JP6808898B2 - Server device control method, server device, game system and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game management device, a game system, and a program that accepts access from a terminal device of each user who receives a game service via a network and manages game information of each user.

Conventionally, a game system in which a user can receive various game services provided by the game server by connecting a user's terminal device (personal computer, mobile phone terminal, etc.) to a game server installed on the Internet. There is.

In recent years, the game system has been incorporated into the system of a social networking service (SNS), which is a community-type service that promotes and supports connections between people, and is provided as one of the SNS services, so-called social. Games are widespread. In such social games, users can interact with each other by making friends with other users who are using the game service and communicating with fellow users. ing.

Normally, in order to use a game service such as a social game, the user needs to register with the game service. Conventionally, in order to increase the number of users registered in the game service and activate the game service, when a user who has already registered in the game service invites an unregistered person to the game service, the invited party registers in the game service. Occasionally, a system has been proposed in which a predetermined amount of points are given to the inviting party as an invitation privilege (see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2003-30368

However, in the conventional configuration, the invitation privilege is given only once when the invited party registers for the game service, and the content of the invitation privilege is simply a point grant. Therefore, it did not give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game. In this way, it is difficult to effectively increase the number of users registered in the game service with the measures to which the conventional ordinary invitation privilege is applied, and it is an effective measure that leads to the activation of the game service. Is desired.

In addition, when users registered in the game service build a friendship, one user applies for a friend to the other user, and the user who receives the application approves it. In this case as well, if benefits such as points are given to both users only once when a friendship is established, it is difficult to activate the game service.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to realize a game management device, a game system, a game management method, and a program that contribute to activation of a game service.

The game management device according to one aspect of the present invention is a game management device that manages game information of each user registered in the game service, and is a user registered in the game service and invited to register the game service. When an invited user invited to register a new game service by an invited user accepts the invitation, the information relating the invited user and the invited user is stored in a storage device to manage the relationship between the two. The relationship management means includes a friend management means that stores information of fellow users who have a fellow relationship with each user in a storage device and manages the fellows for each user, and the fellow management means is invited by the relation management means. When the information relating the user and the invited user is stored in the storage device, the fellow relationship between the invited user and the invited user is automatically set.

The game system according to another aspect of the present invention is a game system including a game management device that manages a game and a terminal device that communicates with the game management device, and is registered in a game service. When an invited user who is an invited user who has been invited to register a game service and is invited to register a new game service accepts the invitation, the information relating the invited user and the invited user is displayed. The game management device includes a relationship management means that stores in a storage device and manages the relationship between the two, and a fellow management means that stores information of fellow users who have a fellowship with each user in the storage device and manages fellows for each user. Alternatively, one of the terminal devices is provided, and the companion management means can be used with the invited user when the information relating the invited user and the invited user is stored in the storage device by the relationship management means. It is a configuration that automatically sets the fellowship with the invited user.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the structural example of the game system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware composition of a game management apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware composition of a terminal device. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the functional configuration of a game management device. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the functional structure of the game information management means. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the game information which the game information management means stores and manages in a database server. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the system structure which incorporated the game system into SNS. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the invitation relation information which the invitation relation memory control part stores. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the correspondence relationship between a parameter value and a tone mark. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the main screen when an invitation privilege is given. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the main screen when a new invitation registration privilege is given. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the information about the fellow of each user which the fellow information storage control unit stores. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the information about each user's companion stored in the companion information storage control unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the received message information which a message storage control part stores. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the companion list screen. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the operation of a game system. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a game progress process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing of a game server when a user newly registers in a game service. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the invitation privilege granting process. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the invitation privilege granting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the new invitation registration privilege granting process. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the new invitation registration privilege granting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which ends a privilege. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the screen which shows the content of the new invitation registration privilege. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the screen which shows the content of an invitation privilege. It is a functional block diagram which shows another example of the functional configuration of a game management device. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the game screen in a battle mode. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a helper selection screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the game screen in a battle mode. It is a flowchart which shows an example of a battle process. It is a flowchart which shows another example of a battle process. It is a functional block diagram which shows the main functional configuration of a game management apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the fellowship information. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the main screen of a game. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a cheering party screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the cheering party candidate list screen. It is a functional block diagram which shows another example of the main functional configuration of a game management apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the storage information of the initial value of the level of the 2nd user at the time when a 1st user and a 2nd user are related. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the processing of a game server when a 1st user applies to a 2nd user to become a cheering party. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process of giving a privilege by a cheering party. It is a functional block diagram which shows another example of the main functional configuration of a game management apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows another example of the main functional configuration of a game management apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which changes the force according to the total number of cheering team members of both users who perform a battle. It is a functional block diagram which shows another example of the main functional configuration of a game management apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the operation which disbands a cheering party naturally.

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

[Outline of game system]
FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of a game system incorporating the game management device according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, this game system includes a game server 1 installed on a network 4 such as the Internet, a database server 2 communicatively connected to the game server 1, and a game server via the network 4. It is composed of a terminal device 3 of each user that can be communicably connected to 1.

The network 4 of the present embodiment is not limited to the Internet, and is, for example, a dedicated line or a public network as long as it can communicate with each other between the game server 1 and the terminal device 3 of each user. It may be a line (telephone line, mobile communication line, etc.), a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, or the like, or may be a combination of the Internet and these.

In the example of this game system, the game management device according to the embodiment of the present invention is composed of a game server 1 and a database server 2. The game server 1 receives access from the terminal device 3 of each user who receives the game service via the network 4, stores and manages the game information of each user in the database server 2 (storage device), and informs each user. Provide a game service via network 4.

In the present embodiment, as one form of providing the game service by the game server 1, an example of providing a so-called browser game in which the game can be played by the web browser mounted on the terminal device 3 of each user will be described. In the service form that provides this browser game, the user can feel free to use the game server anywhere as long as it is not necessary to download or install the game-dedicated software on the user's terminal device 3 and the terminal device 3 can be connected to the network 4. You can enjoy the game service provided from 1.

In this game system, a program (application software) for a browser game is implemented in a game server 1, and the game server 1 performs arithmetic processing and data for game progress in response to an input operation in the terminal device 3 of each user. Execute the process. Then, the game server 1 updates the game information of each user in the database server 2 based on the execution result of the arithmetic processing or the like, and the web page information for displaying the execution result on the screen of the user's terminal device 3. (Game screen data) is transmitted to the terminal device 3 of each user.

Each user's terminal device 3 is equipped with a web browser having a website browsing function as a user agent so that the web page information transmitted from the game server 1 can be displayed on the screen of the terminal device 3. It has become. The terminal device 3 includes, for example, a mobile phone terminal, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), and a smartphone which is a mobile terminal in which a mobile phone and a mobile information terminal are fused. , Personal computers, tablet computers, and various other terminals that can connect to the game server 1 via the network 4 and receive the provision of game services can be applied.

Further, the game provided in the present embodiment has a so-called social game element in which a user can play while communicating with another user who receives a game service. For example, by incorporating the game server 1 and the database server 2 of the present embodiment into a system of a social networking service (SNS), a game system that provides a social game service as one of the services of the SNS can be obtained. Although the game service can be provided to the user by the game system operating on the SNS platform in this way, the game server 1 and the database server 2 may be constructed as an independent game system without being incorporated into the SNS system. Good.

In order to use the game service in this game system, the user needs to register the use of the game service with the game server 1. In addition, users who have already registered for the game service can invite new game service registrations to unregistered users. Here, in order to motivate each user to "invite a new user to the game", the invited user (second user) who is invited to register the new game service registers with the game service. In this case, the invited user (first user) who invited the game service registration is given the invitation privilege.

Then, the game server 1 of the present embodiment does not perform the ordinary invitation privilege granting process such as giving a predetermined point to the invited user only once when the invited user registers for the game service, but the following As explained in, it provides invited users with innovative and attractive invitation benefits that take advantage of the continuous relationship between the party invited to the game service (invited user) and the invited party (invited user). is there.

That is, the game server 1 of the present embodiment stores information relating the invited user and the invited user when the invited user invited to register a new game service by the invited user registers for the game service. Even after the invited user is registered in the game service, the relationship between the two is continuously managed. For example, when the invitation is successful (the invited user is registered in the game service), the invited user becomes a "senior" and the invited user becomes a "junior", and the game server 1 continuously manages the relationship between the two. To do. Then, the game server 1 is characterized in that after the invited user registers with the game service, the invited user is given an invitation privilege according to the access to the game of the invited user or the progress of the game. Has a configuration. For example, when the invited user is accessing (logging in) to the game server 1, the experience value in the game that can be acquired becomes larger than usual, or the achievement of the mission activated in the game or the progress of the event is usually performed. Invited users are given an invitation privilege that is faster than that. Alternatively, the invited user is given an invitation privilege to receive an item with a predetermined rarity or higher. A more detailed description of the invitation privilege provided by the game server 1 will be described later.

Due to the characteristic configuration of this embodiment, for the invited user, after the invitation is successful (after the invited user is registered in the game service), the invited user is invited to access the game or according to the progress of the game. Since the benefits can be enjoyed continuously, the invitation benefits are more attractive than the conventional benefits in which points are given only once when the invitation is successful. Since it is possible to provide the user with such a novel and attractive invitation privilege that has never existed before, it is possible to give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game.

In addition, the invitation privilege given to the invited user depends on the access of the invited user to the game or the progress of the game. For example, in the case of an invitation privilege that the experience value in the game that can be acquired becomes larger than usual when the invited user is accessing (logged in) to the game server 1, the invited user accesses the game server 1 more. By doing so, invited users can enjoy greater benefits. Therefore, invited users can be expected to communicate by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to access" and "Let's access together" so that the invited users will have more access, and the game community will be activated. It is planned.

Further, the game server 1 of the present embodiment is advantageous in terms of the game even for the invited user after the invited user has registered in the game service, depending on the access of the invited user to the game or the progress of the game. The privilege (new invitation registration privilege) is given so as to become. As a result, it is possible to provide attractive new invitation registration benefits to invited users, and it is possible to give the invited users a strong motivation to newly register for the game. Furthermore, since it is a new invitation registration privilege that makes use of the continuous relationship between the invited user and the invited user, it will lead to activation of the game community in the same way as when the above invitation privilege is given to the invited user. It is a thing.

The details of the configuration of the game management device according to the present embodiment, which can provide the user with the novel and attractive invitation privilege or the new invitation registration privilege as described above, will be described below.

[Configuration of game management device]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the game management device is composed of the game server 1 and the database server 2. FIG. 2 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the game server 1. As shown in the figure, the game server 1 mainly includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12 as a main storage device, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, and an auxiliary storage device 14. The communication control unit 15 and the input / output control unit 16 are provided, and these are connected to each other via a bus line 17 including an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, and the like. An interface circuit is interposed between the bus line 17 and each component as needed, but the illustration of the interface circuit is omitted here.

The CPU 11 interprets and executes instructions from application software such as system software and game programs, and controls the entire game server 1. The ROM 12 stores a program or the like necessary for basic operation control of the game management device 1. 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 application software such as a game program and various data. As the auxiliary storage device 14, for example, a hard disk drive or the like can be used. The program of the present embodiment for operating the game server 1 (computer) as a game management device is also stored in the auxiliary storage device 14, and the program is bus lined from the auxiliary storage device 14 when the game server 1 is started. It is loaded into the RAM 13 via the 17 and executed by the CPU 11.

The communication control unit 15 includes a communication interface 15a connected to the network 4 and controls communication with the terminal device 3 of each user via the network 4. The communication control unit 15 also controls communication with a server (not shown) connected to the network 4. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the game server 1 is incorporated in the SNS, the communication control unit 15 of the game server 1 controls the communication with the SNS server 101.

The input / output control unit 16 is a database interface that is communicably connected to the database server 2 and controls input / output when the CPU 11 reads / writes data (records) to the database server 2.

The database server 2 includes, for example, a large-capacity hard disk device having a RAID (Redundant Arrays of Inexpensive Disks) configuration as a storage device having an area for storing game information of each user managed by the game server 1. The database server 2 is a relational database server 2 that stores various game information (user name, level, in-game points, possessed items, etc.) of each user in association with identification information (user ID) that uniquely identifies each user. It can be constructed as a database, object database, object-relational database, or the like.

In the present embodiment, an example in which the game management device is composed of the game server 1 and the database server 2 is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the game server 1 may be provided with the function of the database server 2, and the game management device may be configured only by the game server 1. Further, each function of the game server 1 can be distributed to a plurality of servers, and the game server 1 can be configured as a plurality of servers. For example, when a user operates the terminal device 3 to access the game server 1, an authentication server having an authentication function for determining whether the user is a legitimate user is provided separately from the main server of the game server 1. The game server 1 may be configured by the main server and the authentication server. As another configuration example, a billing management server that manages billing when a user purchases an item to be billed in the game is provided separately from the main server of the game server 1, and the main server, authentication server, and billing management are provided. The game server 1 may be configured by the server.

Further, when the number of users of this game service is hundreds of thousands, millions, or more, it is required to construct a server system that can withstand a huge access from the terminal device 3 of a large number of users. Therefore, a load-distributed system configuration may be obtained by providing a plurality of game servers 1 on the network 4 to achieve redundancy (multiplexing). In this case, it is desirable to provide a load balancer for adjusting the load between the plurality of game servers 1.

Next, the configuration of the terminal device 3 of the user who accesses the game server 1 according to the present embodiment and receives the game service will be described.

[Terminal device configuration]
As the terminal device 3 operated by the user, various terminals having a website browsing function can be applied, such as a mobile phone terminal and a smartphone as described above, but in the present embodiment, the mobile phone terminal is exemplified. The configuration will be described. It should be noted that the terminal device 3 other than the mobile phone terminal is also basically required for playing the game, such as displaying the game screen using the website browsing function and performing input operations for executing the game. The configuration is the same as that of a mobile phone terminal.

A mobile phone terminal having a website browsing function or the like is also called a feature phone or a smartphone, and a configuration example thereof is shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the terminal device 3 mainly includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32 and a RAM 33 as a main storage device, an image processing unit 34, a display unit 35, a sound processing unit 36, and an audio input unit 37. The audio output unit 38, the auxiliary storage device 39, the operation input unit 40, and the communication control unit 41 are provided, and the components 31 to 34, 36 and 39 to 41 are connected to each other via the bus line 42. Has been done. An interface circuit is interposed between the bus line 42 and each component as needed, but the illustration of the interface circuit is omitted here.

The CPU 31 interprets and executes instructions of various programs including a web browser, and controls the entire terminal device 3. The ROM 32 stores programs and the like necessary for basic operation control of the terminal device 3. Further, various programs and data loaded from the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 39 are stored in the RAM 33, and a work area for the CPU 31 is secured. The web browser that displays the game screen data described in HTML or the like is stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 39, is loaded in the RAM 33, and is executed by the CPU 31. Further, various plug-in software for extending the browser function of the web browser may be stored in the ROM 32 or the auxiliary storage device 39 together with the web browser.

The image processing unit 34 drives the display unit 35 based on an image display command from the CPU 31 to display an image on the screen of the display unit 35. Various known display devices such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be applied to the display unit 35.

The sound processing unit 36 converts an analog voice signal into a digital voice signal when voice is input from the voice input unit 37, and generates an analog voice signal based on a pronunciation instruction from the CPU 31 to the voice output unit 38. Output. The voice input unit 37 is composed of a microphone built in the terminal device 3, and is used for telephone communication, recording, and the like. The voice output unit 38 includes a receiving speaker during telephone communication and a speaker that outputs a telephone ringtone, a sound effect during game execution, and the like.

The auxiliary storage device 39 is a storage device that stores various programs, data, and the like. As the auxiliary storage device 39, for example, a flash memory drive or the like can be used as the internal memory of the mobile phone terminal, and for example, a memory card reader / writer or the like can be used as the external memory of the mobile phone terminal.

The operation input unit 40 accepts the user's operation input and outputs an input signal corresponding to the operation input to the CPU 31 via the bus line 42. Examples of the operation input unit 40 include physical buttons such as a direction instruction button, a decision button, and an input button for alphanumeric characters provided on the main body of the terminal device 3. Further, in the case of the terminal device 3 in which the display unit 35 is configured as a so-called touch screen by mounting a touch panel (contact input type interface) on the screen of the display unit 35, the touch panel is also the operation input unit 40.

The communication control unit 41 includes a communication interface 41a, and has a communication control function for data communication during game operation and the like, a communication control function for transmitting and receiving voice data as a mobile phone terminal, and the like. Here, as the communication control function for data communication, for example, a wireless LAN connection function, an Internet connection function via a wireless LAN or a mobile phone network, and a predetermined frequency band (for example, a 2.4 GHz frequency band) are used. Includes short-range wireless communication functions. The communication control unit 41 transmits a connection signal for connecting the game device 1 to a wireless LAN, the Internet, or the like based on a command from the CPU 31, receives information transmitted from the communication partner side, and supplies the information to the CPU 31. To do.

The terminal device 3 may also be provided with a GPS (Global Positioning System) signal receiving circuit, an imaging device (camera) such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and a 3-axis acceleration sensor. For example, GPS position information and the like may be utilized in the game.

In the terminal device 3 having the above configuration, a user who intends to receive a game service launches a web browser and operates to access a game site managed by the game server 1. When this access is authenticated by the game server 1, the communication control unit 41 of the terminal device 3 receives the game screen data described in HTML or the like transmitted from the game server 1, and the CPU 31 executes a web browser. The game screen is displayed on the display unit 35. Here, the user selects and inputs the selectable button object or hyperlink displayed on the game screen by operating the operation input unit 40. The game server 1 advances the game in response to this selection input, and transmits new game screen data to the terminal device 3. Then, this new game screen is displayed on the display unit 35 of the terminal device 3, and similarly, the user selects a button object or the like that can be selected on the game screen displayed on the display unit 35. The game provided by the game server 1 can be played.

[Functional configuration of game management device]
Next, the main functions of the game management device (game server 1 and database server 2) configured as described above will be described. FIG. 4 is a main functional block diagram of the game management device.

The game management device mainly includes a game information management means 51, a game progress means 52, an authentication means 53, an access management means 54, an invitation processing means 55, a relationship management means 56, a privilege giving means 57, a parameter setting means 58, and a notification means. It includes 59, companion management means 60, and message transmission means 61. Each of these means 51 to 61 is realized by the CPU 11 of the game server 1 executing the program according to the present embodiment.

The game information management means 51 stores and manages the game information of each user in the database server 2. The items of the game information managed by the game information management means 51 differ depending on the contents of the game service provided to the user by the game server 1.

Examples of games provided by the game server 1 include sports games based on various sports such as baseball, soccer, and golf, battle games based on combat, music simulation games, and various other role-playing games / training. Various games can be mentioned regardless of the game format and genre, such as games and simulation games. As an example, in the present embodiment, a case where the game server 1 provides a baseball game as a game service will be described below.

In the present embodiment, a baseball game in which a user owns a player character in the game and can play a match (competition) with another user in the game using the player character will be given as an example. The player character owned by the user can be in the form of a card in which the form of the player character is visible on the screen of the terminal device 3. That is, the player character is managed by the game server 1 as a digital player card and is displayed on the screen of the user's terminal device 3. FIG. 10 illustrates a player card 71 displayed on the screen of the user's terminal device 3, and the player card 71 is displayed as a digital player card representing the form of the player character on the screen. .. Users can collect player cards as the game progresses, form their own original team, and compete against other users for ranking. In addition, the user can improve the ability of the player card (player character) by synthesizing the collected player cards (that is, train the player), and can enjoy the game aiming at building a stronger team. You can do it.

In such a baseball game, the game information management means 51 that manages the game information of each user is a user information storage control unit 51a, a level information storage control unit 51b, and an owned player card memory control unit 51c, as shown in FIG. , Owned point storage control unit 51d, owned coin storage control unit 51e, owned item storage control unit 51f, match result storage control unit 51g, ranking storage control unit 51h, privilege information storage control unit 51i, and the like. FIG. 6 shows an example of game information of each user stored and managed in the database server 2 by the storage control units 51a to 51i of the game information management means 51 (in this example, one user ID = “000001”). Game information) is shown.

The user information storage control unit 51a associates the user information with the user ID that uniquely identifies each user, and provides user information about each user such as a login ID, a password, a user name (nickname used in the game, etc.), and a team name. Each user ID is stored in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2. Here, the login ID and password are used for login authentication when each user operates the terminal device 3 to access the game server 1. The user name and team name are arbitrary information set by the user when the user registers for using the game service or when the game is executed for the first time. The user name and team name are displayed on the game screen as needed.

The level information storage control unit 51b stores level information such as the level of the user's game and the level of the league to which the user belongs in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID in association with the user ID. In this baseball game, for example, experience points are accumulated as the user advances the game, and when the experience points reach a certain amount, the level of the user's game is raised. Also, in this baseball game, for example, there are multiple leagues of different levels, each user's team belongs to one of the leagues, and a match (league match) is automatically played with the teams of other users in the same league. It is supposed to do. In addition, a qualification match between teams of users belonging to different leagues is automatically executed according to the results of this league match, and the league level to which the user's team belongs changes. In order for the user's team to participate in the league match, the user may perform an entry operation on the terminal device 3, or the game server 1 automatically puts each user's team into the league match even if there is no entry operation. You may let them participate. The level information storage control unit 51b stores the game level of each user and the level of the league to which the user belongs in association with the user ID.

The owned player card storage control unit 51c stores the information of the player card acquired and owned by the user in the game in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID in association with the user ID. Examples of the player card information include identification information (player card ID) for uniquely identifying the player card, an ability value indicating the high ability of the player, and a regular player flag.

FIG. 6 shows an example in which a player's ability value can be set for three ability items (abilities 1 to 3). As an example of ability items, if the player card is a fielder, abilities 1 to 3 can be "hit", "running ability", "defense", etc., and if the player card is a pitcher, ability 1 ~ 3 can be "ball power", "ball control", "change" and the like. The ability item is not limited to this example and can be increased or decreased. For example, two ability items of "attack power" and "defense power (or defense power)" may be provided for all player cards, and ability values may be set for the two ability items. ..

