JP6722959B2 - Game control device, game system and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game control device, a game system and a program for controlling a game.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a game device that executes various game programs and allows a user to enjoy a game by operating an operation unit such as a controller has been widely used. For example, in a conventional baseball game, there has been proposed a game in which a user on the batter side predicts the pitching course of the opponent pitcher, and if the prediction hits, the batting power improves. The user performs an operation for predicting the pitching course in advance to select an area within the strike zone, and then moves a meet cursor or the like for hitting the ball object in accordance with the pitch for hitting operation. I do.

Patent No. 5127805

The conventional game requires two separate operations, one for predicting and one for hitting, which is troublesome for the user.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to realize a game in which the user's expectation is reflected and the user's operation can be simplified.

A game control device according to an aspect of the present invention includes an action imparting unit moving unit that moves an action imparting unit for imparting an action to a moving body in accordance with a user's operation, and before applying the action to the moving body. , The predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting section is set as an expected area for the moving body to reach, the movement based on the positional relationship between the moving body and the action imparting section An action control means for determining the content of the action given to the body, wherein the action control means acts on the moving body when the action is given to the moving body within the predicted area and outside the predicted area. The action on the moving body is controlled so as to be different from the case where is given.

A program according to another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to operate as the game control device, and causes the computer to function as each unit included in the game control device.

A game system according to another aspect of the present invention is a game system including a server and a terminal device communicable with the server, wherein an action imparting unit for imparting an action to a moving body is provided to a user's operation. And a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action applying unit as an expected region for the moving body to reach before the action is applied to the moving body. Means, and an action control means for determining the content of the action given to the moving body based on the positional relationship between the moving body and the action imparting section. The action control means has a different action on the moving body depending on whether the action is given to the moving body within the predicted region or when the action is given to the moving body outside the predicted region. To control.

It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structural example of the game system which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a batter side user. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a batter side user. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a batter side user. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a batter side user. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a batter side user. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of setting of the prediction area|region in a strike zone. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of setting of the prediction area|region in a strike zone. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the strike zone in which the non-expected area was provided. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating setting and cancellation of a prediction area. It is an explanatory view showing an example of a game screen of a user on the pitcher side. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the game screen of the user of the batter side after a pitch. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the positional relationship of a ball object and a meet cursor. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the positional relationship of a ball object and a meet cursor. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the positional relationship of a ball object and a meet cursor. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the game screen of the user of the batter side. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the game screen of the user of the batter side. It is a schematic block diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of a game device. It is a schematic block diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of a server. It is a schematic functional block diagram which shows an example of a functional structure of a game device. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of setting of the prediction area|region in a strike zone. It is a schematic functional block diagram which shows the other example of a structure of the execution means of a game device. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation of a game device. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation of a game device. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation of a game device. It is a flowchart which shows an example of an estimated area setting process. It is a flow chart which shows an example of hit result decision processing. It is a schematic functional block diagram which shows the other example of a structure of the execution means of a game device. It is an explanatory view for explaining an example of setting a prediction field. It is an explanatory view for explaining an example of setting a prediction field. It is an explanatory view for explaining an example of setting a specific area. It is a flow chart which shows other examples of operation of a game device. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the other structural example of the game system which concerns on one embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic functional block diagram which shows an example of a functional structure of a server.

Hereinafter, a game system and the like according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing a configuration example of a game system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The game system 1 includes a plurality of game devices 10-n (n is a positive integer. 10-1, 10-2,...) And a server 30. The game device 10-n in the game system 1 and the server 30 are connected via a network N such as the Internet. Here, since the plurality of game devices 10-n have the same configuration, they are simply described as “game device 10” unless otherwise specified.

The network N of the present embodiment is not limited to the Internet, and if the game device 10-n in the game system 1 and the server 30 can be communicatively connected to each other, for example, a private line, a public line, or the like. It may be a line (telephone line, mobile communication line, etc.), a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, or the like, or a combination of the Internet and these.

The game device 10 operated by the user is a game dedicated device for home use (fixed type or portable type), personal computer, smartphone, mobile phone terminal, PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) terminal, personal digital assistant (PDA: Personal Digital). Assistant), a tablet computer, a multi-function television receiver (so-called smart TV), an arcade (commercial) game machine, and the like.

The server 30 associates a user ID for uniquely identifying each user with each other, and stores and manages information about the user's game in a database. In addition, the server 30 executes an opponent determination process (so-called matching process) or the like when a communication battle is performed. In the communication battle, for example, a user A operating the game device 10-1 and a user B operating the game device 10-2 can play a battle game via the network N. In the case of a communication match, there is a method of directly communicating between the game devices 10-1 and 10-2 matched by the server 30 by P2P (Peer to Peer) connection or the like. Alternatively, there is also a method of competing for the exchange of data between the game device 10-1 and the game device 10-2 via the server 30. The communication battle may be performed by any method.

Communication between the game device 10-n and the server 30 uses, for example, HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) operating on TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) as a base protocol, and It can be realized by implementing the specified application protocol on the upper level.

On the other hand, the communication between the game device 10-1 and the game device 10-2 connected by P2P or the like is, for example, a communication protocol on the transport layer of the OSI reference model and is mainly implemented on the IP protocol. It can be realized by UDP (User Datagram Protocol). The UDP described above is a communication method in which data transmission is not confirmed or error correction is performed, and the data is continuously sent to the terminal device on the other side. Therefore, the reliability of the data is low, but the data transfer rate is high. There is. It is of course possible to use an existing protocol other than UDP for communication between the game device 10-1 and the game device 10-2, or to use a new protocol newly defined in the future.

Further, for example, in the game device 10-n having a short-range wireless communication function using a predetermined frequency band (for example, a frequency band of 2.4 GHz), a plurality of game devices 10-n are connected without the server 30. It is also possible to directly communicate and execute a competitive game.

As the games executed in the game system 1 of the present embodiment, various games such as sports games about various sports such as baseball, soccer, tennis, battle games about combat, games of catching insects, etc. are available. You can name the game. As an example thereof, here, a baseball game in which a batter character hits (an example of action) a ball object (an example of a moving body) pitched by a pitcher character is mainly described, and other games are also referred to as necessary. To do.
The outline of an example of the game will be described below.

[Example of game]
FIG. 2 shows an example of the screen D10 of the baseball game. The user who operates the batter character BC plays the game while looking at the screen D10. On the screen D10, the batter character BC operated by the user, the bat object BO, the pitcher character PC of the opponent, the meet cursor MC as an example of the action imparting unit, the strike zone SZ, the home base HB, and the like are displayed.

The meet cursor MC is also called a batting cursor or the like. The meet cursor MC is initially displayed, for example, in the center of the strike zone SZ above the home base HB before the pitcher character PC enters the pitching motion (for each pitch). The user can adjust the swing position of the bat object BO by moving the meet cursor MC. For example, the user can move the meat cursor MC to an arbitrary position by performing an operation of tilting the analog stick of the controller in an arbitrary direction. The movement operation of the meat cursor MC can be performed by an operation using a direction key, an operation using a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch operation on a touch panel, etc., in addition to the operation using the analog stick. The movable area of the meat cursor MC is an area including the strike zone SZ or the strike zone SZ, and is an area within a range in which the ball can be hit (a range reached by the bat).

The user who operates the batter character BC performs an operation of moving the meet cursor MC so that the meet cursor MC overlaps the ball object thrown by the pitcher character PC. The game device 10 moves the meet cursor MC on the screen according to the user's operation. If the bat swing operation is performed in a state where the ball object overlaps the center portion or the center portion of the meat cursor MC, an effective hit, that is, a long hit or a home run is likely to occur.

The user can predict the pitching course in advance by a predetermined timing until the ball object is sent from the pitcher character PC. The prediction by the user may be possible until, for example, the pitcher character PC enters the pitching motion, or even after the pitcher character PC enters the pitching motion, until the ball object is released from the pitcher character PC. To enter the pitching motion means to start a motion of the pitcher character PC swinging up or raising its foot, and is a motion performed before the ball object is released from the pitcher character PC. The pitching course can be predicted by the user by moving the meet cursor MC as described below.

The user moves the meet cursor MC to the position of the pitching course that he/she expected from the initial display of the meet cursor MC in the center of the strike zone SZ until the release of the ball object from the pitcher character PC. Do the operation. For example, when the user predicts the out course, as shown in FIG. 3, the meat cursor MC is moved from the initial position in the direction of the right batter's out course (to the right) and is stopped at the position of the out course. That is, the meet cursor MC is made to stand by at the position of the out course predicted by the user. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC is automatically set as the predicted area ER where the ball object reaches. For example, the strike zone SZ is divided into three vertically divided columns of three divided areas (in-course first divided area DR1, out-course second divided area DR2, and central third divided area DR3). As illustrated, the second segmented region DR2 (the vertical line at the right end) of the out course where the meet cursor MC is present is automatically set as the predicted region ER. In the figure, the set predicted area ER is indicated by hatching. Here, if the position of the meet cursor MC is present at any position within the second segmented region DR2 regardless of its height position, the second segmented region DR2 is set as the predicted region ER.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 5, if the meet cursor MC moved by the user is present in the first segmented region DR1 (vertical row at the left end) of the in-course, the first cursor regardless of the height of the first segmented region DR1. The divided area DR1 is set as the predicted area ER. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 6, if the meet cursor MC moved by the user is present in the central third divisional region DR3 (vertical one vertical line), the third divisional part is irrelevant regardless of its height position. The area DR3 is set as the expected area ER.

Although the meat cursor MC has a certain area range, it is possible to determine in which divided area in the strike zone SZ the meat cursor MC exists based on the position of its reference point (for example, the center point of the meat cursor MC). it can.

In addition, when the meet cursor MC is initially displayed in the center of the strike zone SZ and is waited in the center of the strike zone SZ without moving the ball cursor until the ball object is released by the pitcher character PC, The area ER is not set. As a variation, when the meat cursor MC is initially displayed in the center of the strike zone SZ, the central third divided area DR3 in which the meat cursor MC exists may be set as the expected area ER by default. Is.

In the examples of FIGS. 4 to 6, the strike zone SZ is divided into three columns to predict the in-course, the out-course, or the middle pitching course, but the specification is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the strike zone SZ is divided into three laterally divided areas (first lower divided area DR1, higher second divided area DR2, central third divided area DR3). Therefore, the sectioned area where the meat cursor MC is present may be set as the specification as the prediction area ER, that is, the height prediction can be performed. Alternatively, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the strike zone SZ is divided into nine divided regions DR1 to DR9, which are divided into nine equal parts in a matrix, and the divided region where the meet cursor MC is present is set as the predicted region ER. It may be a specification. Alternatively, the strike zone SZ may be divided into finer divisional areas such as 12 divisions and 16 divisions so that the course can be predicted in a smaller range.

In this way, the user can set the predicted area ER simply by performing an operation of moving the meet cursor MC before the pitch, and stopping the meet cursor MC at the position of the pitch course expected by the user. Here, the expected area ER is not set while the meat cursor MC is moving, and the game device 10 determines that the meat cursor MC is stationary for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds to 1.0 seconds). It is preferable that the predicted area ER be set when such a case is performed. As a result, it is possible to avoid the unexpected area ER being set unnecessarily while the meat cursor MC is moving, and to avoid noise during the operation based on the user's shaking or the like, and the expected area ER can be set as intended by the user. It will be possible.

When the prediction area ER is set as described above and the course prediction of the user is confirmed, the color of the meat cursor MC changes from, for example, white to yellow, and the prediction area ER is set for the user. Is notified. Not only the change of the color of the meet cursor MC but also the change of the density or the brightness, blinking, or the like may be informed that the predicted region ER is set.

Further, at the timing when the predicted area ER is set, the color, the density, the brightness, etc. of the predicted area ER change, or the predicted area ER blinks, and the user can determine which area is set as the predicted area ER. It is becoming clearer. The change in the display state of the prediction area ER may be continued for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) from the timing when the prediction area ER is set, and then the display state may be returned to the original display state. You may make it continue during the period when it is performed.

For example, in the strike zone SZ, there may be a case where a predetermined color is added to the specialty course area or the poor course area of the batter character BC. In such a case, if the expected area ER is colored, it may overlap with the display of other additional information such as the specialty course area, and the visibility of the strike zone SZ may be deteriorated. Therefore, in such a case, by adding a color or the like to the prediction area ER for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) from the timing when the prediction area ER is set, and then deleting the color or the like of the prediction area ER, The visibility of the strike zone SZ can be secured. Even in this case, since the display state of the meet cursor MC differs depending on whether or not the prediction area ER is set, the user is currently setting the prediction area ER by the color of the meet cursor MC or the like. It can be determined whether or not there is.

An example of canceling the predicted area ER set as described above will be described. Basically, after the prediction area ER is set, the setting of the prediction area ER is not canceled unless the cancellation condition is satisfied. For example, the current setting of the predicted area ER may be released by a predetermined operation such as pressing a predetermined release button. However, in order to simplify the operability for the user, it is preferable that the setting of the prediction area ER can be canceled only by operating the meet cursor MC. An example of canceling the setting of the prediction area ER by operating the meat cursor MC is as follows.

A predetermined area in the screen is predetermined as a non-prediction area for not setting the prediction area ER or canceling the setting of the prediction area ER that has already been set. If the meet cursor MC is present in the non-predictive area before the ball object is released from the pitcher character PC, the predictive area ER is not set, or the set preset predictive area ER is released. It For example, the region including the center of the strike zone SZ can be the non-predicted region. As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 9, the strike zone SZ is evenly divided into three areas in three columns, and from the left, the first divided area DR1, the non-predicted area NR, and the second divided area. It is DR2. In this example, the entire vertical column in the center of the strike zone SZ is the non-prediction area NR, and therefore, if the meet cursor MC is present in the non-prediction area NR, the prediction area ER is not set.

For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the user keeps the meat cursor MC stationary in the first segmented region DR1 of the strike zone SZ for a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second) or more, the first segmented region DR1 becomes It is assumed that the prediction area ER is set (upper part of FIG. 10). After that, when the user moves the meet cursor MC to a position within the non-predicted region NR and keeps it at that position for a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second) or longer, the predicted region ER set in the first segmented region DR1 Is canceled (middle part of FIG. 10). As a result, the user is not in the course prediction. For example, after that, when the ball object is released from the pitcher character PC in a state where the meet cursor MC is on standby in the non-prediction area NR, the user has not predicted the course. On the other hand, after the prediction area ER is released, for example, when the user moves the meet cursor MC to a position in the second segmented area DR2 of the strike zone SZ, and rests at that position for a predetermined time (for example, 1.0 second) or more. , The second divided region DR2 is reset as the predicted region ER (lower part of FIG. 10).

In this way, during the predictable period (until the ball object is released from the pitcher character PC), the meat cursor MC is allowed to exist in the non-predictive area NR provided in advance in the screen, so that the predictive area can be easily obtained. It is possible to unset the ER or cancel the setting of the predicted area ER. The user can set and cancel the prediction region ER as many times as long as the prediction is possible.

Note that the non-predicted area NR is not limited to the vertical single row in the center of the strike zone SZ as in the example of FIG. 9 or FIG. 10, and may be located anywhere in the area where the meat cursor MC can move. Can be provided. For example, the central mass obtained by dividing the strike zone SZ into nine in a matrix may be used as the non-predictive region NR. Alternatively, a region (ball zone) outside the strike zone SZ may be the non-predicted region NR.

It should be noted that when two users are in a communication match, the user operating the pitcher character PC cannot see the screens of the users operating the batter character BC (for example, the screens of FIGS. 2 to 6). It is unknown whether or not the user on the batter side predicted a pitching course, and which pitching course was predicted.

FIG. 11 shows the screen D20 viewed from the pitcher side to the batter side, and the opponent user who operates the pitcher character PC plays the game while watching the screen D20. The pitcher side user can select a pitch type and a pitching course before the pitching. For example, a pitch type selection icon (not shown) is displayed on the screen, and a pitch type to be pitched can be determined from a plurality of pitch types held by the pitcher character PC. When the pitch type is determined, the pitcher character PC enters a pitching motion. For example, thereafter, the user can specify the pitching course before the pitcher character PC releases the ball. On the screen, a strike zone SZ and a course designation cursor AC for designating a pitching course are displayed. For example, the user on the pitcher side can specify the pitching course by operating the controller (analog stick or direction key) to move the course specifying cursor AC.

