader 63, for example, only for a predetermined period of time. During this time, when the card is read by the card reader 63 (step A13), if the demonstration processing unit 90a1 can identify that the card is usable (step A14, YES), the demo processing unit 90a1 reads the player read from the card. The ID is transmitted to the game server 10, and the unlocked music data corresponding to the player ID is received (step A15). That is, it receives data indicating the unlocked music acquired by the player owning the card by using the game device 20 in the past. The unlocked music is a special music that can be obtained, for example, by unlocking all the predetermined number of panels for each music by a hidden music unlocking process (described later) executed after the game ends.

  In this case, the demo processing unit 90a1 can display a list including not only songs that can be used by any player, but also special songs that the player has obtained by playing the game before.

  In this manner, even during the demonstration process while the game is not being executed, various types of information relating to the game can be arbitrarily confirmed. It makes it easier to promote use.

  Note that, when the processing is shifted in accordance with the selection of the selection item, the demonstration processing unit 90a1 continues to display the screen until the corresponding processing is completed. For example, when "view the national ranking" is selected, the function selection window is not displayed until another display of the national ranking is completed, even if the buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b are pressed. To prevent switching. This prevents the screen switching from being repeated frequently.

  Also, the demo processing unit 90a1 ends the demo process and shifts to the start process when the coin sensor 97 detects coin insertion by the player, regardless of which screen is displayed (step S2). ). That is, the player who inserts a coin and actually starts the game is prioritized so that the game apparatus 20 is used.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing the start processing.
The start processing unit 90a determines that the button press of the operation devices 56a and 56b has been detected (step B3, YES), and that there is a credit equal to or greater than the game start set coin count (for example, one coin) (step B4, YES). Alternatively, if free play is set (step B5, YES), the demo processing ends. If there is no credit (step B4, NO) and free play is not set (step B5, NO), the demonstration process is continued. The start processing unit 90a also ends the demonstration processing when the coin sensor 97 detects that a coin has been inserted without performing an input operation (step B2, YES). Also, if there is a card scan during the execution of the demonstration processing (step B1, YES) (except when "view song list" is selected), the demonstration processing is terminated.

  When the demonstration process is terminated by coin insertion or button operation, and when the demo process is offline (step B6, NO), the start processing unit 90a displays a start screen (step B7). Thereafter, when an input operation to the operation devices 56a and 56b is detected before a timeout (for example, 30 seconds), the start processing unit 90a proceeds to a process for preparing for starting a game (avatar selection process). If a timeout has occurred (step B8, YES), the process returns to the demonstration process.

  On the other hand, if the game device 20 is online (step B6, YES), the start processing unit 90a displays a start screen and presses the buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b until a timeout (for example, 30 seconds) occurs. Or until the card reader 63 reads the game card. If a timeout has occurred (step B11, YES), the process returns to the demonstration process.

  Here, when the pressing of the buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b is detected (step B12, YES), the start processing unit 90a displays a card nonuse confirmation display for confirming to the player that the game card is not used. (Step B22). In the card non-use confirmation display, for example, a message such as "Do you play without using a card? When using a card, hold it over a card reader" is displayed.

  Here, if a timeout (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed (step B23, YES), or if an input operation on the display 51 has been detected (step B24, YES), the start processing unit 90a executes the game without using a card. Is determined to be executed, and the process proceeds to an avatar selection process.

  On the other hand, when the player holds the game card over (closes) the card reader 63 (step B13, YES), the start processing unit 90a starts reading data from the game card by the card reader 63 (step A14). ), A card window for notifying the player that the card data is being read is displayed.

  If the data cannot be correctly read from the game card by the card reader 63 (step B15, YES), the start processing unit 90a displays a card unusable display (step B16). In the card unusable display, for example, a message of "data read failed" is displayed, and then a card non-use confirmation display is performed (step B22). In this case, it is possible to change to another game card and execute reading again.

  When the data is correctly read from the game card by the card reader 63 (step B15, NO), the start processing unit 90a inquires the game server 10 whether the read player ID (card ID) has been recorded. When the player ID (card ID) of the game card registered for the game device 20 is recorded in the game device 20 in advance, the recorded player ID (card ID) can be used without inquiring the game server 10. The determination may be made based on the card ID).

  Here, if the new card has no player ID recorded (step B17, YES), the start processing unit 90a outputs, for example, "This card has not been registered in this game device. The new registration is started. Is displayed, and when execution of new registration is instructed, the process shifts to new registration processing (step B20). In the new registration process, the player name used on the game device 20 is input by operating the software keyboard displayed on the display 51 by the player. The start processing unit 90a transmits the player ID read from the new card and the data of the player name input by the player operation to the game server 10 for recording.

  If the card is not a new card (step B17, NO), the start processing unit 90a requests transmission of player management data corresponding to the player ID read from the game card. The start processing unit 90a records the player management data 92c transmitted from the game server 10 in the storage unit 92, displays the data stored in association with the game card (player ID), and displays the card usage. Confirm with the player (display of card use confirmation screen) (step B18).

  FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a card use confirmation screen. In the example shown in FIG. 30, for example, a class, a level, and a rank of the player are displayed in addition to the custom image and the player name of the player. Note that other data included in the player management data 92c may be displayed at the same time. For example, it is possible to display the acquired items, the date and time of last play, and the like.

  If the user does not use the card ("NO") (step B19, NO), the start processing unit 90a displays a card nonuse confirmation display to confirm to the player that the game card is not used. (Step B22).

  On the other hand, when using the card (“YES”) is selected (step B19, YES), the start processing unit 90a proceeds to avatar selection processing.

  Next, the start processing unit 90a executes an avatar selection process (step S3). The start processing unit 90a displays a plurality of avatars (characters) in a list on the avatar selection screen. The player can select an avatar to be used in the game screen by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b from the avatar list displayed on the avatar selection screen. The avatar is a character that moves and is displayed along the traveling route displayed on the game screen.

  When the avatar used in the game is selected by the operation of the player, the start processing unit 90a executes a game mode selection process (Step S4). The start processing unit 90a displays a game mode selection screen and allows the player to make a selection.

  FIG. 31 shows an example of a game mode selection screen. In the example shown in FIG. 31, as selectable play modes, “SOLO PLAY” (a mode in which a single player executes a game to clear music and achieve a high score) and “COOP PLAY” (two players play Participate in one game and cooperate to clear musical scores and aim for a high score), "MATCH PLAY" (communicate with a plurality of game devices 20 in the store and play two to four players) Mode) and “EVENT PLAY” (a mode for a limited time period in which a single player uses a task song determined for each event in a game). The player can select one of the modes by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b on the game mode selection screen.

  First, a case where "SOLO PLAY" is selected will be described (step S5, solo play). When “SOLO PLAY” is selected, the start processing unit 90a shifts to music selection processing and displays a music selection screen (step S6).

  FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a music selection screen. On the music selection screen, as shown in FIG. 32, a list of music titles of a plurality of music is displayed, and for the music title in the center of the screen, in addition to the music title, jacket image, artist name, difficulty level, evaluation, etc. Information is enlarged. The music title list can be scrolled by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b, and the music displayed at the center can be selected as the music used in the game by pressing the button.

  Also, a plurality of sort buttons may be provided on the music selection screen to sort a plurality of music under predetermined conditions and display the list. The plurality of sort buttons include, for example, order of difficulty (SIMPLE, NORMAL, HARD), genre of music (J-POP, GAME, ORIGINAL, etc.), title name (ABC order, numerical order, Japanese syllabary name) Etc.), and the order in which the player has selected many times in the past. By selecting one of the sort buttons and rearranging the music list, a desired music can be easily selected.

  When any music is selected from the music list display, the start processing unit 90a shifts to a difficulty level selection process and displays a difficulty level selection screen (step S7).

  FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a difficulty level selection screen. As shown in FIG. 33, the selectable game difficulty level is displayed on the difficulty level selection screen in addition to the music information (jacket image, title, difficulty level, time, etc.) selected by the player. In the example shown in FIG. 33, it is assumed that three levels of “simple”, “normal”, and “hard” are prepared as options of the game difficulty level. Note that it is also possible to limit the selectable difficulty level according to the class and level of the player. For example, when the class of the player is low, only simple and normal can be selected, and hardware is displayed in a locked (selectable) state.

  By operating the operation devices 56a and 56b in the front-rear direction, the player can specify any one of the game difficulty levels and determine the game difficulty level by pressing a button.

  When a card is used, on the difficulty level selection screen, by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b in the left-right direction, one of an item tag and a skin tag is designated, and an item selection screen and a skin You can switch to the selection screen.

  FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating a display example of an item selection screen. On the item selection screen, a list of items is displayed, and the number of possessed items by the player is displayed. Here, it is applied in the game processing by selecting any item, and the game content can be changed according to the type of the item. A plurality of types of items are prepared, for example, for beginner, intermediate, advanced, and super advanced. For example, by selecting items for beginners, the game content can be easily (decreased in difficulty), and by selecting items for advanced users or super advanced users, the game content can be made difficult (difficult). Increase).

  The item selection screen shown in FIG. 34 shows an example in which items such as “SAFE”, “HIDDEN”, “NO WAY”, “EASY TARGET”, “SUDDEN”, and “MIRROR” are displayed in a list. For example, the “SAFE” item changes up to 10 misses (MISS) to valid (GOOD), the “HIDDEN” item disappears immediately before the target contacts the avatar (character), and “NO WAY” The "" item hides the course line, the "EASY TARGET" item changes the original target to another target that is easy to input, and the "SUDDEN" item causes the target to contact the avatar (character). The “MIRROR” item is displayed right and left reversed on the stage (game screen). Note that other types of items can be prepared. For example, there are a “REVERSE” that displays the stage (game screen) upside down, a “JUST” item that makes all evaluations other than “GREAT” a MISS judgment, and a “STEALTH” item that does not display all targets.

  On the skin selection screen, a list of skins acquired by the player is displayed. Here, by selecting one of the skins, it is used in the game processing, and the screen effect in the game content can be changed. For example, changing an effect that normally draws multiple circles like ripples to a skin called [flower] will draw a flower pattern effect, and changing it to a skin called [butterfly] will create a butterfly effect Become drawn.

  When the difficulty level is selected by the game mode selection processing, the game processing unit 90c starts the game processing (Step S8).

  When "COOP PLAY" (cooperative play) is selected on the game mode selection screen shown in FIG. 31 (step S5, cooperative play), it is performed in the same manner as when "SOLO PLAY" is selected. The detailed description is omitted assuming that the music selection process and the difficulty level selection process are executed (steps S6 and S7).

  In addition, it is configured to determine whether one or two players operating the operation devices 56a and 56b are detected by detecting a sensor (such as an infrared sensor) or an image captured by a camera by image processing. In this case, the game mode selection screen may automatically shift to “COOP PLAY” (cooperative play) without causing the player to select “COOP PLAY” (cooperative play). When the game device 20 can recognize the player operating the operation device 56a and the player operating the operation device 56b, the game device 20 can determine that there are two players.

  FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of a difficulty level selection screen displayed when “COOP PLAY” (cooperative play) is selected. As shown in FIG. 35, on the difficulty level selection screen, the highest sync rate in the past is displayed for each of the game difficulty levels “simple”, “normal”, and “hard”. For example, “Normal” indicates that the highest sync rate in the past is “99%”. The data of the sync rate (maximum sync rate) is recorded in the game server 10 as ranking data 31c (cooperative play data). The game device 20 can display a game mode selection screen including the synchronization ratio as shown in FIG. 35 based on the data indicating the maximum synchronization ratio received from the game server 10.

FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 are flowcharts showing the game processing. First, the game processing when “SOLO PLAY” is selected will be described.
When the game process is started, the game processing unit 90c executes a progress route setting process for generating a progress route to be displayed on the game screen (step D1). The progress route setting process is a process for changing the progress route according to the game situation during the execution of the game. In the initial state, it is assumed that a progress route prepared in advance as game data for the music is used.

  Further, the progress route setting process may be executed not in all the games but in a case where a predetermined condition is satisfied. As the predetermined condition, for example, when the difficulty level selected in the difficulty level selection process is a specific difficulty level (for example, in the case of hardware with high difficulty level), the class or level of the player is equal to or more than a predetermined set value. In the case of, there is a case where the player specifies before the game starts.

  The game screen display processing section 90c1 of the game processing section 90c displays the game screen (progress route, target, etc.) on the display 51a based on the game data corresponding to the music together with the reproduction output of the music selected by the player. (Step D2). When a checkpoint set on the progress route is displayed on the game screen (step D3, YES), the game screen display processing unit 90c1 executes a checkpoint process for changing the game content ( Step D4). Details of the checkpoint process will be described later.

  FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of the game screen 120 for solo play. As shown in FIG. 38, a traveling route 121 is displayed on the game screen 120, and a character (avatar) 122 specified by the player and a plurality of targets 123 are arranged on the traveling route. The character 122 moves along the traveling route 121 and approaches the target 123 on the traveling route 121. The player performs an input operation in accordance with the timing at which the character 122 reaches the target 123. An input determination is performed based on the input operation and the target 123, and a character string representing the determination result 124 ("COOL" in FIG. 38) is displayed. Note that a plurality of types of targets 123 are prepared, and details of each will be described later.

  A score 125, a MAX chain number 126, and a groove gauge 127, which are updated in accordance with the status of the game, are displayed at the top of the game screen 120. The groove gauge 127 is increased or decreased according to the evaluation (GREAT, COOL, GOOD, MISS) for the input operation. For example, when the music reaches 70% of the gauge at the end of the music, the game is determined to be clear.

  Further, an effect display 137 according to the determination for the input operation is added to the progress route 121 of the game screen 120. The effect display 137 is displayed at the position where the target was displayed when, for example, the input operation is evaluated as GOOD or more. For the effect display 137, various display forms such as shining or ripples can be used. The effect display 137 is displayed so as to change over a predetermined time at the position where the target was displayed. If the input operation has failed (MISS determination has been made), the effect display 137 is not displayed, and the target simply disappears.

  The effect display 137 may be displayed not only so as to change at the position where the target was displayed, but also as the character 122 moves along the traveling route 121 (the traveling route 121). Is displayed as if it were flowing over).

  Next, the game processing will be described while exemplifying a specific example of a traveling route and a target displayed on the game screen and a method of operating the operation devices 56a and 56b on the target. Note that a simple game screen is illustrated for ease of explanation.

  FIG. 39A shows an example in which a straight traveling route is displayed. In FIG. 39A, a straight traveling route is displayed, and a game screen is displayed to indicate that the character C is moving (flying) along the traveling route. As characters, various characters such as birds, airplanes, butterflies, and flowers flying in space can be used. When one of a plurality of characters can be selected, BGM (back ground music) (songs, arrangements, etc.) output during the game, evaluation criteria, and the like are changed according to the type of the character. Is also good.

  In FIG. 39A, a target T (target “hit”) indicating the timing of an input operation is arranged on the traveling route. Therefore, as the character moves on the traveling route, the character gradually approaches the target. As shown in FIG. 39B, the player performs a hit operation (single hit) on the operation devices 56a and 56b in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target. In the hit operation (single hit), one of the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b is pressed. The hit operation may be performed by either the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b as shown in FIG. Therefore, for example, a right-handed player may use the right operation device 56b that is easy for the player to operate. In the game device 20 of the present embodiment, since the operation devices 56a and 56b have the same function, it is detected that the same input operation is performed regardless of which of the operation devices is used. Therefore, even a beginner who is not used to the game can easily enjoy the game. It is also possible for two players to individually operate the operation devices 56a and 56b to enjoy one game by two players.

  When inputting data indicating an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b through the input interface 94 (step D5, YES), the game processing unit 90c executes an input determination process based on the input data (step D6). .

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an input determination process during solo play.
The operation determination processing unit 90c2 detects what kind of input operation has been performed based on input data corresponding to the input operation (step Da1). That is, it determines the push direction of the push button and the moving direction (any of the eight directions) of the operation unit of the operation devices 56a and 56b.

  In addition, the game sound processing unit 90c4 causes the sound controller 95 to output sound effects according to the input operation to the operation devices 56a and 56b from the speakers 52d and 52e arranged near the operation devices 56a and 56b (step S50). Da2).

  Next, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 compares the display position of the character at the time of the input operation with the position of the target (determines the distance), and performs the input operation according to the content of the input operation and the type of the target. Is determined.

  In addition, instead of comparing the display position of the character with the position of the target (determining the distance), the input operation is performed based on the time lag from the timing at which the input operation should be performed according to the display position of the character. The determination may be made. For example, a reference value for a temporal deviation corresponding to each of GREAT, COOL, and GOOD as a determination result is set in advance, and the temporal deviation is compared with the reference value. , GOOD. It should be noted that if the time lag is larger than the reference value corresponding to GOOD, it is determined that the MISS.

  If the target does not exist near the character at the time of the input operation (step Da3, NO), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines that the target is the MISS. The game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays the character string of the MISS determination on the game screen, and continues to display the game screen (step D2).

  Here, when the target exists near the character (step Da3, YES), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines whether an input operation corresponding to the target has been performed based on the input data (step Da4). ). For example, for the target T arranged on the traveling route shown in FIG. 39 (a), an input operation (pressing a push button) by a hit operation is required. Here, when it is determined that the hit operation has been performed correctly and the input operation is evaluated (any of GREAT, COOL, GOOD), points are added according to the evaluation result or the like for the input operation (step Da5). In addition, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 performs an effect process according to the target (step Da6). As the effect processing according to the target, for example, a screen representing an effect such that the target is ruptured and disappeared by a hit operation is displayed, and a sound effect corresponding to the display content is output from the speakers 52a, 52b, and 52c. Let it.

  The game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays a game screen representing a state in which the character moves (flies) along the traveling route (step D2). Therefore, when the targets are continuously arranged, the character can be cleared by performing the hit operation continuously in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches each target.

  Note that the traveling route shown in FIGS. 39A and 39B shows a simple linear portion, but depending on the traveling route, for example, as shown in FIGS. 40A and 40B, The direction and position of the character on the screen change. In FIG. 40 (a), the direction changes so that the straight traveling route is bent, and in FIG. 40 (b), the traveling route changes so as to draw a curve. The position changes. Also, by changing the background outside the traveling route and changing the speed at which the character moves on the traveling route so that the game screen represents a three-dimensional space, the character is moving backward or forward. Is expressed.

  When the direction, position, or direction of the character on the screen changes, the position at which the character overlaps (or approaches) the target changes on the screen. Therefore, it is necessary for the player to perform an input operation by determining the position at which the character changing on the screen reaches the target and the timing at which the character reaches the target. Thereby, unlike a game in which an input operation is performed while simply gazing at a predetermined position in the display screen, a game having a change can be realized.

Next, other types of targets and specific examples of input operations for each target will be described.
FIG. 41A shows an example in which a belt-shaped target (target “hold”) is arranged on the traveling route. For a band-shaped target, as shown in FIG. 41B, a hold operation (a push button of the operation devices 56a, 56b) is performed in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target, as shown in FIG. Is kept pressed). While the hold operation is being performed, the band-shaped target is deleted. An effect display indicating that the hold operation has been performed may be performed. In the case of the hold operation, any of the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b may be operated.

  FIG. 42A shows an example in which a plurality of targets (target “beats”) connected (connected) on the traveling route are arranged. For a plurality of linked targets, as shown in FIG. 42 (b), in accordance with the timing at which the character has reached the linked targets (while passing between the target front end and the rear end), the character of FIG. As shown in (c), a beat operation (hit operation on the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b is repeated) is performed. While the beat operation is being performed, an effect display may be performed such that the target is broken and disappears. In the beat operation, pressing of either one of the operation devices 56a and 56b may be repeated, or pressing of the push buttons of the two operation devices 56a and 56b may be repeated alternately.

  FIG. 43A shows an example in which a double-dashed (spiral) target (target “scratch”) is arranged on the traveling route. For a double-dashed (spiral) target, as shown in FIG. 43 (b), in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target, as shown in FIG. (Operation of alternately changing any one of the operation units 56a and 56b in the left-right direction). While the scratch operation is being performed, for example, an effect display in which the double dashed line is released is displayed. In the case of a scratch operation, any of the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b may be operated.

  FIG. 44A shows an example in which a target (target “slide”) with an arrow pointing left is arranged on the traveling route. For a target with an arrow, as shown in FIG. 44B, the character slides in the same direction as the arrow of the target as shown in FIG. An operation (operation of moving one of the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b in the arrow direction) is performed. In the case of the slide operation, even if the arrow on the target is in the left direction, not only the left operation device 56a but also the operation unit of the operation device 56b may be operated. In order to change the difficulty level of the game, if a predetermined condition is satisfied (the level of the player, the difficulty level, etc.), for example, the left operation device 56a in the case of the left arrow, and the right operation device in the case of the right arrow The operation devices 56a and 56b to be operated may be limited as in the operation device 56b (or vice versa).

  The example shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B shows an example of a target that requests the operation devices 56a and 56b to perform a left (horizontal) movement operation. Arrows in the front-rear direction and diagonal directions (diagonally right front, diagonally right back, diagonally left front, diagonally left left) may be attached to the target.

  Further, in the example shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B, a case is shown in which the slide operation is performed in the arrow direction of the target set on the traveling route. Alternatively, a slide operation may be performed.

  FIG. 45A shows an example in which the target extends from the right side of the traveling route in a direction perpendicular to the traveling route. When the target reaches the traveling route, the target is displayed so as to stop extending and stop on the traveling route, as shown in FIG. With respect to the target extending toward the traveling route, the timing at which the character reaches the target on the traveling route or, as shown in FIG. Then, the slide operation is performed in the direction in which the target is extended. In the example shown in FIG. 45 (c), since the target extends from the right side of the traveling route, one of the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b is moved rightward as shown by the arrow in the figure.

  When it is determined that the slide operation has been performed in the correct direction, an effect display is performed in which the extended target and line disappear from the tip like fireworks, as shown in FIG. 45D, for example.