A regular player flag is a player card owned by a user who is a regular player (a player incorporated in a team order) who participates in a match with another user's team, or a substitute player other than a regular player. It is a flag for determining whether or not, and when this is "1", it indicates that it is registered as a player card of a regular player. By operating the terminal device 3, the user can select a regular player from the player cards he owns and set a team order.

In addition, various parameters such as tone, physical strength, and player level, which will be described later, are set for each player card (character). The owned player card storage control unit 51c also stores the parameter information of each of these player cards in the database server 2 in association with the user ID.

In addition, the database server 2 is associated with the player card ID and stores the player card image data, player name, position, affiliation team, ability value (initial value not strengthened by synthesis), and the like. A database exists, and the game information management means 51 can acquire image data and the like of a player card corresponding to the player card ID based on the player card ID stored in the owned player card storage control unit 51c. ing.

The owned point storage control unit 51d stores various points (including values equivalent to points) owned by the user in the game in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID in association with the user ID. Remember. In this game, there are various game modes, and it is possible to acquire various points and use the acquired points according to the game mode.

As shown in FIG. 6, examples of points include physical strength points, attack costs, power points, exchange points, and the like, in addition to the above-mentioned experience points. The physical strength points are used in the "club activity mode" in which the baseball club performs club activities such as practice while consuming the physical strength points. The attack cost is used in the "competition mode" in which another user is specified to play an individual battle, and the individual battle is performed at the position of the cost (points) required for the match. Is consumed by. For example, the health points and attack costs consumed and reduced during the game can be recovered over time (for example, 1 point is recovered every 3 minutes), or the experience value reaches a certain amount. It is possible to recover by increasing the level of the user.

In addition, the PowerPoint is used in a "synthesis mode" in which the ability of player cards is improved by synthesizing player cards owned by the user, and is consumed by performing the synthesis. This PowerPoint can be obtained by, for example, executing a club activity mode or a battle mode. Further, the exchange points are points that can be obtained by the user sending a message or the like to another user to support them. This exchange point can be used, for example, in the "lottery acquisition mode" in which a predetermined number (for example, one) of player cards can be acquired by lottery based on random numbers or the like from all the player cards managed by the game server 1. Yes, you can receive one player card lottery for each predetermined exchange point. Further, in the "lottery acquisition mode", not only player cards but also items may be acquired by lottery. In addition, there are points used when purchasing items etc. at a virtual shop in the game.

The owned coin storage control unit 51e stores coins owned by the user in the game (in-game currency different from the points) in association with the user ID in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID. Remember in. This coin is required, for example, when acquiring an item to be charged.

The owned item storage control unit 51f stores the items acquired by the user in the game in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID in association with the user ID. As shown in FIG. 6, examples of items include recovery items, player card pieces, and fake cards. The recovery item is an item that instantly recovers the above-mentioned health points and / or attack costs that have been consumed and reduced during the game to the maximum value without waiting for the passage of time. For example, recovery items can be obtained by consuming and purchasing the coins, or by satisfying predetermined bonus conditions in the game.

A player card piece is an item that allows you to obtain a powerful (high ability value) player card by collecting all the predetermined number of pieces (for example, 6 pieces of P1 to P6) to complete the player card. .. For example, a piece of a player card can be obtained when a lottery based on a random number or the like is won during the execution of the club activity mode, and a piece owned by another user is aimed at and won in the battle mode. In some cases, it can be taken from the user of the opponent.

The fake card is an item that can be set in the piece of the player card so that the targeted piece is not taken only once even if the player loses to another user in the battle in the battle mode. For example, a fake card can be obtained by consuming and purchasing the coin, or by satisfying a predetermined bonus condition in the game.

The match result storage control unit 51g stores a match ID for uniquely identifying a match in which the user's team has played against another user's team in association with the user ID, in a predetermined storage of the database server 2 for each user ID. Store in the area. Here, the match uniquely specified by the match ID includes a match of an individual match played by the user by designating an opponent and a match of the league match.

In addition, the database server 2 is associated with the match ID, and the match date and time (time of start or end of the match in the real world), the user ID of the winning team, the user ID of the losing team, the match score, the winning pitcher character, It has a match database that stores information about match results such as defeated pitcher characters, player characters who hit home bases, and match brief information. Then, the game information management means 51 can acquire information on the match result corresponding to the match ID from the match database based on the match ID stored in the match result storage control unit 51g.

The ranking memory control unit 51h, in association with the user ID, provides ranking information such as the number of wins and losses of the user's team in the league match, and the ranking in the league to which the user team belongs based on the number of wins and losses, for each user ID. It is stored in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2.

The privilege information storage control unit 51i stores information about the privilege given to the user in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID in association with the user ID. The privilege in the present embodiment includes an invitation privilege given to the invited user by newly registering the invited user in the game service and a new invitation registration privilege given to the invited user. Here, the granting of the privilege means to make the game more advantageous than before the privilege is granted (merit generation state), and in FIG. 6, the invitation privilege that the value of the parameter described later is improved by one step is given. An example given to the user is shown. Details of this benefit will be described later.

Next, the game progress means 52 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. The game progress means 52 executes a game in response to an operation on the terminal device 3 by the user, generates game screen data according to the execution result, transmits the game screen data to the terminal device 3, and operates the terminal device 3 by the user. It has a function of advancing the game by displaying the game screen according to the above. As shown in FIG. 4, the game progressing means 52 includes a game executing means 52a, a game screen generating means 52b, and a game screen transmitting means 52c.

When the game screen is displayed by the web browser of the user's terminal device 3, when the user performs an operation to select a selectable button object or hyperlink on the game screen, a request for the game screen corresponding to the operation is performed. Is transmitted to the game server 1 by the web browser of the terminal device 3. In the game server 1 that has received this request, the game execution means 52a executes the game by reading the user's game information in response to the request and performing calculation and data processing.

For example, in the case where the user performs an operation of playing against another user's team in the battle mode, the game execution means 52a is a player card of both teams corresponding to the user IDs of both users who play the battle. Information (player card information of regular players participating in the game) is read from the database server 2. Then, the game execution means 52a performs a calculation for determining victory or defeat based on the ability values of the player cards of both teams. As an example of this calculation of victory or defeat, the winning team may simply have the higher total ability value of the player cards of both teams, or the team with the higher total ability value has a higher probability of winning. The winning team may be calculated by probability calculation. In addition, the game execution means 52a performs a calculation for determining whether or not to generate various effect effects that affect the victory or defeat, based on the combination of the player cards constituting the team, before the calculation for determining the victory or defeat. You may.

The game screen generation means 52b generates game screen data including, for example, HTML data according to the execution result by the game execution means 52a. The HTML data may include image data such as a player card read from the database server 2. Further, a script (program) operated by a plug-in of the web browser of the terminal device 3 may be embedded in the HTML data.

The game screen transmission means 52c transmits the game screen data (HTML data, etc.) generated by the game screen generation means 52b to the user's terminal device 3 as a response to the request of the game screen. In the terminal device 3 of the user who has received the game screen data, the game screen is displayed on the display unit 35 by the web browser.

Next, the authentication means 53 will be described. When a user who wants to receive a game service tries to access (log in) the game server 1 by operating the terminal device 3, the authentication means 53 determines whether or not the user is qualified to participate in the game and performs login authentication. .. An example of this authentication is authentication based on a login ID and password associated with a user ID. For example, when the user uses the game service for the first time, the login ID (arbitrary alphanumeric characters, e-mail address, etc.) and password are registered in the game server 1 as member information. Then, when logging in to the game server 1 from the next time, the user operates the terminal device 3 to send the login ID and password to the game server 1. At this time, the authentication means 53 of the game server 1 determines whether or not the combination of the login ID and the password received from the user's terminal device 3 has been registered, and performs login authentication.

When the game system is incorporated into the SNS system, the SNS member registration information (login ID and password) may be used as it is as the usage registration information for receiving the game service of the game system. For example, when the user's terminal device 3 is logged in to the SNS server and the game site managed by the game server 1 is first accessed, the user's login ID and password are automatically set from the SNS server to the game server 1. It may be transferred so that the user can register to use the game service without registering the login ID and password again.

In addition, the individual identification number of the mobile phone terminal that is the terminal device 3 (a mobile phone terminal different from the telephone number is unique) so that the user can save the trouble of inputting the login ID and password each time the user accesses the game server 1. (Information for identifying the user) or a contractor-specific ID (information for uniquely identifying the contractor of the mobile phone terminal, which is not changed as long as the contractor is the same even if the model is changed) You may perform authentication using. That is, when the user operates the mobile phone terminal to register as a member, the game server 1 acquires the individual identification number or the contractor's unique ID included in the data transmitted from the mobile phone terminal, and the login ID and password. At the same time, the individual identification number or the contractor's unique ID is also stored in the database server 2 in association with the user ID. Then, when the authentication means 53 receives an access request from the mobile phone terminal, it determines whether or not the individual identification number or the contractor's unique ID has been registered, and performs login authentication. As a result, when accessing the game server 1, the user can log in without entering the login ID and password.

Further, as another method that can save the trouble of inputting the login ID and password each time the user accesses the game server 1, there is also a method of using HTTP cookie information (hereinafter referred to as cookie). That is, when the user operates the terminal device 3 to register as a member, the game server 1 issues individual identification information corresponding to the login ID and password and registers the individual identification information in the database server 2, and the individual identification information is used as a cookie. It is transmitted to the terminal device 3. At this time, the browser of the terminal device 3 stores the received cookie in the terminal device 3. When the game server 1 is accessed from the next time, the browser of the terminal device 3 sends a cookie to the game server 1 together with the page browsing request, so that the authentication means 53 receives an access request from the mobile phone terminal. Can perform login authentication by determining whether or not the individual identification number of the cookie has been registered.

Next, the access control means 54 will be described. The access management means 54 stores the information of each user's access to the game server 1 in the database server 2 (storage device) and manages the access for each user. The access management means 54 includes an access information storage control unit 54a. Examples of access information stored by the access information storage control unit 54a include the access history (access start date and time and access end date and time) of each user, the number of accesses per day in the real world, and the presence / absence of access each day in the real world. Information such as. The access management means 54 also manages the access state of whether or not each user is accessing (logging in) the game server 1.

Next, the invitation processing means 55 will be described. The invitation processing means 55 corresponds to the case where a user (invited user) registered in the game service operates the terminal device 3 and inputs an operation to invite an unregistered person (invited user) to the game service. It has a function of sending an invitation message to the terminal device 3 of an unregistered person.

Here, regarding the processing of the invitation processing means 55 when the game server 1 and the database server 2 of the present embodiment are incorporated into the SNS system to provide a game system that provides a social game service as one of the SNS services. , Will be described below with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the game server 1 is communicably connected to the SNS server 101. Further, the SNS server 101 stores SNS member information and the like in the SNS database server 102 to control the operation of the SNS system. The SNS database server 102 includes a member database 102a and a friend database 102b. The member database 102a stores, for example, SNS member information such as a member ID, password, name, nickname, address, telephone number, e-mail address, date of birth, gender, occupation, and profile. In addition, the friend database 102b stores information on friendships between SNS members (combination information of member IDs registered as friends with each other). In such an SNS system, in order to register for a game service, it is first necessary to register as an SNS member. Therefore, the user registered in the game service is also a member of the SNS. In such an SNS system, the game server 1 can obtain information on friendships between SNS members via the SNS server 101.

For example, a "invite a friend" button is provided in the main screen of the game displayed on the display unit 35 of the user's terminal device 3. When the "invite a friend" button is selected by the user, the game server 1 obtains information on an SNS member who has a friendship with the user via the SNS server 101. Then, the invitation processing means 55 of the game server 1 creates an invitation target person list screen that lists SNS members who have a friendship with this user and who have not registered the game service, and data on the screen. Is transmitted to the user's terminal device 3. As a result, the invitation target list screen is displayed on the display unit 35 of the user's terminal device 3.

Here, when the user selects a friend-related SNS member to be invited from the invitation target person list and presses the "invite" button, the invitation processing means 55 of the game server 1 is invited friend-related. An invitation message is sent to the terminal device 3 of the SNS member (invited user). This invitation message includes a hyperlink of the URL of the new registration page managed by the game server 1. In addition, this URL also includes, for example, information (user ID) of the invited user. For example, when the user ID of the invited user = "000001", the URL is "http: // ... invite_user_id = 000001 ..." or the like. Therefore, the game server 1 can recognize the invited user by performing the operation of selecting the URL in the invited message by the invited user. After that, when the invited user newly registers the game service, the relationship management means 56 of the game server 1 stores the information relating the invited user and the invited user in the storage device.

In the above description, an example of inviting an SNS member who has a friendship with a user to the game has been described, but as shown below, it is also possible to invite an acquaintance who is not a member of the SNS to the game. That is, the operation of notifying the game server 1 of the e-mail address of the acquaintance that the user wants to invite to the game is performed. As a result, the game server 1 can send an invitation message to an e-mail address of an acquaintance. This invitation message includes a hyperlink to the URL of the page for registering as a member of SNS and newly registering for a game service. Further, similarly to the above, this URL also includes the information (user ID) of the invited user, and the game server 1 is invited by performing an operation of selecting the URL in the invitation message by the invited user. The user can be recognized.

Further, in the above description, the invitation to the game when the game server 1 and the database server 2 are incorporated into the SNS system has been described, but the game server 1 and the database server 2 are not incorporated into the SNS system and are independent. Even if it is built as a game system, it is possible to invite to the game as follows. That is, as in the above case, the user performs an operation of notifying the game server 1 of the e-mail address of the acquaintance who wants to invite to the game, and the game server 1 sends an invitation message to the e-mail address of the acquaintance. This invitation message includes a hyperlink of the URL of the new registration page managed by the game server 1, and since the URL contains the information of the invited user, the URL in the invitation message by the invited user. The game server 1 can recognize the invited user by performing the operation of selecting.

In addition, in the screen where the invited user newly registers to the game service, a field where the invited user information (user ID of the invited user, etc.) can be directly input is provided, and the game server is based on the information entered in the field. 1 may recognize the invited user.

Next, the relationship management means 56 will be described. When the invited user who is registered in the game service and is invited to register a new game service by the invited user who has invited the game service registration registers in the game service, the relationship management means 56 includes the invited user and the guest. It has a function of storing information related to an invited user in a storage device (database server 2, etc.) and managing the relationship between the two. The relationship management means 56 includes an invitation relationship memory control unit 56a.

FIG. 8 shows an example of invitation-related information in which an invited user and an invited user are associated with each other, which is stored and managed by the invitation-related storage control unit 56a in the database server 2. In the present embodiment, when an invited user invited to register a new game service by an invited user registers for the game service, the invited user becomes a "senior" and the invited user becomes a "junior", and the relationship between the two users is established. Relationship management means 56 manages as seniors and juniors. The invitation-related storage control unit 56a stores the user ID of the invited user who is a junior in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 in relation to the user ID of the invited user who is a senior. In FIG. 8, a user with a user ID = “0000001” succeeds in inviting three users (user ID = “517850”, “518215”, “520113”), and a user with a user ID = “000001” It shows an example of becoming a senior and the three invited users becoming juniors. Further, FIG. 8 shows the relationship between the invited user (senior) with the user ID = “000005” and the invited user (junior) with the user ID = “519367”, and the invited user (senior) with the user ID = “0000012”. ) And the two invited users (juniors) with user IDs = "521501" and "521786" are also illustrated. Hereinafter, the invited user will be referred to as a “senior” and the invited user will be referred to as a “junior” as appropriate.

Next, the privilege granting means 57 will be described. The privilege granting means 57 has a function of granting a privilege utilizing the relationship between the invited user and the invited user after the invited user invited to register a new game service by the invited user registers in the game service. The privilege granting means 57 includes an invitation privilege granting unit 57a and a new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b.

After the invited user registers with the game service, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a is advantageous in the game for the invited user (senior) according to the access to the game of the invited user (junior) or the progress of the game. As an invitation privilege, a privilege such as a special privilege or a privilege to give a game item of a predetermined rarity or higher is given. Here, the access to the game means the access (login) to the game server 1 that provides the game service. Granting invitation benefits according to the access of a junior game means that the junior is accessing the game, that the junior has accessed the game, or that the number of times the junior has accessed the game or the number of days of access, etc. It means to give an invitation privilege accordingly. For example, when the junior is accessing the game (logging in), the senior can be given the merit of the invitation privilege. In addition, when the cumulative number of accesses to the junior game after new registration reaches the reference number, the senior can be given the merit of the invitation privilege. In addition, when the cumulative number of access days to the junior's game after new registration reaches the reference number of days, the senior can be given the merit of the invitation privilege.

For example, the cumulative number of access days for juniors is 200 points when the 3rd is reached, 500 points when the 6th is reached, 1000 points when the 9th is reached, and so on. Points are given to seniors each time the number of access days reaches the specified number of days. Items and other benefits may be given in place of points. In addition, it is desirable that the benefits such as points to be granted increase as the cumulative number of access days (or the cumulative number of accesses) increases. In this case, seniors can be expected to communicate by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to access" so that juniors can access the game more, and the game community can be activated.

If it takes too long for the cumulative access days of the juniors to reach the standard number of days (for example, it takes 3 months for the cumulative access days of the juniors to reach 3 days), points etc. will not be given to the seniors. In addition, a deadline for granting invitation benefits may be set so that the cumulative number of access days must reach the reference number of days by the deadline. For example, if the cumulative number of access days for juniors reaches 3 days within 2 weeks after new registration, 200 points will be given to seniors, and if the cumulative number of access days for juniors reaches 6 days by the deadline, 500 points will be given to seniors. Can be given, etc. In this way, it is possible to set a deadline within a predetermined period from the new registration and increase the invitation privilege according to the cumulative number of access days of the juniors during that period. Alternatively, it is also possible to check the cumulative number of access days for juniors during a predetermined period (for example, every two weeks) from new registration, and increase the invitation privilege as the cumulative number of access days increases.

In addition, the game progress status of the junior refers to the status of the junior's game level as a result of the junior's progress in the game by playing the game, the ability of the character owned by the junior, the strength of the junior team, and the like. .. For example, when the level of the junior game after new registration reaches the standard value, the senior can be given the merit of the invitation privilege. In addition, when the ability value of the junior character after new registration (when there are multiple characters owned by the junior, their maximum value, average value, total value, etc.) reaches the standard value, the merit of the invitation privilege to the senior Can be configured to give. In addition, when the strength value of the junior team after new registration reaches the reference value, the senior can be given the merit of the invitation privilege.

For example, a junior game has 200 points when the junior game level reaches "5", 500 points when it reaches "10", 1000 points when it reaches "15", and so on. Each time the level of is raised by a predetermined level, points are given to seniors. Items and other benefits may be given in place of points. In addition, it is desirable that the benefits such as points to be given increase as the game level increases. In this case, the senior can be expected to communicate by sending a message such as "Let's do our best to improve the level" in order to encourage the junior to improve the level, and the game community can be activated. Similarly, each time the ability value of a character owned by a junior or the strength value of a junior team increases by a predetermined value, a privilege such as points or items can be given to the senior.

After the invited user registers with the game service, the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b informs the invited user (junior) on the game according to the access to the game of the invited user (senior) or the progress of the game. Grant new invitation registration benefits to your advantage. Here, the access to the senior's game means that the senior is accessing the game, that the senior has accessed the game, the number of times the senior's game has been accessed, the number of access days, etc., and the senior's game The progress status refers to the status of the senior's game level as a result of the senior's progress in the game by playing the game, the ability of the character owned by the senior, the strength of the senior's team, and the like.

For example, when the senior is accessing the game (logging in), the junior can be given the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. Further, when the cumulative number of accesses to the senior's game after the new registration of the junior reaches a predetermined number, the junior can be given the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. Further, when the cumulative number of access days to the senior's game after the new registration of the junior reaches a predetermined number of days, the junior can be given the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. In these cases, juniors can be expected to communicate by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to access" so that seniors can access the game more, and the game community can be activated.

Further, when the level of the senior game after the new registration of the junior is improved by a predetermined level, the junior can be given the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. Also, when the ability value of the senior character after new registration of the junior is improved by a predetermined value (when there are multiple characters owned by the senior, the maximum value, average value, total value, etc. of the ability improvement is set to the predetermined value. (When it is reached), it can be configured to give the junior the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. In addition, when the strength value of the senior team after the new registration of the junior is improved by a predetermined value, the junior can be given the merit of the new invitation registration privilege. In these cases, the junior can be expected to communicate by sending a message such as "Let's do our best to improve the level" in order to encourage the senior to improve the level and strength, and the game community will be activated.

Here, the contents of the privilege (invitation privilege) given to the senior and the privilege (new invitation registration privilege) given to the junior will be described in more detail. These benefits may be advantageous in the game as compared with the case where the benefits are not given, and various benefits can be considered depending on the type and content of the game. Alternatively, the invitation privilege or the new invitation registration privilege may give an item of the game having a predetermined rarity or higher, although it is not advantageous in the game.

As an example of the privilege in the baseball game of the present embodiment, there is a game merit that in the battle mode in which the team of another user is played, only n battles (for example, 3 battles) are advantageous. As a method of making the game carrying for n battles advantageous, a method of improving the strength of the user's team by n battles can be considered.

Here, there are also some ways to improve the strength of the user's team by the privilege. In the battle mode, the player card of the regular player who participates in the match is selected from the player cards owned by the user and the player plays the match (for example, the user has a player card in advance from the player cards owned by the user). Select the cards of the regular players who will participate in the match, and form a team order with the cards of the regular players to play against each other). Therefore, as a matter of course, normally, the strength of the own team cannot be other than the player's hand-held player card.

However, when improving the strength of the team with benefits, one of the strongest player cards (the player card with the highest ability value) among all the cards held by all the user's friends is automatically the regular player of the user. Replace it with one of the cards. In this case, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 automatically performs the above-mentioned player card replacement process when the battle for the privilege target is executed. The user's friends will be described later. If the user owns the strongest player card among the cards held by all the user's friends, the helper player card (special prepared by the game server 1) has a higher ability value than the strongest player card. One player card) may be automatically replaced with one card of the user's regular player.