In the case of the screen-integrated type game device 10, if the screen is a touch panel, the user can specify the contact position as a pitching course by touching the screen with a finger or a stylus pen. Good.

After the pitching course is designated as described above, the pitcher character PC starts pitching and releases the ball object BL by the user on the pitcher side pressing the pitching start button of the controller. Note that in FIG. 11, the strike zone SZ and the course designation cursor AC are displayed for convenience, but these displays may be erased after the ball object BL is released, for example.

When the user on the batter side hits in the CPU battle mode, the CPU of the game device 10 automatically determines the movement parameters of the ball such as the type of pitch and the pitching course.

The game device 10 calculates the trajectory of the ball object BL released from the pitcher character PC based on the pitch type and pitch course selected by the user on the pitcher side, and moves the ball toward the home base. The game device 10 calculates the trajectory of the ball object BL released from the pitcher character PC based on not only the type of pitch and the pitching course but also the ability parameters (ball speed, control, change level, etc.) of the pitcher character PC. May be. A known algorithm can be applied to the calculation of the trajectory of the ball object BL.

In the above, an example in which the user on the pitcher side selects a pitch type and a pitching course is shown, but a simpler baseball game in which the pitcher character PC starts pitching by selecting only the pitching course. You can also do it.

By the way, since the user who operates the batter character BC cannot see the screen of the game device 10 on the pitcher side (the screen of FIG. 11), he or she does not know which ball type or pitching course the opponent has selected. Also in the CPU battle mode, the user does not know which type of pitch or pitch course has been automatically selected by the CPU of the game apparatus 10.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a screen D10 displayed on the batter-side user's game device 10 immediately after the pitcher character PC throws the ball object BL. The user operating the batter character BC moves the meet cursor MC so as to overlap the ball object BL thrown by the pitcher character PC, and presses the swing button at a timing at which the ball object BL can be hit, thereby moving the ball object BL to the ball object BL. You can hit it back. Here, the timing at which the ball object BL can be hit can be a predetermined hittable time zone (for example, 4 frame periods) in which the ball object BL passes near the batter character BC. The one frame period is, for example, 1/60 second.

Since it is difficult to place the meet cursor MC on the ball object BL moving in the three-dimensional game space, immediately after the pitcher character PC pitches the ball object BL or after a predetermined time has elapsed from the pitching. The arrival point area AP indicating the expected position of the ball object BL may be displayed on the plane where the strike zone SZ is present. The arrival point area AP is also called a landing point, a hitting point, or the like.

The meat cursor MC, the strike zone SZ, and the arrival point area AP are semi-transparent so as not to obstruct the display of the moving ball object BL. The strike zone SZ may be deleted after the pitcher character PC starts the pitching motion or after the pitcher character PC sends out the ball object BL. This is to make it easier to see other objects that are superimposed and displayed on the strike zone SZ during pitching.

Basically, the following conditions (a) and (b) are required to hit (return) the ball object BL.

(A) The ball object BL overlaps the meet cursor MC. Alternatively, the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC are within a predetermined distance range.

(B) A predetermined bat swing operation is performed by the user in a predetermined batting time period in which the ball object BL passes near the batter character BC.

In other words, the bat swing operation is performed at the timing when the ball object BL reaches the strike zone SZ or its vicinity (the arrival point area AP and the ball object BL substantially overlap each other). is there.

With regard to the condition (a), if the ball object BL and the meat cursor MC are separated from each other, or separated from each other by a predetermined distance or more, a bat swing will result in a miss. Regarding the condition (b), if the timing of the bat swing deviates from the predetermined possible hitting time zone and is too early or too late, the ball will be missed, as in the case of a real baseball hit.

In addition to the game specification that cannot be hit unless both the conditions (a) and (b) are satisfied, a game specification that can be hit if only the condition (a) is satisfied may be set. it can.

When the hit is successful, the content of the hit or the result of the hit is determined based on the positional relationship between the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, when the upper side of the meat cursor MC overlaps the lower side of the ball object BL, the angle of the hit ball increases and the hit result is a flying ball (fly or liner). Further, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 14, when the lower side of the meat cursor MC overlaps with the upper side of the ball object BL, the angle of the hit ball is lowered, and the hit result is a jumble. In addition, the closer the center of the meet cursor MC and the center of the ball object BL are, the stronger the hit ball becomes, and the higher the probability of a hit or a home run.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 15, a bat cursor BT larger than the meet cursor MC exists around the meat cursor MC, and even if the ball object BL does not overlap the meet cursor MC, it overlaps the bat cursor BT. If it is, you may be able to hit. Here, the area of the bat cursor BT outside the meet cursor MC is a rough hit area, and the hit ball is weaker than the area of the meet cursor MC.

Further, for example, when the timing of the bat swing operation is near the middle of the possible hitting time, it is a hit in the center direction, if it is earlier than that, it is a so-called pulling hit, and if it is later than that, it is a so-called hitting hit. You may do it. Thus, the direction of the hit ball may be influenced by the timing of the bat swing operation.

Furthermore, the game device 10 may calculate the trajectory of the ball object BL hit back in consideration of the ability parameters (power, trajectory, etc.) of the batter character BC. A known algorithm can be applied to the calculation of the trajectory of the hit ball object BL.

Then, even if the positional relationship between the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC is the same, the case where the ball object BL is hit within the predicted area ER and the case where the ball object BL is hit outside the predicted area ER. Then, the content of the hit or the result for the hit is different. For example, the hit in the predicted area ER is stronger than in normal times (when not predicted), and any one of the strength, speed, and flight distance of the hit ball, a combination thereof, or all (in other words, hit ball Strength, speed, and/or flight distance). That is, when the user's pitching course prediction is correct, there is a merit that the game is more advantageous than when the prediction is not made or when the prediction is disappointing. Here, the above-mentioned "game advantage" means that, for example, the setting in the game is more advantageous to the user than when the user did not make a prediction or when the prediction was not made. On the other hand, the hit outside the predicted area ER becomes weaker than usual, and at least one of the strength, speed, and flight distance of the hit ball becomes smaller than usual. In other words, if the user's pitching course is not predicted, there is a disadvantage that the game is more disadvantageous than if the user did not make the prediction or if the prediction was not made. Here, the “game disadvantage” means that, for example, the game setting is disadvantageous to the user.

In addition, the merit that the result of the hit within the predicted area ER is always a hit (any one of a single hit, a double hit, a third hit, and a home run) may be generated. Alternatively, as a result of the hit in the prediction area ER, there is a merit that the probability of a hit is higher than in a normal time (when not predicted), the error rate of defense of the opponent team is higher, and the like. May be. On the other hand, as a result of hitting outside the predicted area ER, there are disadvantages such as a lower probability of hit than in a normal time (when not predicted), a lower defensive error rate of the opponent team, and the like. May be.

The game according to the present embodiment is not limited to the game device 10 such as a stationary/portable game-dedicated device or a personal computer, but a game device including a touch-operable display unit (touch panel, etc.) such as a smartphone. It is also applicable to 10. In the game device 10 whose screen is a touch panel, the user can also touch the screen with an indicator such as a finger or a pen to perform a movement operation of the meet cursor MC displayed on the screen. Here, it is also possible for the user to directly place the finger on the meet cursor MC and perform the moving operation. However, in this case, the above-mentioned meet cursor MC, the ball object BL, and the reaching point area AP are partially hidden by the user's finger, which hinders the operability.

Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 16, it is preferable to display an operation icon OA for performing a movement operation of the meet cursor MC at a position on the screen different from the movement range of the meet cursor MC. In this configuration, the meet cursor MC moves in conjunction with the displacement of the operation icon OA while maintaining the relative positional relationship with the operation icon OA. The operation icon OA can be moved by dragging the finger without touching the screen with the finger F in contact with the operation icon OA on the screen. Therefore, the user does not directly contact the meet cursor MC but directly touches the operation icon OA displayed in a different area with the finger F to drag the operation cursor OA that is linked to the operation icon OA. Can be moved automatically.

Since the ball object BL thrown by the pitcher character PC approaches the strike zone SZ, the user touches the operation icon OA on the screen while observing the timing when the ball object BL arrives at the strike zone SZ. Release your finger F from the screen. As shown in FIG. 17, the bat swing of the batter character BC is performed when the user releases the finger F from the screen. That is, the bat swing operation in this configuration is to release the finger F from the screen. As described above, in the present configuration, both the movement operation of the meat cursor MC and the butt swing operation can be smoothly performed by dragging and dropping one finger F. Moreover, since the display of the meet cursor MC, the ball object BL, and the reaching point area AP is not blocked by the finger F, high operability with excellent screen visibility can be realized.

Then, by merely moving the meet cursor MC with the finger F until the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC, as described above, the predetermined area corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC is set as the expected area ER. It That is, with the touch operation of one finger F, all operations of setting and canceling the predicted area ER, moving the meet cursor MC, and designating the hitting timing can be performed.

For example, when the user predicts the in-course, it is considered that the meet cursor MC is moved to the in-course position and waits before the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC. This is because the user holds the meat cursor MC in the expected course in advance, so that if the prediction is correct, the ball object BL can be accurately captured only by finely adjusting the position of the meat cursor MC. Because you can. Therefore, the position of the meet cursor MC that the user moves and stands by (stationary) before the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC is regarded as the pitch course predicted by the user, and corresponds to the position of the meet cursor MC. The area to be moved is automatically set as the expected area ER that the meat cursor MC reaches. That is, the predicted area ER is automatically set by the user's intuitive intention/action of moving the meet cursor MC toward the pitching course predicted by the user. In other words, when the user reads (anticipates) the pitching course before the pitching and moves the meet cursor MC toward the read course, the batting for reading the pitching course is automatically activated. In the game of the present embodiment, a dedicated operation only for prediction is unnecessary, and the user's operation can be simplified. The configuration and the like of the game device 10 as an example of a game control device that realizes this will be described below.

(Hardware configuration of game device)
FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the game device 10. The game device 10 mainly includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, an auxiliary storage device 14, a communication control unit 15, and an operation unit 16. An image processing unit 17 and a sound processing unit 18, which are connected to each other via a bus line 19 including an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. Although an interface circuit is interposed between the bus line 19 and each component as necessary, the interface circuit is not shown here. The game device 10 also includes a display unit 20 and a voice output unit 21.

The CPU 11 interprets and executes the commands of the game program and controls the entire game device 10. The ROM 12 stores programs and data necessary for basic operation control of the game device 10. The RAM 13 stores various programs and data and secures a work area for the CPU 11.

The auxiliary storage device 14 is a storage device that stores a game program, various data, and the like. As the auxiliary storage device 14, for example, a hard disk drive or a flash memory drive can be used.

The communication control unit 15 includes a communication interface (not shown) and has a communication control function for performing data communication during game execution. Here, the communication control function for data communication includes, for example, an Internet connection function, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) connection function, and a short-range wireless communication function using a predetermined frequency band (for example, a frequency band of 2.4 GHz). Etc. are included. The communication control unit 15 transmits a connection signal for connecting the game apparatus 10 to the network N based on a command from the CPU 11, and also receives the information transmitted from the communication partner and supplies the information to the CPU 11.

The operation unit 16 is for a user to input various operation commands to the game apparatus 10. Examples of the operation unit 16 include a position input unit (component of a touch panel) having a touch interface, physical buttons, a controller, an analog stick, a keyboard, a pointing device, and the like. Further, the operation unit 16 capable of inputting voice may be configured by identifying the voice input from the voice input unit such as a microphone.

The image processing unit 17 drives the display unit 20 based on the image display command from the CPU 11 to display the game screen. Various known display devices such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be applied to the display unit 20. Further, the display unit 20 can be a touch panel in which a display device such as a liquid crystal display is combined with a position input unit having a touch interface. When the display unit 20 is configured as a touch panel, the image processing unit 17 includes a touch input detection unit (not shown). When a pointer such as a finger or a pen touches the screen, the touch input detection unit detects the contact position coordinates on the screen and supplies a coordinate signal to the CPU 11. As a result, the contact position on the screen of the display unit 20 is recognized by the CPU 11.

The sound processing unit 18 generates an analog audio signal based on the sounding instruction from the CPU 11 and outputs it to the audio output unit 21.

(Hardware configuration of server)
FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server 30. The server 30 mainly includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an auxiliary storage device 34, and a communication control unit 35, which are mutually connected via a bus line 36 including an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. It is connected to the. Although an interface circuit is interposed between the bus line 36 and each constituent element as needed, the interface circuit is not shown here.

The CPU 31 interprets and executes instructions of system software and application software, and controls the entire server 30. The ROM 32 stores programs and the like necessary for basic operation control of the server 30. The RAM 13 stores various programs and data and secures a work area for the CPU 31. The auxiliary storage device 34 is a storage device that stores programs, various data, and the like. As the auxiliary storage device 34, for example, a hard disk drive or the like can be used.

The communication control unit 35 includes a communication interface (not shown), and controls communication with each game device 10-n via the network N. The communication control unit 35 also controls communication with other servers (not shown) connected to the network N. For example, when the server 30 has a system configuration incorporated in a social networking service (SNS), the communication control unit 35 of the server 30 controls communication with the SNS server.

The server 30 may be composed of a single computer, or may be a function-distributed structure in which each function of the server 30 is distributed to a plurality of servers. Alternatively, a plurality of servers 30 may be provided on the network N for redundancy (multiplexing) to provide a load distribution type configuration.

In the present embodiment, the server 30 is assumed to have a login authentication function, a function for managing information (game history, ranking, etc.) regarding the game of each user, a matching processing function during communication competition, and the like, and the main games Regarding the program, a configuration example executed in the game device 10 will be described. Therefore, the functional configuration of the game device 10 will be described below.

(Functional configuration of game device)
FIG. 20 is a schematic functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game device 10. The game apparatus 10 basically includes input management means 110, execution means 120, output management means 130, character management means 140, user information management means 150, communication management means 160, and the like. Each of these means is basically realized by the CPU 11 of the game device 10 executing the program according to the present embodiment.

The input management unit 110 outputs information regarding the operation via the operation unit 16 to the execution unit 120. The executing unit 120 executes various calculations and data processing based on the information about the operation, the information received from the server 30 or the other game device 10, and the like. The details of the function of the executing means 120 will be described later. The information on the processing result executed by the execution unit 120 is stored in a predetermined area of a storage device (RAM 13, auxiliary storage device 14, etc.). The output management unit 130 controls various outputs via the image processing unit 17 and the sound processing unit 18. For example, the output management unit 130 controls the image processing unit 17 to display the game screen on the display unit 20, or controls the sound processing unit 18 to output the sound effect during the game play from the sound output unit 21. I will let you.

The character management means 140 has a function of managing all player characters in the game based on a character database (hereinafter referred to as a character DB). The character DB is stored in the RAM 13 or the auxiliary storage device 14. Alternatively, the character DB may exist in the server 30, and the game device 10 may access the server 30 to download the required player character information via the server 30.

The character DB in the baseball game stores information such as player names, positions (defense positions), ability parameters, and the like in association with identification information (player ID) that uniquely identifies each player character. In the case of a pitcher character, in association with the player ID (character identification information), the player name, position, ball speed, ball control, multiple pitchable pitches, parameter value of each pitch, grip strength consumption of each pitch , Information such as a character image is stored. These various parameters are set to different values depending on the pitcher character. Further, in the case of a fielder character, in association with the player ID, the player name, position, ability parameters (skillful hitting ability, long hitting ability, running ability, defensive ability, etc.), information about strengths/ weaknesses in the pitching course, pitcher Compatibility information, special abilities, character images, etc. are stored. Different values are set for these various parameters depending on each fielder character.