  As shown in FIGS. 45 (a) to 45 (c), it is possible that the target extends not only from the direction perpendicular to the traveling route but also from other directions at random. it can. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 45 (e), the target extends from the front right of the traveling route. In this case, as shown in FIG. 45 (f), at the timing when the target approaches (or overlaps) the character, as indicated by the arrow in the figure, the direction in which the target extends (obliquely forward to the right). By performing a slide operation on the target, the target can be erased.

  In the example shown in FIG. 45 (g), the target extends from the rear left of the traveling route. In this case, as shown in FIG. 45 (h), at the timing when the target approaches (or overlaps) the character, the direction in which the target extends (left The target can be erased by performing a sliding operation in the obliquely backward direction.

  Further, instead of the target extending from a specific direction, a plurality of targets may extend from different directions toward the traveling route as shown in FIG. 45 (i). The player can arbitrarily select, for example, one of the two operation devices 56a and 56b in a direction corresponding to each target and perform a slide operation at a timing approaching (or overlapping) the character with respect to each target. .

  FIG. 46A shows an example in which a target (target “slide hold”) having a long continuous arrow in the right direction is arranged on the traveling route. For a target with a long arrow, as shown in FIG. 46 (b), a slide hold operation in the same direction as the arrow of the target (operation devices 56a and 56b) The operation of moving any operation unit in the direction of the arrow is continued while the arrow continues. In the case of the slide hold operation, even if the arrow reaching the target is in the right direction, not only the operation device 56b on the right side but also the operation unit of the operation device 56a may be operated. In order to change the difficulty level of the game, if a predetermined condition is satisfied (the level of the player, the difficulty level, etc.), for example, the left operation device 56a in the case of the left arrow, and the right operation device in the case of the right arrow The operation devices 56a and 56b to be operated may be limited as in the operation device 56b (or vice versa).

  FIG. 47A shows an example in which a target having a specific shape different from normal (target “critical”) is arranged on the traveling route. For a target having a specific shape, as shown in FIG. 47B, a critical operation (two operation devices 56a, 56b) is performed on the two operation devices 56a, 56b in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target. (Simultaneous hit operation for the push buttons).

  FIG. 48A shows an example in which a target (target “dual slide”) having a specific shape different from the normal shape is arranged on the traveling route, and the target is provided with two arrows indicating different directions. For a target of a specific shape with two arrows, as shown in FIG. 48B, a dual slide operation is performed on the two operation devices 56a and 56b in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target. (Operation of individually moving the operation units of the two operation devices 56a and 56b in different arrow directions). In FIG. 48B, the input operation is performed to move the operation unit to the left diagonally forward direction with respect to the left operation device 56a and to the right diagonally forward direction with respect to the right operation device 56b. An input operation of moving the operation unit may be performed in the diagonally forward right direction with respect to the operation device 56a and in the diagonally forward left direction with respect to the operation device 56b. That is, regardless of which of the operation devices 56a and 56b is operated, the input operation is determined to be the same, so that the operation devices 56a and 56b can be selectively used so that the player can easily operate.

  FIG. 49A shows an example in which a target (target “dual hold”) having a specific shape different from normal is arranged on the traveling route, and two band-shaped lines are attached to the target. For a band-shaped target having a specific shape, as shown in FIG. 49B, a dual hold operation (two operation devices) is performed on the two operation devices 56a and 56b in accordance with the timing at which the character reaches the target. (Operation of continuing to hold down the push buttons 56a and 56b at the same time).

  FIG. 50A shows an example in which a hidden target (target “ad lib”) that is not displayed on the traveling route is arranged. For the hidden target, as shown in FIG. 50 (b), an input operation by hit operation (depression of any one of the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b) is performed at a timing of passing an ad-lib point hidden in the traveling route. Shall be required. With respect to the hidden target, the input operation is performed in a timely manner, so that the evaluation is determined in the same manner as the normal target, and the points are added.

The above-described traveling route and target are merely examples, and other traveling routes and targets can be used.
In the examples shown in FIGS. 47 to 49, the same type of input operation is simultaneously performed on the two operation devices 56a and 56b for one target, but different types of input operations may be combined. For example, a hit operation and a slide operation may be individually and simultaneously input using the two operation devices 56a and 56b. In this case, it is assumed that a target that indicates a combination of the input operations described above is arranged on the traveling route.

  Also, in the above description, only one traveling route is shown, but for example, it may be branched into two traveling routes during the game. In this case, an input operation corresponding to the target set for each of the two traveling routes is individually performed on the operation devices 56a and 56b using, for example, both hands.

  Further, in the above description, it is assumed that either the push button is pressed or the operation unit is moved on the operation devices 56a and 56b, but the movement operation is performed with the push button kept pressed. Is also possible. In this case, it is assumed that a target for instructing an input operation in which the push button is pressed and the moving operation is combined is arranged on the traveling route.

  As described above, in the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, since the pressing operation and the sliding operation on the two operation devices 56a and 56b can be combined, the various input operations described above can be performed, and the game content can be changed. Is possible.

  In the above description, the case where the player performs an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b at the first player position is described. However, the player performs the same input operation when operating at the second player position. Just do it. That is, when the operation device is moved to the operation devices 56a and 56b at the second player position, data indicating an operation direction different from that at the first player position is input. , The player need not perform an input operation in consideration of a difference in position.

Next, a game process when “COOP PLAY” (cooperative play) is selected will be described.
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that two players simultaneously participate in the game in cooperative play, for example, the first player operates the operation device 56a, and the second player operates the operation device 56b.

  In the cooperative play, the difficulty level, the item, and the skin selected in the game mode selection process are applied to two players (input from the operation devices 56a and 56b). In this case, an item recorded by a card (player ID) owned by any player is consumed.

  When executing cooperative play, two cards owned by each of the first player and the second player are scanned, and the difficulty level, item, and skin corresponding to each of the first player and the second player are scanned. May be set individually. However, even if the difficulty level differs between the first player and the second player, the display of the traveling route 121 and the target 123 is not changed (common), and the criteria for determining the validity of the input operation are changed. (The lower the difficulty, the easier it is to determine the validity of the input operation). As described above, by setting the difficulty level and the item separately for the first player and the second player, even if a beginner and an advanced player participate in cooperative play, they can contribute to the game at the same level. , Or the content of a game that suits each player's taste can be diversified.

  FIG. 51 is a diagram illustrating an example of the game screen 120 for cooperative play. As shown in FIG. 51, a progress route 121 is displayed on the game screen 120 in the same manner as in the solo play, and a character (avatar) 122 and a plurality of targets 123 specified by the player are arranged on the progress route. In the cooperative play, one progress route 121 is displayed, and the target 123 displayed on the progress route 121 is commonly used for the first player and the second player. In other words, the first player and the second player individually perform input operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b with respect to the same target. The operation determination processing unit 90c2 individually performs input determination on input operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b as in solo play.

  In the game screen 120 for cooperative play, the character 122 and the target 123 are displayed in the same manner as in the case of the solo play described above, and detailed description is omitted. Also, the same portions as those of the solo play game screen 120 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. Since the cooperative play is a mode in which two players aim to clear one game in cooperation, the score 125, the number of MAX chains 126, the groove gauge 127, and the number of chains 143 are shared by the two players. That is, the score 125 is obtained by adding the point with the better determination result to the input operation by the two players, and the MAX chain number 126 is such that at least one of the input operations by the two players succeeds (GOOD or more). Is determined, the maximum value of the number of consecutive times (the number of chains) is displayed, the groove gauge 127 is displayed so that the gauge for the operation of the two players with the better input operation is increased, and the number of chains 143 is displayed. And the number of continuous operations up to the present time when at least one of the input operations by the two players is successful is displayed.

  In the game screen 120 for cooperative play shown in FIG. 51, two operation guides 142 for explaining the input operation to the operation devices 56a and 56b for the player are provided by two persons who operate the operation devices 56a and 56b. Are displayed on the left and right according to the player. The operation guide 142 is displayed until a predetermined number of input operations (for example, five times) are performed. Note that the operation guide 142 (in this case, only one operation guide) may be displayed on the game screen 120 for solo play described above.

  In addition, on the game screen 120 for cooperative play, the determination results (GREAT, COOL, GOOD, MISS) of the input operation by the operation devices 56a and 56b are displayed on the left and right in accordance with the two players. That is, the determination result of the input operation on the operation device 56a is displayed on the left side of the screen, and the determination result of the input operation on the operation device 56b is displayed on the right side of the screen.

  Furthermore, in the game screen 120 for cooperative play, when one of the input operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b is determined to be successful (valid (GOOD or more)) and the other is determined to be failed (invalid (MISS)) Then, determination results 146 and 147 indicating that points have been obtained by the input operation of one player are displayed. In the example illustrated in FIG. 51, “MISS” is displayed on the left side of the screen as the determination result 145 because the determination is invalid (MISS) with respect to the input operation performed by the operation device 56a, and the input operation performed by the operation device 56b is enabled. Since the determination of (GOOD) has been made, “COOL” is displayed on the right side of the screen as the determination result 124. Further, a character string of “NICE” is displayed on the right side of the screen as the determination result 146 indicating that only the input operation by the operation device 56b is valid (GOOD). The character string "SAFE" is displayed on the left side of the screen as the determination result 147 indicating that the points have been obtained by the input operation from. The character strings (“NICE” and “SAFE”) of the determination results 146 and 147 are preferably displayed near the character (avatar) 122.

  Further, on the game screen 120 for cooperative play, a contribution degree gauge 140 (contribution degree instruction mark 141) is displayed at the bottom of the screen. The contribution gauge 140 indicates the ratio between the points obtained by the input operation of the operation device 56a and the points obtained by the input operation of the operation device 56b. As shown in FIG. 51, the contribution degree gauge 140 is an elongated strip-shaped figure arranged horizontally. The contribution gauge 140 displays the inside of the figure in different colors according to a range of points according to the ratio of points, and has an inverted triangular contribution degree. The instruction mark 141 is displayed at a position corresponding to the point ratio along the figure.

Next, input determination processing during cooperative play will be described. FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing an input determination process during cooperative play.
When input data indicating an input operation to the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b is input (step Db1, YES), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 detects what input operation has been performed based on the input data (step Db1). Step Db2). Here, the input operation performed first among the operation devices 56a and 56b will be described as a first input operation, and the input operation performed later will be described as a second input operation. The operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines the pressing direction of the push button and the moving direction (any of the eight directions) of the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b in the same manner as in the solo play.

  In addition, the game sound processing unit 90c4 transmits a sound effect (operation sound) corresponding to an input operation to the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b through the sound controller 95 to the speakers 52d, which are arranged near the operation devices 56a and 56b. The data is output from the terminal 52e (step Db3). Here, for example, when the operation device 56a is operated, a sound effect is output from the speaker 52d disposed on the operation device 56a side (left side), and when the operation device 56b is operated, the operation device 56b side It is assumed that a sound effect is output from the speaker 52e disposed on the right side. Alternatively, sound effects may be output from both of the speakers 52d and 52e at the same time. For example, a sound effect is output depending on which of the input devices of the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b has a better determination.

  Next, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 compares the display position of the character at the time of the input operation with the position (or time lag) between the target and the target in the same manner as in the solo play described above, and performs the content of the input operation. And the input operation is determined according to the type of the target.