Another way to improve a user's team strength with benefits is to improve some or all of the player cards of regular players in the match mode by a predetermined percentage (or a predetermined value). There is also a method. In this case, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 performs a process of improving the ability value of the player card of the team of the user who received the privilege when the battle for the privilege is executed.

In addition, as another method to make the game carrying for n battles advantageous, the probability that the team of the user to whom the privilege is given wins is improved by n times of the battle (thus, the probability that the team of the opponent user wins). Is reduced by that amount). For example, if the abilities of the teams of both users who play against each other are the same, if neither user is given the privilege, the winning probability of both teams is 50%, but the privilege is given to one user. In the battle, the winning probability of the user X team to which the privilege is given is increased by, for example, 10% to 60%, while the winning probability of the opponent user Y team is decreased by 10% to 40. As a percentage, user X is in a more advantageous state in terms of winning probability than user Y.

Examples of other benefits include: That is, points such as physical strength points consumed and reduced during the game are recovered by 1 point every 3 minutes, for example, but this point recovery time is shortened (for example, 2 minutes elapse). (Recover 1 point each time) is conceivable. When this privilege is given, information on the valid period in which the point recovery time is shortened is stored as the user's privilege information stored in the privilege information storage control unit 51i. As a result, the game information management means 51 of the game server 1 performs a process of shortening the point recovery time from the normal time during the period when the privilege is valid (for example, within 24 hours after the user receives the notification of the privilege). It will be.

In addition, in the above-mentioned lottery acquisition mode, a privilege of increasing the probability that a rare card (a player card having a lower lottery probability and a higher rare value than a normal player card) is drawn a predetermined number of times (for example, once) is also considered. Be done. When this privilege is given, the number of times to increase the lottery probability is stored as the privilege information of the user stored in the privilege information storage control unit 51i. Then, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 performs a process of temporarily increasing the lottery probability of the rare card when the lottery for the privilege target is executed.

Further, in the lottery acquisition mode, points (such as the exchange points) are normally required to execute the lottery of the player card, but the number of times (for example, once) is free (that is, without the consumption of points). The privilege of being able to receive a lottery for player cards is also conceivable. When this privilege is given, the number of times that the player card lottery can be received free of charge (no points) is stored as the user's privilege information stored in the privilege information storage control unit 51i.

It is also conceivable that the game server 1 gives the user a predetermined number (for example, one) of player cards selected by lottery by random numbers or the like. When the player card selected by the game server 1 is given to the user as a privilege, the player card ID given as a privilege is added to the player card ID stored in the owned player card storage control unit 51c of the game information management means 51. Will be done.

In addition, it is conceivable that various points used in the game, such as the above-mentioned physical strength points, attack costs, power points, and exchange points, are given to the user by a predetermined amount. Furthermore, it is conceivable that a predetermined number of various items used in the game, such as the above-mentioned recovery items and fake cards, are given to the user. When a point or item used in the game is given as a privilege, the privilege giving means 57 is owned by the user, which is stored by the owned point storage control unit 51d or the owned item storage control unit 51f of the game information management means 51. Change the game information so that the number of points or items owned is increased by a predetermined number.

In addition, it is possible that the experience value in the game that the user can obtain while playing the game becomes larger than usual. In this case, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 performs a process of increasing the experience value acquired by the user when the user operates the command button. Furthermore, the privilege that the mission activated in the game is completed or the event progresses faster than usual can be considered. In this case, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 performs a process of increasing the achievement rate of the mission or the progress rate of the event of the user when the command button is operated by the user.

Further, there is also a form in which a privilege is given to a senior or a junior by increasing the value set by the parameter setting means 58 shown below.

The parameter setting means 58 has a function of setting the value of any one of the tone parameters having a plurality of levels (for example, 6 levels of 0 to 5) for the terminal device 3 of each user. The multi-step values of this parameter correspond to a plurality of tone marks as a parameter display image. The tone mark is an image that pseudo-displays the good condition (or good physical condition) of the user playing the game or the character of the user. FIG. 9 illustrates the correspondence between the parameter values stored in the predetermined area of the database server 2 and the tone mark. In the example of FIG. 9, the tone parameter is set to a value in 6 steps from 0 to 5 (0 = bad, 1 = normal, 2 = good, 3 = quite good, 4 = best, 5 = best). The larger the value, the better the condition.

Various methods can be considered as the parameter setting method by the parameter setting means 58. For example, each time the user's terminal device 3 accesses the game server 1, the parameter value may be randomly set by a random number. Alternatively, the parameter value may be set higher as the number of days for continuously accessing the game server 1 increases.

Further, the parameter setting means 58 can set a parameter value for the user's terminal device 3 even when the user's terminal device 3 does not access the game server 1. For example, regardless of whether or not the user's terminal device 3 is accessing the game server 1, the value of the parameter applied to each user is set based on a random number or the like at a predetermined time in the real world (for example, midnight) every day. You may set it.

The game screen transmitting means 52c transmits a game screen including a tone mark corresponding to the value set by the parameter setting means 58 to the user's terminal device 3. As a result, the game screen including the tone mark is displayed on the terminal device 3 of the user, and the user visually recognizes the tone mark to recognize the current goodness of the tone.

Further, the game progress means 52 controls the game progress of the user so that the higher the value set by the parameter setting means 58, the greater the degree of advantage in the game. For example, the game progress means 52 controls the game progress so that the higher the value set by the parameter setting means 58, the more the experience value in the game that the user can acquire while playing the game. Further, the game progress means 52 controls the progress of the game so that the higher the value set by the parameter setting means 58, the faster the achievement of the mission activated in the game or the progress of the event. Further, the game progress means 52 controls so that the higher the value set by the parameter setting means 58, the higher the probability that a rare card or a rare item will be drawn in the above-mentioned lottery acquisition mode.

Then, when the junior is accessing the game, the invitation privilege giving unit 57a raises the value set by the parameter setting means 58 with respect to the senior terminal device 3. As a result, for example, when the junior is accessing the game, the value of the parameter set for the senior terminal device 3 is increased by a predetermined value (for example, one). As the value of the parameter increases, the degree of advantage in the game increases. Therefore, the invitation privilege giving unit 57a can give the invitation privilege to the senior through the form of increasing the value of the parameter.

In addition, when there are a plurality of juniors in the senior due to successful invitation of a plurality of users (that is, when a plurality of invited users invited by the invited user are registered in the game service), the invitation privilege granting unit 57a It is desirable that the larger the number of juniors accessing the game, the greater the value set by the parameter setting means 58 for the senior terminal device 3. For example, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a is designed to increase the value of the parameter by n steps when the number of juniors accessing the game is n. For example, when the value set by the parameter setting means 58 for the senior terminal device 3 is "1 = normal" and the number of juniors accessing the game is 3, the parameter value is increased by 3 steps. Let's make it "4 = great condition". If the value of the increased parameter exceeds the maximum value (5 = best condition), it becomes the maximum value.

Further, in the case of a senior having a plurality of juniors, the invitation privilege giving unit 57a may correspond the value of the parameter to the number of juniors accessing the game. For example, the number of juniors who are accessing the game is 1 to 5 and the parameter values 1 to 5 are associated with each other. That is, when there is at least one junior who is accessing the game, the minimum parameter value "0 = malfunction" is not selected, and the larger the number of juniors who are accessing the game, the more the parameter value. Becomes larger. Since the maximum value of the parameter is "5 = best", if the number of juniors accessing the game is 6 or more, the maximum value of the parameter "5 = best" is supported. Let me.

Further, in the case of a senior having a plurality of juniors, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a sets all the values set by the parameter setting means 58 for the senior terminal device 3 when all the juniors are accessing the game. It may be significantly increased compared to the case where the junior does not access the game. For example, when all the juniors are accessing the game, the value of the parameter set for the senior terminal device 3 can be increased to the maximum value "5 = best condition".

Further, the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b raises the value set by the parameter setting means 58 for the junior terminal device 3 when the senior is accessing the game. As a result, when the senior is accessing the game, the value of the parameter set for the junior terminal device 3 is increased by a predetermined value (for example, two). Alternatively, when the senior is accessing the game, the value of the parameter set for the junior terminal device 3 may be increased to the maximum value "5 = best condition". As the value of the parameter increases, the degree of advantage in the game increases, so that the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b can grant the new invitation registration privilege to the junior through the form of increasing the parameter value. ..

By the way, after the junior has registered for the game service, after the value in the game regarding the junior, which changes as the junior's game progresses, reaches a predetermined value, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a gives the junior to the senior. It is desirable not to execute the process of granting the invitation privilege by inviting. This is to motivate new invitations by avoiding granting benefits indefinitely, as described below. Here, "the game value related to the junior that changes as the junior game progresses" means the level value of the junior game, the ability value of the character owned by the junior, the strength value of the junior team, and the junior. It refers to the difficulty level of the stage in the game that has been reached.

For example, the level of a junior's game increases as the junior plays the game and acquires experience points, and does not reach a predetermined value unless the junior actually plays the game. Similarly, the ability value of the character owned by the junior and the strength value of the junior team do not reach the predetermined values unless the junior actually plays the game to train the character and improve the team strength. Also, in the case of a game in which multiple stages with different difficulty levels are provided in the game, and if one stage is cleared and then one stage is advanced to another stage with a higher difficulty level, the junior actually plays the game. If you do not clear the stage, you will not reach the prescribed difficulty level. That is, the "value in the game that changes as the junior's game progresses" is an index indicating the timing at which the newly registered junior has played the game to some extent.

For example, when the level of the junior game is "the value in the game related to the junior that changes as the junior game progresses", the level of the junior game exceeds the beginner level (for example, level 15). After reaching, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a can prevent the senior from executing the invitation privilege granting process.

As described above, after the junior plays the game to some extent and the "value in the game regarding the junior, which changes as the junior's game progresses" reaches a predetermined value, the granting of the invitation privilege to the senior is stopped. This makes it possible to encourage the user to invite a new user. In other words, if a user can continue to receive invitation benefits as a senior indefinitely, it is possible that users who are satisfied with the attractive invitation benefits they have already received will not be willing to invite new users. .. On the other hand, by stopping the granting of benefits when the user enjoys a certain invitation benefit, the user has a strong desire to receive attractive invitation benefits again and invites a new user to the game again. Motivation can be given to the user.

In the present embodiment, the period during which the senior can enjoy the invitation privilege is not the real time in the real world, but "until the value in the game regarding the junior, which changes as the junior's game progresses, reaches a predetermined value". This is due to the following reasons. In the present embodiment, the invitation privilege given to the senior is according to the game access or the game progress of the junior. Therefore, if the period during which the senior can enjoy the invitation privilege is set to the real time in the real world, even if the junior newly registers for the game service, he / she never accesses the game (the game does not proceed at all) or the game. If the access is slight, during that time, the senior can not enjoy the invitation privilege at all or only a little, but after the above real-world real time has passed, the opportunity to enjoy the invitation privilege thereafter. Will be lost. On the other hand, by setting the period during which seniors can enjoy the invitation privilege "until the game value for juniors reaches a predetermined value, which changes as the junior's game progresses", it depends on the real time in the real world. However, the period for granting invitation benefits will be secured until the juniors play the game to some extent and the seniors can realize the benefits of the benefits.

In addition, after the junior has registered for the game service, after the "value in the game regarding the junior, which changes as the junior's game progresses" reaches a predetermined value, the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b informs the junior. It is desirable not to execute the process of granting the new invitation registration privilege. For example, after the junior game level reaches a value that exceeds the beginner level (for example, level 15), the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b grants the junior the new invitation registration privilege. Do not execute.

After the junior plays the game to some extent as described above and the "value in the game regarding the junior, which changes as the junior's game progresses" reaches a predetermined value, the grant of the new invitation registration privilege to the junior is stopped. By doing so, it is possible to encourage the user to invite a new user. That is, if a user can continue to receive new invitation registration benefits as a junior indefinitely, a user who is satisfied with the attractive new invitation registration benefits that he has already received invites and invites new users. It is possible that the desire to receive benefits will be diminished. On the other hand, by stopping the granting of benefits when the user enjoys a certain new invitation registration benefit, the user feels that he / she wants to receive the same invitation benefit as the new invitation registration benefit, and this time he / she is new. It can give users a strong motivation to invite new users to the game.

Next, the notification means 59 will be described. The notification means 59 has a function of notifying the terminal device 3 of the user to which the privilege (invitation privilege or new invitation registration privilege) has been granted that the privilege has been granted. Examples of notification of benefits by the notification means 59 are shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 shows an example of the main screen of the game displayed on the display unit 35 of the senior terminal device 3 to which the invitation privilege is given. Further, FIG. 11 shows an example of the main screen of the game displayed on the display unit 35 of the junior terminal device 3 to which the new invitation registration privilege is given.

When the user performs an operation to display the main screen of the game after the privilege granting process on the game server 1, the screen data for displaying the main screen shown in FIG. 10 or 11 is a terminal device from the notification means 59 of the game server 1. It is sent to 3. On this main screen, the player card 71 selected as the fourth batter and the ace pitcher from the player cards owned by the user, the user's game information 72, the condition mark 73, etc. are displayed, and the privilege notification information 74 is also displayed. Is displayed. The details of the main screen will be described later.

As shown in FIG. 10, the privilege notification information 74 displayed on the main screen of the senior terminal device 3 is given an invitation privilege such as, for example, "Two juniors are accessing by two levels!". It is the content that can be understood. In this example, by performing an operation of selecting the hyperlink 75 provided in the "two juniors" part of the privilege notification information 74, the seniors can access the two juniors from the game server 1. Screen data for displaying information such as a name is transmitted to the senior terminal device 3, so that the information of the two juniors who are accessing can be confirmed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 11, the privilege notification information 74 displayed on the main screen of the junior terminal device 3 is provided with a new invitation registration privilege such as "Senior is accessing the condition MAX!". It is the content that you can see. In this example, when the junior performs an operation of selecting the hyperlink 76 provided in the "senior" part of the privilege notification information 74, the game server 1 displays information such as the senior's name. The data is transmitted to the junior terminal device 3 so that the senior's information can be confirmed.

In this way, the notification means 59 displays the privilege generation information on the main screen or the like to notify the user, so that the notification processing is performed in cooperation with the game screen generation means 52b and the game screen transmission means 52c. Is supposed to do.

Next, the companion management means 60 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. The companion management means 60 has a function of storing information on companion users who belong to a group centered on each user in a companion relationship in a database server 2 (storage device) and performing companion management for each user. It should be noted that the group referred to here only indicates a group of one's own friends from the viewpoint of one user, and each user constituting these groups does not belong only to this group. Each user also has an individual group of "companies" centered around him. The fellow management means 60 includes a fellow information storage control unit 60a.

FIG. 12A shows an example of information about each user's companion, which is stored and managed by the companion information storage control unit 60a in the database server 2. The companion information storage control unit 60a receives information on the limited number of companions, a user ID of a companion user who is already in a companion relationship, a user ID of a user who is applying for companion, and a companion application in association with the user ID. However, information about friends such as user IDs of unapproved users is stored in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 for each user ID. In the example of FIG. 12A, information about one user with user ID = "000001" is shown, the number of friends is limited to 20, the number of friends of the user is 10, and the user who is applying for friends. There is one user, and there are no unapproved users who have received a companion application.

In the baseball game of the present embodiment, by making a friend, bonus points are given to both users who have a friend relationship (for example, the maximum value of the physical strength point and the attack cost can be increased by a predetermined point. it can). In addition, the game is designed so that the game can be advanced advantageously by cooperating with fellow users to play a match, and giving gifts and cheering of player cards with each other. By giving the user the merit of making friends in the game in this way, the making of friends is promoted. However, for each user, a limit number of friends (upper limit number of people who can make friends) is set according to the progress of the game, and the friend information storage control unit 60a associates with the user ID to limit the friends. I remember the number. For example, the limit of allies is set to increase as the level of the user's game increases. This will motivate the user to continue to advance and level up the game in order to make more friends and gain the advantage of the game.

In this embodiment, two forms are prepared for the two users to form a friendship. The first form is an operation of companion application and its approval made between two users. In this case, one of the two users makes a companion application to the other user via the game server 1. As an operation example of this fellow application, first, a user who intends to make a fellow performs an operation of listing a target person of a fellow candidate on the screen of the terminal device 3. In response to the operation by the user, the game server 1 transmits screen data listing the target persons of the fellow candidates, so that the screen in which the plurality of fellow candidates are listed is displayed on the user's terminal device 3. Here, the user confirms the game level, the league level, etc. of the target person listed on the screen, selects the user who wants to be a friend, and operates the friend application.

For example, consider a case where a user A with a user ID = "000001" performs a companion application operation for a user B with a user ID = "000002". As shown in FIG. 12A, in response to this operation, the companion information storage control unit 60a of the game server 1 sets the user ID of the user A as the game information of the user A who has applied for companion = “000001”. In association with this, the user ID = "000002" of the user B who is the applicant is stored as the "user ID under application".

Further, as shown in FIG. 13A, the companion information storage control unit 60a associates the user ID of the user B with the user ID = "000002" as the game information of the user B who is the applicant, and makes a companion application. The user ID = "000001" of the performed user A is stored as an "unapproved user ID". Then, when the terminal device 3 of the user B logs in to the game server 1, the game server 1 then notifies that the user A has applied for a friend.

Then, the user B who receives the friend application confirms the information such as the user level and the league level of the user A received from the game server 1 on the screen of the terminal device 3, and decides whether to approve or reject as a friend. Perform the operation to select. Here, when the user B performs an operation of approving as a friend, the friend management means 60 of the game server 1 establishes a friend relationship between the user A and the user B in response to this operation, and both users A and B are set. Register as a companion. That is, as shown in FIG. 12B, as the game information of the user A, the user ID of the user B = "000002" is associated with the user ID of the user A = "000001", and the user ID of the user B is changed to the "companion user ID". The user ID of user B is deleted from the "user ID being applied for".

Further, as shown in FIG. 13B, the companion information storage control unit 60a associates the user ID of the user B with the user ID of "000002" and sets the user ID of the user A = "000001" as the "companion user ID". The user ID of user A is deleted from the "unapproved user ID". Then, when the terminal device 3 of the user A logs in to the game server 1, the game server 1 then notifies that the user B has approved the friend.

As a second form in which the two users are in a friendship relationship, when the invited user invited to register a new game service by the invited user registers in the game service, the friend management means 60 of the game server 1 automatically performs. Invited users (seniors) and invited users (juniors) are registered as friends. That is, in the present embodiment, not only the relationship between the invited user and the invited user (the relationship mainly used for the privilege granting process) but also the friendship is constructed between the invited user and the invited user. As mentioned above, since the limit number of friends is set according to the level of the user's game, it is usually not possible to make friends beyond the limit number of friends, but the invited user and the recipient are invited. When the invited user is registered as a friend, the friend may be registered even when the limit number of friends is exceeded.

Next, the message transmission means 61 shown in FIG. 4 will be described.

The message transmission means 61 has a function of receiving a message addressed to another user transmitted from the terminal device 3 of each user and transmitting the message to the other user. The message transmission means 61 includes a message storage control unit 61a.

FIG. 14 shows an example of information regarding a received message stored and managed by the message storage control unit 61a in the database server 2. The message storage control unit 61a associates the user ID of the receiving user who received the message with the information about the message such as the user ID of the sender, the content of the message, and the date and time of transmission for each user ID of the receiving user. It is stored in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2. In the example of FIG. 14, information about the received message for one receiving user with the user ID = "000002" is shown, and the user is "Let's do our best to access!" From the user with the user ID = "000001". We have received the message "Good morning! Let's do our best to access this week!" From the user with ID = "0000038" and the message "Thank you for this week!" From the user with user ID = "000145".

Here, an example of an operation in which a user sends a message to his / her fellow user will be described. FIG. 15A shows an example of a companion list screen displayed on the user's terminal device 3 based on the screen data transmitted from the game server 1. This companion list screen is a screen displayed when, for example, the user operates the terminal device 3 and selects a "companion menu" in the main screen. On this companion list screen, information on companion users who have a companion relationship with the user is listed and displayed. For information on fellow users that cannot be displayed on the screen, the screen can be scrolled or the second and subsequent pages of the fellow list can be requested from the game server 1 and displayed as a separate screen.

An information display area for each of the listed fellow users is provided in this fellow list screen. In each information display area, if the fellow user is his / her senior, he / she is "senior", and the fellow user is his / her junior. If so, the relationship display object 80 that displays the meaning of "junior" is displayed. In the example of FIG. 15A, the relationship display object 85 indicates that the user X is a “junior”. Further, in the information display area for each fellow user, the game information 81 of the fellow user (user name, game level, number of friends, number of members indicating the number of player cards owned, etc.), and the alter ego character of the user. Avatar 82, the player card 83 of the fourth hitter owned by the user, and the like, and an object called the support button 84 are also displayed.

Then, the user can support his / her fellow user by selecting the support button 84. For example, when a user presses the support button 84 to support a fellow user, a predetermined exchange point is given to the user and the degree of friendship between the user and the fellow user is improved. In addition to cheering for fellow users, the user can also send additional messages, as described below.

When the support button 84 is selected by the operation of the user's terminal device 3, the operation is transmitted from the terminal device 3 to the game server 1. After that, the game server 1 transmits, for example, the data of the message input screen shown in FIG. 15B to the terminal device 3, and the message input screen is displayed on the terminal device 3. On this message input screen, for example, a sentence indicating that the fellow user (user X who is a junior in the example of FIG. 15B) has been supported is displayed, and the message input area 85 and the send button are displayed. An object called 86 is also displayed. Then, the user operates the terminal device 3 to input an arbitrary message in the message input area 85 and selects the send button 86, so that the terminal device 3 transmits a message addressed to fellow users to the game server 1. To. FIG. 15B shows an example in which the user inputs the message "Let's do our best to access!". In consideration of the storage capacity of the database server 2, the characters that can be input to the message input area 85 may be limited (for example, within 30 full-width characters).

Further, on the message input screen, a hyperlink 87 for transitioning to the page of a fellow user (user X in this example) is displayed, and by selecting this link, details of the game information of the fellow user are described. You can display the page that has been created. In addition, the message input screen also displays a hyperlink 88 for transitioning to the companion list, a hyperlink 89 for transitioning to the main screen, and the like, and by selecting these links, the companion list or the main screen can be displayed. You can go back.