The user information management means 150 stores and manages information about the user's game in a storage device (RAM 13, auxiliary storage device 14, etc.). For example, the user information management unit 150 stores the information such as the login ID, the password, and the user name in the storage device in association with the user ID that uniquely identifies each user. Items managed by the user information management unit 150 differ depending on the type and content of the game. The user information management unit 150 also stores various information such as the game level of the user, the acquired points, information about the user's friends (friends), various parameters during the game, and save data after the game in the storage device. to manage. Further, the user information management means 150 downloads from the server 30 any information about the game of the user stored in the server 30.

The communication management unit 160 has a function of managing information communication with the server 30 and other game devices 10 and the like via the communication control unit 15.

Next, main functions of the executing means 120 of the game device 10 will be described in detail.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, the executing means 120 of the game apparatus 10 mainly includes an action applying section moving means 121, an expected area setting means 122, an action control means 123, and the like.

The action imparting unit moving means 121 has a function of moving the action imparting unit for imparting an action to the moving body in accordance with a user operation. Here, the "moving body" is, for example, a character, an item, or an object that moves in the game screen or the game space.

For example, a character, an item, or an object that moves toward a virtual area or point on the game screen or the game space corresponds to an example of a moving body. For example, in a baseball game, the ball object BL thrown toward the strike zone SZ corresponds to an example of a moving body. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a ball object kicked toward a soccer goal corresponds to an example of a moving body. Characters or items such as fighter planes, missiles, UFOs, and monsters flying toward the opponent's base or the like correspond to an example of a moving body. Characters or items such as insects, birds, fish, animals, and virtual creatures that move toward a target area such as a forest or an island correspond to an example of a moving body.

Further, for example, a character, an item, or an object that moves in a game screen or a game space in an arbitrary direction corresponds to an example of a moving body. For example, a character or item such as a monster, a fighter, a missile, a submarine, a UFO, an insect, a bird, a fish, an animal, or a virtual creature that moves freely in the air, on the ground, in the ground, or under the sea may be mentioned as a moving object. it can.

Further, the “action” means exerting a force on the moving body or having an influence on the moving body by having a relationship with the moving body.

For example, applying a force that changes the moving direction of the moving body to the moving body corresponds to an example of the action. For example, hitting (returning) the moving body corresponds to an example of the action.

Further, for example, applying rotation to the moving body, capturing, destroying, deforming, or the like also corresponds to an example of the action. Furthermore, changing the parameters or attributes of the mobile body also corresponds to an example of the action. For example, changing the color, size, or ability of the moving body is also an example of the action.

In addition, the “action imparting unit” is, for example, a two-dimensional area or a three-dimensional area provided in a game screen or in a game space that can exert an action on the moving body when the moving body is overlapped with or in contact with the moving body. It is a region, point or object.

For example, an area or an object in which the moving direction of the moving body can be changed when the moving body overlaps or contacts the moving body corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. For example, in a baseball game, the meet cursor MC for hitting the ball object BL overlaid or in contact with the pitched ball object BL as an example of a moving body corresponds to an example of an action imparting unit. Further, for example, in a tennis game, a racket cursor for hitting a served ball over or in contact with the served ball, which is an example of a moving object, corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit.

Further, for example, when the moving object is overlapped with or in contact with the moving object, an area or an object capable of capturing, destroying, deforming, adding rotation, changing parameters or attributes of the moving object is an action applying unit. This corresponds to an example. For example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a goalkeeper cursor, which is an example of a moving object and catches the ball overlaid on or in contact with the kicked ball, corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. Further, for example, assuming a game of capturing insects and virtual characters, a cursor imitating a net, a bag, a box, a stick or the like for capturing insects or characters corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. .. Further, for example, when a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter is assumed, the aiming at the missile or the fighter corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. Further, for example, an object such as a magic wand that changes the color or shape of the moving body when the moving body overlaps or comes into contact with the moving body corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit.

Further, the "user" is, for example, a person who operates the game, and can also be called a game player.

For example, a person who operates a character, an item, or an object that gives an action to a moving body corresponds to an example of a user.

For example, a person who operates the batter character BC who hits the ball object BL in a baseball game corresponds to an example of a user. A person who directly operates the bat object BO without using the batter character BC is also an example of the user. In addition, a person who operates a goalkeeper character who captures a ball object kicked in a soccer game, a person who operates a weapon item for pursuit in a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter, and the like correspond to an example of a user.

In the example of the baseball game described above, the action imparting unit moving means 121 operates the meet cursor MC for hitting the ball object BL by a user operation, for example, an analog stick, a direction key, a pointing device such as a mouse, or the like, Alternatively, it is moved according to the touch operation on the touch panel. For example, the current position of the meet cursor MC moving on the screen is managed as the position of the reference point of the meet cursor MC (for example, the center point of the meet cursor MC). When the position of the meat cursor MC is moved by the action applying unit moving means 121, the CPU 11 of the game apparatus 10 changes the position of the meat cursor MC at predetermined time (sampling time) intervals, for example, every 1/60 seconds. Storage control is performed to store information (coordinate information) in a storage device (RAM 13 or the like). In the storage device, only the latest position coordinates of the meet cursor MC may be sequentially overwritten and stored, or all position coordinates acquired at each sampling time may be stored in time series.

Next, the predicted area setting means 122 of FIG. 20 will be described. The predicted area setting unit 122 has a function of setting a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the operation applying unit as an expected area to be reached by the moving body before applying the operation to the moving body.

Here, the “predicted area” refers to, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area in the screen that the user has predicted to be an area where the moving body reaches, passes, or appears. Here, the region may include a point having no area or volume.

For example, the area that the user has predicted to be the area where the moving body is coming and the moving body reaches, passes through or appears in the movable area of the action imparting unit is the “predicted area”. This corresponds to an example.

For example, in the baseball game, the area in the strike zone SZ that the user predicted that the pitched ball object BL would pass through corresponds to an example of the “predicted area”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, an area in front of the soccer goal predicted by the user when the kicked ball object arrives corresponds to an example of an “anticipated area”. Further, for example, in a game in which a missile or a fighter is shot down, the area predicted by the user when the missile or the like reaches or passes corresponds to an example of the “predicted area”. Further, for example, in a game in which UFOs are shot down, a region in which the user predicted that a UFO that had disappeared will appear again corresponds to an example of the “predicted region”.

Further, “the moving body reaches the predicted area” means that the moving body reaches at least some position in the predicted area, for example. Not only when the moving object reaches the prediction area without disappearing from the screen, but also when the moving object such as UFO disappears from the screen and appears in the prediction area again, the "moving object reaches the prediction area" This corresponds to an example.

After the moving body reaches the expected area, the moving body may be in any state. For example, a moving body that has reached the prediction area may pass through the prediction area. In addition, for example, a moving object that has reached the prediction area may stop in the prediction area, change its movement direction (be hit back) in the prediction area, or be destroyed and disappear in the prediction area. There may be

As described above, the appearance of the moving body in the predicted area or the passing of the predicted area is one mode in which “the moving body reaches the predicted area”.

The “before the action is given to the moving body” means, for example, a period before the action can be given to the moving body. Here, all the periods up to immediately before the action is given may be the subject, or a specific period or time before the action is given may be the subject. In other words, “before the action is given to the moving body” is a predictable period in which the prediction area can be set.

For example, the period until the moving body starts moving corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”.

For example, in a baseball game, the period until the pitcher character PC releases the ball object BL corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, the period until the kicker character kicks the ball object corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, in the tennis game, the period until the server character serves the ball object corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, for example, in a game in which a missile or a fighter is shot down, a period until the missile or the like approaches within a predetermined distance corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”.

The “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action giving unit” means, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional region in the screen uniquely determined by the position of the action giving unit. Here, the region may include a point having no area or volume.

For example, at least a part of the screen is divided into a plurality of regions, and the region in which the action imparting unit is present can be set as the “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting unit”. ..

For example, at least a part of the movable predetermined range of the action imparting section is divided into a plurality of regions, and an area in which the action imparting section is present is a "predetermined position corresponding to the position of the action imparting section". Corresponding to an example of "region of".

For example, in a baseball game, the strike zone SZ is divided into a plurality of areas, and the area in which the action imparting section exists is an example of “a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting section”. Equivalent to. Further, for example, in a soccer game, a region in front of a soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) is divided into a plurality of regions, and a region in which the action imparting section exists among the plurality of regions. Corresponds to an example of the “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting portion”.

Further, for example, an area having a predetermined shape (for example, a circle, a quadrangle, a sphere, a rectangular parallelepiped, etc.) centering on the position of the action giving portion can be set as the “predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action giving portion”.

It is only necessary that the corresponding predetermined area is determined by the position of the action giving portion, and for example, the positional relationship between the position of the action giving portion and the predetermined area may be separated. For example, in a baseball game, as shown in FIG. 21, the meet cursor MC initially displayed in the center (initial position) of the strike zone SZ is located at an in-course position outside the strike zone SZ before the start of the pitch. Suppose that it was moved to and stopped (stationary) at that position. In this case, the first sectioned region DR1 on the in-course side in the strike zone SZ away from the position of the meet cursor MC becomes a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC, and the expected region ER appears in the first sectioned region DR1. Is set. A region MR indicated by a one-dot chain line outside the strike zone SZ indicates a region where the meat cursor MC can move (a region where the bat can reach).

When the predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action applying unit is set as the predicted area that the moving body will reach, the predicted area setting unit 122 stores the information of the predicted area in the storage device (RAM 13 or the like). Here, as the information of the expected area stored in the storage device, there is, for example, identification information (section area ID) that can uniquely identify the section area in the strike zone SZ. Alternatively, when the size or area of the prediction area is constant, the coordinate information of the reference point (center point or the like) of the prediction area may be used.

In addition, the predicted area setting unit 122 is configured such that, before the action is given to the moving body, the action giving unit is configured to divide at least a part of a movable range of the action giving unit into a plurality of divided regions. It has a function of determining which one of them exists, and setting the divided area in which the action imparting section exists as the predicted area.

Here, the “predetermined range” refers to, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area in the screen in which the action imparting unit can move.

For example, a region in which the moving body is facing and the action applying unit is movable corresponds to an example of the “predetermined range”.

For example, in a baseball game, the strike zone SZ, or an area including the strike zone SZ, within which the bat can reach (see the area MR in FIG. 21) can be set to a predetermined range. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, an area in front of the goal where the goalkeeper can capture or play the ball (for example, an area having the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) can be set as the predetermined range. Further, in the tennis game, the range (area) that the racket of the character receiving the serve can reach can be set to a predetermined range. Further, for example, when a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter is assumed, the screen of the sighting device or the scope aiming at the missile or the fighter can be set to a predetermined range. In other games as well, an arbitrary area within the screen displayed by the display unit 20 can be set as the predetermined range.

Further, the "divided area" means, for example, each area formed by dividing a predetermined range in the screen into two or more. The “section area” can be a two-dimensional area on a two-dimensional plane or in a three-dimensional space. Alternatively, the “sectioned area” can be a three-dimensional area in a three-dimensional space. In addition, the “sectioned region” may have any two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape such as a triangle, a quadrangle, a triangular pyramid, or a rectangular parallelepiped.

For example, each area obtained by dividing a predetermined area in which the moving body is facing into a plurality of areas corresponds to an example of the “divided area”.

For example, in a baseball game, each area formed by dividing the strike zone SZ into a plurality of areas (for example, divided into three vertical columns, three horizontal rows, nine divided matrix, etc.) is an example of a “divided area”. (See FIGS. 4 to 8). Further, for example, in a soccer game, each region obtained by dividing a region in front of a soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) into a plurality of regions corresponds to an example of a “segmented region”.

In the example of the above-described baseball game shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, when the predictive area setting means 122 causes the meet cursor MC existing at the initial position (for example, the center of the strike zone SZ) to be moved by the operation of the user and stopped. Then, it is determined which one of the divided areas DR1 to DR3 forming the strike zone SZ the position coordinate of the stopped meet cursor MC is. Here, the determination as to whether or not the meet cursor MC is stationary can be made by determining whether or not the moving speed of the meet cursor MC has become equal to or less than a threshold value, as will be described later. Further, the position coordinates of the meet cursor MC can be the position coordinates of a reference point of the meet cursor MC (for example, the center point of the meet cursor MC). The reference point is not limited to the center point of the meet cursor MC, and any point of the meet cursor MC such as the lower end point and the upper end point of the meet cursor MC can be used as the reference point. Then, the predicted area setting means 122 sets the segmented area where the position coordinates of the meet cursor MC are present as the predicted area ER. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, when the position of the meet cursor MC is present in the first sectioned region DR1 on the in-course side of the strike zone SZ, the predicted region setting means 122 causes the predictive region setting means 122 to be irrespective of the position of the meet cursor MC. , The first segmented region DR1 is set as the predicted region ER.

In addition, when the prediction area ER is set, the prediction area setting unit 122 stores, in the RAM 13, the section area ID of the section area in which the position coordinates of the meet cursor MC are present, as the information of the prediction area ER.

As described above, it is preferable that the predicted area setting unit 122 sets the partitioned area, in which the action imparting portion such as the meet cursor MC exists, among the plurality of partitioned areas, as the predicted area ER. With this configuration, the predicted area is set in units of a predetermined divided area, so that the user can easily understand which area is the predicted area.

In addition, when the predicted area setting unit 122 determines that the action applying unit has been stationary for a predetermined time or more before the action is given to the moving body (up to a predetermined timing before the action is given). It is preferable to set the predicted area. Here, the predetermined time is an arbitrary time that is set in advance, and may be, for example, 0.5 seconds to 1.0 seconds.

By the way, when the operation for changing the position of the action applying unit such as the meet cursor MC is performed by tilting the analog stick, for example, it is not easy to stop the action applying unit so as not to move at all. This is due to the structure of the analog stick. That is, the analog stick is always biased to return to the neutral position, and when the analog stick is released, it returns to the neutral position. It is difficult to tilt the analog stick against this urging force and keep the analog stick stationary at a specific position. Therefore, even if the user intends to stop the meat cursor MC at a specific position by operating the analog stick, the meat cursor MC may move slightly. Further, not only the operation with the analog stick but also the operation with the direction keys or the mouse, or the touch operation with the touch panel, even if the user intends to make the meat cursor MC stand still at a specific position, the meat cursor MC may slightly move. It may move.

Therefore, in the game device 10, when determining the state in which the action application unit such as the meet cursor MC is stationary, not only when the action application unit is completely stationary, but the movement speed of the action application unit is equal to or less than the threshold value. It is also possible to determine that the action application unit is stationary even when the movement distance of the action application unit during the predetermined period is equal to or less than the threshold value.

As described above, when the position of the meet cursor MC is moved by the action imparting unit moving means 121, the CPU 11 of the game apparatus 10 moves the position of the meet cursor MC at predetermined time intervals, for example, every 1/60 seconds. Storage control is performed to acquire information (coordinate information) and store it in the RAM 13. Therefore, the predicted area setting means 122 sequentially calculates the moving speed of the meat cursor MC based on the change in the position information of the meat cursor MC during the predictable period before the pitch, and when the moving speed is equal to or less than the threshold value, It is determined that the meat cursor MC is stopped. Alternatively, the predicted area setting means 122 calculates the moving distance of the meat cursor MC during the predetermined period (for example, 5/60 seconds) during the predictable period before the pitch, and the moving distance is equal to or less than the threshold value. In some cases, it is determined that the effect imparting unit is stationary.

For example, in the case of a baseball game, while the user is moving the meet cursor MC, the position (target position) of the pitching course predicted by the user is in the middle of moving the meet cursor MC, or where the user is. It is thought that he may be in the middle of wondering whether to take the meat cursor MC. In the configuration of the present embodiment, while the user is moving the action application unit such as the meet cursor MC, the predicted region is not set, and the action application unit does not perform the predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds to 1. The prediction area is set on condition that the robot is stationary for 0 seconds or more. As a result, it is possible to set the expected area unnecessarily while the action imparting unit is moving, and to avoid noise during operation based on the user's hand shake, etc., and it is possible to set the expected area as the user intended. Become.

In addition, when the action imparting unit is stationary without being moved from the initial position (for example, the center of the strike zone SZ), the predicted region may not be set. In this case, before the application of the action to the moving body (during the predictable period), the prediction area setting unit 122 determines that the action application unit moved from the initial position is stationary for a predetermined time or more, Set the prediction area.

