JP6810325B2 - Game controls, game systems, and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to game control devices, game systems, and programs.

A game control device that displays an image showing a virtual space on a head-mounted display using binocular parallax is known. According to such a game control device, since the depth can be expressed by the head-mounted display, a high immersive feeling can be provided to the user. Further, by combining with stereophonic sound or the like, the immersive feeling is further improved, and the user can experience the illusion of being in a virtual space. For example, in a game in which a character who acts together with a user appears, the user can experience the illusion that he or she is acting together with the character in a virtual space.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-224823

In the above games, if the user can always feel the character close to the user, the user can feel more strongly that he / she is acting with the character in the virtual space. You can further enhance your interest. On the other hand, even if the user can always feel the character close to him / her, if the character obstructs the field of view, the interest of the game is rather impaired.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is a game control device, a game system, capable of ensuring a field of view and allowing a user to always feel a character close to the character. And to provide the program.

In order to solve the above problems, the game control device according to one aspect of the present invention uses a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. The display control means includes a display control means for executing control for displaying the indicated image on the head-mounted display and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. The visual field direction is set to the basic visual field direction, and the virtual space setting means places the humanoid character in the first direction above the viewpoint and above the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Arranged in a posture in which the face is positioned, the display control means changes the visual field direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.

The game control device according to one aspect of the present invention displays on a head-mounted display an image showing the virtual space setting means for setting the virtual space and the virtual space viewed from the viewpoint set in the virtual space. The virtual space setting means includes a display control means for executing the control for performing the control and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the virtual space setting means has the humanoid character as the viewpoint. An axis that is arranged above and has the viewpoint as the origin and corresponds to the vertical direction, the axis having the upward direction as the positive direction as the first axis, and an axis orthogonal to the first axis, which is the basic view direction. When the axis in the positive direction is the second axis, the virtual space setting means has a positive value for the coordinate value of the first axis and a positive value for the coordinate value of the second axis. The character is arranged so that the face of the character is located in the area, and the display control means corresponds the viewing direction to the orientation of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. Change in the direction of

The game control device according to one aspect of the present invention displays on a head-mounted display an image showing the virtual space setting means for setting the virtual space and the virtual space viewed from the viewpoint set in the virtual space. The virtual space setting means includes a display control means for executing control for performing the control and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the virtual space setting means displays a humanoid character in the viewpoint. The front portion of the body of the character is arranged above the head-mounted display so that the front portion of the body faces the viewpoint, and the display control means changes the direction of the field of view of the head-mounted display according to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. Change in the direction corresponding to the direction of.

The game control device according to one aspect of the present invention displays a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and an image showing the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space on a head-mounted display. The display control means includes a display control means for executing the control for performing the control and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the display control means sets the view direction to the basic view direction. The virtual space setting means is supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint, and the left and right members arranged on the left and right sides in the basic view direction when viewed from the viewpoint are left-handed. A humanoid character grasped by the right hand and a humanoid character grasped by the right hand are arranged in the virtual space, and the display control means adjusts the viewing direction to correspond to the direction of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the direction of the head-mounted display. Change to.

The game system according to one aspect of the present invention displays a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and an image showing the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space on a head-mounted display. The display control means includes a display control means for executing the control for the purpose and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the display control means sets the view direction to the basic view direction. The virtual space setting means arranges the humanoid character in a posture such that the face of the character is positioned above the viewpoint in the first direction toward the upper side of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Then, the display control means changes the visual field direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.

The game system according to one aspect of the present invention displays a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and an image showing the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space on a head-mounted display. The virtual space setting means includes a display control means for executing control for the purpose and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the virtual space setting means places a humanoid character above the viewpoint. The axis corresponding to the vertical direction with the viewpoint as the origin, the axis having the upward direction as the positive direction is the first axis, and the axis orthogonal to the first axis is the basic view direction. When the axis in the positive direction is the second axis, the virtual space setting means is a region in which the coordinate value of the first axis is a positive value and the coordinate value of the second axis is a positive value. The character is arranged so that the face of the character is located inside, and the display control means corresponds the viewing direction to the orientation of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. Change in direction.

The game system according to one aspect of the present invention displays a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and an image showing the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space on a head-mounted display. The virtual space setting means includes a display control means for executing control for the purpose and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the virtual space setting means obtains a humanoid character from the viewpoint. The front portion of the body of the character is arranged upward so as to face the viewpoint, and the display control means changes the viewing direction of the head-mounted display according to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. Change in the direction corresponding to the direction.

The game system according to one aspect of the present invention displays a virtual space setting means for setting a virtual space and an image showing the virtual space viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space on a head-mounted display. The display control means includes a display control means for executing the control for the purpose and a detection result acquisition means for acquiring the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and the display control means sets the view direction to the basic view direction. The virtual space setting means is supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint, and left-handed and right-handed members arranged on the left and right sides in the basic view direction when viewed from the viewpoint. A humanoid character to be grasped by the right hand is arranged in the virtual space, and the display control means sets the view direction in a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the direction of the head-mounted display. Change.