When a message is transmitted from the terminal device 3 by the user's operation on the message input screen, in the game server 1, the message storage control unit 61a of the message transmission means 61 sends a message to a fellow user received from the terminal device 3. , Stored in the database server 2 in association with the user ID of the fellow user (see FIG. 13). Then, when the terminal device 3 of the fellow user accesses the game server 1, the message transmission means 61 of the game server 1 transmits screen data for displaying a message, a user name of the sender, a transmission time, and the like to the terminal device 3. To do. As a result, a message or the like is displayed on the terminal device 3 of the user who has received this screen data, and the message received from another colleague can be confirmed on the screen.

As described above, in the game system of the present embodiment, the friends can communicate with each other at any time by using the communication tools as illustrated in FIGS. 15A and 15B. .. Of course, it is also possible for seniors and juniors to exchange messages with each other using the above-mentioned communication tools.

In the example of FIGS. 15A and 15B, an example of sending a message to a user's companion has been described, but cheering or a message is also sent to other users who are not in a companion relationship. be able to. For example, it is possible to send support or a message to another user who is not a friend listed on the friend candidate list screen (not shown) by the same operation as in the case of a friend.

By the way, in the above description, the access information of each user managed by the access management means 54, the relationship information of seniors and juniors managed by the relationship management means 56, and each user managed by the fellow management means 60. The companion information and the information related to the message managed by the message transmission means 61 are described separately from the various information managed by the game information management means 51 for convenience, but all of these information are described by the game server. It is included in the game information managed by 1.

[Game system operation]
In the above configuration, an operation example of the game system according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 16 shows a flow of processing of the terminal device 3 and the game server 1 when a user operates the terminal device 3 to access the game server 1 and receive a game service.

When the user receives the game service, first, the operation input unit 40 of the terminal device 3 is operated to start the web browser (S11). After that, the user performs an operation to access the game site managed by the game server 1, whereby an access request is transmitted from the terminal device 3 to the game server 1 (S12). At this time, the game server 1 performs login authentication for the access from the terminal device 3 (S21), and confirms that the access is from a user who has been registered to use the game service. After that, the game server 1 transmits the main screen data described in HTML or the like to the terminal device 3 (S22). Then, in the terminal device 3 that has received the main screen data, the web browser interprets the data and displays the main screen on the display unit 35 (S13).

As illustrated in FIG. 10, on the main screen, the player card 71 selected as the fourth batter and the ace pitcher from the player cards owned by the user, and the user's game information 72 (game level, physical strength points, attack). Points, number of members, PowerPoint, exchange points, etc.), tone mark 73, etc. are displayed. Further, when the privilege is given to the user, the above-mentioned privilege notification information 74 and the like are also displayed. Further, on this main screen, by operating the direction keys of the terminal device 3 or the like to scroll the screen, a game mode selection button (not shown), various menu buttons, movement information of friends, messages from other users, etc. , Various objects and information are displayed.

Here, when the user performs an operation of selecting an object such as a selectable button or a hyperlink displayed on the screen, a screen request corresponding to the operation is transmitted from the terminal device 3 to the game server 1 (S14). ). Upon receiving this request, the game server 1 executes arithmetic processing and data processing according to the user's operation to execute the game (S23), and transmits the game screen data reflecting the execution result to the terminal device 3 (S24). ). Then, in the terminal device 3 that has received the screen data, the web browser interprets the data and displays the game screen on the display unit 35 (S15). When a script (program) operated by a web browser plug-in is embedded in screen data consisting of HTML data or the like, the script is executed in the web browser and a moving game screen is displayed on the terminal device 3. ..

After that, the above S14 and S15 are repeated in the user's terminal device 3, and the above S23 and S24 are repeated in the game server 1, whereby the selectable button displayed on the screen of the terminal device 3 is repeated. Each time the user selects the above, the game screen of the terminal device 3 is switched one after another, and the game can be advanced.

After that, when the user operates the terminal device 3 to close the game screen (S16), the game server 1 performs a logout process (S25). For example, when the user closes the web browser, the game server 1 performs logout processing after the session timeout.

By the way, in this game system, even when the user logs out from the game server 1, the game server 1 can read the game information of the user and proceed with the game. For example, another logged-in user may set up a battle (individual battle) against a team of logged-out users, and the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 indicates whether the user is logged in. Regardless of whether or not, the game information of each user is read from the database server 2, the battle is executed, and the game information of each user is updated by reflecting the execution result. Further, in the league match mode, the game progress means 52 of the game server 1 reads the game information of each user from the database server 2 and automatically executes the league match without the user operating the terminal device 3. As described above, the result of the battle executed when the user is logged out from the game server 1 can be confirmed on the screen when the user subsequently accesses the game server 1.

[Operation of game management device]
Next, a more detailed operation example of the game management device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 17 to 23. FIG. 17 shows a flow of processing of the game server 1 for a certain user, and the same processing is performed for each user managed by the game server 1.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the authentication means 53 of the game server 1 receives an access request from the user's terminal device 3 (YES in S31), the login ID / password sent from the terminal device 3 or the mobile phone Login authentication for determining whether or not to allow access is performed based on the individual identification number of the terminal or the like (S32). Here, when the access is not permitted (NO in S32), the game server 1 transmits screen data prompting the terminal device 3 to register the use of the game service (S33). On the other hand, when the access is permitted (YES in S32), the access management means 54 stores the user's access information (S34).

Then, the game server 1 transmits the main screen data to the terminal device 3 of the user who has permitted the access (S35). After that, when the screen request corresponding to the user's game operation transmitted from the user's terminal device 3 is received (YES in S36), the game execution means 52a performs arithmetic processing and data processing according to the screen request. Execute the game (S37).

After that, the game server 1 determines whether or not the user's game information needs to be updated by executing the game (S38), and if the update is necessary (YES in S38), it is stored in the database server 2. The user's game information is updated (S39). For example, if the user's game operation is an operation to perform an individual battle with another user, the user's game information such as match result information, attack cost, PowerPoint, items, etc. is updated as a result of the battle being executed. Will be. On the other hand, for example, when the user's game operation is an operation of confirming the result of the league match of the automatic match, the game execution process corresponding to the operation is only the data processing of reading the league match result information from the database server 2. Therefore, there is no change in the user's game information before and after the process, so that it is not necessary to update the user's game information (NO in S38).

After that, the game screen generating means 52b generates game screen data reflecting the execution result of the game (S40), and the game screen transmitting means 52c transmits the game screen data to the user's terminal device 3 (S41). After that, it is determined whether or not the user's terminal device 3 has logged out (S42), and the process of S36 to S41 is repeated until the terminal device 3 logs out, so that the game progresses.

Next, the process of the game server 1 when a user newly registers for the game service will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

When the user newly registers for the game service, the application data for new registration including the login ID (arbitrary alphanumeric characters, e-mail address, etc.), password, etc. is transmitted to the game server 1. When the game server 1 receives the application data for new registration from the terminal device 3 of the user (YES in S71), the game server 1 secures an area for managing the game information of the user in the database server 2 and newly registers the user. Process (S72). Then, the game server 1 determines whether or not the newly registered user has been invited by another user (S73). For example, when the user selects a URL containing the information of the invited user in the invitation message and applies for new registration, the game server 1 determines that the user has been invited by the invited user. Can be done.

If the newly registered user has not received an invitation from another user (NO in S73), the game server 1 ends the process without migrating to S74. On the other hand, when the newly registered user is invited by another user (YES in S73), the relationship management means 56 of the game server 1 is the invited user on the inviting side and the invited user on the invited side. Information related to the invited user (newly registered user) is stored in the database server 2 and the relationship between the two is managed (S74). In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the invited user is a senior and the invited user is a junior, and the relationship between the two after the new registration of the junior is managed.

Further, in the present embodiment, the senior and the junior are registered as fellows with each other by the fellow management means 60 (S75). This fellow relationship is an equal relationship between the invited user and the invited user. Since the relationship information directly used to grant the privilege (invitation privilege or new invitation registration privilege) is the relationship between seniors and juniors who have a distinction between the invited user and the invited user, this companion registration process (S75). ) Can be omitted.

After that, the notification means 59 of the game server 1 transmits screen data indicating the contents of the new invitation registration privilege to the terminal device 3 of the invited user who has become a junior, and the invited user is given the new invitation registration privilege. Notify that it has been received (S76). FIG. 24 shows an example of a screen showing the contents of the new invitation registration privilege. In this screen example, (1) when the senior is accessing the game, the tone mark becomes MAX (the parameter value becomes the maximum), and (2) a rare item is acquired every time the senior's level goes up by 5. We are informing juniors of the contents of the new invitation registration privilege that we can do it.

If the invited user's terminal device 3 accesses the game server 1 (YES in S77), the notification means 59 indicates the content of the invitation privilege to the senior invited user's terminal device 3. The screen data is transmitted to notify the invited user that the invitation privilege has been received (S78). FIG. 25 shows an example of a screen showing the contents of the invitation privilege. In this screen example, (1) when the junior is accessing the game, the tone mark goes up (the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means 58 goes up), and (2) every time the junior level goes up by five. We are informing seniors of the contents of the invitation privilege that rare items can be acquired.

Next, an example of the invitation privilege granting process in the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The figure shows the process of giving an invitation privilege that the value of the parameter of the tone set by the parameter setting means 58 increases for the senior terminal device 3 when the junior is accessing the game during the senior game. It is an example.

The game server 1 determines whether or not the user in the game has a junior invited by the user (S81). Further, when the user in the game has a junior (YES in S81), the game server 1 determines whether or not the junior is accessing the game (S82). Here, if the user in the game does not have a junior (NO in S81), or if the junior does not access the game even if there is a junior (NO in S82), the game server 1 A parameter value set by the parameter setting means 58 is applied to the terminal device 3 of the user (S83), and a tone mark corresponding to the value is displayed on the game screen (S84). That is, the game server 1 transmits a game screen including a tone mark corresponding to the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means 58 to the user's terminal device 3.

On the other hand, when the junior is accessing the game (YES in S82), the invitation privilege granting unit 57a acquires the number n of the juniors who are accessing (S85). Then, the invitation privilege giving unit 57a raises the value of the parameter of the tone set by the parameter setting means 58 with respect to the senior terminal device 3 by n steps (S86). In this example, the number of juniors who are accessing is matched with the number of steps in which the parameter value is increased, but the number is not limited to this. For example, regardless of the number of access by the junior, when even one junior is accessing, the parameter value may be increased by a predetermined value (for example, one).

During the game of the user, the game progress means 52 controls the progress of the game so that the higher the value of the tone parameter, the greater the degree of advantage in the game. For example, the higher the parameter value, the more experience points you can get during the game, the faster you complete missions or events that are triggered in the game, and the more rare cards and rare items are drawn. Increase the probability. Therefore, if the value of the parameter for the senior terminal device 3 is increased by S86, the degree of advantage in the game is increased, and the invitation privilege is given.

Further, as the parameter value is increased in S86, the game server 1 reflects the tone mark corresponding to the value on the game screen of the senior terminal device 3 (S87). Then, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the notification means 59 of the game server 1 includes the privilege notification information 74 on the game screen and notifies the senior that the condition mark has been changed to a better one by the invitation privilege. (S88). As a result, the senior can recognize the state in which the invitation privilege is given.

During the user's game (YES in S89), the processes S81 to S88 are repeatedly executed, and when the user ends the game and logs out (NO in S89), the process ends.

For seniors who receive the invitation privilege illustrated in FIG. 19, the more times the junior accesses the game when they play the game, the more the benefits of the invitation privilege can be enjoyed. Therefore, seniors can be expected to communicate with juniors by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to access" and "Let's access together", which will lead to the activation of the game community.

Next, another example of the invitation privilege granting process in the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The figure illustrates a process of giving an invitation privilege to a senior when the level of the game showing the progress of the game of the junior reaches the reference value.

The game server 1 determines whether or not the user in the game (accessing the game) is a junior of another user (S91). If the accessing user is not associated with another user as a junior (NO in S91), the process ends without any further processing being performed on the user. On the other hand, when the accessing user is a junior (YES in S91), during the junior game (YES in S92), and the level of the junior game improves (YES in S93), the level has reached the reference value. Whether or not it is determined (S94). Here, if the junior's game level does not reach the reference value (NO in S94) and the junior ends the game (NO in S92), the game ends without any further processing.

On the other hand, when the level of the junior game reaches the reference value (YES in S94), the invitation privilege granting unit 57a of the game server 1 grants the invitation privilege to the senior user who invited the junior (S95). For example, when the reference value is set to levels 5, 10 and 15, when the level of the junior game reaches any of 5, 10 and 15, the senior is given an invitation privilege. At this time, the invitation privilege given to the senior may be any one that is more advantageous in the game than before the privilege is given as described above, and various benefits can be applied without being limited to giving points and items.

After that, if there is an access to the game server 1 from the senior terminal device 3 to which the invitation privilege is given (YES in S96), the notification means 59 grants the invitation privilege to the senior terminal device 3. Screen data indicating that effect is transmitted, and the senior is notified of the grant of the privilege (S97).

For the senior who receives the invitation privilege illustrated in FIG. 20, the junior can enjoy the merit of the privilege by improving the level of the game. Therefore, seniors can be expected to communicate with juniors by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to improve the level", which will lead to the activation of the game community.

In the flowchart of FIG. 20, an example of determining the situation in which the level of the junior game has reached the reference value in S93 and S94 and granting the invitation privilege to the senior has been described, but the criterion of determination is changed as follows. You may. That is, instead of the level of the junior game, other values indicating the progress of the junior game (such as the ability value of the character owned by the junior and the strength value of the junior team) are used as criteria, and these values are the reference values. When you reach, you may give an invitation privilege to your seniors. Alternatively, instead of the level of the junior game, values indicating the junior's game access, such as the number of times the junior's game is accessed and the number of access days, are used as the judgment criteria, and when these values reach the reference values, the senior is notified. Invitation benefits may be granted.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the invited user invited to register a new game service by the invited user registers in the game service, the relationship management means 58 associates the invited user with the invited user. Information (information of seniors and juniors) is stored in a storage device to manage the relationship between the two. Then, after the invited user registers with the game service, the invited user (senior) is given an invitation privilege according to the game access or the game progress of the invited user (junior). .. As a result, seniors can continue to enjoy invitation benefits according to the junior's game access or game progress after the junior's new registration, so points are given only once when the invitation is successful, compared to the conventional benefits. Is also an attractive invitation privilege. By providing users with innovative and attractive invitation benefits that take advantage of the continuous relationship between the side invited to such a game service (invited user) and the invited side (invited user), the user On the other hand, it can give a strong motivation to invite new users to the game.

Next, an example of the new invitation registration privilege granting process in the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The figure shows the process of granting a new invitation registration privilege that the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means 58 increases for the junior terminal device 3 when the senior is accessing the game during the junior game. It is an example.

The game server 1 determines whether or not there is a senior who has invited the user in the game (S101). Further, when the user in the game has a senior (YES in S101), the game server 1 determines whether or not the senior is accessing the game (S102). Here, if the user in the game does not have a senior (NO in S101), or if the senior does not access the game even if there is a senior (NO in S102), the game server 1 A parameter value set by the parameter setting means 58 is applied to the terminal device 3 of the user (S103), and a tone mark corresponding to the value is displayed on the game screen (S104). That is, the game server 1 transmits a game screen including a tone mark corresponding to the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means 58 to the user's terminal device 3.

On the other hand, when the senior is accessing the game (YES in S102), the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b sets the maximum value "5 =" of the parameter value set by the parameter setting means 58 for the junior terminal device 3. Raise to "best" (S105). In this example, the value of the parameter is raised to the maximum value, but it is not limited to this. For example, the value of the parameter for the junior terminal device 3 may be increased by a predetermined value (for example, two). If the value of the parameter for the junior terminal device 3 is increased by S105, the degree of advantage in the game is increased, and the new invitation registration privilege is given.

Further, as the value of the parameter is increased in S105, the game server 1 reflects the tone mark corresponding to the value on the game screen of the junior terminal device 3 (S106). Then, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the notification means 59 of the game server 1 includes the privilege notification information 74 on the game screen, and informs the juniors that the condition mark has been changed to a better one by the new invitation registration privilege. Notify (S107). As a result, the junior can recognize the state in which the new invitation registration privilege is given.

During the user's game (YES in S108), the processes of S101 to S107 are repeatedly executed, and when the user ends the game and logs out (NO in S108), the process ends.

For the junior who receives the new invitation registration privilege illustrated in FIG. 21, the more times the senior accesses the game when he / she plays the game, the more the merit of the new invitation registration privilege can be enjoyed. Therefore, juniors can be expected to communicate with seniors by sending messages such as "Let's access together", which will lead to activation of the game community.

Next, another example of the new invitation registration privilege granting process on the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The figure illustrates a process of granting a new invitation registration privilege to a junior when the improvement in the level of the senior's game reaches the reference value after the junior newly registers for the game service.

The game server 1 determines whether or not the user in the game (accessing the game) is a senior of another user (S111). If the accessing user is not associated with another user as a senior (NO in S111), the process ends without any further processing being performed for that user. On the other hand, if the accessing user is a senior (YES in S111), during the senior game (YES in S112), and the level of the senior game improves (YES in S113), the junior newly registered in the game service. It is determined whether or not the improvement in the level of the senior game later has reached the reference value (S114). Here, if the senior's game level improvement does not reach the reference value (NO in S114) and the senior ends the game (NO in S112), the game ends without any subsequent processing.

On the other hand, when the improvement in the level of the senior's game reaches the reference value (YES in S114), the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b of the game server 1 gives the junior user invited to the senior the new invitation registration privilege. (S115). For example, when the reference value is set to 5, 10 or 15, when the improvement of the level of the senior's game reaches any of 5, 10 or 15, the junior is given a new invitation registration privilege. It will be. For example, when the senior's game level is "25" when the junior newly registers for the game service, and when the senior's game level reaches "30", "35", "40". , Each junior will be given a new invitation registration privilege. At this time, the new invitation registration privilege given to the junior may be any one that is more advantageous in the game than before the privilege was given as described above, and various benefits can be applied not only to the grant of points and items. ..

After that, if there is an access to the game server 1 from the junior terminal device 3 to which the new invitation registration privilege is given (YES in S116), the notification means 59 gives the junior terminal device 3 the new invitation registration privilege. The screen data indicating that has been granted is transmitted, and the junior is notified of the grant of the privilege (S117).

For the junior who receives the new invitation registration privilege illustrated in FIG. 22, the senior can enjoy the merit of the privilege by improving the level of the game. Therefore, juniors can be expected to communicate with seniors by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to improve the level", which will lead to the activation of the game community.

In the flowchart of FIG. 22, an example of determining the situation in which the improvement in the level of the senior game has reached the reference value in S113 and S114 and granting the junior a new invitation registration privilege has been described, but the determination is as follows. Criteria may be changed. That is, instead of the improvement in the level of the senior's game, the improvement in other values indicating the progress of the senior's game (such as the ability value of the character owned by the senior and the strength value of the senior's team) is used as a criterion. When the improvement of these values reaches the reference value, a new invitation registration privilege may be given to the junior. Alternatively, instead of improving the level of the senior's game, values indicating senior's game access (such as the number of accesses to the senior's game and the number of access days) are used as judgment criteria, and when these values reach the reference values. , You may give a new invitation registration privilege to a junior.

As described above, in the present embodiment, after the junior who received the invitation registers for the game service, the junior is given a new invitation registration that is advantageous in terms of the game according to the senior's game access or game progress. Benefits are being granted. As a result, the junior can continuously enjoy the new invitation registration privilege according to the senior's game access or game progress after the new registration to the game service, so that points are given only once at the time of new registration. It is a more attractive privilege than the privilege of. By providing users with novel and attractive new invitation registration benefits that take advantage of the continuous relationship between the side invited to such a game service (invited user) and the invited side (invited user). It is possible to give the user a strong motivation to newly register for the game.

Next, an example of the process of terminating the benefits (invitation privilege, new invitation registration privilege) in the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 23.

The game server 1 determines whether or not the user during the game (accessing the game) is a junior (S121). If the accessing user is not a junior (NO in S121), the process ends without any further processing being performed on the user. On the other hand, when the accessing user is a junior (YES in S121), the junior game is in progress (YES in S122), and the level of the junior game is improved (YES in S123), the level is set to a predetermined value (for example, a beginner). It is determined whether or not the player has reached the level 15) that has exceeded the level (S124). Here, if the junior's game level does not reach a predetermined value (NO in S124) and the junior ends the game (NO in S122), the game ends without any subsequent processing.

On the other hand, when the level of the junior game reaches a predetermined value (YES in S124), the game server 1 grants the junior a rare item, points, or the like as a graduation reward (S125). In addition, the invitation privilege granting unit 57a of the game server 1 grants rare items, points, and the like as the final invitation privilege to the senior who invited the junior (S126). Then, the privilege granting means 57 of the game server 1 ends the invitation privilege for the senior (S127) and ends the new invitation registration privilege for the junior (S128). As a result, the privilege granting means 57 does not execute the privilege (invitation privilege, new invitation registration privilege) granting process to either the senior or the junior thereafter. Note that S125 and S126 may be omitted depending on the specifications of the game.

After that, the notification means 59 of the game server 1 transmits screen data indicating that the graduation reward has been given and the new invitation registration privilege has ended to the junior terminal device 3, and informs the junior of these facts. Notify (S129). Further, if there is an access to the game server 1 from the senior terminal device 3 (YES in S130), the notification means 59 informs the senior terminal device 3 that the last invitation privilege has been given and the invitation privilege. Screen data indicating the end is transmitted, and these facts are notified to the senior (S131).

In the example of FIG. 23, the end timings of the invitation privilege and the new invitation registration privilege are the same, but the end timings of both privileges may be different. For example, the invitation privilege for the senior may be terminated when the level of the junior game reaches 20, and the new invitation registration privilege for the junior may be terminated when the level of the junior game reaches 15. ..