Next, the action control means 123 of FIG. 20 will be described. The action control means 123 has a function of determining the content of action given to the moving body based on the positional relationship between the moving body and the action giving section. Here, the "contents of the action" refers to, for example, the type of action given to the action target (hit, rotation, capture, destruction, deformation, change of parameters and attributes, etc.), its size, direction, etc. ..

For example, the magnitude and direction of the force that changes the moving direction of the moving body corresponds to an example of the content of the action. For example, the magnitude and direction of the striking force applied to the moving object such as the ball object BL correspond to an example of the content of the action.

In addition, the state of the action target and the action after the action is given are also included in the content of the action. For example, when the action is hitting the ball object BL, the moving direction, speed, flight distance, etc. of the ball object BL (hit ball) after being hit are also examples of the content of the action.
In addition, the fact that no action is exerted on the action target (no influence is exerted on the action target) is also included in the content of the action. For example, in a baseball game, “missing”, in which the ball is not hit by the bat and the ball is not acted, corresponds to an example of the action content.

Further, the “contents of action” may include a state resulting from the action. For example, in a baseball game, hits, outs, fouls, defensive errors of the opponent team, and the like as a result of the hit correspond to an example of the content of the action.

For example, it is assumed that the action control unit 123 exerts an action on the moving body when at least a part of the moving body and the action giving unit overlap. In this case, the content of the action on the moving body can be changed according to the degree of overlap between the moving body and the action imparting section. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the smaller the distance between the center of the ball object BL and the center of the meat cursor MC (that is, the larger the overlapping area between the two), the greater at least one of the strength, speed, and flight distance of the hit ball. Determine the content of the hit so that Further, as illustrated in FIG. 13 or FIG. 14, the angle of the hit ball may be determined depending on how the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC overlap. As described above, in the example of FIG. 13, since the upper side of the meet cursor MC overlaps the lower side of the ball object BL, the angle of the hit ball increases and the hit ball becomes a flying ball (fly or liner). Further, in the example of FIG. 14, since the lower side of the meet cursor MC overlaps with the upper side of the ball object BL, the angle of the hit ball is reduced, and the hit ball is hollow.

In addition, in the case of a game that attacks a monster or the like, which is an example of a moving body, the action control means 123 is capable of making a stronger attack on a monster as the distance between the center of the moving body and the center of the action imparting unit is smaller.

Further, the action control unit 123 does not exert an action on the moving body when the moving body and the action imparting section do not overlap (separate from each other) (for example, in the case of a baseball game, the action is missed). , In the case of a monster game, the attack fails.)

Alternatively, the action control means may be configured to exert an action on the moving body when the moving body and the action giving section come into contact with each other. Here, "contact" between the moving body and the action imparting section includes a state in which both "collide" and "contact". A known contact determination (collision determination) algorithm can be applied to the contact (collision) determination between the moving body and the action imparting unit. In this case, if the moving body and the action imparting portion do not contact (abut) with each other, the action may not be given to the moving body.

Alternatively, even if the moving body and the action imparting section are separated from each other, the action of the moving body may be imparted as long as the distance is within a predetermined range. Further, in this case, an action may be given according to the distance between the two. For example, in the example of FIG. 15 described above, the area of the bat cursor BT, which is the range where the bat hits, is virtually provided around the meat cursor MC, and even if the ball object BL is separated from the meat cursor MC. The ball object BL can be hit within the area of the bat cursor BT. Further, the area of the bat cursor BT is a rough hit area, and the larger the distance between the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC, the weaker the hit ball.

Then, even if the positional relationship between the moving body and the action imparting section is the same, the action control means 123 exerts the action on the moving body in the case where the action is given to the moving body within the predicted region and when the action is given to the moving body outside the predicted region. It has a function of controlling the action on the moving body to be different from that given. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the action control unit 123 exerts an acting force on the ball object BL when the pitched ball object BL is hit within the predicted region ER than when it is hit outside the predicted region ER. Is controlled to be large. This produces the effect of setting the prediction area ER.

For example, in the case of a baseball game, when the user's pitching course prediction is correct and the ball object BL is pitched in the prediction area ER, the action control means 123 is more likely than when no prediction was made (or the ball). The control is performed so as to be advantageous in the game (compared to the case where the object BL is thrown outside the expected area ER). Even if the ball object BL is thrown in the expected area ER, if the timing of the bat swing operation is out of the strikable time zone, or if the ball object BL cannot be caught by the meet cursor MC, the hit is made. Although it may not be possible, the action control means 123 performs the following control when the hit is successful in the predicted area ER. For example, the action control unit 123 improves the ability parameter relating to the hitting force of the batter character BC so that the hitting is performed in the expected area ER so that the hitting is stronger than in the normal time (when not expected) (for example, 20%) so that at least one of the strength, speed, and flight distance of the hit ball is greater than in normal times. Alternatively, the action control unit 123 calculates the velocity and the flight distance of the hit ball in the normal state without changing the ability parameter of the batter character BC, and then improves the velocity and the flight distance of the calculation result (for example, 20% improvement). ) May be done.

Alternatively, the action control means 123 may always make the hit result in the predicted area ER a hit (any one of a single hit, a double hit, a third hit, and a home run). Alternatively, the action control means 123 may make the hit result in the predicted area ER higher in the probability of hit than in the normal time (when not predicted), or increase the defensive error rate of the opponent team. The game parameters may be controlled.

On the other hand, when the user's pitching course prediction is missed and the ball object BL is pitched outside the prediction area ER, the action control means 123 is more likely than when no prediction was made (or when the ball object BL is the prediction area ER). The control is performed so that it is disadvantageous in the game (compared to the case of being thrown in). When the ball object BL is thrown outside the expected area ER, one of the strategies is to miss the ball without performing the bat swing operation unless the ball count is 2 strikes. Further, as described above, even if the bat swing operation is performed, if the timing of the bat swing operation is out of the hittable time zone or the ball object BL cannot be caught by the meat cursor MC, the hit cannot be performed. In some cases, if the hit is successful outside the expected area ER, the action control means 123 performs the following control. For example, when the batting is performed outside the predicted area ER, the action control unit 123 lowers (for example, 20% lower) the ability parameter regarding the batting force of the batter character BC compared to the normal time (when not predicted). , At least one of the strength, speed, and flight distance of the hit ball is set to be smaller than usual. Alternatively, the action control unit 123 calculates the speed and the flight distance of a hit ball in a normal state without changing the ability parameter of the batter character BC, and then reduces the speed and the flight distance of the calculation result (for example, 20% reduction). ) May be done.

Alternatively, the action control means 123 may ensure that the result of the hit outside the predicted area ER is a foul ball or out. Alternatively, the action control means 123 may make the hit result outside the predicted area ER have a lower probability of hit than in the normal time (when not predicted), or the defensive error rate of the opponent team may become lower. The game parameters may be controlled.

Further, for example, in a soccer game, the action control means 123 can catch or play the ball with a stronger force than in the normal time (when not expected) in the expected area (thus, there is a high probability that the goal can be blocked). However, outside the prediction area, the force is controlled to be lower than normal (hence the probability of allowing a goal is higher), and the prediction effect is produced.

Next, a preferable configuration capable of canceling the setting of the prediction area will be described. The predicted area setting means 122 does not set the predicted area, or has already set the predicted area, when the effect imparting unit is present in a non-predicted area provided in advance before the action is applied to the moving body. It has a function of canceling the setting of the predicted area. Here, the “non-prediction area” is, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area in the screen which is provided for not setting the prediction area or canceling the setting of the prediction area that has already been set, or It is a point. The "non-predicted area" can be provided at any place as long as it is within the area where the action imparting section is movable.

For example, a specific region in the region where the moving body is facing and the action imparting unit is movable can be set as the “non-predicted region”.

For example, in a baseball game, the area including the center of the strike zone SZ can be set as the “non-predictive area”. Alternatively, the area (ball zone) outside the strike zone SZ may be the “non-predicted area”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a region including the center of a region in front of the soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) can be set as the “non-predictive region”. Also in other various games, for example, a region including the center of the region in which the action imparting unit is movable can be set as the “non-predicted region”.

It should be noted that although the action imparting unit such as the meat cursor MC simply passes through the non-anticipation region without resting in the non-anticipation region, it is possible that the action imparting unit is present in the non-anticipation region. Does not treat the effect imparting unit as existing in the non-anticipation region, simply by passing the effect imparting unit. That is, in order to determine that the effect imparting unit is present in the non-anticipation region, it is preferable that the action imparting unit is stationary in the non-anticipation region. It should be noted that the determination as to whether or not the action imparting unit is stationary can be made by determining whether or not the moving speed of the action imparting unit has become equal to or less than the threshold value, as described above. In addition, the prediction area setting unit 122 determines that the action application unit is not in the non-prediction area when the action application unit determines that the action application unit is stationary for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds to 1.0 second) or more. The setting of the prediction area may be canceled assuming that it exists in the prediction area. This confirms the user's intention to cancel the setting of the prediction area by the state in which the effect imparting unit is stationary in the non-prediction area for a predetermined time or more.

In the example of the baseball game described above, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the central area obtained by dividing the strike zone SZ into three areas in three columns is set in advance as the non-expected area NR. Note that the non-predicted area NR may be a central mass obtained by dividing the strike zone SZ into nine in a matrix. Therefore, when the user keeps the meat cursor MC only in the non-predicted region NR from the initial display of the meat cursor MC in the center of the strike zone SZ until the ball object BL is pitched, the predicted region setting means. 122 does not set the prediction area ER.

Further, once the predicted area ER is set, if the user brings the meet cursor MC into the non-predicted area NR, the predicted area setting means 122 cancels the setting of the predicted area ER. In this case, the predicted area setting means 122 erases the information of the predicted area ER stored in the RAM 13. Alternatively, the prediction area setting unit 122 sets the prediction area ER to the released state by the information (1 bit flag or the like) for managing the presence/absence of the setting of the prediction area ER.

As a method of canceling the setting of the action applying section, it is conceivable to perform a dedicated operation for releasing such as pressing a predetermined release button, but according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the action applying of the meet cursor MC or the like is performed. By placing the section in the non-prediction area, that is, when the user wants to cancel the prediction area, it is only necessary to move the effect imparting section to the non-prediction area adjacent to or close to the prediction area. , You can easily cancel the setting of the prediction area. That is, it is possible to cancel not only the setting of the effect imparting unit but also the setting only by the operation of the effect imparting unit, and the operability is improved.

Next, a configuration will be described in which the user is informed easily of the state in which the predicted area is set. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the executing means 120A of the game apparatus 10 further includes a display control means 124A in addition to the above-described action imparting section moving means 121, expected area setting means 122, action control means 123, and the like. ..

The display control unit 124A has a function of changing the display state of the effect imparting unit depending on whether or not the predicted area is set. Here, the "different display state" means, for example, different colors, densities, and brightness of the objects displayed on the screen. In addition, for example, a static display state (for example, color, density, brightness, etc. do not change over time) and a dynamic display state (for example, color, density, brightness, etc. change periodically and blink). Replacing and is also equivalent to an example of "different display state".

For example, changing the color, the density, the brightness, and the like of the action imparting unit that can change the moving direction of the moving body depending on whether or not the predicted region is set corresponds to an example of “changing the display state”. For example, changing the color or the like of the meet cursor for hitting the ball object depending on whether or not the prediction area is set corresponds to an example of “changing the display state”.

In addition, it is possible to change the color, density, brightness, etc. of various action applying parts such as nets for catching insects, aiming at missiles and fighters depending on whether or not the prediction area is set. This is equivalent to an example.

For example, in a baseball game, each operation of setting, canceling, and hitting the predicted area ER can be performed by operating the meat cursor MC, and the user operates by directing his or her line of sight to the meat cursor MC. In this way, the user is considered to pay attention to the effect imparting unit during the game. In the configuration of the present embodiment, by changing the display state of the effect imparting unit to which the user is gazing depending on whether or not the prediction region is set (for example, the color, the density, the brightness, etc. of the effect imparting unit are changed). It becomes easy for the user to understand whether or not the prediction area is currently set.

(Operation example of game device)
Next, an example of the operation of the game device 10 of the present embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 23 to 27. 23 to 27 show an example of processing relating to a batting in a baseball game.

As shown in FIG. 23, when the batter character BC stands at the bat (S100), the CPU 11 of the game device 10 displays the meet cursor MC at the initial position, for example, in the center of the strike zone SZ as shown in FIG. (S102). As a result, it is possible to predict the pitching course (set the prediction area ER). After that, by the time the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC (until YES in S120), the user performs an operation of moving the meet cursor MC to the position of the pitching course expected by the user, thereby throwing the ball. Can predict the course.

Here, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the strike zone SZ is evenly divided into three regions of three columns, and from the left, a first segmented region DR1, a non-predicted region NR, and a second segmented region DR2. The following shows an example that is set. The first segmented region DR1 is located on the right batter's in-course (left batter's out-course), and the second segmented region DR2 is located on the right batter's out-course (left batter's in-course). Here, the in-course refers to the in-course of a right-handed batter. When the user predicts that the ball will be thrown into the in-course, when the ball object BL moves to the in-course side by the time the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC, and the ball is expected to be thrown into the out-course. It suffices to move the meet cursor MC to the out course side. When the user does not predict the pitching course, the user does not move the meet cursor MC from the initial position or waits for the meet cursor MC in the non-predicted area NR. Hereinafter, returning to the flowchart of FIG. 23, the description of the operation example of the game apparatus 10 will be continued.

The movement operation of the meet cursor MC by the user can be performed before or after the release of the ball object BL from the pitcher character PC, but before the release (NO in S120), the movement operation of the meet cursor MC is performed by the user. If it is opened (YES in S104), the process proceeds to the routines after step S106. That is, in step S106, the game device 10 moves the meet cursor MC on the screen in response to the move operation of the meet cursor MC. Further, the game device 10 determines whether or not the meet cursor MC has been stationary for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) or more (S108). For example, when the moving speed of the meet cursor MC becomes equal to or less than the threshold value, the game device 10 determines that the meet cursor MC is in a stationary state, and determines whether the stationary state has continued for 1 second or more. If YES in step S108, the game device 10 determines whether or not the predicted area ER has already been set (S110). When the predicted area ER is not set yet (NO in S110), the game device 10 proceeds to the predicted area setting process (S112).

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of the predicted area setting process of step S112. The game device 10 determines whether or not the stationary meet cursor MC is present in the first sectioned region DR1 (S150). Here, when the meet cursor MC is present in the first divided area DR1 (YES in S150), the game device 10 sets the first divided area DR1 as the predicted area ER (S152). On the other hand, when the meet cursor MC is not present in the first divided area DR1 (NO in S150), the game device 10 determines whether the meet cursor MC is present in the second divided area DR2 (S154). Here, when the meet cursor MC is present in the second segmented region DR2 (YES in S154), the game device 10 sets the second segmented region DR2 as the predicted region ER (S156).

When the predicted area ER is set in step S152 or S156, the game device 10 changes the color of the meet cursor MC (S158) and notifies the user that the predicted area ER has been set. For example, the color of the meet cursor MC is changed from white, which is the color when the prediction area ER is not set, to yellow after the prediction area ER is set. Instead of or in addition to changing the color, the density or brightness of the meat cursor MC may be changed, or the meat cursor MC may be blinked. Also, the color, density, brightness, etc. of the predicted area ER change for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) from the time when the predicted area ER is set, and it becomes clear to the user which area has been set as the predicted area ER. To be done. The change in the display state of the prediction area ER may be continued during the period when the prediction area ER is set.

On the other hand, when the stationary meat cursor MC does not exist in either the first segmented region DR1 or the second segmented region DR2 (NO in S150 and NO in S154), for example, the meat cursor MC becomes the non-predicted region NR. If it exists, the game device 10 ends the predicted area setting process without setting the predicted area ER. After the predicted area setting process ends, the process returns to step S120 in FIG.