  If a target is present near the character at the time of the first input operation (step Db4, YES), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines whether an input operation according to the target has been performed based on the input data, The input operation is evaluated (any of GREAT, COOL, GOOD) (step Da5). When it is not determined that the input operation is correct according to the target, the input operation fails (invalid) and the MISS determination is performed. The determination for the first input operation is performed in the same manner as in the solo play, and the detailed description is omitted.

  When there is a second input operation following the first input operation, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 inputs input data indicating an input operation on the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b (step Db6, YES), and performs the first input. As in the case of the operation, what kind of input operation has been performed is detected based on the input data (step Db7).

  The game sound processing unit 90c4 outputs a sound effect according to an input operation to the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b from the speaker 52d or the speaker 52e disposed near the operation devices 56a and 56b through the sound controller 95. (Step Db8).

  Next, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 compares the display position of the character at the time of the input operation with the position (or time lag) between the target and the target in the same manner as in the solo play described above, and performs the content of the input operation. And the input operation is determined according to the type of the target. That is, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 performs an input determination on the second input operation separately from the first operation in the same manner as the first input operation.

  When a target is present near the character at the time of the second input operation (step Db9, YES), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines whether an input operation corresponding to the target has been performed based on the input data. , GREAT, COOL, GOOD, or MISS. Furthermore, when the first input operation and the second input operation are performed on the common target, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 performs the determination result of each input operation by the cooperative play using the first input operation and the second input operation. It is determined whether a correct input operation has been performed on the target on the basis of (Step Db10). That is, for a target determined to be valid (success) by at least one of the correct input operations of the operation devices 56a and 56b, the target is determined to be valid in either the first input operation or the second input operation. For a target that is determined to be a correct input operation (success) for the target and is determined to be valid (success) when the combination of the input operations of the operation devices 56a and 56b is correct, the first input operation and the second input operation are performed according to the target If the input operation is a valid input operation and the combination of the input operations is correct, it is determined that the input operation is correct (success) on the target.

Hereinafter, an example of a correct input operation according to various targets during cooperative play will be described.
Regarding the target “hit”, it is determined that the target “hit” is successful if any one of the operation devices 56a and 56b is valid. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.
The target “critical” is determined to be valid when hit operations are simultaneously performed on the operation devices 56a and 56b (the time during which the push button is pressed is equal to or longer than a predetermined time).

  Regarding the target “slide”, it is determined that the operation is successful if any of the slide operations (slide operation indicated by the arrow of the target) of the operation devices 56a and 56b is valid. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid. Regarding the target “dual slide”, the slide operation is performed simultaneously on the operation devices 56a and 56b (the time during which the slide is performed is equal to or longer than a predetermined time). . That is, the operation devices 56a and 56b may be slid in any direction, but it is sufficient that the combination of the slid directions is the same as the combination of the two directions indicated by the arrows of the target. Therefore, when the operation devices 56a and 56b are slid in the same direction, a failure (MISS determination) occurs.

Regarding the target “hold”, it is determined that the operation is successful if any of the hold operations of the operation devices 56a and 56b is valid. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.
Regarding the target “dual hold”, it is determined that the operation is successful when the dual hold operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b is the essential item (when the push button is kept pressed simultaneously).
The target “beat” is determined to be successful when a beat operation is performed on any of the operation devices 56a and 56b. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.

The target “scratch” is determined to be successful when a scratch operation is performed on one of the operation devices 56a and 56b. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.
The target “slide hold” is determined to be successful when the slide hold operation is valid in any of the operation devices 56a and 56b. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.
The target “ad lib” is determined to be successful if an input operation (push button depression) by a hit operation is performed at a timing passing the ad lib point in any of the operation devices 56a and 56b. Success is also determined when it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation are valid.

  Next, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 counts a difference between timings of the first input operation and the second input operation as a synchronization rate (step Db11). For example, since the operation determination processing unit 90c2 evaluates the deviation of the first input operation and the second input operation from the target, the evaluation of the first input operation and the second input operation (GREAT, COOL, GOOD, MISS) Based on the above, the sync rate is calculated as follows.

  For example, “reference value = 100 / target number” (including ad-lib. When there is no hit operation at the ad-lib point, the same evaluation as MISS). If the evaluations are the same (evaluation of GREAT, COOL, or GOOD for both the first input operation and the second input operation), “reference value × 1” is added. If the evaluation is shifted by one (GREAT and COOL, COOL and GOOD, GOOD and MISS), “reference value × １ ／” is added. If the evaluation is shifted by two (GREAT and GOOD, COOL and MISS), “reference value × １ ／” is added. If the evaluation is MISS for both the first input operation and the second input operation, "0" is set. The sync rate is the total value of all the judgments including the ad-lib (rounded up to two decimal places. However, if the total exceeds 100.0%, it is 100.0%).

  On the other hand, when the first input operation is performed (step Db1, YES), and when the target does not exist near the character (step Db4, NO), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 performs the early pressing too early. Alternatively, it is determined that the MISS is caused by a late push that is too late.

  Subsequently, when the second input operation is performed (step Db12, YES), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 detects what input operation has been performed based on the input data (step Db13). The game sound processing unit 90c4 outputs a sound effect according to an input operation to the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b from the speaker 52d or the speaker 52e disposed near the operation devices 56a and 56b through the sound controller 95. (Step Db14).

  Hereinafter, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 executes the same processing as in steps Db9 to Db10 described above. When it is determined that the second input operation is valid, the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines that either the first input operation or the second input operation is valid even if the first input operation is determined to have failed (MISS). In some cases, a target that is determined to be successful can be determined to be successful.

  If the target does not exist near the character at the time of the second input operation (step Db15, NO), the operation determination processing unit 90c2 determines that the MISS is due to the early push or the slow push. When it is determined that both the first input operation and the second input operation have failed (MISS), the MISS is determined at the time of the MISS determination of the second input operation.

  Next, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays a character string representing the determination result on the game screen. In the game screen 120 shown in FIG. 51, “MISS” is displayed as the determination result 145 of the input operation on the operation device 56a, and “COOL” is displayed as the determination result 124 of the input operation on the operation device 56b. In this case, the failure of the input operation to the operation device 56a is assisted by the input operation to the operation device 56b, and the determination result 146 corresponds to the character string “NICE” corresponding to the operation device 56b. The character string “SAFE” is added as the determination result 147.

  If both of the input operations of the operation devices 56a and 56b are successful, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 sets “GREAT” as the determination result 148 corresponding to the operation device 56a, for example, as shown in FIG. , And the character string “COOL” is displayed as the determination result 124 for the operation device 56b. In this case, since both the first input operation and the second input operation are determined to be valid, the determination results 146 and 147 indicating that points have been obtained by the input operation of one player as shown in FIG. Do not display.

  When both of the input operations of the operation devices 56a and 56b have failed (MISS), the game screen display processing unit 90c1 determines, for example, as shown in FIG. 53 (b), corresponding to the operation devices 56a and 56b. A character string “MISS” is displayed as results 145 and 149.

  Further, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 adds an effect display according to the target (Step Db18). As the effect processing according to the target, for example, a screen representing an effect such that the target is ruptured and disappeared by a hit operation is displayed, and a sound effect corresponding to the display content is output from the speakers 52a, 52b, and 52c. (Step Db19). For example, the sound effects are output from the speakers 52a, 52b, and 52c in accordance with the better evaluation result for the input operation of the operation device 56a or the operation device 56b.

  The game processing unit 90c adds points according to the evaluation result of the input operation and the like (step D10). Here, for example, points are added according to a high evaluation among the respective evaluations of the first input operation and the second input operation. For example, as shown in FIG. 53A, when the evaluation of the input operation of the operation device 56a is “GREAT” and the evaluation of the operation device 56b is “COOL”, a point corresponding to “GREAT” is added. . In addition, for the targets “dual slide” and “dual hold” for which the first input operation and the second input operation need to be performed at the same time, points may be similarly added according to the input operation with higher evaluation. Then, the points to be added may be changed according to the combination of evaluations. For example, the point to be added is maximized when the combination of evaluations for the first input operation and the second input operation is “GREAT” and “GREAT”, and is added when the combination is “GOOD” and “GOOD”. It is also possible to change the points to be added stepwise according to the combination of evaluations so as to minimize the points to be evaluated.

  The game screen display processing unit 90c1 updates the display of the groove gauge 127 according to the added points (step Db21). In addition, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 determines the color of the contribution degree gauge 140 according to the ratio between the points obtained by the input operation after the points are added and the points obtained by the input operation of the operation device 56b. The display range is changed, and the display position of the contribution degree indication mark 141 is moved (step Db22).

  In the above description, although the judgment display, the effect display, and the sound output corresponding to the effect display are performed after the judgment is completed for both the first input operation and the second input operation (steps Db17 to Db19), For a target determined to be successful by the determination on the first input operation, the determination display, the effect display, and the effect display may be performed at that time without waiting for the determination on the second input operation.

  In this manner, in the cooperative play, high points can be obtained by performing correct input operations on targets appearing on one traveling route 121 using the operation devices 56a and 56b, respectively, using the operation devices 56a and 56b. Therefore, the players can play the game while feeling a sense of unity. In particular, for a target that requires different input operations on the operation devices 56a and 56b at the same time, the two players need to perform input operations in a more cooperative manner. it can. Further, even if one player fails in the input operation, the other player's input operation determines that the input operation has succeeded (points are obtained), and the character strings of the determination results 146 and 147 (“NICE” and “SAFE”) are displayed on the game screen. Is displayed, it is possible to increase the awareness of participating in the game in cooperation.

  Next, an outline of a case where the in-store battle play (match play) is selected will be described.

FIG. 54 is a diagram illustrating an example of the game screen 120 during in-store battle play (match play).
As shown in FIG. 54, a custom image 131 of the player and custom images 132, 133, and 134 of the opponent are displayed at the bottom of the game screen 120 for in-store battle play (match play). In the vicinity of the custom images 131 to 134, score ranks that change with the progress of the game are displayed (1ST, 2ND, 3RD, 4TH). In addition, a character string (GREAT, COOL, GOOD, MISS) as a determination result for the input operation is displayed according to the timing of the input operation. In addition, the current groove gauge and score are displayed. Therefore, by viewing the order display and the custom images 131 to 134, the situation of the opponent can be confirmed in real time, and the sense of the opponent can be felt more strongly.

  Also, in FIG. 38 and FIG. 51 (solo play, cooperative play), one progress route 121 is displayed, but in FIG. 54, in addition to the progress route 121 for the player, the opponent is parallel to the progress route 121. Player's progress routes 121a, 121b, and 121c, and characters (avatars) 122a, 122b, and 122c corresponding to the opponent's player, respectively. On the traveling routes 121a, 121b, and 121c, an effect display 138 according to the determination of the input operation is added based on operation data of a game being played by another game device 20 in the store. The effect display 138 is displayed in the same manner as the effect display 137 described above. The display positions of the characters (avatars) 122a, 122b, and 122c are adjusted according to the points obtained by each player at the present time. That is, when another player has acquired a higher point, it is displayed at a position before the avatar 122, and when another player has acquired a lower point, it is displayed at a position after the avatar 122. Therefore, on the game screen 120 shown in FIG. 54, it is possible to grasp the situation of another player also by the effect display 138 added on the traveling routes 121a, 121b, 121c and the display positions of the characters (avatars) 122a, 122b, 122c. Further, since it is felt that the character 122 and the character of another player are running side by side, it is possible to obtain a stronger feeling of fighting with another player. The details of the in-store battle play (match play) will be described later. Although the characters (avatars) 122, 122a, 122b, and 122c shown in FIG. 54 are all represented by the same shape, characters (avatars) having different patterns determined for each player can be used.