Further, in the example of FIG. 23, an example in which it is determined that the level of the junior game has reached a predetermined value and the privilege is terminated has been described, but the criteria for determination may be changed as follows. That is, instead of the level of the junior game, other values in the game that change as the junior game progresses (the ability value of the character owned by the junior, the strength value of the junior team, the stage in the junior game) (Difficulty value, etc.) may be used as a criterion, and the privilege may be terminated when these values reach a predetermined value.

As described above, in the present embodiment, after the game value for the junior, which changes with the progress of the junior game, reaches a predetermined value, the privilege granting process is not executed. This makes it possible to encourage the user to invite a new user. In other words, by ending the granting of benefits when the user enjoys a certain benefit, the desire to receive attractive benefits works on the user again, and a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game is given. Can be given to the user.

[Other configuration examples of the game management device]
The configuration that realizes "competition cooperation" that makes use of the continuous relationship between the invited user (senior) and the invited user (junior) after the invited user newly registers for the game service is shown in FIG. 26. This will be described with reference to the functional block diagram. The same member numbers as those shown in the drawings (FIGS. 1 to 25) have been assigned, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

The game server 1 (game management device) of the present embodiment further includes a battle cooperation management means 62 and a battle cooperation reception means 63 in addition to the means 51 to 61 shown in FIG. These means 62 and 63 are realized by the CPU 11 of the game server 1 executing the program according to the present embodiment.

When the character of the invited user (senior) plays against another character, the battle cooperation management means 62 automatically causes the character of the invited user (junior) to assist the invited user as a "helper", and cooperates in the battle. It has a function to make it. In other words, after the junior newly registers for the game service, a hierarchical relationship is established between the senior who introduced the junior and the junior, and the junior character automatically cooperates with the senior character as a "helper". It has become. Since the junior character assists the senior side as a helper and cooperates in the battle, the strength of the senior side is improved, so that the battle of the senior becomes more advantageous than when there is no such battle cooperation.

When a senior character plays against another character, the "other character" is a character of another user or a character prepared by the CPU of the game server 1 (for example, a boss character appearing at the end of each stage). ) May be any of them.

Normally, when a user requests a companion to cooperate in a battle, it is necessary to operate the terminal device 3 to request the cooperation of a helper. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, it is not necessary for the senior to operate the cooperation request of the helper, and the battle cooperation management is based on the relationship information of the senior / junior managed by the relationship management means 58 of the game server 1. The means 62 automatically makes the junior character assist the senior side and realizes the battle cooperation. In this game server 1, apart from the friendship, the relationship between seniors and juniors is registered in the database server 2 after the invitation is successful, and the continuous relationship between the two is managed, so the junior character is automatically assigned to the senior side. It will be possible to cooperate with the battle.

By the way, it is desirable to set an upper limit on the number of fellow characters (helpers) who can cooperate in the battle. This is to prevent the difference in strength between the opponent and the opponent from becoming too large when the number of helpers becomes too large, and the balance of power between the two fighting opponents becomes extremely unbalanced. When playing against another user's character in the battle mode, the number of fellow helpers who can cooperate in the battle can be set to, for example, "1". Further, when playing against a character (boss character or the like) prepared by the CPU of the game server 1, the number of fellow helpers who can cooperate in the battle can be set to, for example, "2". Here, for example, when there is one or more juniors invited by a senior, a limited number of helper slots are automatically filled by the junior characters who cooperate with the senior side. In this embodiment, the configuration shown below is adopted so as not to cause the above.

That is, apart from the battle cooperation by the junior characters that is automatically executed as described above, a predetermined number (first specified number) of fellow helper slots that the user can arbitrarily request the battle cooperation is secured. .. In other words, there are two different types: the "junior helper frame" in which the junior character automatically becomes the helper, and the "companion helper frame" in which the character of the user's favorite fellow user can be the helper. A helper frame is prepared. The junior helper slot is a special helper slot exclusively for invitations given only to seniors who have succeeded in inviting juniors.

Then, the game server 1 selects (or the first specified number) of characters of fellow users of the first specified number or less that can request the battle cooperation separately from the battle cooperation by the junior characters that are automatically executed. It is provided with a battle cooperation reception means 63 that receives the following selection of fellow users) by operating the terminal device 3 of the user. If the user operates the terminal device 3 to select the character (or fellow user) of the fellow user who wants to be a helper, the terminal device 3 will perform the battle including the information of the character (or fellow user) of the selected fellow user. The cooperation request information is transmitted to the game server 1. Then, the battle cooperation reception means 63 of the game server 1 receives the battle cooperation request information transmitted from the terminal device 3 of the user, and accepts the character of the fellow user selected by the user as a helper.

FIG. 27 shows an example of a game screen in the battle mode. On this game screen, information 81 of the opponent team (enemy army) designated by the user and information 82 of the user's team (own army) are displayed. As the information 81 of the opponent's team (enemy army), for example, the opponent's user name, avatar, player card, information on the strength, and the like are displayed. Further, as the information 82 of the user's team (own army), the user name, avatar, player card, information on the strength of the user, and the like are displayed. Further, in the helper display area 83 of this game screen, information such as a character who cooperates with the own army as a helper is displayed. This game screen is generated by the game screen generating means 52b of the game server 1 and transmitted to the user's terminal device 3 by the game screen transmitting means 52c, and is displayed on the display unit 35 of the terminal device 3. ..

As shown in FIG. 27, when the user A having a junior specifies the user Y and starts a battle, the battle cooperation management means 62 automatically sets the junior character of the user A as a helper, so that the helper display area 83 is displayed. Is automatically displayed as a player card 84, which is a character of a junior (user X in this example). FIG. 27 shows an example in which a player card set as the fourth batter is automatically set as a helper character among a plurality of player cards owned by a junior. Not limited to this, for example, a representative character such as a player card set as an ace pitcher or a player card set as a leader (captain) may be used as a junior helper character. In addition, in the helper display area 83, the avatars of the juniors who cooperate in the battle and the information on increasing the strength by the cooperation in the battle are also displayed. In the screen example of FIG. 27, "attack power +100" is displayed as the strength up information by the battle cooperation.

Further, in the helper display area 83, a "call a helper from a friend" button 85 (or a hyperlink) is displayed, and in addition to the junior helper, any fellow character can be requested as a fellow helper. There is. Here, the number of fellow helpers will be described below as "1". When the user selects the "call a helper from a friend" button 85, the screen transitions to, for example, the helper selection screen shown in FIG. 28. On this helper selection screen, a fellow user who has a fellowship with the user and a character (player card) possessed by the fellow user are listed and displayed. For information that cannot be displayed on the screen, the screen can be scrolled or the second and subsequent pages of the helper selection screen can be requested from the game server 1 and displayed as a separate screen.

An information display area for each of the listed fellow users is provided in this helper selection screen, and each information display area includes the name of the fellow user 91, the avatar 92 of the fellow user, and the fourth batter possessed by the fellow user. Player card 93, player name 94, information on the player card (level, attack power, etc. set on the player card) 95, etc. are displayed. FIG. 28 shows an example in which a player card set as the fourth batter can be selected as a helper character among a plurality of player cards owned by fellow users. Not limited to this, for example, a representative character such as an ace pitcher or a player card set as a leader may be selectable as a fellow helper. Then, the user can operate the terminal device 3 to select, for example, the hyperlink set in the player name 94, so that a fellow character who wants to be a helper can be selected.

For example, in the helper selection screen of FIG. 28, when the user A operates the terminal device 3 and selects the character of the fellow user B as the helper, the game screen is changed to the game screen illustrated in FIG. 29, and the helper display area 83 is displayed. In addition to the junior helper, the player card 86 of user B is added as a fellow helper.

If the user selects a fellow helper, the game server 1 stores the information of the fellow helper in the database server 2 (storage device) in association with the user ID of the user. Therefore, if the user performs an operation of selecting a fellow helper, the previously selected fellow character will be set as the helper in the next match. Further, when a fellow character is set as a helper, a "change fellow helper" button 87 (or a hyperlink) is displayed in the helper display area 83. When the user selects this button 87, the screen transitions to the helper selection screen shown in FIG. 28, and a fellow character who wants to be a helper can be reselected.

When the user selects the "competition start" button 88 on the battle mode screen of FIG. 27 or FIG. 29, the battle command is transmitted from the user's terminal device 3 to the game server 1, and the game server 1 displays the battle command. The battle process is executed.

Next, an example of the battle process in the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

When the operation of playing against another user's team in the battle mode (the above-mentioned selection operation of the "competition start" button 88) is performed by the user, the battle command is transmitted from the terminal device 3 of the user to the game server 1. Will be done. When the game server 1 receives the battle command from the user's terminal device 3 (YES in S131), the game server 1 determines whether or not there is a junior invited by the user (S132). When the user has a junior (YES in S132), the battle cooperation management means 62 automatically makes the junior character (player card of the 4th batter, etc.) assist the user as a helper (S133). On the other hand, when the user does not have a junior (NO in S132), the process shifts to S134 without executing the process of S133.

Next, it is determined by the user whether or not a fellow helper is selected (S134). That is, it is determined whether or not the character of the fellow user arbitrarily selected by the user, which is accepted by the battle cooperation reception means 63 as a helper, is stored in the database server 2. Here, when a fellow helper is selected (YES in S134), the battle cooperation management means 62 causes the user to assist the fellow character (player card of the 4th batter, etc.) as a helper (S135). .. On the other hand, when a fellow helper is not selected (NO in S134), the process proceeds to S136 without executing the process of S135.

After that, the game execution means 52a executes a battle in which a helper is added (S136). That is, the game execution means 52a reads the player card information of both teams (player card information of regular players participating in the game) corresponding to the user IDs of both users who play the game from the database server 2. Further, when there is a junior player card and / or a fellow player card who cooperates in the battle as a helper, the player card information to be a helper is also read from the database server 2. For example, the game execution means 52a adds the ability value of the player card to be a helper to the total ability value of the player card of the team (own army) on the user side who set up the battle, and the team strength (attack power) of the user. ) Is calculated. In addition, the game execution means 52a totals the ability values of the player cards of the opponent's team (enemy army) to calculate the team strength (defensive strength) of the opponent. Then, the game execution means 52a performs a calculation for determining victory or defeat based on the team strength of both teams. As an example of this calculation of victory or defeat, the team with the higher strength of both teams may be the winning team, and the probability that the team with the higher strength will win is higher than the probability that the team with the lower strength will win. Then, the winning team may be obtained by probability calculation.

After that, the game information management means 51 of the game server 1 updates the game information of both users in order to reflect the battle result in the game information of both users who have played against each other (S137). Further, the game screen generation means 52b of the game server 1 generates game screen data for displaying the battle result (S138). Then, the game screen transmission means 52c transmits the game screen data generated by the game screen generation means 52b to the user's terminal device 3 (S139).

As described above, in the present embodiment, when an invited user (senior) who has an invited junior plays a match, the junior character automatically assists the senior side as a helper and cooperates in the match. , The battle becomes advantageous without manipulating the battle cooperation request. In particular, for game services such as social games, which are strongly required to be facilitated and simplified by the user, it is preferable to generate the merit of this configuration that does not require the user's operation. In this way, by providing the user with the merit of battle cooperation that makes the best use of the continuous relationship between the invited user (senior) and the invited user (junior) after the successful invitation, a new user can be provided to the user. It can give a strong motivation to invite you to the game.

Further, in the present embodiment, apart from the automatically executed junior character's battle cooperation, a predetermined number (first specified number) of fellow helper slots that the user can arbitrarily request the battle cooperation is provided. I have secured it. Therefore, a part or all of the helper frame of a limited number of friends is not automatically filled by the junior character who cooperates with the senior side, and the senior is a favorite companion other than the junior character. The user's character can be a helper.

With this configuration, a normal user who has not invited anyone is given only a fellow helper frame, while an invited user (senior) who has an invited junior is not only a fellow helper frame but also a junior. The helper frame of is given additionally. By increasing the number of helpers in this way, the battle of seniors becomes more advantageous than normal users. This junior helper slot is a special helper slot given only to users who have succeeded in inviting, and can give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game.

By the way, the number of juniors who can cooperate with the senior side in the battle may be allowed to be unlimited as described below, or may be limited. As described above, the junior helper slot is a special helper slot exclusively for invitations given only to seniors who have succeeded in inviting juniors, and is one of the benefits given to invited users. Therefore, if we succeed in inviting multiple juniors, we will increase the number of junior helpers indefinitely according to the number of juniors so that users who succeed in inviting multiple juniors can enjoy great benefits. Good.

On the other hand, if an unlimited number of junior helpers are allowed, the difference in strength with the opponent will become too large, and there is a possibility that the balance of power between the two will become extremely unbalanced. Therefore, the number of juniors who can cooperate with the senior side in the battle may be limited to the specified number (second specified number) or less. In this case, when a plurality of juniors who exceed the second specified number invited by the senior are registered in the game service, the battle cooperation management means 62 has a character having a higher ability value from among the plurality of juniors. It is desirable to select a number of juniors and have the seniors automatically take part in the selected second specified number of junior characters. As a result, even if a certain upper limit is set for the helper frame of juniors, if there are multiple juniors who exceed the upper limit (second specified number), the second specified number is in order from the junior with the character with the highest ability value. A junior can be automatically selected so that the strongest junior character within the upper limit automatically cooperates with the senior's match.

The flowchart of FIG. 31 shows an example of the battle processing of the game server 1 when the number of juniors who can cooperate in the battle with the senior side is set to an upper limit. The battle process shown in FIG. 31 can be realized by inserting the steps S141 and S142 between S132 and S133 in the flowchart of FIG. 30 described above. FIG. 31 shows an example in which the maximum number of juniors (second specified number) who can cooperate with the senior side in the battle is set to two. In the flowchart of FIG. 31, the same step numbers are assigned to the steps similar to those of the flowchart of FIG. 30, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

When there are juniors in the user who set up the match (YES in S132), it is determined whether or not the number of juniors exceeds the upper limit of two (S141). Here, when the number of juniors exceeds two (YES in S141), the battle cooperation management means 62 selects two juniors having a character with a higher ability value from a plurality of juniors (S142). ). In this case, the battle cooperation management means 62 makes the selected two junior characters assist the user who set up the battle (S133).

On the other hand, when the number of juniors is 2 or less (NO in S141), the battle cooperation management means 62 sets up a battle with the characters of all the juniors as helpers without going through the selection process of the juniors in S142. It is made to assist the user side (S133). The steps after S134 are the same as the steps shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In this way, by setting a certain upper limit on the number of junior helpers, it is possible to prevent the balance of power between the two players in the battle from being extremely disturbed. Furthermore, even if the number of juniors exceeds the upper limit, the strongest junior character within the upper limit will automatically cooperate in the battle as a helper, so the user can enjoy the merit of inviting more juniors.

By the way, in the above explanation, when the senior character plays against another character, the junior character is automatically assisted by the senior side as a "helper" to cooperate in the battle, but the senior and the junior It is also possible for seniors to cooperate in a junior match by reversing. That is, the battle cooperation management means 62 automatically causes the invited user (senior) character to assist the invited user side as a "helper" when the invited user (junior) character plays against another character. , You may cooperate in the battle. In this case, since the senior character automatically assists the junior side as a helper and cooperates in the battle, the strength of the junior side is improved, so that the battle of the junior is more advantageous than when there is no such battle cooperation. ..

Further, as in the case described above, it is desirable to secure a predetermined number of fellow helper slots from which the junior can voluntarily request the battle cooperation, in addition to the automatic battle cooperation by the senior character. That is, two different helper frames, a "senior helper frame" in which the senior character automatically serves as a helper, and a "companion helper frame" in which the character of a favorite fellow user can be used as a helper at the user's discretion. Prepare. The senior helper slot is a special helper slot exclusively for invitations, which is given only to juniors who have received an invitation and newly registered for the game.

[Other Embodiments]
In the above-described embodiment, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 19, while the invited user (junior) is accessing the game, the parameter setting means 58 is provided to the terminal device 3 of the invited user (senior). Although the invitation privilege of increasing the set value has been described, even if the invited user ends the access to the game, the invitation privilege may be given to the invited user as described below.

That is, even when the invited user ends the access to the game, the privilege granting means 57 refers to the terminal device 3 of the invited user within a predetermined time from the start of the invited user's access to the game. The invitation privilege of increasing the value set by the parameter setting means 58 is given to the invited user. This configuration emphasizes the fact that the invited user has accessed the game, not only while the invited user is accessing the game, but also after the invited user has finished accessing the game. It is possible to set a period for enjoying the invitation privilege.

Regarding "within a predetermined time from the start of access to the game by the invited user", which is the period during which the invitation privilege can be enjoyed, for example, the predetermined time can be set to an arbitrary time length such as 8 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours. Is. Alternatively, the predetermined time may be set as "the time from the access start time of the invited user to the game to the final time (24:00) of the day to which the access start time belongs". In this case, the invited user enters the game. It will be a period during which invited users can enjoy the invitation benefits throughout the day after starting access to.

In the case of the above configuration, once the invited user accesses the game, a predetermined time (for example,) from the start of access to the game by the invited user regardless of the length of the access duration of the invited user to the game. , 12 hours), the invited user can enjoy the invitation privilege that the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means 58 is increased for the terminal device 3 of the invited user. For example, even if the invited user once accesses the game and ends immediately, the invited user can enjoy the above-mentioned invitation privilege for several hours or all day thereafter.

In the above configuration, the access management means 54 of the game server 1 acquires the access start time of the invited user to the game, and associates this access start time with the user ID of the invited user to the database server 2 (memory). It is stored in a predetermined area of the device). Then, if the invited user who invited the invited user accesses the game and plays the game within a predetermined time from the start of access to the game of the invited user, the privilege granting means 57 is the terminal device of the invited user. Since the value set by the parameter setting means 58 is increased with respect to 3, the invited user can enjoy the invitation privilege even when the invited user has finished accessing the game.

In this way, by extending the enjoyment period of the invitation privilege given according to the invited user's access to the game to after the invited user has finished accessing the game, a more attractive invitation privilege can be obtained. It can be provided to the user. As a result, it is possible to give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game, effectively increase the number of users registered in the game service, and further activate the game service. ..

Further, as in the case of the invitation privilege, in the new invitation registration privilege given to the invited user (junior), even if the invited user (senior) ends the access to the game, the invited user It may be configured to give a new invitation registration privilege to. That is, the privilege granting means 57 is a terminal of the invited user (junior) within a predetermined time from the start of access to the game of the invited user even when the invited user (senior) ends the access to the game. A new invitation registration privilege of increasing the value set by the parameter setting means 58 for the device 3 can be provided to the invited user.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the invited user invited to register a new game service by the invited user registers for the game service, the invited user becomes a "senior" and the invited user becomes a "junior", and both users. The relationship is managed by the relationship management means 56 as a pseudo "senior / junior" in the game, but the relationship is not limited to this. For example, even if the relationship between the invited user and the invited user is managed as a relationship such as "parent / child", "brother / brother", "sister / sister", "boss / subordinate", "teacher / student", etc. Good. Alternatively, the relationship management means 56 may manage the relationship between the invited user and the invited user without giving a special name such as a senior or a junior to the relationship between the invited user and the invited user.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the privilege granting means 57 includes both an invitation privilege granting unit 57a for granting the privilege to the invited user and a new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b for granting the privilege to the invited user. Although the above-mentioned configuration has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the privilege granting means 57 may be configured to include only the invitation privilege granting unit 57a and not the new invitation registration privilege granting unit 57b.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the game execution program is implemented on the game server 1 side, and the game server 1 performs arithmetic processing and data processing for game progress in response to an input operation on the terminal device 3 of each user. However, the present invention is not limited to this, although an example of application to a game system in which a game progresses by executing the above and transmitting screen data reflecting the execution result to the terminal device 3 has been described. For example, the game server 1 manages game information such as relationship information between invited users and invited users, user character information, owned item information, companion information, and message information, and exchanges messages between users in the game. The present invention is also applied to a game system basically performed on the user's terminal device side for a part or all of the game execution process for advancing the game, while providing the user with game services such as granting benefits and benefits. it can.

That is, the present invention can be applied to a game system in which a part or all of the game execution program is downloaded or installed on the terminal device side of the user, and the game execution process is also performed on the terminal device. For example, the user's terminal device peers with another user's terminal device by Internet communication, wireless LAN communication, short-range wireless communication using a predetermined frequency band (for example, 2.4 GHz frequency band), or wired LAN communication. -It is also possible to make a two-peer connection and execute a peer-to-peer type game.

Therefore, as the user's terminal device, various devices that can be connected to a game server (game management device) via a network and receive the provision of game services can be applied, and the above-mentioned mobile phone terminal, PHS terminal, and mobile information can be applied. In addition to terminals (PDAs), smartphones, personal computers, and tablet computers, home video game devices that have a network connection function (games that consist of connecting a home video game machine to a home television). Devices), portable game-only devices, multifunctional television receivers with bidirectional communication functions (so-called smart TVs), and the like are also applicable.

[Other Embodiments]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the "first user" who is the invited user who invited the new game service registration and the invited user "second user" who newly registered the game service in response to the invitation. After the two users are related to each other, a configuration for giving a privilege to the "first user" according to the access to the game of the "second user" or the progress of the game will be explained. did. Not limited to this, as shown in FIG. 32, the game management device (game server 1, database server 2) receives a predetermined invitation (invitation to the game, etc.) or application (application of a friend, etc.) from the first user. When the second user who receives the invitation responds to the invitation or application, the information relating the first user and the second user is stored in a storage device (database server 2, etc.) to manage the relationship between the two. After the relationship management means 56 and the relationship management means 56 associate the first user with the second user, the first user is given access to the game or the game progress of the second user. The configuration may be such that the privilege granting means 57 for granting the privilege is provided according to the above. This can give the first user a strong motivation to build relationships with the second user (invite new users to the game, build peer relationships, etc.) and the game. The service can be activated.