It is a figure which shows the hardware composition of the game apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the appearance of a head-mounted display. It is a figure which shows an example of a part (robot cockpit) of a virtual space. It is a figure for demonstrating the positional relationship between a viewpoint and a face of a partner character. It is a figure for demonstrating the positional relationship between a viewpoint and the left hand and the right hand of a partner character. It is a figure which shows an example of a game image. It is a figure which shows another example of a game image. It is a functional block diagram of the game apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flow chart which shows an example of the process executed by a game apparatus. It is a figure which shows the whole structure of the game system which concerns on other embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[1. Hardware Configuration] FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a game device (an example of a game control device) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The game device 10 is a computer used by the user to play a game. For example, the game device 10 includes a stationary game machine (household game machine), a commercial game machine installed in an amusement facility, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a portable game machine, and a portable information terminal (tablet type computer). (Including) or mobile phones (including smartphones).

As shown in FIG. 1, the game device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an optical disk drive unit 13, a communication unit 14, an operation unit 15, a head-mounted display 16, a tracking unit 17, and a sound output unit 18. The head-mounted display 16 is provided as an external device connected to the main body of the game device 10 via an interface. The operation unit 15, the tracking unit 17, and the sound output unit 18 may be provided as an external device connected to the main body of the game device 10 via an interface, or may be provided in the main body of the game device 10. ..

The control unit 11 includes at least one microprocessor (CPU), and executes information processing according to a program stored in the storage unit 12 or the information storage medium of the optical disk. The control unit 11 may include a graphic processor (GPU) for performing image processing. The storage unit 12 includes a main storage unit (for example, RAM) and an auxiliary storage unit (for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive, or a solid state drive). The storage unit 12 is for storing programs and data. The storage unit 12 is a memory for expanding graphic data, and may include a graphic memory (VRAM) accessed from a CPU via a graphic controller.

The optical disk drive unit 13 reads programs and data stored in the optical disk. Programs and data are supplied to the game device 10 via an optical disc. The game device 10 may be provided with a component (for example, a memory card slot) for reading a program or data stored in an information storage medium (for example, a memory card) other than an optical disk. Then, the program or data may be supplied to the game device 10 via an information storage medium other than the optical disc.

The communication unit 14 is for data communication with another device via a network. The program or data may be supplied to the game device 10 via the network.

The operation unit 15 is for the user to operate the game. The operation unit 15 includes, for example, a button (key), a stick (lever), a touch panel, a mouse, or the like. The operation unit 15 may be for the user to operate by voice or gesture.

The head-mounted display 16 is a display worn on the user's head, and provides the user with a stereoscopic image utilizing binocular parallax. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the head-mounted display 16. When the user U wears the head-mounted display 16, the field of view of the user U is covered by the housing of the head-mounted display 16. Further, the head-mounted display 16 includes a display unit (for example, an organic EL display or a liquid crystal display). When the user U wears the head-mounted display 16, the display unit is located in front of the user U. Therefore, the outside world of the head-mounted display 16 is blocked from the view of the user U, and the user U can see only the image displayed on the display unit. Stereoscopic viewing is realized by displaying the left-eye image and the right-eye image on the display unit, and the user U can see the stereoscopic image.

The head-mounted display 16 includes a sensor for detecting a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 (user's head). For example, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor is built in the head-mounted display 16. The tracking unit 17 is for detecting the position of the head-mounted display 16 (user's head). For example, the head-mounted display 16 includes a plurality of light sources (LEDs and the like), and the tracking unit 17 includes a photographing unit for photographing the head-mounted display 16. The tracking unit 17 is fixed at a predetermined position, and the position of the head-mounted display 16 is specified based on the positions of a plurality of light source units appearing in the image captured by the photographing unit (outside-in method). The head-mounted display 16 may include a photographing unit. Then, the position of the head-mounted display 16 may be specified based on an object (an object around the user) appearing in the captured image (inside-out method).

An image of the virtual space is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. The image displayed on the head-mounted display 16 changes according to the change in the orientation and position of the head-mounted display 16. For example, when the user U changes the direction of the head from the direction DA (for example, the front direction) to the direction DB (for example, the left direction), the image displayed on the head-mounted display 16 corresponds to the direction DA according to the change. It changes from to the image corresponding to the direction DB. As a result, the user U can experience the illusion of being in a virtual space.

The sound output unit 18 is a headphone, an earphone, a speaker, or the like, and outputs sound. It should be noted that the so-called stereophonic sound may be provided by simulating the sound coming into the ear from various directions and distances and outputting it from the sound output unit 18. Further, the sound output from the sound output unit 18 may be changed according to the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 (user's head).

[2. Game Overview] The game device 10 can execute various games regardless of game format and genre, such as shooting games, action games, role-playing games, sports games, adventure games, simulation games, or training games. It is possible.