Next, the traveling route setting process (step D1) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
The game screen display processing section 90c1 basically displays the progress route based on the progress route data prepared in advance for the music, but can change the progress route according to the game situation. The game screen display processing unit 90c1 determines whether or not to change the progress route during the game, based on the progress route change determination (step C1).

  In the progress route change determination, for example, the determination is made based on data representing the current game situation such as a determination result (immediately or within a predetermined time) regarding an input operation on the target, the number of chains, and a current score. Further, in the in-store battle play (match play) described later, the determination can be made based on a score difference, a ranking, and the like with the opponent.

  When determining to change the traveling route (step C2, YES), the game screen display processing unit 90c1 sets the changed traveling route based on the result of the traveling route change determination (step C3).

  For example, "Change the progress route so that it proceeds in the upward direction if the input determination is successful, and go down if the input determination is unsuccessful." By setting rules such as "change", "change to the forward route when the number of chains increases, go to the depth direction and decrease when the number of chains increases", it is possible to set the travel route according to the result of the input determination . In this case, the player can easily understand the current situation of the game from the change in the traveling route.

FIGS. 56 (a), (b), (c) and FIGS. 57 (a), (b), (c) show examples of changing the traveling route.
FIG. 56A shows a traveling route prepared in advance. If the input determination is successful, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 changes the traveling route shown in FIG. 56A so as to extend upward in the game screen as shown in FIG. 56B. If the input determination is unsuccessful, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 changes the traveling route shown in FIG. 56 (a) so as to extend downward in the game screen as shown in FIG. 56 (c). I do.

  FIG. 57A shows a traveling route prepared in advance. If the input determination is successful, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 changes the traveling route shown in FIG. 57A to a complicated shape as shown in FIG. 57B. That is, by making the camera direction when generating a three-dimensional game screen parallel to the traveling direction, the traveling route is shaped so as to proceed from the near side to the back direction, and the apparent length of the traveling route Change (for example, make it longer). When the input determination is unsuccessful, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 simplifies the progress route shown in FIG. 57A by, for example, making it straight as shown in FIG. 57C. , Make it easier to get timing for the target.

  The game screen display processing unit 90c1 generates a traveling route by combining, for example, arithmetic processing for generating a straight line or a curve, and places an event (target) indicated by the event control data shown in FIG. Deploy. When the apparent length of the traveling route changes, the speed of the target traveling on the traveling route changes, and the time to reach each event (target) (the time data shown in FIG. 4C) differs from the time before the route change. Try to be the same. That is, even if the shape of the traveling route changes, the content of the input operation and the operation timing required for the player do not change. As the shape of the traveling route changes, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 also changes the display form of the target (event) in accordance with the shape of the traveling route.

Further, the traveling route may be changed as follows.
For example, as shown in FIG. 58 (a), a plurality of traveling routes 121a, 121b, 121c having different shapes are simultaneously displayed on the game screen in advance. Then, according to the game situation, one of the traveling routes is selected, and the character (avatar) 122 is moved to the selected traveling route and the target is displayed.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 58 (b) and (c), a plurality of route parts forming a traveling route are prepared in advance, and the traveling route is formed by selecting and connecting the parts according to the situation. FIG. 58D shows an example of the traveling route 121f generated by connecting the parts of the traveling route 121d shown in FIG. 58B and the parts of the traveling route 121e shown in FIG. 58C. I have.

  In the above description, the route change is determined based on predetermined conditions in the progress route determination process, but the progress route may be changed randomly during the game. Further, the route change can be determined not only based on the game situation but also based on other data. For example, when a player is using a card, player data (player experience value, class, player name, etc.) for each player, and personal data (birthday, address, etc.) are stored in the game server 10. The route change may be determined based on personal data. For example, if the execution date of the game is the birthday of the player, the progress route may be changed to a less difficult one.

  Further, when the progress route is changed, after the game is over, data indicating the progress route is stored in the game server 10 in association with the player ID together with the operation data corresponding to the input operation of the player, and the game server 10 stores the game data at another opportunity. It is also possible to reproduce the contents of execution, or to provide it as a progress route used when another player plays a game.

  In this way, in the game of the present embodiment, by changing the shape of the traveling route in real time according to the game situation and the like, it is possible to provide a dynamic game screen and change the ease of timing with respect to the target. Can change the difficulty level. Further, by changing other elements such as effects, music playback, and sound effects in accordance with the change of the traveling route, a more effective game effect can be achieved.

  Next, the checkpoint process (step D4) will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. The flowcharts of FIGS. 59 and 60 show the first and second checkpoint processes during in-store battle play, and only a part of the flowchart is executed in solo play. First, the first checkpoint process will be described with reference to FIG.

  The checkpoint process is for giving a change to the game content, and is generated at a checkpoint set in advance on the traveling route. Check points can be set at a plurality of locations on one progress course (in one music piece).

  When a checkpoint appears on the progress route displayed in the game screen, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays a surprise roulette at the checkpoint. FIG. 61A is a diagram illustrating a display example of the surprise roulette. In the surprise roulette, a plurality of types of icons (options) determined for each content that changes the game content are rotated and displayed around a check point. In the example shown in FIG. 61A, eight icons are displayed. The content that changes the game content includes “thing that guides the player in an advantageous manner” and “thing that gives the player a trial”. For example, the advantage / disadvantage to the player is changed by changing the criterion for the input operation, changing the obtained score magnification (2 times, 1/2 times, etc.), changing the progress route shape, changing the display form of the game screen, and the like. generate.

  In the first checkpoint processing, a surprise roulette is performed using eight options (icons) from a large number of options prepared in advance according to a game situation (for example, a score before reaching the checkpoint or a determination result for an input operation). Is displayed. In the surprise roulette, the same type of icon may be duplicated.

  As shown in FIG. 61B, when the avatar (character) reaches the check point (step E3, YES), the game processing unit 90c randomly selects any one of the icons displayed on the surprise roulette. (Step E4). The game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays the selected icon at the check point, as shown in FIG. In addition, the game processing unit 90c displays a game screen (progress route) corresponding to the selected icon, and changes the game content by, for example, changing the determination criterion by the operation determination processing unit 90c2 (step E5).

FIG. 62 shows an example of changing the game screen (progress route) according to the icon selected from the surprise roulette.
FIG. 62A shows an example of a normal traveling route. Here, when an icon indicating that the traveling route is changed to a straight line is selected (“STRAITE” icon), the difficulty is reduced by changing the traveling route to a straight line as shown in FIG. Thus, the player can be made advantageous. When an icon indicating that the display range of the traveling route is to be narrowed is selected (“SPOTLIGHT” icon), the display range of the traveling route is limited to the vicinity of the avatar as shown in FIG. The difficulty can be increased to make the player disadvantageous.

  In FIG. 62 (c), the display range of the traveling route is limited to the vicinity of the avatar, and the other traveling routes and targets are not displayed. However, the display range of the traveling route is around the avatar. It is not limited. For example, the display range of the progress route may be a range that does not include the avatar, or the position of the display range may change according to the progress of the game (elapse of time). Further, in FIG. 62 (c), the display range of the traveling route is circular, but may be another shape such as a rectangular shape, or the shape may be changed randomly.

  In the game according to the present embodiment, the progress route is not displayed at a predetermined position on the game screen 120, but the display position fluctuates in accordance with the progress of the game. By doing so, the difficulty level of the game can be greatly changed.

  In the above description, the icon is randomly selected for solo play. However, during the in-store competition play, the game processing unit 90c determines the current score and rank of each of the opponents (competition player management data 92d ) Is obtained (step E1), and the icons are selected after adjusting the selection probabilities of a plurality of icons based on the score difference with each player and the ranking. In other words, “the one that leads the disadvantaged player to advantage” and “the one that gives the trial to the advantageous player” are likely to be generated. In this case, the opposite situation is likely to occur with low probability.

  In addition, the icon displayed on the surprise roulette indicates the game situation (rank, score difference, determination result for input operation, etc.) at a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds before passing) before the avatar reaches the check point. It shall be selected accordingly.

  In the first checkpoint process shown in FIG. 59, the icon is selected without the intervention of the player. However, the icon may be selected in the same manner as the input operation on the target. In the second checkpoint process shown in FIG. 60, an icon is selected according to an input operation from the player.

  In the case of solo play, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 adjusts the rotational display speed of the surprise roulette icon according to the score immediately before the check point (step F2). For example, the higher the score, the higher the speed of the rotation display.

  When there is an input operation for moving the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b in any direction in accordance with the timing at which the avatar passes the check point (steps F3 and F4, YES), the game processing unit 90c executes the input operation. An icon is selected based on the operation direction and the display position of the icon in the surprise roulette (step F5). For example, when there is an input operation for moving the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b rightward, the game processing unit 90c selects the icon displayed at the right position at that timing.

  The game processing unit 90c executes a process similar to step E5 shown in FIG. 59 according to the selected icon (step F6).

  In the second checkpoint process, when the score is low, the rotational display speed of the surprise roulette icon is reduced, so that the player can easily select a desired icon (an advantageous icon). On the other hand, when the score is high, it is difficult to select a desired icon (it is easy to select a disadvantageous icon by mistake).

  In this way, in the checkpoint processing, the game content can be changed in the middle of the game, so in the case of solo play, even if the same music is selected each time the game is executed, each time the game is selected at the checkpoint, Because the content is changed, the same music can be enjoyed without getting tired of the game.

  In the first checkpoint process, an icon (option) may be selected according to the input operation of the player, similarly to the second checkpoint process.

  Further, in the case of in-store battle play (match play), the game content is easily changed to advantageous / unfavorable depending on the situation of the battle (rank, score difference). You can enjoy the match. Also, even in a match, the players do not directly interfere with each other, and can give a sense of an unintended surprise. No need.

  As described above, the game processing unit 90c receives an input operation by the player while updating the progress route, and advances the game. When the music has been reproduced and the character has reached the end of the traveling route (step D7, YES), the game processing section 90c ends the game processing. When the game processing ends, the game device 20 shifts to game score display (step S9).

  In the above description, when the icon selected from the surprise roulette is the “SPOTLIGHT” icon, the control is performed so that a part of the progress route is not displayed during the game execution. According to the conditions, it is possible not to display the traveling route. For example, there is a case where a “NO WAY” item in the game mode selection process is selected as a predetermined condition. When the “NO WAY” item is selected, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 displays the progress route 121 on the game screen 120 so as not to be displayed.

  FIG. 63A shows an example of a normal game screen 120 in which the “NO WAY” item has not been selected. In FIG. 63A, an avatar 122 and a plurality of targets 123 are displayed on the traveling route 121 as described above.