In the following, mainly, the "first user" is the user who applied for the fellow application to the second user, and the "second user" is the user who approved the fellow application from the first user. An example is described. The same member numbers will be assigned to the same configurations as those shown in the drawings above, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

In the present embodiment, the relationship management means 56 has the function of the above-mentioned fellow management means 60, and manages the fellow relations between users. Then, the relationship management means 56 manages the two users who are in a friendship relationship by clearly distinguishing between the first user who applied for the friendship and the second user who approved the friendship. FIG. 33 shows an example of the fellowship information in which the first user who applied for the fellowship and the second user who approved the fellowship application are related to each other, which is stored and managed by the relational management means 56 in the database server 2. ing. Here, when the second user who received the fellow application from the first user approves the application, the second user cheers for the first user, and the first user cheers for the first user. The relationship management means 56 manages the relationship between the two users. In this way, any name such as "cheering party" may be used in the game to express the friendship. In the following, an example will be described in which a first user applies for a friend to a second user and makes a friend to acquire a "cheering party" who is a friend who supports himself / herself.

When the first user applies to the second user to become his / her cheering party and it is approved by the second user, the relationship management means 56 is supported by the first first user. The user ID of the second user who serves as a cheering party is stored in a predetermined storage area of the database server 2 in relation to the user ID of the user. In the example of FIG. 33, the companion information relating the two users, the user A with the applied user ID = "000001" and the user B with the user ID = "000002" who approved the application, is transmitted to the database server 2. It is registered. As a result, the user A has acquired the fellow user B who supports himself / herself as a cheering party.

It is also possible for each user to acquire a plurality of cheering squads. In the example of FIG. 33, the user A obtains approval for the application not only from the user B but also from the user C with the user ID = "000003" and the user D with the user ID "000004", and makes his / her own cheering party.

User B is a cheering party for user A, but user B himself also has his own cheering party. In the example of FIG. 33, the user B has the user A and the user E with the user ID = "000005" as his / her cheering party.

An upper limit can be set for the number of cheering squads that each user can acquire (the number that the first user can apply to become a cheering squad). As this upper limit, one upper limit common to each user (for example, 50 groups) can be set. Alternatively, as will be described later, the number of cheering squads that can be acquired may vary within a predetermined range (for example, in the range of 1 to 50) according to the progress of the game of each user.

In the fellowship of the present embodiment, the first user who applied for the application and the second user who approved the application are not on an equal footing, and the second user is the cheering party of the first user. However, the first user is not a cheering party for the second user. For example, if user B only approves the application of user A, user B becomes a cheering party for user A, but user A does not become a cheering party for user B. In this case, in order for User A to become User B's cheering party, it is necessary for User B to apply to User A to become his own cheering party, and User A must approve it. ..

The operation when the first user applies to the second user to become his / her cheering party is basically the same as the operation when making the above-mentioned fellow application. However, in order to make it easier for two users to become the cheering party of the other party, the game server 1 performs the processing as described below when applying for each user to become the cheering party.

FIG. 34 shows an example of the main screen (user's My Page) of the game of the present embodiment. In the terminal device 3 such as a smartphone equipped with the acceleration sensor, the vertical display and the horizontal display are automatically switched when the user tilts the terminal device 3. FIG. 34 is an example of a horizontal display screen. Here, for convenience of explanation, horizontal display is used, but of course, vertical display may be used as long as the contents and characters can be confirmed. Further, when the display unit 35 is relatively large, for example, such as a PC or a tablet terminal, the screen as shown in FIG. 34 can be displayed as it is, so there is no need to change the vertical and horizontal directions. The same applies to FIG. 35, which will be described later. On this main screen, the user's game information 151 (user's photo or avatar, user's level, etc.), buttons for selecting various modes 152, player card 153 set by the user as a team order, and currently executed A text display area 154 for displaying explanations of the operations inside and various notifications, a "cheering party" button 155 for confirming the cheering party, and the like are displayed. Here, if the user selects the "cheering party" button 155, the screen transitions to the cheering party screen shown in FIG. 35, and the user can browse his / her own "cheering party" and the like. In addition, on this cheering party screen, a "cheering party recruitment" button 172 for recruiting one's own cheering party is provided.

The user A who wants to acquire his / her cheering party operates his / her terminal device 3 to input to select the “recruiting cheering party” button 172. The game server 1 executes a process of extracting users who are candidates for the cheering party in response to the information regarding the input by the user A. In this extraction process, in the game server 1, user A is a cheering party for the user to be extracted, but the extraction target user is not the cheering party for user A (however, the cheering party that can be acquired). (Excluding users whose number has reached the upper limit) is extracted with the highest priority. This extraction process is executed based on the friendship information of FIG. 33 stored in the database server 2. When the extraction target user as described above is preferentially extracted, the game server 1 includes a cheering party including information 181 notifying that the user A is a cheering party user, as shown in FIG. 36. The screen data of the candidate list is generated and transmitted to the terminal device 3 of the user A. As a result, the user A can apply to the other party who is already a cheering party to become a cheering party.

In addition, the game server 1 gives priority to users whose number of cheering squads has not reached the upper limit (that is, users who have a vacant application frame for cheering squads) over users whose number of cheering squads has reached the upper limit. And include it in the cheering party candidate list. If there are more target users than can be displayed in the cheering party candidate list, users randomly selected from them are included in the cheering party candidate list. In this way, by preferentially displaying the users who have a vacancy in the application frame of the cheering party (for example, user G) in the cheering party candidate list, the user A can become the cheering party to the user G. After applying, User G can also apply to User A to become a cheering party by using the space in the application frame. In this way, the two users can easily become the cheering party of each other.

If user A selects one user who wants to become a cheering party from the cheering party candidate list, the screen transitions to an application screen (not shown), and the selected user can apply to become his / her cheering party. It has become like. If user A inputs an arbitrary message at the time of this application, the message is delivered to the other user together with the application. The terminal device 3 of the user (referred to as user F) who received the application from the user A has a confirmation screen (not shown) sent from the game server 1 for confirming whether or not to approve the application from the user A. Is displayed. If user A, who is the applicant, is already a cheering party for user F, it is desirable that information notifying that fact be displayed on the confirmation screen. Here, if the input operation for approving that the user F becomes the cheering party of the user A is performed, the relationship management means 56 of the game server 1 makes the user A a "supported person (first user)" and the user F. It is registered in the database server 2 as a "cheering party (second user)", and the relationship between the two is continuously managed thereafter.

Then, the privilege granting means 57 of the present embodiment "supports" the relationship between the "senior (first user)" and the "junior (second user)" of each of the above-described embodiments. By substituting "first user)" and "cheering party (second user)", as in each of the above-described embodiments, the first user has access to the game of the second user or Various benefits are given according to the progress of the game.

Here, FIG. 37 shows a preferred main functional configuration example of the game management device (game server 1, database server 2) of the present embodiment. The game management device mainly includes a relationship management means 56, an initial value storage control means 201, a progress degree calculation means 202, and a privilege giving means 57.

As described above, the relationship management means 56 associates the first user with the second user when the second user who has received a predetermined invitation or application from the first user accepts the invitation or application. The information is stored in a storage device (database server 2, etc.) to manage the relationship between the two. In the above-described embodiment, the invited user (first user) who invited the new game service registration is the "senior", and the invited user (second user) who newly registered the game service in response to the invitation is selected. Although related as a "junior", in this embodiment, the invited user (first user) is a "supported person" and the invited user (second user) is a senior position of the cheering party. It shall be called "supporters' association". Therefore, the first user can acquire the "cheering party" by the above-mentioned fellow application, or can acquire the "supporting party" by the invitation to the game.

The initial value storage control means 201 sets the value of the progress parameter indicating the game progress status of the second user when the first user and the second user are related by the relationship management means 56 to the initial value. It has a function of storing in a storage device (database server 2, etc.). Here, the "second user's progress parameter" indicates the game progress status of the second user (cheering party or supporters' association), and changes as the game progresses of the second user. Various in-game parameters for the user can be included. For example, the game level of the second user can be used as a progress parameter. The level of this game may be increased by 1 each time the experience value gained by advancing the game reaches a predetermined value, or the number of wins is increased to a predetermined number by performing an in-game match. The level may be increased by 1 each time it is reached. In addition, as the level of the user's game increases, the experience value or the number of wins required for leveling up may increase.

Other examples of the second user's progress parameters are the level or ability score of the character owned by the second user, the strength value of the team of the second user, and the in-game that the second user has reached. It may be the value of the difficulty level of the stage. Alternatively, any value other than these may be used as long as it is a parameter indicating the game progress of the second user. As a result, for example, the second user at the time when the second user approves the application of the first user's companion (cheering party) and the second user is associated as the cheering party of the first user. The game level of is stored as an initial value.

In the present embodiment, an example in which the progress parameter of the second user is set to the game level of the second user will be described. FIG. 38 illustrates information on the initial value of the level of the second user stored in the predetermined area of the database server 2 by the initial value storage control means 201. As shown in the figure, the initial value of the level of the second user at the time when both are related is stored in association with the information relating the first user and the second user.

The progress degree calculation means 202 uses the initial value storage control means 201 to determine the progress degree in the game of the second user after the first user and the second user are related by the relationship management means 56. It has a function to calculate as the difference of the change of the game level (progress parameter) from the stored initial value. For example, the game level (initial value) of the second user at the time when the second user is associated as a cheering party (or supporter association) of the first user is L2initial, and the current level of the game of the second user is present. When the value is L2current and the degree of progress of the second user in the game is P2, P2 is
P2 = L2current-L2initial + a ... (1)
Can be calculated as. A in the above equation (1) is a constant, and any numerical value (for example, 0, 1, etc.) can be a. In this embodiment, a = 1. Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the degree of progress P2 in the game of the second user who became the cheering party of the first user is referred to as the "cheering party level" of the second user.

To give a specific example, it is assumed that the level (initial value) of the second user B at the time of becoming the cheering party of the first user A is L2initial = Lv5. At this point, the cheering party level P2 of the second user B is 1 (P2 = 5-5 + 1). After that, when the current level L2 current becomes Lv24 by the second user B playing the game, the cheering party level P2 of the second user B becomes 24-5 + 1 = 20.

Then, the privilege giving means 57 of the present embodiment gives the first user the degree of progress in the second user game calculated by the progress degree calculating means 202 (the cheering party level for the first user). It has a function to give a privilege according to. Here, as the benefits given to the first user, the various benefits described above can be applied.

In the present embodiment, the privilege granting means 57 grants the following characteristic and attractive privilege to the first user. That is, in the game mode in which the privilege granting means 57 plays against the opponent in the game, each time the first user plays a battle, the privilege granting means 57 reaches the cheering party level of the second user calculated by the progress degree calculating means 202. The corresponding points or items are given to the first user.

As an example, when the cheering party level P2 for the first user A of the second user B is 20, 20 points are given to the first user as a privilege every time the first user A executes a match. Will be done. This point can be used, for example, when obtaining an item or the like at a shop virtually provided in the game. Further, when the first user A has not only the second user B but also the second users C, D, ... As his / her cheering party, each time the first user A executes a match, each Points for the sum of the cheering party levels for the first user A of the second users B, C, D, ... Are given to the first user A.

For example, assume that there are 50 second users associated with a first user, the cheering party level for the first user of all the second users is 100, and the first user is 1. Assuming that a match (match) is performed six times a day, 30,000 points (50 people x 100 x 6 matches) will be given to the first user per day. In this way, the benefits of each match by the cheering squad are added up, so the larger the number of cheering squads and the higher the cheering squad level of each cheering squad, the more benefits the first user can receive each time during the match. It will be bigger.

In this way, in this configuration, each time the first user executes a battle, points and the like according to the cheering party level (progress degree or growth degree in the game) of the second user who is his own cheering party are given. The attractive perk of continuing to be granted to the first user strongly motivates the first user to establish relationships with many second users and promote the game progress of the second user. Can be given.

When the first user executes a battle, the right item owned by the first user or a predetermined in-game point is required, and the number of battles is limited according to the amount of the right item or the like. May be good. In the present embodiment, a predetermined number (for example, 6) of items called "match tickets" are distributed from the game server 1 to each user who accesses the game at least once a day. This "match ticket" is a right item that allows you to play one match per ticket. The "match ticket" used for the match will no longer be in the user's possession. On days when the user does not access the game, the above six "match tickets" cannot be obtained. The user needs to access the game every day to obtain a "match ticket" in order to obtain the benefits that can be obtained for each match. This can motivate the user to access the game every day. Here, an example in which one day is used as a unit of the period is shown, but each user who has accessed the game a predetermined period (for example, 12 hours) a predetermined period or more (may be two or more times) is provided with a predetermined period. A predetermined number of game tickets (right items) may be given to each player.

Further, in the present embodiment, the second user (the user who approves the friend application of the first user) who became the cheering party of the first user is determined as a reward when he / she becomes the cheering party. The number of "match tickets" (for example, one) is given. In addition, when the second user (the user invited to the game by the first user) who became the supporter of the first user becomes the supporter, a predetermined number (for example, 6) is rewarded. "Match ticket" is now given. In this way, by giving a certain merit to becoming a cheering party or a supporter's association, each user actively motivates to become a cheering party or a supporter's association of another user. The reward for becoming a cheering party may be something other than a "match ticket". As will be described later, the relationship of cheering party or supporters' association may be dissolved. A user who receives a match ticket as a reward when he / she becomes a cheering party (or supporter's association) of a certain user is assumed that the relationship is subsequently dissolved and he / she becomes a cheering party (or supporter's association) of the same user again. But you can't get paid.

The "match ticket" can be obtained when certain conditions are met during an in-game match (for example, when the character of the user's team hits a home run), or by playing a game mode other than the match. You may be able to do it. Alternatively, the "match ticket" may be made available for purchase using the coins mentioned above for obtaining the item to be charged.

In the above example, the cheering party level P2 of the second user B at the time of becoming the cheering party of the first user A is "1", and the growth occurs after the second user B becomes the cheering party. Even if (level up) is not performed, the first user A is given "1 point" as a privilege according to the cheering party level = 1 of the second user B. Not limited to this, if the second user B has not grown since becoming the cheering party of the first user A, the privilege of having the second user B as the cheering party for the first user A May not be granted. For example, when the constant a = 0 in the above equation (1), L2initial = L2current at the time of becoming the cheering party of the first user A, so that the cheering party level P2 of the second user B is P2. = L2current-L2initial + 0 = 0. In this way, by setting the cheering party level when becoming a cheering party to "0" instead of "1", the second user B has not grown since becoming the cheering party of the first user A. In that case, it is possible to prevent the first user A from being given the privilege of having the second user B as a cheering party.

Next, the operation of the game management device of the present embodiment will be described. First, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 39, a processing example of the game server 1 when the first user A applies to the second user B to become his / her cheering party will be described.

The game server 1 makes the application in response to an input operation performed in the terminal device 3 of the first user A to request the second user B to become a cheering party (YES in S151). Notify the terminal device 3 of the user B of 2 (S152). After that, the process is divided depending on whether the second user B approves or rejects the application from the first user A (S153). Here, when the second user B approves the application of the first user A, the relationship management means 56 of the game server 1 stores information relating the first user A and the second user B in a database. It is stored in the server 2 and the relationship between the two is managed (S154). In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 33, the friendship between the two is managed with the first user A as the supporter and the second user B as the support group.

After that, the game server 1 is given a "competition ticket" as a reward to the terminal device 3 of the second user B who has become the cheering party to the effect that it has become the cheering party of the first user A. Notify that (S155).

Further, if the terminal device 3 of the first user A accesses the game server 1 (YES in S156), the above-mentioned notification means 59 of the game server 1 indicates that the second user B has become a cheering party. , And thereby, it is notified that the privilege corresponding to the cheering party level of the second user B is received for each match (S157).

On the other hand, in step S153, when the second user B rejects the application of the first user A, the process proceeds to S156, and if the terminal device 3 of the first user A accesses the game server 1 (S156). YES), the game server 1 notifies that the second user B has refused to become a cheering party (S157).

Next, an example of the privilege granting process by the cheering party on the game server 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 40. The figure illustrates the process of granting points according to the cheering party level of one's cheering party each time the user executes a match.

Each user registers a predetermined number of player cards (characters) owned by him / her in the army and forms his / her team. Then, each user can play a match against another user's team (a baseball game in this embodiment) as a manager who commands his / her own team.

For example, when the user A plays the above-mentioned battle (YES in S161), the game server 1 has a cheering party (second as a cheering party) associated with the user A based on the information illustrated in FIG. 33. It is determined whether or not the user) exists (S162). Here, when the cheering party of user A exists (YES in S162), the progress degree calculation means 201 of the game server 1 calculates the cheering party level (progress degree in the game) of each cheering party of user A (the degree of progress in the game). S163). That is, the progress degree calculation means 201 is the level of the game when the second user, which is each cheering party of the first user A, becomes the cheering party of the first user A according to the above equation (1). The difference in the level change from the initial value) is calculated as the cheering party level.

After that, the privilege granting means 57 of the game server 1 grants the same number of points as the cheering party level of the cheering party of the first user A to the first user A (S164). When a plurality of cheering squads exist in the first user A, points obtained by adding up the cheering squad levels of each cheering squad are given to the first user A. The privilege granting process of the flowchart of FIG. 40 is executed every time the user plays a match.

On the other hand, when the cheering party does not exist in the user A in step S162 (NO in S162), the process ends without executing the privilege granting process.

In the above explanation, the benefits provided by the cheering party were explained, but the supporters' association is a companion with a higher privilege effect than the cheering party (the points given to the first user are large), and like the cheering party. Can be handled. In other words, the supporters' association is a special cheering party with greater benefits than the regular cheering party. For example, if the first user has a cheering party, the cheering party level x 1 points of the cheering party are given to the first user, but the supporters' association (= cheering with greater benefits) is given to the first user. If there is a group), the first user will be given points of the support group level x 5 points. Therefore, the privilege granting process by the game server 1 only increases the privilege points by 5 times only in the case of the supporters' association, and the exception processing is the same as that of the cheering party.

Since the supporters'association is the second user who is newly registered in the game in response to the invitation of the first user, the initial value of the game level of the second user at the time of becoming the supporters' association is "Lv1". is there. Therefore, the degree of progress in the game (cheering party level), which is the difference between the changes in the game level from the initial value, is equal to the current game level in the case of the supporters' association.

As described above, as shown in FIG. 37, the game management device of the present embodiment mainly includes the relationship management means 56, the initial value storage control means 201, the progress degree calculation means 202, and the privilege giving means 57. It is a configuration that has. As a result, for the first user, after the first user and the second user are related, the privilege according to the progress level (cheering party level) of the second user in the game is continuously provided. This is a more attractive benefit than the conventional benefit, where points are given only once when you become a friend or when you are invited successfully. Since it is possible to provide users with such novel and attractive benefits that have never existed before, let's build a relationship with the second user for the first user (build a friendship with a new user). It can give a strong motivation (let's invite to the game). As a result, the game service can be activated.

In addition, the privilege given to the first user corresponds to the degree of progress (cheering party level) in the game of the second user after the first user and the second user are related to each other. Therefore, the first user is motivated to communicate with the second user in order to promote the game progress of the second user. This will revitalize the game community.

Each user can confirm his / her own cheering party and the like on the cheering party screen illustrated in FIG. 35. As shown in FIG. 35, the cheering party screen is provided with a "own cheering party" button 161, a "supporting companion" button 162, and a "supporting party" button 163. If you select the "My cheering party" button 161 you will see a list of second users who are currently your cheering party. Also, if you select the "Supporting Friends" button 162, a list of friends who are currently supporting you as a cheering party will be displayed. If you select the "Supporters'Association" button 163, a list of second users who are currently your Supporters' Association will be displayed. FIG. 35 is an example of a screen when the “My cheering party” button 161 is selected. An information display area 164 for each cheering party is provided on this screen. In this information display area 164, the avatar (or photo) 165 of the second user who supports as a cheering party, the representative player card 166, the user name 167, the initial value of the game level 168, and the current value of the game level 169, the cheering party level 170, the number of cheering party members 171 described later, and the like are displayed. Information on the cheering party that cannot be displayed on the screen can be displayed by scrolling the screen or the like.

Each user confirms the cheering party level of each cheering party on the above cheering party screen, and sends a message such as "Let's do our best to improve the level" to users with a low cheering party level to promote the game progress. You can work to make them.

Next, a configuration will be described in which the number of cheering teams that can be acquired by each user is changed according to the game level (progress parameter indicating the game progress status) of each user. As shown in FIG. 41, the game management device having this configuration includes the cheering party number management means 203 (companion number management means) in addition to the means shown in FIG. 37.

The cheering party number management means 203 may apply so that the higher the game level (progress parameter indicating the game progress) of the first user, the more the first user becomes a cheering party (friend). It has the function of increasing the number that can be made. For example, when the user's game level is "Lv1", only one person can apply for a cheering party. After that, each time the user's game level rises by "1", the number of cheering party applications can be increased by one. When the maximum value of the user's game level is Lv50, the maximum value of the number of cheering teams is also 50. This is an example. For example, every time the user's game level rises by "2", the number of cheering squad applications can be increased by 1, or every time the user's game level rises by "1", cheering You may increase the number of applications for the group by two.

The more cheering teams that support the first user, the more benefits the first user can get. Therefore, it is possible to motivate each user to actively play the game (promote the progress of each user's game) in order to form more cheering teams.

The "progress parameter indicating the progress of the game" for determining the number of cheering teams that the user can acquire is not limited to the level of the user's game, but as described above, the level of the character owned by the user and the user It may be the difficulty level of the stage in the game that has been reached.

Next, when users play against each other in the game, the total value of the cheering squad levels of all cheering squads that support one user and the sum of the cheering squad levels of all cheering squads that support the other user. A configuration in which the force is changed according to the comparison result with the value will be described.

In this embodiment, the cheering party level = the number of cheering party members, and as the cheering party level of the cheering party increases, the number of cheering party members belonging to the cheering party also increases, which is an in-game effect. For example, as shown in FIG. 35, when the cheering party level of user B, which is the cheering party of user A, is 20, the cheering party members of the cheering party (user B) are 20 people. When the cheering party level of user C, which is another cheering party of user A, is 10, the cheering party member of the cheering party (user C) is 10. Therefore, the total value of the cheering party level (= number of cheering party members) of all the cheering party members who support user A is the total number of cheering party members who support the user A.

Then, when user A plays against another user, if the total number of cheering teams of user A is larger than the total number of cheering team members of the opponent user, the "excitement effect" is generated by receiving greater support than the opponent. It shall be. This "excitement effect" is to generate an effect that is advantageous to the user A at the time of the battle, and improve the strength of the user A at the time of the battle from the current strength (or the strength of the opponent user than the current strength). (Decrease).