If the predicted area ER is already set in step S110 (YES in step S110), the process proceeds to step S114 in FIG. In this step S114, the game device 10 determines whether or not the meet cursor MC is in the non-predicted area NR. Here, when the meet cursor MC is present in the non-prediction area NR (YES in S114), the game device 10 cancels the setting of the prediction area ER (S116). Then, the game device 10 returns the color of the meet cursor MC to the color when the predicted area ER is not set (S118). Then, it returns to step S120 of FIG.

By the way, when the user continues to move the meet cursor MC moved before the release of the ball object BL until the ball object BL is released for a predetermined time or more without stopping, the NO in step S120 and S104. YES, the loop processing of NO in S106 and S108 is repeated. Therefore, for example, in a state where the predicted area ER is not set, when the meat cursor MC is moved for a predetermined time or longer without being stopped until the ball object BL is released, the predicted area ER is not set. As a variation, if the predicted area ER is not set when the ball object BL is released, the predicted area ER is automatically calculated based on the position of the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released. It is also possible to adopt a configuration that is set as desired. Details of the configuration of this variation will be described later.

When the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC (YES in S120), the game device 10 moves to step S122 in FIG. 25, and the game device 10 executes display control for moving the pitched ball object BL on the screen. After the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC, the user performs an operation of moving the meet cursor MC so as to overlap the moving ball object BL. When the user performs a move operation of the meet cursor MC (YES in S124), the game device 10 moves the meet cursor MC on the screen (S126). Further, when the user performs a bat swing operation such as pressing a swing button before the ball reaches the position of the catcher (YES in S128), the game device 10 causes the batter character BC to swing the bat object BO. The operation is performed (S132). Then, the game device 10 executes a batting result determination process (S134).

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an example of the batting result determination processing in step S134. The game device 10 determines whether or not the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC overlap (S160). Here, if the two do not overlap (NO in S160), the batting result is "missing" (S164).

On the other hand, when the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC overlap (YES in S160), the game device 10 determines whether or not a bat swing operation has been performed during a predetermined possible batting period (S162). Here, when the bat swing operation is not performed during the batting possible period (NO in S162), the batting result is “missing” (S164).

On the other hand, when the bat swing operation is performed during the possible batting period (YES in S162), the game device 10 determines that the ball object BL has hit the bat object BO, and proceeds to the processing of step S166 and subsequent steps. In step S166, it is determined whether the predicted area ER is set. Here, when the predicted area ER is not set (NO in S166), the game device 10 applies the hitting ability parameter of the batter character BC as it is so that the normal hitting force can be exerted.

On the other hand, when the prediction area ER is set (YES in S166), the game device 10 determines whether or not the batting is performed within the prediction area ER (S170). This judgment may be a judgment as to whether or not the ball object BL has been thrown into the predicted area ER. When the batting is performed in the prediction area ER (YES in S170), the game device 10 temporarily sets the ability parameter of the hitting force of the batter character BC to the normal time (when the prediction area ER is not set). For example, it is improved by 20% (S172). On the other hand, when the batting is performed outside the predicted area ER (NO in S170), the game device 10 temporarily lowers the hitting ability parameter of the batter character BC by, for example, 20% of that in the normal time (S174). ). That is, the game device 10 determines the hitting ability parameter to be applied to the determination of the batting content (result) in the above step S168, S172, or S174.

After that, the game device 10 applies the determined hitting ability parameter, and further determines the speed, angle, flight distance, etc. of the hit ball based on the positional relationship between the ball object BL and the meet cursor MC (S176). .. Even if the ball object BL and the meat cursor MC have the same positional relationship, if the batting is performed within the predicted area ER, the batting is performed outside the predicted area ER, or the batting is performed without setting the predicted area ER. Since the hitting ability parameter is improved, the hitting ball becomes stronger than that in the case of. After the batting result determination process of FIG. 27 ends, the process proceeds to step S136 of FIG. 25, and the batting result is displayed on the screen (S136).

On the other hand, if the ball reaches the position of the catcher (YES in S130) without the user performing the bat swing operation (NO in S128), that is, if the batter character BC sees the ball off, the result is displayed on the screen. Yes (S136).

After step S136, the game device 10 determines whether or not to continue to pitch the batter character BC currently standing at the bat (S138). For example, if the batter character BC is hit but becomes a foul, if the ball is missed but not struck out, or if the ball is forgotten but not struck out or a four ball, the pitching for the same batter character BC is continued (YES in S138). In these cases, the process returns to step S102 of FIG. That is, in step S102, the game device 10 displays the meet cursor MC at the center of the strike zone SZ which is the initial position before the next pitch. After that, the above-mentioned processing is executed.

On the other hand, if the result (hit or out) of the batter character BC at bat is confirmed, and if the pitching for the batter character BC is not continued (NO in S138), the process ends. Further, when the new batter character BC stands at the bat, the processing from step S100 of FIG. 23 is executed again.

As described above, the game apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment includes the action imparting unit moving unit 121 that moves the action imparting unit for imparting an action to the moving body according to the user's operation, and the action imparting unit moving unit 121 for the moving body. Prior to application of the action, a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action applying unit is set as an expected region for the moving body to reach, and a positional relationship between the moving body and the action applying unit. The action control means 123 for determining the content of the action given to the moving body based on the above, and the action control means 123, when the action is given to the moving body within the prediction region, and the prediction. The configuration is such that the action on the moving body is controlled to be different when the action is given to the moving body outside the region. As a result, a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the effect applying section is automatically set as the predicted area only by the user performing an operation of moving the effect applying section. Therefore, it is possible to realize a game in which a dedicated operation for forecasting is unnecessary and the user's operation can be simplified.

In addition, the game device 10 of the present embodiment that controls the baseball game includes an action imparting unit (for example, the meat cursor MC) for hitting the pitched ball object BL, at least in the strike zone SZ in accordance with the user's operation. Before the movement of the ball object BL and the action imparting portion moving means 121 to be moved within the area including the area, it is determined in which of the plurality of divided areas the strike zone SZ the effect imparting portion exists. However, the predicted area setting means 122 for setting the divided area in which the effect imparting section is present as the expected area ER where the ball object BL reaches, and the positional relationship between the pitched ball object BL and the effect imparting section. The action control means 123 for determining the content of the impact on the ball object or the result for the impact, based on the impact control means 123. The action control means 123 is configured so that the pitched ball object BL is impacted within the expected area ER. In this case, the control is performed so that the acting force on the ball object BL is larger than that in the case where the ball is hit outside the predicted area ER.

According to this structure, before the movement of the ball object BL is started, for example, before the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC, the user merely moves the meet cursor MC to configure the strike zones SZ. The segmented region in which the meet cursor MC is present is automatically set as the predicted region ER. For example, if the user predicts that the ball will be thrown into the in-course, by moving the meet cursor MC to the in-course position in advance until the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC, the segment existing in the in-course. The area is set as the expected area ER. Here, the operation of moving the meet cursor MC in advance is often performed when the user predicts the course of the next ball, regardless of this configuration. This is because it is necessary to overlap and hit the meat cursor MC with respect to the ball object BL at the time of striking, so that the operation is to be performed easily and reliably as much as possible. As described above, the present configuration effectively uses the preparation for the hitting operation that the user often performs for the course prediction, so that the user additionally performs a completely new operation for the course prediction. There is no annoyance or psychological burden. As described above, according to the present configuration, both the prediction operation and the batting operation can be performed only by moving the meet cursor MC, which is an example of the action imparting unit, and thus a dedicated operation for predicting the pitching course is not necessary. Thus, it is possible to realize a baseball game in which the user's operation can be simplified.

In the following, as a variation of the game device 10, a configuration in which the acting force on the moving body increases as the user's expectation becomes faster will be described. The action control means 123 of the game apparatus 10 moves within the prediction area as the time from the setting of the prediction area to the setting of the prediction area by the prediction area setting means 122 becomes shorter. It has a function of controlling so that the acting force on the moving body is increased when the action is given to the body. Here, the “predictable region can be set” means, for example, that the action giving unit is displayed on the screen before the action is given to the moving body, and the operation that the user moves the action giving unit to an arbitrary position. It means being in a possible state.

For example, the state in which the action imparting unit is initially displayed at a predetermined position within a predetermined area in which the moving body is facing before the movement of the moving body is equivalent to an example of “a state in which the predicted area can be set”. To do. For example, in a baseball game, a state where a meet cursor MC as an example of an action imparting unit is initially displayed at a predetermined position (for example, the center) of the strike zone SZ for each pitch before the pitcher character PC enters the pitching motion. , Which corresponds to an example of “a state in which an expected area can be set”. From this state, the user can perform an operation of moving the meet cursor MC to an arbitrary position to set the prediction area.

In addition, the “acting force” means, for example, a force exerted on the moving body which is an action target. For example, the force that changes the moving direction of the moving body corresponds to an example of the acting force. For example, the striking force applied to a moving body such as a ball object corresponds to an example of the acting force. Further, for example, in a game in which a target object is attacked, the attacking power, the destructive power, and the like of the target object are examples of the acting force. Further, for example, in a game of capturing a target object, the gripping force on the target object corresponds to an example of the acting force.

According to this configuration, the shorter the time from when the prediction area can be set until the prediction area is set by the prediction area setting unit 122, that is, the faster the user performs the prediction operation, The acting force on the moving body is increased. In the example of the baseball game described above, after the meat cursor MC is displayed at the initial position (for example, the center of the strike zone SZ) before the pitching, the meat cursor MC is moved/rested at the position of the pitching course predicted by the user himself. As the time to hit is shorter, the hitting force when hit in the predicted area ER is improved. For example, the shorter the above time, the higher the improvement rate of the hitting ability parameter of the batter character BC from the normal time.

The action control unit 123 respectively acquires and stores the time of the timing when the meet cursor MC is displayed at the initial position and the time of the timing when the predicted area ER is set by the movement operation of the meet cursor MC by the user. It is stored in the device (RAM 13 or the like). Then, the shorter the interval between the both times is, the more improved the striking force when hit in the predicted region ER.

According to the configuration of the present embodiment, it is necessary for the user to consider whether to enjoy the advantage of quickly predicting and increasing the acting force, or whether to carefully think and predict, which further enhances the game quality. ..

In addition, the CPU 11 of the game apparatus 10 notifies the user of the degree of improvement of the striking force, which is improved as the prediction is faster, in advance in an easy-to-understand manner to the user. The blinking period may be changed. That is, the game device 10 may include a preliminary notification unit that changes the display state of the action imparting unit according to the degree of improvement in the acting force on the moving body.

Further, as a variation, the faster the user's prediction operation is, the larger the acting force outside the prediction region may be even when the prediction is wrong. That is, the action control unit 123 sets the moving object outside the predicted region as the time from the setting of the predicted region to the setting of the predicted region by the predicted region setting unit 122 becomes shorter. You may control so that the action force with respect to the said moving body when an action is given may become large.

In the above description, “the time from when the predicted area can be set until the predicted area is set by the predicted area setting unit 122” is used as an index indicating how quickly the user's prediction is performed. Applied As variations, as an index indicating how quickly the user's prediction is performed, “time from setting the prediction area by the prediction area setting unit 122 to starting movement of the moving body” and “prediction area” The time from the setting of the predicted area by the setting unit 122 to the application of the action to the moving body" may be applied. The longer the time, the faster the prediction of the user. For example, in the case of a baseball game, when the user plays a CPU match, the pitching interval is constant. Therefore, the faster the estimated area ER is set, the more the estimated area ER is set until the pitcher character PC releases the ball object BL. (Or the time until the batter character BC hits) becomes longer. Therefore, the action control unit 123 is in the predicted region (or outside the predicted region) as the time from the setting of the predicted region by the predicted region setting unit 122 to the start of the movement of the moving body is longer. The action force on the moving body when the action is given to the moving body may be controlled to be large. Alternatively, the action control unit 123 may perform the operation within the prediction region (or outside the prediction region) as the time from setting the prediction region by the prediction region setting unit 122 to applying the action to the moving body increases. The action force on the moving body when the action is given to the moving body may be controlled to be large.

[Second Embodiment]
In the above-described first embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6, the strike zone SZ is divided into divided regions of three columns, and the prediction of the in-course and the out-course (horizontal prediction) is performed. The specifications that can be made and the specifications that the height can be predicted (longitudinal prediction) by dividing the strike zone SZ into three laterally divided areas as illustrated in FIG. 7 have been described. In the present embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the lateral (inside/outside) prediction and the height prediction are automatically switched only by the user's movement operation of the meet cursor MC.

As illustrated in FIG. 28, the executing means 120B of the game apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment includes an effect imparting section moving means 121, an estimated area setting means 122, an effect control means 123, a divided area setting means 125B, and the like. ing. The difference from the first embodiment is only the segmented area setting means 125B, and the other configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following, the divided area setting unit 125B will be mainly described.

The segmented area setting means 125B has a function of setting the plurality of segmented areas forming the predetermined range in accordance with the direction in which the action imparting section has moved from the initial position within the predetermined range (for example, the strike zone SZ). ..

In the example of the baseball game, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 2, FIG. 29, and the upper part of FIG. 30, for example, the meet cursor MC (an example of the action imparting section) is located at the center of the strike zone SZ (an example of the initial position within a predetermined range). Is initialized. At this point, the sectioned area in the strike zone SZ has not been determined.

Then, as illustrated in the middle part of FIG. 29, when the user predicts the in-course or the out-course, it is considered that the meet cursor MC at the initial position is moved in the horizontal direction (horizontal direction). Therefore, when the meet cursor MC moves in the horizontal direction from the initial position, the segment area setting unit 125B segments the strike zone SZ into three columns, for example, the in-course segment area DR11, the out-course segment area DR12, Three divided areas of the central divided area DR13 are set. Note that, for example, the central divided region DR13 may be set as the above-mentioned non-predicted region NR. After that, the user holds the meet cursor MC at a certain position in the out-course segmented region DR12 (for example, at least one second), so that the prediction region setting unit 122 causes the predicted region setting means 122 to exemplify as illustrated in the lower part of FIG. The out-course division area DR12 is set as the prediction area ER.

On the other hand, as illustrated in the middle part of FIG. 30, when the user expects the height to be higher or lower, it is considered that the meat cursor MC at the initial position is moved in the height direction (vertical direction). Therefore, when the meet cursor MC moves in the height direction from the initial position, the segment area setting unit 125B segments the strike zone SZ into three horizontal rows, the lower segment area DR21, the higher segment area DR22, and the center, for example. Three divided areas of the divided area DR23 are set. Note that, for example, the central segmented region DR23 may be set as the above-mentioned non-predicted region NR. After that, the user makes the meet cursor MC stand still (for example, stays still for 1 second or longer) at any position in the lower segmented region DR21, so that the predicted region setting unit 122 becomes lower, as illustrated in the lower part of FIG. The divided area DR21 is set as the predicted area ER.

With this, it is possible to realize a configuration in which the horizontal prediction (the prediction of the in-course and the out-course) and the height prediction are automatically switched only by the movement operation of the meet cursor MC by the user. In this way, by setting the division of the plurality of division areas forming the predetermined range in accordance with the direction in which the action imparting unit has moved from the initial position, for example, selecting a button or icon provided at another location. It is possible to set the prediction area divided as the user intended without any special switching operation by the user.

Note that, in the above, the configuration has been described in which, based on the movement of the action imparting portion in the horizontal direction (first direction) and the vertical direction (second direction), the divided regions are switched according to the respective movement directions. However, for example, the divided areas may be set in accordance with other moving directions such as the diagonal direction (third direction). For example, when the meet cursor MC is moved in an oblique direction, nine division areas in which the strike zones SZ are divided in a matrix may be set as illustrated in FIG.

Further, regarding the determination of the moving direction of the meet cursor MC, the angle range may be set and the moving direction may be determined. For example, in the case of determining the movement in the horizontal direction, if the meet cursor MC has moved within the angle range of 0 degrees plus or minus 45 degrees, it is determined that the movement in the horizontal direction has been performed.

Further, some or all of the various configurations (for example, the display control unit 124A) described in the first embodiment can be applied to the game device 10 of the second embodiment.