  When the “NO WAY” item is selected, the game screen display processing unit 90c1 does not display all the traveling routes 121 on the game screen 120, as shown in FIG. The player performs an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b based on the music reproduction sound, the arrangement of the target 123, the moving direction (direction) of the avatar 122, and the like.

  Further, when the “STEALTH” item that does not display all targets is selected in the game mode selection processing, as shown in FIG. 63 (c), not only all traveling routes 121 but also all targets 123 are displayed. Not to be. Also, by selecting an item, a part of the traveling route may not be displayed in the same manner as when the “SPOTLIGHT” icon is selected from the surprise roulette.

  Thus, when the predetermined condition is satisfied (selection of “NO WAY” and “STEALTH” items), the difficulty level of the game can be increased by not displaying the progress route 121 during the execution of the game, Even advanced users can enjoy the game.

  FIG. 64 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game score screen (performance result screen) during solo play. The result display unit 90d1 displays a game score screen based on data recorded during execution of the game. As shown in FIG. 64, on the game score screen, for example, in addition to the information of the music as a target of the game, the evaluation of the input operation by the player, the maximum number of chains, the score (point), the overall evaluation, the competition ranking ( Is displayed. The overall evaluation is represented by, for example, E, D, C, B, A, and S in ascending order.

  FIG. 65 is a diagram showing an example of the game score screen (performance result screen) at the time of executing the cooperative play. The result display unit 90d1 displays a game score screen based on data recorded during execution of the game. As shown in FIG. 65, for example, in addition to information on music as a target of the game, a total of evaluations of input operations performed by the players, a maximum number of chains, and a score are displayed on the game score screen for each of the first player and the second player. (Points), overall evaluation, etc. are displayed. The overall evaluation is represented by, for example, E, D, C, B, A, and S in ascending order. Also, the same contribution degree gauge 140 as the game screen 120 during cooperative play is displayed. Further, the synchronization rate at the end of the game (“99.9%” in FIG. 65) calculated based on the input operations of the first player and the second player is displayed.

  When the display of the game score screen (performance result screen) is completed, if there is a remaining coin charge (step S10, YES), the control unit 90 selects a music piece and executes a game process in the same manner as described above. be able to.

  When there is no remaining coin charge and the game ends (step S10, NO), the result display unit 90d1 displays a reward screen (step S11). FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating an example of the reward screen. On the reward screen, for example, information on music used in the game, acquired experience value, level up gauge, title, and the like are displayed. When the level is increased, it is displayed that the reward (item, avatar, skin) set for each level is obtained.

Next, details when “MATCH PLAY” (in-store play) is selected on the game mode selection screen will be described.
First, the player matching process 90b executes an in-store matching process for determining a competing player (FIG. 26, step S12). In the in-store battle play, two to four players using the game device 20 in the same store can play. Among the plurality of game devices 20 in the store, the game device 20 first instructed to execute the in-store battle play becomes the host player, and recruits opponents (guests) to other game devices 20. In the in-store battle play, the player can select either a party battle using the above-described checkpoint processing or a normal battle without using the checkpoint processing, and recruit opponents.

  If there is no match request from one or more players (one or more players) within a predetermined time (step S00), the player matching process 90b shifts to the solo play described above. On the other hand, if there is a battle request, the player matching process 90b shifts to a process for preparing for in-store battle play.

  Next, when the player is the host player, the start processing unit 90a executes an automatic music selection process for selecting music to be used for the battle (step S13).

FIG. 67 is a flowchart for describing the automatic music selection processing.
First, the start processing unit 90a displays a music selection screen (step H1). In the automatic music selection processing, a plurality of music selection screens displayed in order are prepared, and a message is presented to the player on each music selection screen. By operating the operation devices 56a and 56b, the player can display a response message to the message presented on the music selection screen on the music selection screen.

  FIG. 68A shows an example of an initial music selection screen. On the music selection screen, for example, a character representing a virtual DJ (disc jockey) is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 68A, a character representing a virtual DJ named “DJ ENE” is displayed. In addition, guide screens 151a and 151b showing messages input in response to input operations (front, rear, left and right, pressing) on the operation devices 56a and 56b are displayed on the music selection screen (for example, the left and right corners at the bottom of the screen).

  A plurality of types of virtual DJs are prepared, and characters are displayed on the music selection screen by being changed at predetermined intervals or randomly selected. The virtual DJ is assumed to have different genres, artists, and various categories of music that are automatically selected depending on the type. Therefore, during in-store competition play (match play), for example, music that the player does not intend (music different from frequently selected music), rare music that cannot be selected during solo play, unreleased music, recently popular music, etc. To provide the player's favorite songs (songs with a high number of selections) determined based on the history of each player, songs that the player is good at (such as songs with high scores, etc.), and songs that have not been played. Can be.

  The guide screen 151a arranged on the left side of the music selection screen displays a guide corresponding to the operation device 56a arranged on the left side of the game apparatus 20, and the guide screen 151b arranged on the right side is arranged on the right side of the game apparatus 20. The guide corresponding to the operation device 56b arranged in the.

  FIG. 68B is a diagram showing details of the guide screen 151b. In the example shown in FIG. 68B, when the operation device 56b is operated to the left, a message "wwwwww ..." is pressed, and when the operation device 56b is operated to the rear, a message "888888 ..." is pressed. This indicates that the message “YEAH!” Is input when the operation is performed. When the input operation is continued (press and hold and keep the moved state), it is assumed that the same message is continuously input.

  As shown in FIG. 68A, different messages can be assigned to the operation devices 56a and 56b. The message may be a message prepared by the player in advance, in addition to a message prepared by default. In the example shown in FIG. 68 (a), five messages are assigned to the operation devices 56a and 56b, respectively. For example, when the operation devices 56a and 56b are moved diagonally (four directions). , A message when the operation devices 56a and 56b are continuously pressed a plurality of times, and a message for a special operation combining the operations of the two operation devices 56a and 56b.

  When an input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b is detected (step H2, YES), the message processing unit 90c5 uses a message (message display instruction) corresponding to the input operation as another opponent in the in-store competition play. 20 (step H3). Further, the message processing unit 90c5 displays a message corresponding to the input operation on the selection screen (step H4). It should be noted that the message for which the player has performed an input operation by himself / herself and instructed to display the message may not be displayed on the own game device 20.

  When a message (message display instruction) is received from another game device 20 (step H5, YES), the message processing unit 90c5 displays the received message on the selection screen (step H6).

If there is a next selection screen, the start processing unit 90a displays the next selection screen in the same manner as described above.
FIG. 69A is a diagram illustrating an example of another selection screen. The message “ARE YOU READY?” 152 from the virtual DJ is displayed on the selection screen shown in FIG. In response to this message, as a result of each player participating in the in-store battle play performing an input operation of a message display in each game device 20, response messages 153a, 153b, 153c, 153d from each player are displayed. FIG. 69 (a) shows an example in which a message is displayed while moving leftward from a random position on the right side of the screen, for example. Note that the display mode of the message is not limited, and another display mode may be used (see FIG. 74).

  When the display of all the selection screens is completed (step H7, YES), the start processing unit 90a displays the song name (title) of the song used in the in-store battle play (step H8).

  FIG. 69 (b) shows an example of a screen on which a song name is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 69 (b), a music title "Music Revolver" 154 is displayed at the center of the screen. In the same manner as described above, a message can be displayed on the screen for displaying the music title in response to an input operation on the game device 20 participating in in-store battle play.

  In this manner, during the automatic music selection processing, a simple chat can be performed between the game devices 20 (players) participating in the in-store battle play only by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b, so that loose communication is enjoyed. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to excite the game between players before the game starts. The message is transmitted simply by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b used in the game. Therefore, anyone can easily participate in communication.

  In addition, when playing in-store competition, songs are automatically selected regardless of the player's operation, so multiple selection screens are displayed without securing a long enough time to wait for the player's selection operation After that, the process can immediately proceed to the game process. Therefore, the operating rate (rotation rate) of the game device 20 can be improved.

  Note that the automatic music selection processing may be executed not only by the game device 20 of the host player but also by the game server 10. In this case, each of the game devices 20 participating in the in-store battle play (match play) can communicate with each other via the game server 10.

  Next, the start processing unit 90a displays a difficulty level selection screen and causes the player to select a difficulty level (step S14). The difficulty level can be selected by each player. In addition to the selection of the difficulty level, the user can select an item to be used in the game from items that have already been acquired by the user. The difficulty level may be automatically determined in the same manner as in the automatic music selection processing. Thereby, the operation rate (rotation rate) of the game device 20 can be further improved. Further, an optimum item effect or the like may be selected according to the player.

When the difficulty level is selected, the game processing section 90c starts the game processing (Step S15).
FIG. 70 is a flowchart showing the game processing at the time of in-store battle play (match play).
Steps J1 to J5 shown in FIG. 70 are executed in the same manner as steps D1 to D5 of the game processing when the solo play shown in FIG. 36 is selected, and a description thereof will be omitted. In the in-store battle play (match play), in the input determination process (step J6), a message can be transmitted by an input operation during the game.

FIG. 71 is a flowchart showing an input determination process during in-store battle play (match play).
Steps Dc1 to Dc7 shown in FIG. 71 are executed in the same manner as steps Da1 to Da7 of the input determination process when solo play shown in FIG. 37 is selected, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  The operation determination processing unit 90c2 compares the display position of the character at the time of the input operation with the position of the target (determines the distance), and determines the input operation according to the content of the input operation and the type of the target. (Steps Dc1 to Dc3). Here, when the shift (or the time shift) between the display position of the character and the target when the input operation is performed is in a range that is not a target of evaluation, that is, the shift beyond the determination that the input operation is MISS. If it is determined that there is a message, it is determined that the instruction is a message transmission instruction. That is, it is determined that an input operation has been performed on the operation devices 56a and 56b at a timing when there is no target.

  When it is determined by the determination function of the operation determination processing unit 90c2 that no target has been set (there is a message transmission instruction) (step Dc3, NO), the message processing unit 90c5 determines the message content according to the content of the input operation. (Step Dc8), and transmits the determined message (message display instruction) to another game device 20 as an opponent (Step Dc9). The message processing unit 90c5 displays a message corresponding to the input operation on the game screen (Step Dc10). It should be noted that the message for which the player has performed an input operation by himself / herself and instructed to display the message may not be displayed on the own game device 20.

  FIG. 72 is a diagram showing details of the message data 92m. As shown in FIG. 72, the message data 92m includes a message corresponding to each input operation (front, rear, left, right, and press) on the left operation device 56a, and a corresponding input operation (front, back, right, and left, and press) on the right operation device 56b. ) Are set.

  In the message data 92m, not only a message corresponding to each input operation of the operation devices 56a and 56b, but also a message corresponding to various game situations is set. The message data 92m shown in FIG. 72 indicates that a message is set for each of the game situations such as the top score, the lowest score, the input determination GREAT, and the number of chains (set value) exceeded.

  The message processing unit 90c5 determines the game situation during the game processing (step J7), and monitors whether a game situation in which a message is set in the message data 92m has occurred. Here, when it is determined that the game situation in which the message is set has occurred (step J8, YES), the message processing unit 90c5 determines the message according to the current game situation by referring to the message data 92m. Then, this message is transmitted to another game device 20 (player) to be the opponent of the in-store competition play (step J9).