As shown in FIG. 42, the game management device that realizes this includes, in addition to the means shown in FIG. 37, a total calculation means 204, a comparison means 205, and a force variable means 206.

The total calculation means 204 has a function of calculating the total value of the progress (cheering party level) in the game of all the second users (cheering party) associated with the first user. For example, it is assumed that the second users B, C, D, ... Are related to the first user A as a "cheering party". Then, when the cheering party level, which is the degree of progress of each of the second users B, C, D, ... In the game, is P2 (B), P2 (C), P2 (D), ..., The total calculation means. 204 calculates the total value Ptotal = P2 (B) + P2 (C) + P2 (D) + ... As described above, when the cheering party level = the number of cheering party members is performed, the total value is the total number of cheering party members.

The comparison means 205 has a function of setting both users who play a match as separate first users and comparing the total value (total number of cheering party members) of both users calculated by the total calculation means 204. For example, the first user A is associated with the second users B, C, D, ... As a cheering party, and the first user Q is associated with the second users R, S, T, ... As a cheering party. It shall be related. Then, when the first user A and the first user Q play against each other, the number of cheering party members of all the second users B, C, D, ... Associated with the first user A The total value Ptotal (A) is compared with the total value Ptotal (Q) of the number of cheering party members of all the second users R, S, T, ... Associated with the first user Q. ..

Based on the result of comparison by the comparison means 205, the force variable means 206 improves the force at the time of the battle of the user having the larger total value (total number of cheering team members) of the two users, or both. It has a function of lowering the strength of the user who has the smaller total value at the time of battle than the current strength. Here, as an example of "improving the strength from the current strength", parameters (condition, ability, etc.) related to the strength of each player card (character) constituting the team of the user with the larger total number of cheering team members are set. , It is possible to improve by a predetermined amount from the current value. Each player card is set with one of the above-mentioned six-step tone parameters, and the force variable means 206, for example, determines the tone of all player cards constituting the team of the user with the larger total number of cheering team members. Raise each step (for example, one step). Alternatively, by lowering the condition of all the player cards that make up the team of the user with the smaller total number of cheering team members by a predetermined stage (for example, one stage), the user with the larger total number of cheering team members is relatively advantageous. It may be.

Here, an example of a process of changing the force according to the total number of cheering team members of both users who play a battle will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 43.

For example, when the team of user A and the team of user Q play a match (YES in S171), the game server 1 is associated with at least one of user A or user Q based on the information illustrated in FIG. 33. It is determined whether or not there is a cheering team (a second user as a cheering team) (S172). Here, when the cheering party exists in the user A or the user Q (YES in S172), the total calculation means 204 of the game server 1 calculates the total number of cheering party members of the user A and the total number of cheering party members of the user Q, respectively (S173). ). After that, the comparison means 205 compares the total number of cheering team members of user A with the total number of cheering team members of user Q (S174), and the force variable means 206 compares the total number of cheering team members of user A with the team of the user having the larger total number of cheering team members based on the comparison result. Raise the tone of all player cards by one level (S175). If one of the two users who play the match has a cheering party, but the other user does not have a cheering party, the total number of cheering party members who do not have a cheering party will be 0. As a matter of course, the user who has the cheering party is the user who has the larger total number of cheering party members.

After the strength is changed in this way, the battle game is executed. For example, the AI (Artificial Intelligence) program executes a simulation of a baseball game based on parameters such as the ability and condition of the player cards of both teams. As described above, a part or all of the game execution program is downloaded or installed on the terminal device 3, the game execution process is performed on the terminal device 3 side, and the character of each player card is displayed on the screen as a 3D video. You may do it.

On the other hand, when there is no cheering party in either user A or user Q in step S172 (NO in S172), the processing of FIG. 43 is completed without executing the force variable processing, and then the battle game is executed. Will be.

As described above, as shown in FIG. 42, the game management device of the present embodiment has a configuration including a total calculation means 204, a comparison means 205, and a force variable means 206. As a result, even if the game levels (progress and proficiency) of both users playing the match are the same, a second user (cheering party) who is more enthusiastic about game play and has a higher degree of progress in the game is gathered. It is possible to realize a highly interesting game in which the battle can be advanced in an advantageous manner.

Next, the dissolution of the cheering party (dissolution of the relationship between the first user and the second user) will be described. In the present embodiment, if the user who is the cheering party of another user does not access (log in) the game for a predetermined period (for example, one month), the cheering party will be naturally disbanded. As shown in FIG. 44, the game management device of the present embodiment that realizes this includes an access information storage control unit 54a (access information storage control means) and a relationship elimination means 207 in addition to the means shown in FIG. 37. I have.

As described above, the access information storage control unit 54a has a function of storing access information of the user's game in a storage device (database server 2, etc.).

The relationship canceling means 207 is the first user and the first user when it is determined that the second user has not accessed the game for a predetermined period based on the access information stored in the access information storage control unit 54a. It has a function to dissolve the relationship with the user of 2 (dissolve the cheering party). Here, the "predetermined period" can be any period such as two weeks, one month, and two months. In the present embodiment, the following description will be continued with the "predetermined period" as one month.

Here, an example of an operation of spontaneously disbanding the cheering party will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 45. Does the game server 1 have a user who has not accessed (logged in) the game for one month (or longer) based on the access information of each user stored in the access information storage control unit 54a? It is determined whether or not (S181). Here, when there is a user who has not accessed the game for one month (YES in S181), the game server 1 sets the first user with whom the user is associated as a cheering party (second user). All are extracted (S182). This extraction process can be executed based on the friendship information of FIG. 33 stored in the database server 2. After that, the game server 1 naturally dissolves the cheering party by automatically canceling the relationship between the first user extracted in step S182 and the second user who has not accessed the game for one month. (S183).

Therefore, if the first user A wants to maintain a relationship with his / her cheering party, the second users B, C, D, ..., The second users B, C, D, ... It is necessary to work with the second users B, C, D, ... to access the game (for example, to communicate with the second users B, C, D, ... to call for game access). is there.

However, even if the first user A encourages the second users B, C, D, ... To access the game, there is a second user who hardly accesses the game. The privilege given to the first user A depends on the progress of the second user B, C, D, ... In the game, and therefore has not accessed the game for one month or more. Such a second user should have a small degree of progress in the game, and is considered to be a cheering party (second user) that is not very attractive to the first user A. Therefore, it is considered rather desirable for the first user A that such a relationship with the second user is automatically canceled as described above.

In particular, in a configuration in which the number of cheering squads that the first user A can acquire is limited by the level of his / her game, the second user who has not accessed the game for one month or more is his / her cheering squad. This wastes a limited number of cheering squad slots. Therefore, the fact that such a relationship with the second user is automatically canceled and a space is created in the cheering party means that there is an opportunity to invite a new second user who actively plays the game as a cheering party. It can be said that it is desirable for the first user A because it can be created.

By the way, the first user who has a second user who is inactive to the game in his cheering party, such as the level of the game does not rise at all, voluntarily takes the cheering party without waiting for a period of one month. It is possible that you want to disband and acquire new users as a cheering party. Therefore, apart from the natural dissolution of the cheering party, an option may be provided in which the cheering party can be dissolved at the will of the first user. In this case, the first user needs to pay a predetermined point or item to the second user who is a cheering party who wants to voluntarily disband. That is, when the cheering party is voluntarily dissolved, the first user does not easily dissolve his or her cheering party by including a penalty element of requesting payment of the price (points, etc.). I am trying to do it. For example, the first user approves the dissolution of the relationship with the second user by paying the cheering party level x 10 points of the cheering party that he / she wants to voluntarily disband to the second user who is the cheering party. It shall be possible to disband the cheering party without getting.

After the relationship between the user A and the user B who is the cheering party is dissolved, the user A can make the user B the cheering party again. However, in this case, the cheering party level of user B starts from "1".

As mentioned above, the supporters'association is a companion with a higher privilege effect than the cheering party, and can basically be treated in the same way as the cheering party. Therefore, as with the cheering party, if the second user, who is the supporter's association, has not accessed the game for a predetermined period (for example, one month), the relationship between the first user and the second user is canceled. (Spontaneous dissolution of the supporters' association). The user can also voluntarily dissolve the supporters' association by paying the other party.

In addition, the supporters' association may be provided with invitation benefits that the cheering party does not have. For example, a rare event called "encouragement party", which is an invitation privilege, is generated during the game of the first user according to the level of the game of the second user, which is the support group of the first user. This rare event will be described below.

When the level of the game of the second user, which is the sponsorship of the first user, reaches the reference value (for example, each value of 20, 40, 60, 80, 100), the next day, the first user When you log in to the game, an invitation privilege "Encouragement Party" will occur. The "encouragement party" is a virtual effect that a party to encourage the first user is held. Specifically, on the day when the "encouragement party" occurs, the first user plays a game. When you access, a message such as "Encouragement party has occurred!" Is displayed on the screen. When this "encouragement party" occurs, all the player characters (player cards) registered in the army by the first user recover their physical condition and physical strength. This "encouragement party" privilege corresponds to a variation of the invitation privilege shown in FIG.

Here, the recovery of the tone of the player character means that the above-mentioned tone parameter set for the player character becomes the highest value (5 = best condition). As a result, the strength of the team of the first user is increased. In addition, the recovery of the physical strength of the player character means that the parameter of the physical strength set for the player character becomes the maximum value. Here, the physical strength of the player character is a parameter consumed by training the player character in the special training mode in the game. In the special training mode, the physical strength of the player character is consumed to increase the experience value of the player character, and when the experience value reaches a predetermined value, the player level (a parameter indicating the high ability of the player character) is improved.

Furthermore, when the "encouragement party" occurs, the player level of all the player characters registered in the first user for a predetermined period (for example, one day) is raised by a predetermined stage (for example, two stages), and the battle is played. It will be easy to win. During the period when the player level of the player character is rising due to the "encouragement party", the color that displays the player level may be different from the normal time, or the display state of the player character itself (color, brightness, facial expression, etc.) may be changed. By making it different from the normal time, the user is notified in an easy-to-understand manner of the state during which the "encouragement meeting" is occurring.

For player characters that have received the effect of "Encouragement Party", the player level cannot be improved in the special training mode while the effect is occurring. This is because the player level of the player character is temporarily improved by the effect of the "encouragement party" and is in an unusual special state. Similarly, if there is a game mode that changes the player level of the player character, it is desirable that the player character affected by the "encouragement party" cannot be used in the game mode. For example, when a user owns a plurality of the same player characters, a game mode in which the player characters can be combined to improve the player level of the player characters is also targeted.

[Other Embodiments]
Regarding the configuration having a memory control function for storing various information in the storage device (access information storage control unit 54a, invitation-related storage control unit 56a, companion information storage control unit 60a, initial value storage control means 201, etc.), the storage device itself Is not included in the configuration, so it may be installed anywhere inside or outside the game management device (or game system). For example, the storage device is a RAM 13 or auxiliary storage device 14 of the game server 1, a database server 2, a RAM 33 or auxiliary storage device 39 of the terminal device 3, or a file server (online) having a configuration different from that of the game management device or the terminal device. Storage) and the like.

The server (game server 1, database server 2) and the terminal device can communicate with each other to send and receive various data, and both are information processing devices (both equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, auxiliary storage device, communication control unit, etc.). It is a computer) and has a similar hardware configuration. Therefore, in a game system including a server and a terminal device, each means provided by the game management device described in each of the above-described embodiments may be provided by either the server or the terminal device. That is, the game management device can be configured to be provided in the server and the terminal device that communicate with each other to send and receive various data, and have the same effects as those in the above-described embodiment.
In addition, each configuration described in each of the above-described embodiments can be applied in combination as appropriate.

Further, the computer-readable program according to the present embodiment is recorded on various computer-readable recording media such as a hard disk, an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.), a flexible disk, and a semiconductor memory, and the recording medium. Is read from and executed by the CPU 11 of the game server 1. Further, the means for providing the program to the game server 1 or the terminal device 3 is not limited to the recording medium described above, and may be performed via a communication network such as the Internet.

1) The game management device (1,2) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game management device (1,2) that manages game information of each user registered in the game service, and is from the first user. When the second user who has received the predetermined invitation or application accepts the invitation or application, the information relating the first user and the second user is stored in the storage device and the relationship between the two is stored. After the relationship management means (56) to be managed and the first user and the second user are related by the relationship management means (56), the second user is referred to the second user. The configuration includes a privilege granting means (57) for granting a privilege according to the user's access to the game or the progress of the game.

The game management device having this configuration, for example, provides game services to each user via the network while accepting access from each user's terminal device via the network and managing the game information of each user. The game management device is composed of an information processing device such as a server that can be connected to a network. As a game service provided to each user by this game management device, for example, there is a service such as a social game in which users can play while cooperating or communicating with each other.

The relationship management means of the game management device associates the first user with the second user when the second user who has received a predetermined invitation or application from the first user accepts the invitation or application. The information is stored in a storage device, and the relationship between the two is continuously managed. Here, as the "invitation or application", as in the configuration of 2) described later, "a game is played by a first user registered in the game service for a second user who has not yet registered in the game service. Invite to register for the service. " In this case, accepting the invitation by the second user means "registering for a new game service".

In addition, as another example of "invitation or application", as in the configuration of 12) described later, "the first user who is registered with the game service together applies to the second user for a friend". "Is mentioned. Here, a companion is a general term for a virtual relationship between users constructed in the game, and is an acquaintance, a friend, a friend, a classmate, a partner, a relative, a family member, a brother, a sister, a colleague of a company or an organization, Includes various in-game relationships such as teacher-student, master-disciple, senior-junior. In this case, accepting the application by the second user means "approving the application of the companion".

Also, as another example of "invitation or application", apply to the second user to join the in-game group of the first user (for example, the baseball team of the first user) (your own). Invite a second user to the group). In this case, accepting the application by the second user means "approving and joining the group of the first user".

Then, after the first user and the second user are associated with each other by the relationship management means, the privilege granting means of the game management device depends on the access to the game of the second user or the progress of the game. , Give a privilege to the first user.

Here, "access to the game" means access (login) to the game management device that provides the game service. Then, giving a privilege to the first user according to the access to the game by the second user means that the second user is accessing the game and the fact that the second user has accessed the game. It means that there is, or that a privilege is given to the first user according to the number of times the second user has accessed the game, the number of days of access, and the like. For example, it is possible to give a privilege to the first user when the second user is accessing the game. Further, if there is a fact that the second user has accessed the game, the privilege can be given to the first user even after the second user finishes accessing the game. Further, after the first user and the second user are related to each other, when the cumulative number of times the second user accesses the game reaches the reference number, the first user is given a privilege. be able to. Further, after the first user and the second user are related to each other, when the cumulative number of days of access to the game by the second user reaches the reference number of days, the first user is given a privilege. can do.

Further, the "game progress status of the second user" is the level of the game of the second user as a result of the game being advanced by the second user playing the game, and is owned by the second user. It refers to the situation such as the ability of the character and the strength of the team of the second user. For example, when the game level of the second user, the ability value of the character, or the strength value of the team reaches the reference value after the first user and the second user are associated with each other, the first user It can be configured to give benefits to the user.

In addition, as the privilege given to the first user, a privilege that is advantageous in the game as compared with the case where the privilege is not given, or a privilege that grants a game item having a predetermined rarity (rareness) or higher, etc. Various benefits can be applied according to the type and content of the game. For example, in a game in which experience points are acquired during the game to improve the level, the privilege of increasing the experience points that can be acquired during the game can be considered. In addition, if the game accomplishes the mission or event activated during the game, the privilege that the activated mission or event progresses / achieves faster than usual can be considered. Further, in the case of a game in which points and items are used, it is conceivable that the user is given points and items that can advance the game in an advantageous manner. Further, in a battle-type game in which users can play against each other, such as a baseball game or a soccer game, it is conceivable that the strength of the game is improved by n times of the battle (for example, 3 times of the battle), and the battle becomes advantageous. In addition, if the game system is provided with a configuration in which items can be obtained by lottery, the probability of being able to obtain rare items (items with a lower lottery probability and higher rare value than normal items) can be obtained by lottery. A privilege of increasing the number of times (for example, once) is also conceivable.

As described above, according to the present configuration, for the first user, after the first user and the second user are associated with each other, the second user's access to the game or the progress of the game is determined. Since the benefits can be enjoyed continuously, for example, the benefits are more attractive than the conventional benefits in which points are given only once when the invitation is successful. Since it is possible to provide users with such novel and attractive benefits that have never existed before, let's establish a relationship with the second user for the first user (invite a new user to the game, etc.) , Let's build a friendship) can give a strong motivation. As a result, the game service can be activated.

Further, since the privilege given to the first user depends on the access to the game of the second user or the progress of the game, the first user can use the game of the second user. You will be motivated to communicate with a second user to facilitate access or game progression. For example, in the case of the privilege that the experience value in the game that can be acquired is larger than usual when the second user is accessing the game, the second user can access the game more. The first user can enjoy greater benefits. Therefore, the first user can be expected to actively communicate by sending messages such as "Let's do our best to access" and "Let's access together" so that the second user can access more. The game community will be activated.

2) In the above configuration, the first user is a user who is registered in the game service and is an invited user who has invited the second user to register a new game service, and the second user. Is preferably an invited user who is newly registered in the game service in response to the invitation from the first user.

According to this configuration, the first user registered in the game service invites the second user who has not yet registered in the game service to register in the game service, and the invited second user. When newly registered in the game service, the above-mentioned novel and attractive privilege is given to the first user on the inviting side. Here, the first user who has invited the game service registration is the "invited user", and the second user who has been invited to register a new game service by the invited user is the "invited user".

When the invited user registers with the game service, the relationship management means stores the information related to the invited user who invited the invited user and the invited user in the storage device, and sends the invited user to the game service. We will continue to manage the relationship between the two even after the new registration. For example, the invited user is a "senior" and the invited user is a "junior", and the relationship management means continuously manages such a relationship between the two. Then, after the invited user invited by the invited user registers with the game service (that is, after the invited user succeeds in the invitation), the privilege granting means allows the invited user to access the game of the invited user or Benefits will be given according to the progress of the game. This privilege is given to an invited user who has succeeded in inviting, and is hereinafter referred to as an "invitation privilege".

With this configuration, the invited user can continuously enjoy the invited user's access to the game or the invitation privilege according to the progress of the game after the invitation is successful (after the invited user registers with the game service). , It is a more attractive invitation privilege than the conventional privilege that points are given only once when the invitation is successful. Since it is possible to provide the user with such a novel and attractive invitation privilege that has never existed before, it is possible to give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game. As a result, the number of users registered in the game service can be effectively increased, and the game service can be activated.

In addition, since the invitation privilege given to the invited user depends on the invited user's access to the game or the game progress, the invited user can access the invited user's game or the game progress. In order to promote it, it will be motivated to communicate with the invited user by sending a message such as "Let's do our best to access". This is an effect that can never be expected with the conventional privilege that points are given only once when the invitation is successful, and it is a novel and attractive effect that makes use of the continuous relationship between the invited user and the invited user after the invitation is successful. This is a unique effect of this game management device that grants invitation benefits.

3) In the configuration of 2) above, the privilege granting means (57) allows the invited user to access the game of the invited user or proceed with the game after the invited user registers with the game service. It is preferable to give benefits depending on the situation.

With this configuration, the invited user can continuously enjoy the benefits according to the invited user's access to the game or the progress of the game after the new registration to the game service, so points are given only once at the time of new registration. It is a more attractive privilege than the conventional privilege. This privilege is a new registration privilege with an invitation given to an invited user newly registered in the game service, and is hereinafter referred to as a "new invitation registration privilege".

By providing users with novel and attractive new invitation registration benefits that take advantage of the continuous relationship between the side invited to such a game service (invited user) and the invited side (invited user). It is possible to give the user a strong motivation to newly register for the game. As a result, the number of users registered in the game service can be effectively increased, and the game service can be activated.

Furthermore, since the new invitation registration privilege given to the invited user depends on the invited user's access to the game or the game progress, the invited user has access to the invited user's game or the game. You will be motivated to communicate with invited users to facilitate progress. Therefore, the invited user can be expected to actively communicate by sending a message such as "Let's do our best to access" to the invited user, and the game community can be activated.

4) In the configuration of 2) or 3) above, the parameter setting means (58) for setting the value of any one of the parameters having a plurality of levels of values for each user and the parameter setting means (58). The higher the value set in) is, the greater the degree of advantage in the game is, the game progress means (52) for controlling the game progress of the user, and the privilege granting means (57). When the invited user is accessing the game, it is preferable to increase the value set by the parameter setting means (58) for the invited user.

According to this configuration, the parameter setting means sets the value of any one of the parameters having a plurality of levels of values for the terminal device of each user. As an example of this parameter, the goodness (or good physical condition) of the user playing the game or the character of the user is simulated in the game, for example, a value (0 =) of 6 steps from 0 to 5. There is a parameter having a bad condition, 1 = normal, 2 = good condition, 3 = fairly good condition, 4 = excellent condition, 5 = best condition). The parameter is not limited to the one representing the good condition, and may be any parameter as long as it has a value of a plurality of stages.

Then, the game progress means controls the game progress of the user so that the higher the value set by the parameter setting means, the greater the degree of advantage in the game. To give an example of this game progress control, the higher the parameter value, the larger the experience value that can be acquired during the game, and the faster the progress / achievement of missions and events activated in the game. It is conceivable to control so that the probability that a rare item will be drawn is higher.

Then, when the invited user is accessing the game, the privilege giving means raises the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means for the terminal device of the invited user who invited the invited user. As the value of the parameter increases, the degree of advantage in the game increases. Therefore, according to this configuration, the invitation privilege can be given to the invited user through the form of increasing the value of the parameter. That is, it is not an invitation privilege that simply gives points only once when the invitation is successful, but the size of the privilege is increased by associating the parameter set for the user (or the user's terminal device) with the privilege and changing the parameter. We have realized the granting of a novel invitation privilege to adjust.