[Third Embodiment]
In the first and second embodiments described above, when the prediction area is set, the operation does not differ depending on the position in the prediction area, but in the third embodiment, the operation depends on the position in the prediction area. Variations that can be different will be described.

In addition to the function described in each of the above-described embodiments, the predicted area setting unit 122 of the present exemplary embodiment has a certain time (for example, 3 seconds) for the action imparting unit in the segmented area set as the predicted area. When it is determined that the action imparting unit is stationary as described above, it is determined which of the plurality of sub-regions that form the divided region is present, and the sub-region where the action imparting unit is present is specified. It has the function of setting as a region. Here, the “small area” means, for example, each area obtained by dividing the divided area set as the predicted area into a plurality of areas smaller than the divided area. The "small area" can be a two-dimensional area on a two-dimensional plane or in a three-dimensional space. Alternatively, the “small area” can be a three-dimensional area in a three-dimensional space. The “small area” can be any two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape such as a triangle, a quadrangle, a triangular pyramid, or a rectangular parallelepiped.

For example, each area formed by dividing the divided area set as the predicted area into a plurality of areas within a predetermined area where the moving body is facing corresponds to an example of the “small area”. For example, in a baseball game, each area formed by dividing the strike zone SZ into a plurality of areas is a “divisional area”, and the “divisional area” set as an expected area from the plurality of “divisional areas” is Each area formed by being divided into a plurality of smaller areas corresponds to an example of “small area”.

As an example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 31, a case where the expected area ER is set in the out-course divided area DR12 by the rest of the meet cursor MC in the out-course divided area DR12 will be described. In this case, the vertical line at the right end of the strike zone SZ is the prediction area ER, and the out-course division area DR12 that is the prediction area ER is, for example, the first small area SR1, the second small area SR2, and the third small area. SR3 and three in the height direction. Each of the first small region SR1, the second small region SR2, and the third small region SR3 has, for example, an area of one square obtained by dividing the strike zone SZ into nine equal parts in a matrix. In the example of FIG. 31, the first small region SR1 corresponds to a high out course, the second small region SR2 corresponds to the middle of the out course, and the third small region SR3 corresponds to a low out course.

When the prediction area setting means 122 determines that the meat cursor MC is stationary for a certain time (for example, 3 seconds) in the out-course classification area DR12 set as the prediction area ER, the meat cursor MC is further classified as an out-course classification. It is determined which one of the first small region SR1, the second small region SR2, and the third small region SR3 that form the region DR12 exists. In the example of FIG. 31, the position where the meat cursor MC has been stationary for a certain period of time or more is the position within the third small region SR3, so it is determined that the meat cursor MC is present in the third small region SR3. In this case, the predicted area setting means 122 sets the third small area SR3 as the specific area SPR.

For example, the display control unit 124A of the game apparatus 10 may perform display control that changes the display state of the meet cursor MC depending on whether the specific area SPR is set. As an example, the display control unit 124A sets the white color, which is the color when the prediction area ER is not set, to yellow after the prediction area ER is set, and further sets the specific area SPR in the prediction area ER. After that, the color of the meat cursor MC is changed to green. Instead of or in addition to changing the color, the density or brightness of the meat cursor MC may be changed, or the meat cursor MC may be blinked. Further, the color, density, brightness, etc. of the specific area SPR change for a predetermined time (for example, 1 second) from the time when the specific area SPR is set, and it becomes clear to the user which area has been set as the specific area SPR. It may be done. The change in the display state of the specific area SPR may be continued during the period in which the specific area SPR is set.

Then, the action control means 123 of the present embodiment is a case where the moving body that has moved in the screen reaches the predicted area, and when the action is given to the moving body in the specific area. And a function of controlling the action on the moving body to be different when the action is given to the moving body outside the specific region.

For example, the action control unit 123 improves the striking force in the predicted region ER as compared with the normal time (when not predicted) as described above, but also in the predicted region ER, in the specific region SPR. Improving the rate of improvement of striking power more than outside the specified area. For example, in the specific region SPR, the striking force is improved by 30% as compared with the normal time, and in the predicted region ER but outside the specific region SPR, the striking force is improved by 20% as compared with the normal time.

Alternatively, in the predicted region ER in which the specific region SPR is not set, the striking force is improved at any position by, for example, 20% from the normal time, but when the specific region SPR is set in the predicted region ER, the specific region is set. In SPR, the striking force may be improved by, for example, 30%, and in the region outside the specific region SPR in the predicted region ER, the striking force may be improved by, for example, 15% as compared with the normal state.

Alternatively, the batting result in the specific area SPR may always be a home run, and the batting result in an area outside the specific area SPR in the predicted area ER may be a single hit or more (not necessarily a home run). Further, the hit result in the specific area SPR is controlled so that the hit probability becomes higher and the error rate of the defense of the opponent team becomes higher than the hit result in the area outside the specific area SPR in the predicted area ER. May be.

With the configuration of the present embodiment, the action can be made different depending on the position in the prediction area, and the game property can be further enhanced. For example, in the case of FIG. 31, it is possible to set the vertical one row of the out course as the prediction area ER and further set the out course lower as the specific area SPR of the priority prediction, and the prediction area ER can be obtained only by the moving body operation of the meet cursor MC. You can change the weight of predictions within.

Note that, in the example of FIG. 31, the divided area in which the predicted area ER is set is configured as the three small areas SR1 to SR3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the predicted area ER may be divided into two small areas or may be divided into four or more small areas.

Further, the action control unit 123 acts on the moving body within the specific region as the time from the setting of the estimated region to the setting of the specific region by the expected region setting unit becomes shorter. It may be controlled so that the acting force on the moving body is increased when is given. In the case of this configuration, it is more advantageous for the user to move/stop the meet cursor MC faster so that the specific area is set earlier.

Further, some or all of the various configurations described in the first and second embodiments can be applied to the game device 10 of the third embodiment.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In each of the above-described embodiments, it is mainly determined that the meat cursor MC has been stationary for a predetermined time or more after the user operates the meat cursor MC until the pitcher character PC releases the ball object BL. In such a case, the configuration in which the predicted area ER is set in a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC has been described. For example, when the prediction area ER is set on condition that the meet cursor MC is determined to be stationary for 1 second or more, while the meet cursor MC is moving without being stationary, or 1 second after being stationary. Since the predicted area ER is not set until the time elapses, the user performs an operation of moving the meet cursor MC, but the ball object BL may be released from the pitcher character PC before the predicted area ER is set. is there. In such a case, it is possible not to set the prediction area ER, but in the present embodiment, a variation configuration in which the prediction area ER is automatically set at the timing when the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC. Will be described.

In addition to the function described in each of the above-described embodiments, the predicted area setting unit 122 of the present exemplary embodiment starts moving the moving body when the predicted area is not set when the moving body starts moving. It has a function of setting the predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action giving portion at the time as the predicted area. Here, the “when the moving body starts moving” means, for example, before the action is applied to the moving body and at the timing when the moving body starts moving. For example, the timing when the moving body starts moving from a predetermined specific position (or an unspecified position on the screen) in the screen corresponds to an example of “at the time when the moving body starts moving”. For example, in a baseball game, the timing at which the pitcher character on the mound releases the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”. Also, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, the timing at which the kicker character kicks the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”. Further, in the tennis game, the timing at which the server character serves the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”.

Here, the function of the prediction area setting unit 122 of the present embodiment will be described by taking an example of a baseball game. As described above, at the time of hitting, it is necessary to hit the ball cursor BL while overlapping the meet cursor MC. Therefore, in order to perform the operation as easily and surely as possible, the user: This is an operation for moving the meet cursor MC in the direction of the pitch course expected by the player before the pitch. Therefore, when the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC and the predicted area ER is not set, the position of the meet cursor MC at the start of movement of the ball object BL is regarded as the pitching course predicted by the user, The prediction area setting means 122 automatically sets a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC at the start of movement of the ball object BL as the prediction area ER. As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 12 and the like, in an example in which the strike zone is divided into three columns, if the position of the meet cursor at the start of movement of the ball object is at the left end of the strike zone, the height Regardless of the position, the leftmost vertical column of divided areas is set as the predicted area ER.

An example of the operation of the game device 10 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Steps S1100 to S1104 in FIG. 32 are processes added after YES is obtained in step S120 in FIG. The processes illustrated in FIGS. 23 to 27 can be applied to other processes.

When the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC (YES in S120), the game device 10 proceeds to step S1100 in FIG. 32, and the game device 10 determines whether or not the expected area ER is set. Here, when the predicted area ER has already been set (YES in S1100), the process proceeds to step S122 in FIG. 25, and the game device 10 executes display control for moving the pitched ball object BL on the screen. .. On the other hand, when the expected area ER is not set when the ball object BL is released from the pitcher character PC (NO in S1100), the game device 10 moves the position of the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released ( The coordinates are acquired (S1102). Information on the acquired position of the meet cursor MC is stored in the RAM 13. Then, the game device 10 executes the predicted area setting process based on the position of the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released, which is acquired in step S1102 (S1104).

As the predicted area setting process of step S1104, for example, the subroutine shown in the flowchart of FIG. 26 can be applied. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the strike zone SZ is evenly divided into three areas of three columns vertically, and is set to the first divided area DR1, the non-predicted area NR, and the second divided area DR2 from the left. It is assumed that As shown in FIG. 26, when the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released is present in the first segmented region DR1 (YES in S150), the game device 10 sets the first segmented region DR1 to the predicted region ER. (S152), and if it exists in the second divided area DR2 (NO in S150, YES in S154), the game device 10 sets the second divided area DR2 as the predicted area ER (S156). When the prediction area ER is set, the game device 10 changes the color of the meet cursor MC (S158).

On the other hand, when the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released does not exist in either the first section region DR1 or the second section region DR2 (NO in S150 and NO in S154), for example, the meet cursor MC is If it exists in the non-prediction area NR, the game device 10 ends the prediction area setting process without setting the prediction area ER. After the predicted area setting process ends, the process moves to the ball object BL moving process in step S122. As described above, when the meat cursor MC is present in the non-predictive area NR in the central row of the strike zone SZ (or the central mass obtained by dividing the strike zone SZ into 9 may be the non-predictive area NR) The region ER may not be set, but as a variation, the predetermined region corresponding to the position of the meet cursor MC at the timing when the ball object BL is released is always provided as the predicted region ER without providing the non-predicted region NR. It may be configured to set as.

With the configuration of the present embodiment, even when the action imparting unit is not set at the start of the movement of the moving body, a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting unit at the start of the movement of the moving body is automatically set as the predicted region. Is set to, it is possible to further simplify the user's operation.

In the above, the setting of the predicted area is possible even before the movement of the moving body is started, and when the predicted area is not set at the start of the movement of the moving body, the position of the action imparting unit at the start of the movement of the moving body The configuration for setting the prediction area has been described above. As a variation, the prediction area may not be set until the movement of the moving body is started, and the prediction area may always be set based on the position of the action imparting unit at the start of the movement of the moving body.

Further, some or all of the various configurations described in the first to third embodiments can be applied to the game device 10 of the fourth embodiment.

[Fifth Embodiment]
In the game system 1 according to the above-described first to fourth embodiments, the configuration in which the subject of the game control is located not on the server 30 side but on the game device 10 side has been described. That is, in the first to fourth embodiments, an example in which the game control device according to one aspect of the present invention is realized by the game device 10 (the stand-alone or the game device 10 communicating with a server or the like) is shown. However, the game control device can be configured by a computer such as a server that can communicate with a terminal device (game device) operated by each user. Alternatively, the game control device may be composed of a plurality of computers (servers, terminal devices, etc.) that communicate with each other.

An example in which the game control device according to one aspect of the present invention is configured by a server will be described. FIG. 33 shows a configuration example of a game system 1C incorporating a server 30C as a game control device. The game system 1C includes a server 30C installed on a network N such as the Internet, and a plurality of game devices 10C-n (n is a positive integer. 10C-1) capable of communicating with the server 30C via the network N. , 10C-2,...). Here, since the plurality of game devices 10C-n have the same configuration, they are simply described as "game device 10C" unless otherwise specified.

The hardware configuration of the server 30C is basically the same as that of the server 30 illustrated in FIG. 19, and the hardware configuration of the game device 10C is basically the same as that of the game device 10 illustrated in FIG. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted.

In the example of the game system 1C, the server 30C receives access from the game device 10C of each user who receives the game service via the network N, accumulates and manages the game information of each user in the storage device, and A game service is provided to the user via the network N.

As a form of providing the game service by the server 30C, a game program (application software) is installed in the server 30C, and the game operation input on the game device 10C is not performed on the game device 10C but the game is executed. Accordingly, there is a mode in which the server 30C executes the game and the execution result is transmitted to the game device 10C of each user. For example, the server 30C provides a so-called browser game in which a game can be played by a web browser installed in each user's game device 10C. Alternatively, for example, the server 30C provides a so-called cloud gaming service of transmitting a game video resulting from executing the game on the server 30C to the game device 10C in, for example, a streaming format.

In the above cloud gaming and the like, the user's game device 10C basically operates as an input/output device having an operation input function and a game screen or sound output function, and the actual function is on the server 30C side. A part of the game program may be installed in the game device 10C so that the game execution process is partially performed in the game device 10C as well.

As the game device 10C (an example of a terminal device), a smartphone, a mobile phone terminal, a PHS terminal, a PDA, a PC, a tablet computer, a game device having a communication function (a stationary or portable game device) or two-way communication. Various terminals that can be connected to the server 30C via the network N to receive the provision of the game service, such as a multi-functional television receiver (so-called smart TV) having a function and an arcade game machine, can be applied.

FIG. 34 is a schematic functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the server 30C. The server 30C basically includes communication management means 310C, execution means 320C, character management means 340C, user information management means 350C, and the like. Each of these means is basically realized by the CPU of the server 30C executing the program according to the present embodiment.

The communication management means 310C has a function of managing information communication with the game device 10C and the like. The character management means 340C and the user information management means 350C have the same functions as the character management means 140 and the user information management means 150 of the game device 10 according to the first embodiment, and therefore their explanations are omitted.

The execution means 320C executes various calculations and data processing based on the information received from the game device 10C. The executing means 320C mainly includes an action applying section moving means 321C, an estimated area setting means 322C, an action control means 323C and the like. The effect imparting section moving means 321C, the predicted area setting means 322C, and the effect control means 323C are respectively the effect imparting section moving means 121, the predicted area setting means 122, and the effect control means 123 of the first to fourth embodiments. Since it has the same function as, the description thereof will be omitted. As described above, also when the server 30C of the present embodiment is provided with the functions of the game device 10 of the first to fourth embodiments, it is the same as in the first to fourth embodiments. It exerts a working effect.

Further, the server 30C and the game device 10C can communicate with each other to send and receive various data, and both are an information processing device (computer) including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an auxiliary storage device, a communication control unit, and the like. , Basically having a similar hardware configuration. Therefore, in the game system 1C including the server 30C and the game device 10C, each configuration shown in the first to fourth embodiments (action imparting unit moving means 121C, expected area setting means 122C, action control means 123C, etc.). All or part of the above may be provided in either the server 30C or the game device 10C (an example of a terminal device). Even with such a system configuration, the same operational effects as those of the above-described first to fourth embodiments can be obtained.

That is, the game system 1C includes a server 30C and a game device 10C (an example of a terminal device) that communicates with the server 30C, and includes an action imparting unit for imparting an action to a moving body, which is used by the user. And a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action applying section before the action is applied to the moving body, as an expected area that the moving body reaches. Predictive area setting means 322C for performing the action, and action control means 323C for determining the content of the action given to the moving body based on the positional relationship between the moving body and the action imparting section. One of the game devices 10C is provided, and the action control means 323C includes a case where the action is applied to the moving body within the predicted region, and a case where the action is provided outside the predicted region. The control is performed so that the action on the moving body is different.

With the configuration of this game system 1C, the same operational effects as those of the game device 10 according to the above-described embodiment are achieved. That is, only by the user performing an operation of moving the effect imparting section, a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the effect imparting section is automatically set as the predicted area. Therefore, it is possible to realize a game in which a dedicated operation for forecasting is unnecessary and the user's operation can be simplified.