  In this way, by allowing messages according to various game situations to be transmitted during the game, for example, when the top score is reached, the player's feelings, such as "Yatter Yatter Yatter ...", are displayed to other players. You can send messages to enliven the competitive game.

  On the other hand, when receiving the message (message display instruction) from another game device 20 (step J10, YES), the message processing unit 90c5 displays the received message on the game screen (step J11).

  FIG. 73 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game screen in a battle game in which a message is displayed. In the game screen shown in FIG. 73, a plurality of messages 160a, 160b, and 160c are displayed when a plurality of players instruct a message transmission. At the head of each of the messages 160a, 160b, 160c, an avatar corresponding to each player is displayed. Therefore, it is possible to recognize from whom of the opponents the message is. FIG. 72 shows an example in which the message is displayed while moving from the right side of the screen to the left, but the message can be displayed in other forms.

  Also, by displaying only the message from the player from the opponent on the game screen 120, the display of the message makes the game screen difficult to see (eg, makes it difficult to see the game screen). You can enjoy.

FIGS. 74A and 74B are diagrams showing examples of other display forms of the message.
FIG. 74A shows a balloon area for displaying a message at a position close to characters (avatars) 122, 122a, 122b, 122c corresponding to each player on the game screen 120, and displays a message in this area. It is a form. In FIG. 74 (a), a balloon region 162a for displaying a message from the player corresponding to the character 122, a balloon region 162b for displaying a message from the player corresponding to the character 122a, and a player corresponding to the character 122c. This shows an example in which a balloon region 162c for displaying the message No. is displayed. The shape of the balloon region is arbitrarily changed according to the position of the character and the empty space on the game screen 120. It is desirable that the balloon region be displayed at a position that does not hinder the visual recognition of the traveling route 121 and the target 123.

  The balloon region is provided near the character (avatar) corresponding to the player who has instructed the display of the message when the instruction to display the message is issued. Thereby, it is possible to easily determine who of the opponents is emitting the message. The balloon area moves with the movement of the character as the character moves on the game screen 120 in accordance with the progress of the game. The balloon area is deleted after a certain time has elapsed since the message was displayed. If the same player instructs to display messages continuously before the time until the message is deleted, the messages in the balloon area may be sequentially changed, or the balloon area for each message may be changed. The data may be sequentially overwritten (deleted from the lower balloon region).

  FIG. 74B shows a mode in which a dedicated message area for displaying a message is provided in the game screen 120, and a message is displayed in this area. In FIG. 74 (b), a message area 161 is provided at a predetermined position below the game screen 120. In the message area 161, for example, messages from each player are sequentially displayed from the first line, and when the messages are displayed on all lines, the message is scrolled upward and a new message is added to the bottom line. . At the beginning of each message displayed in the message area 161, a character (avatar) corresponding to the player who instructed to display the message is added. As a result, it is possible to easily identify which player of the opponent is the message from. Since the message area 161 is provided at a predetermined position below the game screen 120, the display of the traveling route 121 and the target 123 need not be obstructed.

  In this manner, in the in-store battle play (match play), it is possible to mutually transmit messages between the game devices 20 (players) only by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b during the game execution. You can enjoy loose communication while playing games. Since the music game is executed together with the reproduction and output of the music, the game cannot be stopped halfway for a message transmission operation. However, in the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, the message can be transmitted at a timing when there is no target to be subjected to the input operation using only the operation devices 56a and 56b used in the game. You can communicate with other players while playing. Thereby, it is possible to obtain a feeling that a plurality of players are participating in the same music game together, and to excite the game by transmitting and receiving messages. Since the message is transmitted only by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b used in the game, anyone can easily participate in the communication.

  Note that the display mode of the message is not limited to the above-described mode. For example, the display color of the message can be changed for each player, or the character size can be changed according to the message content or the timing.

  Further, in the above description, the message transmitted / received during the in-store match play (match play) is a text (character string), but other data may be transmitted / received as a message. For example, a voice message or an image message may be transmitted by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b. The voice message is a message output from the speaker of the game device 20, and the image message is an image (including various characters, pictograms, and the like) displayed at a random position or a predetermined position on the game screen 120. .

  The voice message and the image message may be prepared in the game device 20 in advance in association with the input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b, or may be registered by the player in the game server 10 in advance and downloaded when the game is executed. You may make it usable. By setting different voice messages and image messages corresponding to the input operations (front, rear, left, right, and pressing) of the operation devices 56a and 56b in the same manner as the text message, a message corresponding to the game situation can be generated. You can select and send. Note that it is also possible to mix and set text messages, voice messages, and image messages.

  In the above description, the message is transmitted only by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b. However, a dedicated message transmission button provided separately from the operation devices 56a and 56b may be provided. For example, when the dedicated button is pressed during the game, the message processing unit 90c5 sets a message transmission mode, and transmits a message according to a subsequent input operation to the operation devices 56a and 56b. That is, by setting the message transmission mode by pressing the dedicated button, it is determined that the input operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b is not an input for the game but an input for instructing a message transmission.

  In this manner, by providing a dedicated button for message transmission and setting the message transmission mode, a message can be transmitted even when there is a target requiring an input operation. In particular, by providing two dedicated buttons respectively corresponding to the operation devices 56a and 56b, for example, one of the operation devices 56a is set to the message transmission mode by operating the dedicated button, and the input for continuously transmitting the message is performed. An operation can be performed, and an input operation can be performed on the target by the other operation device 56b. In the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, the input to the game can be performed by operating any of the operation devices 56a and 56b, so that the operation devices 56a and 56b can be selectively used for transmitting a message.

  The message transmission mode may be canceled by transmitting a message once, or may be continued until the dedicated button is operated again.

  The dedicated button for message transmission may be provided on the top panel 54 or may be provided at a position operable by foot. Instead of the dedicated button, a message transmission mode may be set by a predetermined special operation on the operation devices 56a and 56b, and a message corresponding to a subsequent input operation to the operation devices 56a and 56b may be transmitted. .

  When the game process ends, the game result processing unit 90d executes a result display process for displaying a game result of the in-store battle play (step S16).

  FIG. 75 is a flowchart for describing the result display processing. FIG. 76 is a diagram showing an example of the battle result screen displayed by the result display processing. On the match result screen, information on the music used in the in-store play (jacket image, title, musician name, difficulty level, etc.), information on the players who participated in the in-store play (character (avatar) images corresponding to each player) are displayed. , A player name, a title, etc.), and an acquired star display column for displaying stars representing evaluation points acquired by each player. In the acquired star display column, up to 20 stars acquired in the current game are displayed for each player in association with the character image of each player. On the match result screen in the initial state, the acquired stars are not displayed in the acquired star display column, and while a plurality of acquisition conditions described later are sequentially displayed, stars are sequentially added when the acquisition conditions are met. Go.

  FIG. 77 is a diagram illustrating an example of an acquisition condition for giving an evaluation point to a player and an acquired star count. For example, an example in which acquisition conditions 1 to 9 are set is shown. Hereinafter, the details of the acquisition conditions 1 to 9 will be described.

  Under the acquisition condition 1 “performance ranking”, stars are given to each player according to the ranking at the end of the game, regardless of the number of competing players. For example, “Performance No. 1” has four stars, “Performance No. 2” has three stars, “Performance No. 3” has two stars, and “Performance No. 4” has one star. Each is given.

Under the acquisition condition 2 “Clear / No Miss / Full Chain”, a star is given to a player who has achieved the game clear, no miss, or full chain. For example, two stars are given to a player who has performed “CLEAR” (only cleared players), three stars are given to all players in a case of “everyone CLEAR”, and a player who has “NO MISS” has a star. Three players are given (only no-miss players). In the case of "all NO MISS", four stars are given to all players, and a player of "FULL CHAIN" is given four stars, and "all FULL" In the case of "CHAIN", five stars are given to all players. No-miss indicates that there was no mistake for all targets except the hidden target (target "ad-lib"), and full chain indicates that there was no mistake for all targets including the target "ad-lib". Is shown. Also, if all players are "No
Miss ", or if some are" No Miss "and some are" Full Chain ", it is judged as" All No Miss ", if some make a mistake and if all are cleared," All " Clear "is determined.

  In the in-store battle play, the rank is determined according to the number of obtained stars, but the stars (evaluation points) obtained in the game are added as the obtained stars 41a1 for each player (player ID), and the obtained stars 41a1 are predetermined. When the number is reached, an advantage is given to the player, for example, a special title is given, or a song usable in the game is added (banned). For this reason, a plurality of players jointly and severally aim for the acquisition of stars (“all CLEAR”, “all NO MISS”, “all FULL CHAIN”), so that they can participate in the game while playing in-store while playing against each other. be able to.

  In the acquisition condition 3 “chain”, a star is given to a player having the largest chain continuation rate (MAX chain number / chain number theoretical value) (in the case of the same rate, multiple players can be acquired). For example, one star is given to the player of “CHAIN No. 1”.

  Under the acquisition condition 4 “Ad-lib”, a star is given to the player who has the least mistake (the highest ad-lib success rate) regarding the “Ad-lib” of the hidden target (in the case of the same rate, a plurality of players can acquire). For example, one star is given to the player of “AD-LIB No. 1”.

  In the acquisition condition 5 “blank hit”, the number of button inputs and lever inputs irrelevant to the game is counted. "And a star is given as" lean motion No. 1 "to the player who has performed the least number of empty hits less than a predetermined number of times (for example, five times). For example, one star is given to the player of “restoration No. 1”, and one star is given to the player of “lean movement No. 1”. Under the acquisition condition 5 "blank hit", a star can be acquired by an input operation completely unrelated to the game processing.

  In the acquisition condition 6 “dominant hand”, the value of (the number of successful input operations on the right operation device 56b / the number of successful input operations on the left and right) is the highest, and “right-handed No. 1” is given to a player having a specified value (for example, 70%) or more. And a player having the highest value of (the number of successful input operations on the left operating device 56a / the number of successful input operations on the left and right) and a player with a specified value (for example, 70%) or more is regarded as "left-handed No. 1" Give a star. For example, one star is given to the player of “right-handed No. 1”, and one star is given to the player of “left-handed No. 1”. In the game device 20 according to the present embodiment, any of the operation devices 56a and 56b may be operated on the target displayed on the game screen 120. For this reason, the player can easily perform an input operation by alternately operating the operation devices 56a and 56b with respect to a plurality of continuous targets, for example, but obtains a star according to the acquisition condition 6 “dominant hand”. For this reason, it is also possible to select to increase the operation frequency of one of the operation devices 56a and 56b.

  Under the acquisition condition 7 “item”, when the game is cleared using the item, a star corresponding to the used item is given. For example, a player who has selected and cleared the items “NO WAY”, “MIRROR” and “REVERSE” is given one star, and a player who has selected the “SUDDEN” and “HIDDEN” items and cleared the game has two stars. And a player who selects the “JUST” or “STEALTH” item and clears the game is given three stars. Basically, the more items that make the game content more difficult (increase the level of difficulty), the more stars are obtained when the game is cleared.