5) In the configuration of 4) above, when a plurality of invited users invited by the invited user are registered in the game service, the privilege granting means (57) is accessing the game. It is preferable that the larger the number of invited users, the larger the value set by the parameter setting means (58) for the invited users.

According to this configuration, when multiple invited users invited by the invited user are registered in the game service due to successful invitation of multiple users, the number of invited users accessing the game is large. The more the value of the parameter set for the invited user increases. For example, when the number of invited users accessing the game is n, the value of the parameter can be increased by n steps.

In this way, the greater the number of invited users registered in the game service, the greater the benefits that the invited users can enjoy, thereby motivating each user to invite more. Can be done.

6) In the configuration of 4) or 5) above, the privilege granting means (57) is the parameter setting means (58) for the invited user when the invited user is accessing the game. ) Is preferably increased.

According to this configuration, when the invited user is accessing the game, the privilege giving means raises the value of the parameter set by the parameter setting means for the invited user invited by the invited user. As the value of the parameter increases, the degree of advantage in the game increases. Therefore, according to this configuration, the invited user can be given a new referral registration privilege through the form of increasing the value of the parameter. That is, it is not a privilege that gives points only once when a user is newly registered, but the size of the privilege by associating a parameter set for the user (or the user's terminal device) with the privilege and changing the parameter. We have realized the granting of a novel new referral registration privilege to adjust.

In addition, according to this configuration, not only invited users but also invited users are given an opportunity to enjoy the benefits, so that the invited user is motivated to perform new registration without rejecting the invitation. Will be given. Therefore, both the invitee and the invitee can be actively guided to be involved in the processing (inbyte) of the invitation, so that the number of users participating in the game can be effectively increased and the game service can be provided. Can be activated.

7) In any of the above 2) to 6) configurations, a parameter setting means (58) for setting the value of any one of the parameters having a plurality of levels of values for each user, and the parameter setting. The user with a higher value set by the means (58) further includes a game progress means (52) for controlling the game progress of the user so that the degree of advantage in the game becomes greater, and the privilege granting means (57). ) Is the parameter setting means (58) for the invited user within a predetermined time from the start of access to the game by the invited user even when the invited user ends the access to the game. It is preferable to increase the value set by.

According to this configuration, once the invited user accesses the game, even if the invited user ends the access to the game after that, within a predetermined time from the start of the invited user's access to the game. , The invitation privilege of increasing the value set by the parameter setting means for the terminal device of the invited user is given to the invited user. This configuration emphasizes the fact that the invited user has accessed the game, and invites not only when the invited user is accessing the game, but also after the invited user has finished accessing the game. It is possible to set a period for enjoying the benefits. Here, regarding the period for enjoying the invitation privilege, "within a predetermined time from the start of access to the game by the invited user", for example, the predetermined time may be set to an arbitrary time length such as 8 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours. It can be set.

With this configuration, the period of enjoyment of the novel and attractive invitation benefits given according to the invited user's access to the game is extended to after the invited user has finished accessing the game, making it more attractive. It can be an invitation privilege. As a result, it is possible to give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game, effectively increase the number of users registered in the game service, and further activate the game service. ..

8) In any of the above 2) to 7), the privilege granting means (57) changes as the invited user progresses in the game after the invited user registers with the game service. It is preferable not to execute the privilege granting process after the game value for the invited user reaches a predetermined value.

In this configuration, "the in-game value of the invited user, which changes as the invited user progresses," means the value of the invited user's game, the level or ability of the character owned by the invited user. The value, the strength value of the invited user's team, the value of the difficulty level of the stage in the game that the invited user has reached, etc., even if it is the in-game value related to the invited user that changes as the game progresses. For example, a value other than these may be used.

For example, the level of the invited user's game is increased by the invited user playing the game and gaining experience points, and does not reach the predetermined value unless the invited user actually plays the game. .. Similarly, the ability value of the character owned by the invited user and the strength value of the team of the invited user will be set to the predetermined values unless the invited user actually plays the game to develop the character and improve the team strength. It does not reach. In addition, in the case of a game in which multiple stages with different difficulty levels are provided in the game, and if one stage is cleared, the game proceeds to another stage with a higher difficulty level, the invited user actually plays the game. If you do not clear the stage, you will not reach the prescribed difficulty level. That is, the "game value of the invited user, which changes as the invited user progresses in the game" is an index indicating the timing when the invited user newly registered in the game service has played the game to some extent. is there.

Then, in this configuration, after the "invited user's game value related to the invited user, which changes as the invited user's game progresses" reaches a predetermined value, a privilege (invitation privilege or new invitation registration privilege) is granted. Is not executed. For example, after the level of the invited user's game reaches a value that exceeds the beginner level (for example, level 15), the privilege granting process is not executed and the privilege ends.

In this way, after the invited user plays the game to some extent and the "value in the game regarding the invited user, which changes as the invited user progresses in the game" reaches a predetermined value, the invitation privilege for the invited user By canceling the granting of, it is possible to encourage the user (inviting side) to invite a new user. The reason is as follows. That is, if the user can continue to receive the invitation privilege indefinitely, the user who is satisfied with the attractive invitation privilege already received may not be willing to invite a new user. On the other hand, by stopping the granting of benefits when the user enjoys a certain invitation benefit, the user has a strong desire to receive attractive invitation benefits again and invites a new user to the game again. Motivation can be given to the user.

By the way, the period during which the privilege can be enjoyed is not the real time in the real world, but "until the game value of the invited user reaches a predetermined value, which changes as the game progresses of the invited user". This is due to the following reasons. The invitation privilege given to the invited user depends on the invited user's access to the game or the progress of the game. Therefore, if the period during which the invitation privilege can be enjoyed is set to the real time in the real world, the invited user never accesses the game (does not advance the game at all) or goes to the game after newly registering for the game service. If a certain period of time (real time in the real world) elapses even though the access is slight, the invited user may not enjoy the invitation privilege at all or may enjoy it only slightly. On the other hand, by setting the period during which the invitation privilege can be enjoyed "until the in-game value for the invited user reaches a predetermined value, which changes as the invited user progresses in the game", the real time in the real world Regardless, the period for granting the invitation privilege will be secured until the invited user plays the game to some extent and the invited user can realize the benefit of the privilege.

9) In any of the above 2) to 8) configurations, when the character of the invited user plays against another character, the character of the invited user is automatically assisted by the invited user side. It is preferable to further provide a battle cooperation management means (62) for making the battle cooperate.

According to this configuration, it is possible to realize "competition cooperation" that makes use of the continuous relationship between the invited user and the invited user after the invited user newly registers in the game service. That is, in this configuration, when the character of the invited user plays against another character, the character of the invited user automatically assists the invited user as a so-called "helper" and cooperates in the battle. .. Since the character of the invited user assists the invited user side as a helper and cooperates in the battle, the strength of the invited user side is improved, so that the battle of the invited user becomes more advantageous than in the case where there is no such battle cooperation. As described above, in this configuration, the character on the invited user side is automatically assisted on the invited user side as a "helper" for the following reasons. That is, as a specific game based on this configuration, for example, the invited user can be set as "senior" and the invited user can be set as "junior", but in the real world, the junior always refers to the senior. This is because the situation of cooperation is simulated in the game, and it is possible to realize the fun as if the human relations in the real world were reflected in the game.

When the invited user's character plays against another character, the "other character" is the character of the other user or the character prepared by the game management device (for example, the boss character that appears at the end of each stage). It may be any of.

Normally, when a user asks a companion for cooperation in a battle, it is necessary to operate a terminal device to request the cooperation of a helper. On the other hand, in this configuration, it is not necessary for the invited user to operate the helper's cooperation request, and based on the relationship information between the invited user and the invited user managed by the relationship management means of the game management device. The battle cooperation management means automatically assists the invited user's character with the invited user side to realize the battle cooperation. In this game management device, since the relationship between the invited user and the invited user is stored in the storage device and the continuous relationship between the two is managed, the character of the invited user is automatically assisted by the invited user side. Competitive cooperation is possible.

As described above, in this configuration, since the character of the invited user automatically assists the invited user side as a helper and cooperates in the battle, the invited user has an advantage in the battle without operating the battle cooperation request. In particular, for game services such as social games, which are strongly required to be facilitated and simplified by the user, it is preferable to generate the merit of this configuration that does not require the user's operation. Then, after the invitation is successful, the user is invited to invite a new user to the game by providing the user with the merit of the battle cooperation of this configuration that makes the best use of the continuous relationship between the invited user and the invited user. It can give a strong motivation.

10) In the configuration of 9) above, the fellow management means (60) that stores the information of the fellow users who belong to the group centered on each user in the storage device and manages the fellows for each user, and In addition to the battle cooperation by the characters of the invited user, the battle cooperation reception means (63) that accepts the selection of the characters of the fellow users of the first specified number or less that can request the battle cooperation according to the input of the user. When the character of the invited user plays against another character, the character of the invited user and the character of the invited user and the battle cooperation receiving means (63) are accepted by the battle cooperation management means (62). It is preferable that the invited user side is assisted by the characters of the fellow users, which are less than or equal to the first specified number selected by the invited user.

According to this configuration, the game management device is provided with a fellow management means for managing fellows for each user, and provides information on each fellow user who belongs to a group called "friends" centered on each user. It is stored and managed in a storage device. It should be noted that the group referred to here only indicates a group of one's own friends from the viewpoint of one user, and each user constituting these groups does not belong only to this group. Each user also has an individual group of "companies" centered around him. Then, the battle cooperation receiving means receives the selection of the character of the fellow user who can request the battle cooperation by the operation on the terminal device of the user, in addition to the battle cooperation by the character of the invited user which is automatically executed. ..

That is, in this configuration, in addition to the helper frame by the character of the invited user who automatically cooperates in the battle, the helper frame by the first specified number of fellow characters who can arbitrarily request the battle cooperation is secured. ing. Therefore, a part or all of the limited number of fellow helper slots is not automatically filled with the characters of the invited user who cooperates with the invited user side, and the invited user is other than the character of the invited user. Also, the character of the desired fellow user can be requested as a helper. In other words, the invited user can request more battle cooperation, which is advantageous in the battle.

In addition, according to this configuration, a normal user who has not invited anyone is given only a helper frame of a fellow character, while an invited user is automatically matched not only with a helper frame of a fellow character. An additional helper slot for the characters of the invited users who cooperate will be given. The character helper slot of the invited user is a special helper slot given only to the user who succeeded in the invitation, and can give the user a strong motivation to invite a new user to the game.

11) In the configuration of 9) or 10) above, the number of invited users who can cooperate with the invited user in the battle is limited to the second specified number or less, and the invited user has invited the first. 2. When a plurality of invited users exceeding the specified number are registered in the game service, the battle cooperation management means (62) has a character having a higher ability value from the plurality of invited users. It is preferable to select a number of invited users and have the characters of the selected second specified number of invited users participate in the invited users.

According to this configuration, the number of the invited users who can cooperate in the battle is limited to the second specified number or less, the difference in strength with the opponent becomes too large, and the balance of power between the two players in the battle is extremely disturbed. To avoid. Then, when the number of invited users who have succeeded in inviting the invited user exceeds the upper limit of the second specified number, the second specified number of invited users in order from the invited user having the character with the higher ability value It is automatically selected so that the character of the strongest invited user within the limit automatically cooperates with the invited user's match, so for each user, more invitations are made and a large number of invitations are made. You can also enjoy the benefits of securing users.

12) In the configuration of 1) above, the first user is a user who has applied for a friend to the second user, and the second user is an application for a friend from the first user. It is preferable that the user approves.

According to this configuration, when the second user who receives the application of the companion from the first user approves the application, the relationship management means stores the information relating the two in the storage device, and both of them. Continuously manage relationships. For example, the second user becomes a "cheering party" who supports the first user, and the first user becomes a "supported person", so that the relationship management means continuously manages the relationship between the two. It has become. In this way, any name such as "cheering party" may be used in the game to express the friendship.

With this configuration, the first user can continuously enjoy attractive benefits according to the access to the game of the fellow or the progress of the game after the friendship with the second user is established. You will be motivated to actively make friends and communicate with them. As a result, the game service can be activated.

13) The game system according to another aspect of the present invention is a terminal device (3) that communicates between a game management device (1,2) that manages a game and the game management device (1,2). In a game system including, when a second user who has received a predetermined invitation or application from the first user accepts the invitation or application, the first user and the second user After the relationship management means (56) that stores the related information in the storage device and manages the relationship between the two, and the relationship management means (56) associates the first user with the second user. , The game management device (1,2) or the above-mentioned game management device (1,2), the privilege giving means (57) which gives a privilege to the first user according to the access to the game of the second user or the progress of the game. One of the terminal devices (3) is provided.

14) The game management method according to another aspect of the present invention is a game management method in a computer that manages a game, in which the computer receives a predetermined invitation or application from a first user. When the invitation or application is accepted, the relationship management step of storing the information relating the first user and the second user in the storage device and managing the relationship between the two, and the computer manages the relationship. After the first user and the second user are associated with each other by the step, the first user is given a privilege according to the access to the game or the progress of the game of the second user. Including the privilege granting step and

15) The program according to still another aspect of the present invention is a program for operating a computer as a game management device (1, 2) for managing a game, and the computer is designated by a first user. When the second user who received the invitation or application responds to the invitation or application, the information relating the first user and the second user is stored in the storage device and the relationship between the two is managed. After the first user and the second user are associated with each other by the relationship management means (56) and the relationship management means (56), the second user's game is played against the first user. It is a program for functioning as a privilege giving means (57) for giving a privilege according to the access to or the progress of the game.

According to the configuration of one aspect of the present invention, a novel and attractive privilege can be provided to the user, so let's establish a relationship with the second user for the first user (game a new user). It can be a strong motivation to invite people to and build friendships. As a result, the game service can be activated. In addition, communication between the associated first user and the second user can be promoted, and the game community can be activated.

The game management device according to one aspect of the present invention is a game management device that manages game information of each user registered in the game service, and is a user registered in the game service and invited to register the game service. When an invited user invited to register a new game service by an invited user accepts the invitation, the information relating the invited user and the invited user is stored in a storage device to manage the relationship between the two. The relationship management means includes a friend management means that stores information of fellow users who have a fellow relationship with each user in a storage device and manages the fellows for each user, and the fellow management means is invited by the relation management means. When the information relating the user and the invited user is stored in the storage device, the fellow relationship between the invited user and the invited user is automatically set.

In the above configuration, the game targeted by the game service is a game in which the friendship that provides the merit in the game can be set between users, and the number of friends of each user is limited. Is preferable.

In the above configuration, when the friend management means sets the friend relationship when the invited user accepts the invitation, even if the limit on the number of friends is exceeded, the invited user and the invited user are invited. It is preferable to automatically set the fellowship with the user.

In the above configuration, after the invited user and the invited user are related by the relationship management means, the invited user is asked to access the game or the game progress of the invited user. It is preferable to further provide a privilege granting means for granting the privilege.

In the above configuration, the privilege granting means, after the invited user and the invited user are associated with each other by the relationship management means, gives the invited user access to the game or the game of the invited user. It is preferable to give benefits according to the progress.

In the above configuration, the privilege granting means reaches a predetermined value in the game regarding the invited user, which changes with the progress of the game of the invited user after the invited user registers with the game service. After that, it is preferable not to execute the privilege granting process.

In the above configuration, when the character of the invited user plays against another character, the character of the invited user is further provided with a battle cooperation management means for automatically assisting the invited user side in the battle cooperation. Is preferable.

In the above configuration, in addition to the battle cooperation by the characters of the invited user, the battle cooperation that accepts the selection of the characters of the fellow users of the first specified number or less that can request the battle cooperation according to the input of the user. The battle cooperation management means is further provided with a reception means, and when the character of the invited user plays against another character, the character of the invited user and the invited user received by the battle cooperation reception means are selected. It is preferable that the invited user side is assisted with the characters of the fellow users, which are equal to or less than the first specified number.

In the above configuration, the number of invited users who can participate in the battle and cooperate with the invited user is limited to the second specified number or less, and a plurality of recipients invited by the invited user exceeding the second specified number. When the invited user is registered in the game, the battle cooperation management means selects a second specified number of invited users having a character with a higher ability value from the plurality of invited users, and selects the selected first. 2 It is preferable to have a specified number of invited user characters participate in the invited user side.

The game system according to another aspect of the present invention is a game system including a game management device that manages a game and a terminal device that communicates with the game management device, and is registered in a game service. When an invited user who is an invited user who has been invited to register a game service and is invited to register a new game service accepts the invitation, the information relating the invited user and the invited user is displayed. The game management device includes a relationship management means that stores in a storage device and manages the relationship between the two, and a fellow management means that stores information of fellow users who have a fellowship with each user in the storage device and manages fellows for each user. Alternatively, one of the terminal devices is provided, and the companion management means can be used with the invited user when the information relating the invited user and the invited user is stored in the storage device by the relationship management means. The fellowship with the invited user is automatically set.

The program according to the other aspect of the present invention is a program for operating the computer as the game management device, and is a program for operating the computer as each means provided by the game management device.

1 Game server (game management device)
2 Database server (game management device)
3 Terminal device 4 Network 11 CPU
12 ROM
13 RAM
14 Auxiliary storage device 15 Communication control unit 51 Game information management means 52 Game progress means 52a Game execution means 52b Game screen generation means 52c Game screen transmission means 54 Access control means 54a Access information storage control unit (access information storage control means)
55 Invitation processing means 56 Relationship management means 56a Invitation relationship memory control unit 57 Benefit granting means 57a Invitation privilege granting unit 57b New invitation registration privilege granting unit 58 Parameter setting means 59 Notification means 60 Companion management means 60a Companion information storage control unit 61 Message transmission Means 62 Battle cooperation management means 63 Battle cooperation reception means 201 Initial value memory control means 202 Progress degree calculation means 203 Support team number management means (friend number management means)
204 Total calculation means 205 Comparison means 206 Strength variable means 207 Relationship elimination means

Claims (5)

A method of controlling a server device that provides a game in which a plurality of players can participate and is connected to a terminal device operated by the player via a communication line.
Invitation information including at least the specific information that identifies the page associated with the game and the specific information associated with the identification information that identifies the player who operates the first terminal device is used as an instruction from the first terminal device. A transmission step to transmit to the second terminal device according to
After the transmission of the invitation information, it is determined whether or not the member registration has been performed to the provider that provides the game based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, and it is determined that the member registration has not been performed. When it is determined that the member registration has been performed based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, the screen information for playing the game is automatically set based on the login information of the player registered as a member. The provision step provided to the second terminal device and
It is determined whether or not each player of the first terminal device and the second terminal device has achieved a predetermined specific item in the game, which is satisfied by advancing the game. Judgment step to do and
After determining that the player of the second terminal device has achieved the specific item, the player who operates the first terminal device is determined by using the identification information, and the player who operates the first terminal device is determined. An incentive giving step for giving an incentive to the player who operates the second terminal device even when it is determined that the player of the first terminal device has achieved the specific item .
Control method having. In the control method according to claim 1,
A control method further comprising a step of notifying the first terminal device of the content of the incentive given to the player who operates the first terminal device. A server device that provides a game in which a plurality of players can participate and is connected to a terminal device operated by the player via a communication line.
Invitation information including at least the specific information that identifies the page associated with the game and the specific information associated with the identification information that identifies the player who operates the first terminal device is used as an instruction from the first terminal device. A transmission means for transmitting to the second terminal device according to the situation,
After the transmission of the invitation information, it is determined whether or not the member registration has been performed to the provider that provides the game based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, and it is determined that the member registration has not been performed. When it is determined that the member registration has been performed based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, the screen information for playing the game is automatically set based on the login information of the player registered as a member. The providing means provided to the second terminal device and
It is determined whether or not each player of the first terminal device and the second terminal device has achieved a predetermined specific item in the game, which is satisfied by advancing the game. Judgment means to do
After determining that the player of the second terminal device has achieved the specific item, the player who operates the first terminal device is determined by using the identification information, and the player who operates the first terminal device is determined. An incentive giving means for giving an incentive to the player who operates the second terminal device even when it is determined that the player of the first terminal device has achieved the specific item .
A server device that comprises. A computer that provides a game in which a plurality of players can participate and is connected to a terminal device operated by the player via a communication line.
Invitation information including at least the specific information that identifies the page associated with the game and the specific information associated with the identification information that identifies the player who operates the first terminal device is used as an instruction from the first terminal device. A transmission step to transmit to the second terminal device according to
After the transmission of the invitation information, it is determined whether or not the member registration has been performed to the provider that provides the game based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, and it is determined that the member registration has not been performed. When it is determined that the member registration has been performed based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, the screen information for playing the game is automatically set based on the login information of the player registered as a member. The provision step provided to the second terminal device and
It is determined whether or not each player of the first terminal device and the second terminal device has achieved a predetermined specific item in the game, which is satisfied by advancing the game. Judgment step to do and
After determining that the player of the second terminal device has achieved the specific item, the player who operates the first terminal device is determined by using the identification information, and the player who operates the first terminal device is determined. An incentive giving step for giving an incentive to the player who operates the second terminal device even when it is determined that the player of the first terminal device has achieved the specific item .
A program that executes. A game system that provides a game in which a plurality of players can participate, and includes a server device that is connected to a terminal device operated by the player via a communication line, and the terminal device.
Invitation information including at least the specific information that identifies the page associated with the game and the specific information associated with the identification information that identifies the player who operates the first terminal device is used as an instruction from the first terminal device. A transmission means for transmitting to the second terminal device according to the situation,
After the transmission of the invitation information, it is determined whether or not the member registration has been performed to the provider that provides the game based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, and it is determined that the member registration has not been performed. When it is determined that the member registration has been performed based on the operation of the player of the second terminal device, the screen information for playing the game is automatically set based on the login information of the player registered as a member. The providing means provided to the second terminal device and
It is determined whether or not each player of the first terminal device and the second terminal device has achieved a predetermined specific item in the game, which is satisfied by advancing the game. Judgment means to do
After determining that the player of the second terminal device has achieved the specific item, the player who operates the first terminal device is determined by using the identification information, and the player who operates the first terminal device is determined. An incentive giving means for giving an incentive to the player who operates the second terminal device even when it is determined that the player of the first terminal device has achieved the specific item .
Game system with.

Images