By the way, regarding the configuration having the storage control function of storing various information in the storage device, since the storage device itself is not included in the configuration, it may be installed anywhere inside or outside the game system 1.1C. For example, the storage device may be the game device 10, 10C, the RAM of the server 30, 30C, an auxiliary storage device, or a file server (online storage) having a different configuration from these.

Further, the various configurations described in the above-described respective embodiments can be appropriately combined and applied.

The computer-readable program according to the present embodiment is recorded in various computer-readable recording media such as a hard disk, an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.), a flexible disk, a semiconductor memory, etc. Read by the CPU of the computer constituting the game control device or the game system. Further, the means for providing the program to the computer is not limited to the above-mentioned recording medium, but may be performed via a communication network such as the Internet.

That is, the program of the present embodiment is a program for causing a computer to operate as the above-mentioned game control device (or game system), and each means provided in the game control device (or game system) for the computer. It is a program to function as.

When the computer executes the program of this embodiment, the same operational effects as those of the above-described respective embodiments are achieved.

[Appendix]
From the above description, the present invention can be understood as follows, for example. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, reference numerals in the accompanying drawings are added in parentheses for convenience, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated modes.

1) The game control device (10, 10C, 30C) according to an aspect of the present invention includes an action imparting unit (e.g., the meet cursor MC) for imparting an action (e.g., hit) to a moving body (e.g., ball object (BL) BL). ) Is moved according to a user operation (for example, the processing of YES in S104) (for example, the processing of S106), and the action applying unit moving means (121) before the application of the action to the moving body (BL) (for example, S120). (NO processing), a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting section (MC) is set as an expected area (ER) that the moving body (BL) will reach (for example, processing of S112). Action control for determining the content of action given to the moving body (BL) based on the positional relationship between the means (122) and the moving body (BL) and the action imparting unit (MC) (for example, the processing of S134). Means (123), the action control means (123), when the action is given to the moving body (BL) in the predicted region (ER) (for example, the processing of YES in S170), Control is performed so that the action on the moving body (BL) is different when the action is given to the moving body (BL) outside the predicted region (ER) (for example, the processing of NO in S170) (for example, in S172 and S174). Process).

The game control device having this configuration is implemented by, for example, a computer (smartphone, mobile phone terminal, PHS, tablet computer, game dedicated machine, personal computer, multifunctional television receiver, arcade game machine, etc.) as a game device. Can be configured. Alternatively, the game control device can be configured by a computer such as a server that can communicate with the terminal device of each user. Alternatively, the game control device may be composed of a plurality of computers (servers, terminal devices, etc.) that communicate with each other.

The effect imparting section moving means of this configuration moves the effect imparting section for imparting an effect to the moving body in accordance with a user operation. Here, the "moving body" is, for example, a character, an item, or an object that moves in the game screen or the game space. For example, a character, an item, or an object that moves toward a virtual area or point on the game screen or the game space corresponds to an example of a moving body. For example, in a baseball game, a ball object thrown toward a strike zone corresponds to an example of a moving body. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a ball object kicked toward a soccer goal corresponds to an example of a moving body. Characters or items such as fighter planes, missiles, UFOs, and monsters flying toward the opponent's base or the like correspond to an example of a moving body. Characters or items such as insects, birds, fish, animals, and virtual creatures that move toward a target area such as a forest or an island correspond to an example of a moving body. Further, for example, a character, an item, or an object that moves in a game screen or a game space in an arbitrary direction corresponds to an example of a moving body. For example, a character or item such as a monster, a fighter, a missile, a submarine, a UFO, an insect, a bird, a fish, an animal, or a virtual creature that moves freely in the air, on the ground, in the ground, or under the sea may be mentioned as a moving object. it can.

Further, the “action” means exerting a force on the moving body or having an influence on the moving body by having a relationship with the moving body. For example, applying a force that changes the moving direction of the moving body to the moving body corresponds to an example of the action. For example, hitting (returning) the moving body corresponds to an example of the action. Further, for example, applying rotation to the moving body, capturing, destroying, deforming, or the like also corresponds to an example of the action. Furthermore, changing the parameters or attributes of the mobile body also corresponds to an example of the action. For example, changing the color, size, or ability of the moving body is also an example of the action.

In addition, the “action imparting unit” is, for example, a two-dimensional area or a three-dimensional area provided in a game screen or in a game space that can exert an action on the moving body when the moving body is overlapped with or in contact with the moving body. It is a region, point or object. For example, an area or an object in which the moving direction of the moving body can be changed when the moving body overlaps or contacts the moving body corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. For example, in a baseball game, a meet cursor for hitting a pitched ball as an example of a moving object by overlapping or contacting the ball corresponds to an example of an action giving unit. Further, for example, in a tennis game, a racket cursor for hitting a served ball over or in contact with the served ball, which is an example of a moving object, corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. Further, for example, when the moving object is overlapped with or in contact with the moving object, an area or an object capable of capturing, destroying, deforming, adding rotation, changing parameters or attributes of the moving object is an action applying unit. This corresponds to an example. For example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a goalkeeper cursor, which is an example of a moving object and catches the ball overlaid on or in contact with the kicked ball, corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. Further, for example, assuming a game of capturing insects and virtual characters, a cursor imitating a net, a bag, a box, a stick or the like for capturing insects or characters corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. .. Further, for example, when a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter is assumed, the aiming at the missile or the fighter corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit. Further, for example, an object such as a magic wand that changes the color or shape of the moving body when the moving body overlaps or comes into contact with the moving body corresponds to an example of the action imparting unit.

Further, the "user" is, for example, a person who operates the game, and can also be called a game player. For example, a person who operates a character, an item, or an object that gives an action to a moving body corresponds to an example of a user. For example, a person who operates a batter character hitting a ball object in a baseball game corresponds to an example of a user. A person who directly operates the bat object without using the batter character is also an example of the user. In addition, a person who operates a goalkeeper character who captures a ball object kicked in a soccer game, a person who operates a weapon item for pursuit in a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter, and the like correspond to an example of a user.

In addition, the predicted area setting means sets a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the effect applying unit as the predicted area that the moving body will reach before applying the effect to the moving body. Here, the “before the action is given to the moving body” means, for example, a period before the action can be given to the moving body. Here, all the periods up to immediately before the action is given may be the subject, or a specific period or time before the action is given may be the subject. For example, the period until the moving body starts moving corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. For example, in a baseball game, the period until the pitcher character releases the ball object corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, the period until the kicker character kicks the ball object corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, in the tennis game, the period until the server character serves the ball object corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”. Further, for example, in a game in which a missile or a fighter is shot down, a period until the missile or the like approaches within a predetermined distance corresponds to an example of “before the action is given to the moving body”.

The “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action giving unit” means, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional region in the screen uniquely determined by the position of the action giving unit. Here, the region may include a point having no area or volume. For example, at least a part of the screen is divided into a plurality of regions, and the region in which the action imparting unit is present can be set as the “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting unit”. .. For example, at least a part of the movable predetermined range of the action imparting section is divided into a plurality of regions, and an area in which the action imparting section is present is a "predetermined position corresponding to the position of the action imparting section". Corresponding to an example of "region of". For example, in a baseball game, the strike zone is divided into a plurality of regions, and the region in which the action imparting unit is present in the plurality of regions is an example of the “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting unit”. Equivalent to. Further, for example, in a soccer game, a region in front of a soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) is divided into a plurality of regions, and a region in which the action imparting section exists among the plurality of regions. Corresponds to an example of the “predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action imparting portion”. Further, for example, an area having a predetermined shape (for example, a circle, a quadrangle, a sphere, a rectangular parallelepiped, etc.) centering on the position of the action giving portion can be set as the “predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action giving portion”. It is only necessary that the corresponding predetermined area is determined by the position of the action giving portion, and for example, the positional relationship between the position of the action giving portion and the predetermined area may be separated.

Further, the “predicted area” refers to, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area on the screen that the user has predicted to be an area where the moving body reaches, passes, or appears. Here, the region may include a point having no area or volume. For example, the area that the user has predicted to be the area where the moving body is coming and the moving body reaches, passes through or appears in the movable area of the action imparting unit is the “predicted area”. This corresponds to an example. For example, in a baseball game, the area in the strike zone where the user predicted that the thrown ball object would pass corresponds to an example of the “predicted area”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, an area in front of the soccer goal predicted by the user when the kicked ball object arrives corresponds to an example of an “anticipated area”. Further, for example, in a game in which a missile or a fighter is shot down, the area predicted by the user when the missile or the like reaches or passes corresponds to an example of the “predicted area”. Further, for example, in a game in which UFOs are shot down, a region in which the user predicted that a UFO that had disappeared will appear again corresponds to an example of the “predicted region”.

Further, “the moving body reaches the predicted area” means that the moving body reaches at least some position in the predicted area, for example. Not only when the moving object reaches the prediction area without disappearing from the screen, but also when the moving object such as UFO disappears from the screen and appears in the prediction area again, the "moving object reaches the prediction area" This corresponds to an example. After the moving body reaches the expected area, the moving body may be in any state. For example, a moving body that has reached the prediction area may pass through the prediction area. In addition, for example, a moving object that has reached the prediction area may stop in the prediction area, change its movement direction (be hit back) in the prediction area, or be destroyed and disappear in the prediction area. There may be As described above, the appearance of the moving body in the predicted area or the passing of the predicted area is one mode in which “the moving body reaches the predicted area”.

Further, the action control means determines the content of the action given to the moving body based on the positional relationship between the moving body and the action giving section. Here, the “contents of the action” means, for example, the type of action given to the moving body (striking, rotating, capturing, destroying, deforming, changing parameters and attributes, etc.), its size, direction, etc. .. For example, the magnitude and direction of the force that changes the moving direction of the moving body corresponds to an example of the content of the action. For example, the magnitude and direction of the striking force applied to a moving object such as a ball object corresponds to an example of the content of the action. In addition, the state of the moving body after the action is given, the action, and the like are also included in the content of the action. For example, when the action is hitting the ball, the direction, speed, flight distance, etc. of the ball (hit ball) after being hit also correspond to an example of the content of the action. Further, the fact that no action is given to the moving body (it does not affect the moving body at all) is also included in the content of the action. For example, in a baseball game, “missing”, in which the ball is not hit by the bat and the ball is not acted, corresponds to an example of the action content. Further, the “contents of action” may include a state resulting from the action. For example, in a baseball game, hits, outs, fouls, defensive errors of the opponent team, and the like as a result of the hit correspond to an example of the content of the action.

For example, it is assumed that the action control means exerts an action on the moving body when at least a part of the moving body and the action giving section overlap each other. In this case, the content of the action on the moving body can be changed according to the degree of overlap between the moving body and the action imparting section. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the smaller the distance between the center of the moving body and the center of the action imparting section (that is, the larger the overlapping area of the two), the greater the strength of the hit ball, the speed, and the flight distance. So, determine the content of the blow. In the case of a game that attacks a monster or the like, which is an example of a moving body, the stronger the monster can be attacked, the smaller the distance between the center of the moving body and the center of the action imparting unit. Further, the action control means does not exert an action on the moving body when the moving body and the action giving section do not overlap (separate from each other) (for example, in the case of a baseball game, it is missed, In the case of a monster game, it can be regarded as an attack failure). Alternatively, the action control means may be configured to exert an action on the moving body when the moving body and the action giving section come into contact with each other. Here, "contact" between the moving body and the action imparting section includes a state in which both "collide" and "contact". A known contact determination (collision determination) algorithm can be applied to the contact (collision) determination between the moving body and the action imparting unit. In this case, if the moving body and the action imparting portion do not contact (abut) with each other, the action may not be given to the moving body.

Alternatively, even if the moving body and the action applying section are separated from each other, the action may be given to the moving body according to the distance between the two.

Further, the action control means, even if the positional relationship between the moving body and the action applying portion is the same, when the action is given to the moving body within the predicted region, and when the action is exerted on the moving body outside the predicted region. The action on the moving body is controlled so as to be different from the case of being given. For example, in a baseball game, a hit is stronger than in normal times (when not predicted) in the prediction area, but outside the prediction area, only weaker hits than in normal times are hit, so that the prediction effect is produced. Also, for example, in a soccer game, the ball can be caught or played with a stronger force than in the normal time (when not predicted) in the prediction area (thus, the probability of blocking the goal is high). Outside, the power is made lower than usual (hence the probability of allowing a goal is higher), and the effect of prediction is produced.

According to the game control device of this configuration, a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the effect imparting section is automatically set as the predicted area only by the user performing an operation of moving the effect imparting section. For example, in a baseball game, if the user performing the batting operation is expected to be thrown into the in-course, the action imparting unit (for example, the meat cursor) is set to the in-course position before the ball is released from the pitcher character. The expected area is set in the in-course simply by moving it. Here, the operation of moving the action imparting portion in advance is often performed when the user predicts the course of the next ball, regardless of this configuration. This is because it is necessary to overlap the action imparting portion with the ball when hitting, so that the operation is to be performed as easily and surely as possible. As described above, the present configuration effectively uses the preparation for the hitting operation that the user often performs for the course prediction, so that the user additionally performs a completely new operation for the course prediction. There is no annoyance or psychological burden. As described above, according to the present configuration, both the prediction operation and the batting operation can be performed only by moving the action imparting section, so that a dedicated operation only for prediction is not required, and the user's operation is simplified. A game that can be achieved can be realized.

2) In the configuration of the above 1), the predicted area setting means (122) is configured such that the action imparting unit (MC) is set before the action is imparted to the moving body (BL) (for example, NO processing in S120). Any of a plurality of divided areas (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23) that configures at least a part of a movable range (for example, the strike zone SZ) of the action giving unit (MC). Is determined to exist (for example, the processing of S150 and S152), and the sectioned regions (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23) in which the action imparting unit (MC) exists are set as the predicted region (ER). It is preferable to set (for example, the processing of S154 and S156).

Here, the “predetermined range” refers to, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area in the screen in which the action imparting unit can move. For example, a region in which the moving body is facing and the action applying unit is movable corresponds to an example of the “predetermined range”. For example, in a baseball game, a strike zone or an area including the strike zone, and a range (area) that a bat can reach can be set to a predetermined range. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, an area in front of the goal where the goalkeeper can capture or play the ball (for example, an area having the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) can be set as the predetermined range. Further, in the tennis game, the range (area) that the racket of the character receiving the serve can reach can be set to a predetermined range. Further, for example, when a game of shooting down a missile or a fighter is assumed, the screen of the sighting device or the scope aiming at the missile or the fighter can be set to a predetermined range. Also in other games, an arbitrary area within the screen displayed by the display unit can be set as the predetermined range.

Further, the "divided area" means, for example, each area formed by dividing a predetermined range in the screen into two or more. The “section area” can be a two-dimensional area on a two-dimensional plane or in a three-dimensional space. Alternatively, the “sectioned area” can be a three-dimensional area in a three-dimensional space. In addition, the “sectioned region” may have any two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape such as a triangle, a quadrangle, a triangular pyramid, or a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, each area obtained by dividing a predetermined area in which the moving body is facing into a plurality of areas corresponds to an example of the “divided area”. For example, in a baseball game, each area formed by dividing the strike zone into a plurality of areas (for example, vertically divided into three rows, horizontally divided into three rows, divided into 9 in a matrix, etc.) is an example of the “divided area”. Equivalent to. Further, for example, in a soccer game, each region obtained by dividing a region in front of a soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) into a plurality of regions corresponds to an example of a “segmented region”.

According to the game control device of the present configuration, for example, in a baseball game, the strike zone as an example of the predetermined range is divided into a plurality of divided areas, and the divided area where the meet cursor exists as an example of the action imparting unit is It is set as the prediction area. In the example where the strike zone is divided into three vertical columns, if the position of the meet cursor is at the left end of the strike zone, the leftmost vertical one-column divided region is set as the prediction region regardless of its height position. .. In this way, since the predicted area is set in units of the predetermined divided area, it is easy for the user to know which area is the predicted area.