  In the acquisition condition 8 “first play”, the player who participated in the game using the card and played the game with the first music is given a star. For example, one star is given to the player of “first play”.

  In the acquisition condition 9 “extra”, a star is given to a player who obtains one or less stars under the acquisition conditions 1 to 8. For example, two stars are given to the corresponding player.

  Note that the acquisition conditions 1 to 9 described above are merely examples, and other conditions can be used. For example, a star is given to the player who has the highest value of the rate of the determination result of the input operation as “GREAT” (the number of times of determination of GREAT / the number of times of total determination). Other conditions, such as giving a star, can also be set.

  The competition result determination unit 90d0 selects an acquisition condition (for example, acquisition condition 1 "playing order") to be a result display target (step K1), and determines an opponent (player) corresponding to the acquisition condition. That is, it is determined whether or not there is a player to which a star corresponding to the acquisition condition should be given. If there is a player to which a star corresponding to the acquisition condition should be given (step K3, YES), the match result determination unit 90d0 displays a star acquisition screen for adding a star to the corresponding player (step K4). For example, in the case of the acquisition condition 1 “playing order”, a player corresponding to “playing order No. 1” is determined, and a star obtaining screen for adding a star is displayed for this player.

  FIG. 78A is a diagram illustrating an example of a star acquisition screen corresponding to “performance ranking No. 1” in acquisition condition 1 “performance ranking”. As shown in FIG. 78 (a), “playing order No. 1” is displayed at the position of the player corresponding to “playing order No. 1” in the acquisition condition 1 “playing order”, and this player acquires a star. After that, a star added to the player is additionally displayed in the acquired star display field.

  In the same manner, a star acquisition screen is displayed for each of the acquisition conditions, and stars are added to the players corresponding to the acquisition conditions (steps K1 to K5). If there is no player that satisfies the acquisition condition (step K3, NO), the display of the star acquisition screen is skipped (omitted).

  FIG. 78B is a diagram illustrating an example of a star acquisition screen corresponding to the acquisition condition 2 of “all members CLEAR”. In FIG. 78 (b), a star is added to all the players who participated in the in-store battle play, so that "all CLEAR" is displayed at the positions of all the players.

  When the evaluation points (stars) corresponding to all the acquisition conditions are determined in this way, the final battle result screen as a result of the in-store battle play (match play) is displayed (step K6). On the match result screen, the order of in-store match play is determined according to the number of obtained stars (evaluation points).

  As described above, in the in-store battle play in the present embodiment, not only the game result (first evaluation) determined based on the input operation of the player, but also the score, the game clear, the no-miss, and the full chain are used. The given evaluation point (second evaluation) is given. Furthermore, the player is given an evaluation point according to the game content which is not directly related to the game result. For example, for the acquisition condition 5 “blank hit” and the acquisition condition 6 “dominant hand”, an evaluation point (star) is given regardless of the game result (even if the score is not high). Regarding the acquisition condition 7 “item”, depending on the type of item selected by the player, even if the player has a high level of input operation, an evaluation point cannot be obtained. In some cases, you can get evaluation points. Further, in the acquisition condition 8 “first play” and the acquisition condition 9 “extra”, a player who does not have a high input operation skill is more likely to be given an evaluation point. In this way, the evaluation points (number of stars) are determined based on the above-described plurality of acquisition conditions, and the in-store battle play order is determined according to the number of stars acquired. , The rank of a player with excellent input operation skills does not increase, and the possibility of obtaining a high evaluation increases even for a player with poor input operation skills.

  When the result display processing is completed, the result display section 90d1 displays the result of the in-store battle play (eg, ranking), and displays a performance result screen for displaying the game result for each player in the in-store battle game (step). S17). The performance result screen is displayed, for example, in the same manner as in FIGS. 64 and 65.

  If the coin is charged after the display of the performance result screen is completed (step S18, YES), the in-store battle play can be repeatedly executed. When ending the game without performing in-store competition play (step S18, NO), the result display unit 90d1 displays a reward screen (step S11).

  In the above description, when “MATCH PLAY” is selected, a game is played between a plurality of game devices 20 installed in the same store. It is also possible to execute in-store battle play with the installed game device 20. In addition, the evaluation (second evaluation) based on the acquisition condition is performed at the time of in-store competition play, but may be performed at another game mode.

  Next, a case where “EVENT PLAY” (limited play) is selected on the game mode selection screen will be described. The event play can be selected only for a predetermined period (the date and time indicating the period are set in advance).

  First, the start processing unit 90a displays an event regulation screen that displays various types of information related to an event, and sets a song to be used in the game and a difficulty level according to a player's instruction, and then executes a game process (step S20). It is assumed that a specific song (task song) is prepared in advance for the event.

  When the game processing ends, the result display unit 90d1 displays an event result displaying an event reward (participation prize or the like), and then displays a reward screen (step S11).

  When the display of the reward screen is completed, the unlock processing unit 90d2 executes the hidden music unlock processing in any mode (however, when using a card).

FIG. 79 is a flowchart showing hidden music unlock processing.
First, the unlock processing section 90d2 reads unlocked music data from the player data of the player (step G1), and displays a hidden music unlock screen based on the data.

  FIG. 80 (a) is a diagram showing an example of a hidden song unlock screen. On the hidden music unlock screen, an unlock image representing that an image (for example, a jacket image or the like) representing the music has been hidden by the panel is displayed (step G2). The example shown in FIG. 80A shows an example in which unlock images corresponding to three pieces of music are simultaneously displayed, and an unlock image of one piece of music hidden by one panel and four pieces of unlock images are displayed. Unlocked images of two songs hidden in the panel are included.

  In the example shown in FIG. 80 (a), two panels for the second unlocked image and one panel for the third unlocked image are respectively executed after the previously executed game processing. It has already been released in the hidden music unlock process.

  Here, one of the unlocked images can be selected by an operation of moving the operation units of the operation devices 56a and 56b back and forth. Then, by pressing the push buttons of the operation devices 56a and 56b, an instruction to open the panel can be given (step G3, YES). After displaying the screen for opening any of the panels in the selected unlock image (step G4), the unlock processing unit 90d2 displays the item acquisition screen indicating the items acquired by the player after the game ends (step G4). G5).

  FIG. 80B shows a state where one panel is opened in the second unlocked image. It should be noted that the number of panels released in one hidden song unlocking process differs depending on the content of play, such as one for solo play and event play, and two for in-store competition play (match play). . Further, the number of sheets released may be changed according to the number of game continuations. Further, it is possible to determine the number of panels to be opened according to other conditions, such as opening two panels during the campaign period.

  FIG. 81 is a diagram illustrating an example of the item acquisition screen. As described above, when the panel is opened by the hidden music unlocking process (including the case where there is no panel to be opened), the item can be obtained. Items can be obtained when a new song is released by unlocking, when a high score is given after play is completed, or when a class or rank is raised.

  In this way, the music with all the panels opened can be selected in the music selection processing when the player executes the game. In addition, a music piece for which all panels are not opened is stored in the game server 10 in association with the player ID, and is displayed in the next hidden music unlock processing.

  The number of open panels may be charged without opening the panels. For example, a charge can be selected by operating the operation devices 56a and 56b on the hidden song unlock screen. When the charge is selected, the unlock processing unit 90d2 stores the charge in the game server 10 (player data) in association with the player ID. The charged panel release number is used in another hidden music unlocking process so that a plurality of panels can be opened at once.

  The number of panels may be 9, 25, or any other number (a plurality of types of panel shapes may be used), in addition to the number of panels shown in FIG. The music provided in the hidden music unlock processing is a specially provided music, and for example, the latest music is used.

  The unlock processing unit 90d2 can also change the number of panels according to the elapsed time since the music was provided. For example, it is possible to change such that the display is hidden by 25 panels within 3 months from the start of the provision, and 16 after 3 months, and 9 after 4 months. In this case, if, for example, 18 panels are opened within three months, the target music is unlocked (game available) after six months.

  In the above description, the hidden music unlock processing is executed after the game processing. However, the hidden music unlock processing may be executed before the game processing is started.

  When the hidden song unlocking process is completed and the game is over (step S23), the control unit 90 stores all data of the game result (step S24) and transmits it to the game server 10 (step S25). Thereafter, the control unit 90 returns to the demonstration processing by the start processing unit 90a (demo processing unit 90a1) (step S1).

  Upon receiving the game result data from the game device 20, the player data processing unit 30a of the game server 10 receives the player management data 41a of the player (for example, player experience value, class, level, title, acquired item, player record, unlock, etc.). Music data).

  In the above description, the player data of each player is stored and managed in the game server 10, but may be stored in the game device 20. In this case, the game device 20 executes the same data management processing as that of the game server 10 described above. When the player data stored in the game device 20 has been updated, the content of the update may be notified to another game device 20 sharing the player data to synchronize the data.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and can be embodied by modifying constituent elements in an implementation stage without departing from the scope of the invention. Various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Further, components of different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

  Further, the control method described in the embodiment may be a program (software means) that can be executed by a computer, for example, a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, MO, etc.), a semiconductor It can be stored in a storage medium such as a memory (ROM, RAM, flash memory, or the like) or transmitted via a communication medium and distributed. Note that the program stored on the medium side includes a setting program for causing a computer to execute software means (including not only an execution program but also a table and a data structure) to be executed by the computer. A computer (for example, a personal computer, a home game machine, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a television, a car navigation system, and the like) that realizes the present apparatus reads a program stored in a storage medium, and optionally executes a software program by a setting program. And the above processing is executed by controlling the operation by the software means. It should be noted that the storage medium referred to in the present specification is not limited to a medium for distribution, but also includes a storage medium such as a magnetic disk or a semiconductor memory provided in a computer or a device connected via a network.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Game server, 20 ... Game device, 50a ... 1st housing | casing, 50b ... 2nd housing | casing, 50c ... Connecting member, 51 ... Display, 56a, 56b ... Operating device, 90 ... Control part, 90c ... Game processing part 90c5: Message processing unit, 90d: Game result processing unit, 90d0: Competition result determination unit, 92a: Game program.

Claims (5)

Game processing means for executing a game for determining an input operation for specifying a position in the game screen using an input device with respect to a target displayed on the game screen ;
During execution of the game, the input operation when the target is not displayed within a preset range from the position in the game screen, and determination means for determining as an indication of transmission of a message,
A game apparatus comprising: a message processing unit that transmits a message in response to an instruction to transmit the message. The game processing means executes a game played against another game device,
The game device according to claim 1, wherein the message processing unit transmits the message to the another game device.   3. The game device according to claim 2, wherein the message processing unit displays the received message on a game screen of the game when receiving a message from the another game device. Providing input means for inputting input instructions separately from the input device used for the input operation,
When the input operation is performed on the input device after the input instruction, the determination unit determines whether or not the target is displayed on the game screen, and transmits the input operation to a message. The game device according to claim 1, wherein the game device is determined as a transmission instruction. The input device can perform a plurality of different input operations,
The determining means determines an instruction to transmit any of the messages assigned in advance to the plurality of input operations based on the input operation,
The game device according to claim 1 , wherein the message processing unit transmits a message corresponding to the input operation.