3) In the configuration of 1) or 2) above, the predicted area setting unit (122) is configured to add the action applying unit (for example, NO processing in S120) before the action is applied to the moving body (BL) (for example, NO processing in S120). It is preferable to set the predicted area (ER) (for example, the processing of S112) when it is determined that the MC is stationary for a predetermined time or more (for example, the processing of YES in S108).

According to this configuration, the expected area is not set while the user is moving the action application unit, and the action application unit remains stationary for a predetermined time (for example, 0.5 seconds to 1.0 seconds). If it is determined that the predicted area is present, the predicted area is set. As a result, it is possible to set the expected area unnecessarily while the action imparting unit is moving, and to avoid noise during operation based on the user's hand shake, etc., and it is possible to set the expected area as the user intended. Become.

4) In the configuration according to any one of 1) to 3) above, when the predicted area setting means (122) does not set the predicted area (ER) at the start of movement of the moving body (BL), It is preferable that the predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting portion (MC) at the start of movement of the moving body (BL) is set as the predicted area (ER).

Here, the “when the moving body starts moving” means, for example, before the action is applied to the moving body and at the timing when the moving body starts moving. For example, the timing when the moving body starts moving from a predetermined specific position (or an unspecified position on the screen) in the screen corresponds to an example of “at the time when the moving body starts moving”. For example, in a baseball game, the timing at which the pitcher character on the mound releases the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”. Also, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, the timing at which the kicker character kicks the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”. Further, in the tennis game, the timing at which the server character serves the ball object corresponds to an example of “when the moving body starts moving”.

For example, as in the configuration of 3) above, in the configuration in which the predicted region is set when the action application unit is determined to be stationary for a predetermined time or more, the action application unit does not move and does not move. Since the predicted area is not set while the vehicle is stationary or until a predetermined time elapses after the stationary state, the moving body may start moving without setting the predicted area. For example, in the case of a baseball game, the user has performed an operation of moving a meet cursor as an example of the action imparting unit, but the ball object may be released from the pitcher character before the expected area is set. As described above, in general, the user performs an operation of moving the meet cursor in the direction of the pitching course expected by the user before the pitching. Therefore, in this configuration, when the expected area is not set at the time when the ball object is released, the position of the meet cursor at the start of movement of the ball object is regarded as the pitching course predicted by the user, and the meet cursor The predetermined area corresponding to the position is automatically set as the predicted area. To give a specific example, in an example in which the strike zone is divided into three vertical columns, if the position of the meet cursor at the start of the movement of the ball object is at the left end of the strike zone, the vertical length of the left end is irrespective of the height position. One row of divided areas is set as the predicted area.

With this configuration, even when the action imparting unit has not been set at the time of starting the movement of the moving body, a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action giving unit at the time of starting the movement of the moving unit is automatically set as the predicted region. Therefore, the user's operation can be further simplified.

Note that in the configuration in which the non-predictive area is provided as in the configuration of 5) described below, the predictive area is not set when the position of the action imparting portion at the start of movement of the moving body is within the non-predictive area. You may do it.

5) In the configuration according to any one of 1) to 4) above, the predicted region setting means (122) performs the action before the action is applied to the moving body (BL) (for example, the NO process of S120). When the provision unit (MC) is present in the non-prediction area (NR) provided in advance (for example, the processing of YES in S114), the prediction area (ER) is not set, or the prediction area that has already been set is set. It is preferable to cancel the setting of (ER) (for example, the processing of S116).

Here, the “non-prediction area” is, for example, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional area in the screen which is provided for not setting the prediction area or canceling the setting of the prediction area that has already been set, or It is a point. The "non-predicted area" can be provided at any place as long as it is within the area where the action imparting section is movable. For example, a specific region in the region where the moving body is facing and the action imparting unit is movable can be set as the “non-predicted region”. For example, in a baseball game, the area including the center of the strike zone can be set as the “non-predictive area”. Alternatively, a region (ball zone) outside the strike zone may be set as the “non-predicted region”. Further, for example, in a PK game of a soccer game, a region including the center of a region in front of the soccer goal (a region having substantially the same size as the opening of the soccer goal) can be set as the “non-predictive region”. Also in other various games, for example, a region including the center of the region in which the action imparting unit is movable can be set as the “non-predicted region”.

As a method of canceling the setting of the action applying section, it is conceivable to perform a dedicated operation for releasing such as pressing a predetermined release button, but according to this configuration, the action applying section is set in a non-expected area (for example, a strike). If the user wants to cancel the prediction area, the action imparting unit is moved to a non-prediction area adjacent to or close to the prediction area by allowing the zone to exist in the central mass divided into 9 zones. Therefore, the setting of the prediction area can be canceled easily. That is, it is possible to cancel not only the setting of the effect imparting unit but also the setting only by the operation of the effect imparting unit, and the operability is improved.

6) In the configuration of any one of 1) to 5) above, the action control means (123) is set by the predicted area setting means (122) after the predicted area (ER) is settable. The shorter the time until the predicted region (ER) is set, the acting force (for example, the impact) on the moving body (BL) when the action is given to the moving body (BL) within the predicted region (ER). It is preferable to control so that the force) becomes large.

Here, the “predictable region can be set” means, for example, that the action giving unit is displayed on the screen before the action is given to the moving body, and the operation that the user moves the action giving unit to an arbitrary position. It means being in a possible state. For example, the state in which the action imparting unit is initially displayed at a predetermined position within a predetermined area in which the moving body is facing before the movement of the moving body is equivalent to an example of “a state in which the predicted area can be set”. To do. For example, in a baseball game, a state in which a meet cursor as an example of the action imparting unit is initially displayed at a predetermined position (for example, the center) of the strike zone for each pitch before the pitcher character enters the pitching motion is This corresponds to an example of "a state in which an area can be set". From this state, the user can move the meet cursor to an arbitrary position to set the prediction area.

In addition, the “acting force” means, for example, a force exerted on the moving body which is an action target. For example, the force that changes the moving direction of the moving body corresponds to an example of the acting force. For example, the striking force applied to a moving body such as a ball object corresponds to an example of the acting force. Further, for example, in a game in which a target object is attacked, the attacking power, the destructive power, and the like of the target object are examples of the acting force. Further, for example, in a game of capturing a target object, the gripping force on the target object corresponds to an example of the acting force.

According to this configuration, the shorter the time from when the predicted area can be set until the predicted area is set by the predicted area setting means, that is, the faster the user predicts, The acting force increases. Therefore, it is necessary for the user to consider whether to enjoy the merit of quickly predicting and increasing the acting force, or whether to carefully think and predict, which further enhances the game.

7) The configuration according to any one of 1) to 6) above, further comprising display control means (124A) for changing the display state of the effect imparting section (MC) depending on whether or not the prediction area (ER) is set. It is preferable.

Here, the "different display state" means, for example, different colors, densities, and brightness of the objects displayed on the screen. In addition, for example, a static display state (for example, color, density, brightness, etc. do not change over time) and a dynamic display state (for example, color, density, brightness, etc. change periodically and blink). Replacing and is also equivalent to an example of "different display state". For example, changing the color, the density, the brightness, and the like of the action imparting unit that can change the moving direction of the moving body depending on whether or not the predicted region is set corresponds to an example of “changing the display state”. For example, changing the color or the like of the meet cursor for hitting the ball object depending on whether or not the prediction area is set corresponds to an example of “changing the display state”. In addition, it is possible to change the color, density, brightness, etc. of various action applying parts such as nets for catching insects, aiming at missiles and fighters depending on whether or not the prediction area is set. This is equivalent to an example.

Generally, it is considered that the user pays attention to the effect imparting unit during the game. For example, in a baseball game, the user operates by directing his or her line of sight to a meet cursor, which is an example of an action imparting unit. In this configuration, by changing the display state of the effect imparting unit to which the user gazes, depending on whether or not the expected region is set (for example, by changing the color, the density, the brightness, etc. of the effect imparting unit), It becomes easy to understand whether or not the prediction area is set.

8) In the configuration of 2) above, the plurality of segmented regions forming the predetermined range (SZ) according to the direction in which the action imparting portion (MC) moves from the initial position within the predetermined range (SZ). It is preferable to further include a segmented area setting unit (125B) for setting (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23).

For example, in a baseball game, a meet cursor (an example of an action imparting section) is initialized at the center of the strike zone (an example of an initial position within a predetermined range). Then, the user moves the meet cursor in the horizontal direction (horizontal direction) when predicting the in-course or the out-course, and moves the meet cursor in the height direction (vertical direction) when predicting the higher or lower course. it is conceivable that. Therefore, when the meet cursor moves laterally from the initial position, the strike zone is divided into, for example, three vertical columns to form three divided areas of in-course, middle, and out-course. On the other hand, when the meet cursor moves in the height direction from the initial position, the strike zone is divided into, for example, three horizontal rows to form three divided areas of a lower area, a middle area, and a higher area. Accordingly, it is possible to realize a configuration in which the horizontal prediction (in-course and out-course prediction) and the height prediction are automatically switched only by the user's operation of moving the meet cursor. In this way, by setting the division of the plurality of division areas forming the predetermined range in accordance with the direction in which the action imparting unit has moved from the initial position, for example, selecting a button or icon provided at another location. It is possible to set the prediction area divided as the user intended without any special switching operation by the user.

9) In the configuration of 2) or 8) above, the predicted area setting means (122) is in the divided area (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23) set as the predicted area (ER). In the case where it is determined that the action imparting unit (MC) has been stationary for a certain period of time or more, the action imparting unit (MC) forms a plurality of divided regions (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23). Which of the small regions (SR1 to SR3) is present, the small regions (SR1 to SR3) in which the action imparting unit (MC) is present are set as specific regions (SPR), and The control means (123) is a case where the moving body (BL) that has moved within the screen reaches the predicted area (ER), and the moving body (BL) is moved to the specific area (SPR). It is preferable to control so that the action on the moving body (BL) is different between when the action is given and when the action is given to the moving body (BL) outside the specific region (SPR).

Here, the “small area” means, for example, each area obtained by dividing the divided area set as the predicted area into a plurality of areas smaller than the divided area. The "small area" can be a two-dimensional area on a two-dimensional plane or in a three-dimensional space. Alternatively, the “small area” can be a three-dimensional area in a three-dimensional space. The “small area” can be any two-dimensional or three-dimensional shape such as a triangle, a quadrangle, a triangular pyramid, or a rectangular parallelepiped. For example, each area formed by dividing the divided area set as the predicted area into a plurality of areas within a predetermined area where the moving body is facing corresponds to an example of the “small area”. For example, in a baseball game, each area formed by dividing the strike zone into a plurality of areas is a “divisional area”, and the “divisional area” set as an expected area from the plurality of “divisional areas” is further divided into Each area divided into a plurality of small areas corresponds to an example of “small area”.

In this configuration, the segmented area set as the prediction area is divided into a plurality of smaller subareas, and the action on the moving body is made different depending on the location in the prediction area. That is, when the effect imparting unit is stationary for a certain time (for example, 3 seconds) within the segmented region set as the prediction region, the small region in which the action imparting unit exists is set as the specific region in the prediction region. It Even when the mobile body reaches the predicted area, the action on the mobile body is controlled to be different depending on whether the mobile body reaches the specific area or the specific area. For example, the acting force is greater when reaching the inside of the specific region than when reaching outside the specific region. With this configuration, the action can be changed depending on the position in the prediction area, and the game can be further enhanced.

10) In a game control device (10, 10C, 30C) according to another aspect of the present invention, at least an action imparting unit (MC) for hitting a pitched ball object (BL) in accordance with a user operation. The action applying section moving means (121) for moving within the area including the strike zone (SZ), and the action applying section (MC) configures the strike zone (SZ) before the movement of the ball object (BL) is started. Which of the plurality of divided areas (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23) is present, the divided areas (DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR11 to which the action imparting unit (MC) is present are determined. DR13, DR21 to DR23) is set as an expected area (ER) for the ball object (BL) to reach, an expected area setting unit (122), the ball object (BL) that has been thrown, and the action imparting unit (MC). And an action control unit (123) for determining the content of the hit or the result of the hit on the ball object (BL) based on the positional relationship with the ball object (BL), the action control unit (123) being the pitched ball. Control so that the acting force on the ball object (BL) is larger when the object (BL) is hit within the predicted area (ER) than when it is hit outside the predicted area (ER). To do.

According to this configuration, the strike zone is configured only by the user operating the action imparting unit (for example, the meet cursor) before the ball object starts moving, for example, before the ball object is released from the pitcher character. The sectioned area in which the action imparting portion exists among the plurality of sectioned areas is automatically set as the predicted area. For example, if the user predicts that the ball will be thrown into the in-course, it is possible to predict the segmented area existing in the in-course only by moving the action imparting unit to the in-course position before the ball is released from the pitcher character. It is set as an area. That is, both the predicting operation and the hitting operation can be performed only by moving the action imparting portion. As described above, this configuration can realize a baseball game in which a dedicated operation only for prediction is unnecessary and the user's operation can be simplified.

11) A game system (1, 1C) according to another aspect of the present invention includes a server (30, 30C) and a terminal device (10, 10C) capable of communicating with the server (30, 30C). (1 and 1C), an action imparting unit moving means (121) for moving an action imparting unit (MC) for imparting an action to the moving body (BL), and the moving body. Before applying the action to (BL), a predetermined region corresponding to the position of the action applying portion (MC) is set as an estimated region (ER) that the moving body (BL) reaches (predicted region setting means ( 122) and action control means (123) for determining the content of action given to the moving body (BL) based on the positional relationship between the moving body (BL) and the action giving section (MC). One of the server (30, 30C) or the terminal device (10, 10C) is provided with means, and the action control means (123) acts on the moving body (BL) within the predicted region (ER). Is controlled and the action on the moving body (BL) is controlled to be different between the case where the action is given to the moving body (BL) outside the predicted region (ER).

12) A program according to another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to operate as the game control device (10, 10C, 30C) according to any one of 1) to 10) above. It is a program for causing each unit included in the game control device (10, 10C, 30C) to function.

1, 1C game system 10, 10C game device (example of game control device, example of terminal device)
13 RAM (an example of a storage device)
14 Auxiliary storage device (an example of storage device)
30 server 30C server (an example of a game control device)
121, 321C Action imparting portion moving means 122, 322C Predicted area setting means 123, 323C Action control means 124A Display control means 125B Segmented area setting means ER Predicted area NR Non-predicted area MC Meat cursor (an example of effect imparting portion)
BL ball object (an example of a moving object)
SZ strike zone (an example of a predetermined range)
DR1 to DR9, DR11 to DR13, DR21 to DR23 Divided areas SR1 to SR3 Small areas SPR specific areas

Claims (5)

A setting means for setting an action giving portion capable of giving an action to the movable body based on a positional relationship with the movable body in the operable range, to a predetermined initial position within the operable range;
An action applying section moving means for moving the action applying section within the operable range from before the application of the operation to the moving body in response to a user operation;
Whether the action giving unit is moved from the initial position after the action giving unit is set at the initial position by the setting unit until the specific predictable period before the action is given is ended. Judgment, while it is in the predicted state when it is determined that it has been moved from the initial position, on the other hand, when it is determined that it has not been moved from the initial position, the prediction presence/absence switching means to be in the unpredictable state,
In the case of the predicted state, a predicted area setting unit that sets a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting section moved from the initial position in the predictable period as the predicted area reached by the moving body. When,
An action control unit that controls the action on the moving body to be different between when the action is applied to the moving body in the predicted region and when the action is given to the moving body outside the predicted region. , equipped with a,
After the predicted area is set by the predicted area setting means, until the movable body reaches the operable range, the predicted area is fixed by the action imparting part moving means. A game control device in which an action application unit is moved according to a user operation. The game control device according to claim 1, wherein the prediction area setting unit sets the prediction area when the effect imparting unit determines that the effect imparting unit has been stationary for a predetermined time or more during the predictable period. The game control device according to claim 1, wherein the prediction area setting unit sets a predetermined area corresponding to the position of the action imparting unit at the end of the prediction possible period as the prediction area. A game system including a server and a terminal device capable of communicating with the server,
A game system in which any one of the server and the terminal device includes each unit of the game control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . A program for causing a computer to operate as the game control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the program causes the computer to function as each unit included in the game control device.

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