In the game device 10, a game in which a character who acts together with the user appears is executed. In the following, as an example of a game executed by the game device 10, a game in which a user controls a moving body (robot, fighter, tank, ship, automobile, spaceship, etc.) moving in a virtual space in cooperation with a character. Will be described. Specifically, a shooting game in which a user cooperates with a character to operate a robot to attack an enemy will be described.

In this shooting game, an object indicating a robot to be operated by a user and an object indicating an enemy are arranged in a virtual space. Further, in this shooting game, a character (user character) who is the alter ego of the user and a character (partner character) who is a partner of the user ride on the robot. The partner character is a humanoid character who controls the robot in cooperation with the user character.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a part of the virtual space, and shows an example of the cockpit of the robot. As shown in FIG. 3, an object showing the user character UC and an object showing the partner character PC are arranged in the cockpit of the robot. In FIG. 3, the facial expressions of the face UF of the user character UC and the face PF of the partner character PC are omitted.

The user character UC is sitting in the cockpit SA. The driver's seat SA is installed so that the front direction of the driver's seat SA is the front direction (traveling direction) of the robot. Therefore, the front direction of the fuselage of the user character UC sitting in the cockpit SA is the front direction of the robot. Of the outer wall of the cockpit (robot), at least the front part of the driver's seat SA is transparent so that the scene outside the robot can be seen from the driver's seat SA.

The partner character PC straddles the saddle-shaped portion SB installed above the user character UC, and the torso (abdomen and lumbar region) is deposited in the saddle-shaped portion SB. In other words, the partner character PC is arranged so that the front side of the body of the partner character PC and the head of the user character UC face each other via the saddle-shaped portion SB. The saddle-shaped portion SB is arranged so that the partner character PC straddling the saddle-shaped portion SB basically faces the front direction of the robot. Basically, the face PF of the partner character PC is directed toward the front of the robot, and the partner character PC looks toward the front of the robot.

The user character UC holds the attack members AL and AR, which are members for attacking the enemy, with the left and right hands, and the user character UC is the character in charge of attacking the enemy. On the other hand, the partner character PC holds the moving members ML and MR, which are members for moving the robot, with the left hand PL and the right hand PR, and the partner character PC is a character in charge of moving the robot. That is, in this shooting game, the user performs an attack operation on the enemy, and the robot attacks the enemy according to the attack operation performed by the user. The attack operation is performed using the operation unit 15. For example, an attack operation includes an operation of aiming at an enemy and an operation of sending a bullet toward the aim. The former operation is performed by tilting the stick, and the latter operation is performed by pressing a button. Further, in this shooting game, the CPU (control unit 11) operates the robot to move, and the robot moves based on a predetermined algorithm, AI, or the like.

In the game device 10, the virtual space is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. That is, the viewpoint VP is set in the virtual space, and a game image showing the virtual space in which the view direction VD is viewed from the viewpoint VP is displayed on the head-mounted display 16.

In the shooting game, the viewpoint VP is set at the eye position of the user character UC. Further, the visual field direction VD is set in the front direction of the face of the user character UC (or the line-of-sight direction of the user character UC). Therefore, the field of view of the user character UC is displayed on the head-mounted display 16.

For example, the field of view direction VD is initially set to the basic field of view direction D0. The basic field of view direction D0 is the front direction (traveling direction) of the robot. In other words, the basic field of view direction D0 is the front direction of the body of the user character UC.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the viewpoint VP and the face PF of the partner character PC. As shown in FIG. 4, the face PF of the partner character PC is located in the direction D1 when viewed from the viewpoint VP. Here, the direction D1 is a direction toward the upper side of the basic visual field direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP (user character UC). For example, assuming a coordinate system in which the viewpoint VP is the origin O, the basic viewing direction D0 is the positive direction of the Z axis, and the upward direction in the cockpit is the positive direction of the Y axis, as shown in FIG. Both the Y-axis coordinate value and the Z-axis coordinate value of the face PF of the PC are positive values.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the viewpoint VP and the left-hand PL and the right-hand PR of the partner character PC. The left-hand PL of the partner character PC is located on the left side of the basic visual field direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP, and the right-hand PR of the partner character PC is located on the right side of the basic visual field direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, a coordinate system in which the viewpoint VP is the origin O, the right direction in the cockpit as viewed from the viewpoint VP is the positive direction of the X axis, and the upward direction in the cockpit is the positive direction of the Y axis. Assuming, the X-axis coordinate value of the left-hand PL of the partner character PC becomes a negative value, and the X-axis coordinate value of the right-hand PR becomes a positive value.

FIG. 6 shows an example of the game image G10 displayed on the head-mounted display 16 when the field-of-view direction VD is set to the basic field-of-view direction D0. Since the positional relationship between the viewpoint VP and the face PF of the partner character PC is as shown in FIG. 4, the face PF and chest PB of the partner character PC are located in the upper end region of the game image G10 as shown in FIG. The left-hand PL and the right-hand PR of the partner character PC are displayed in the left-end region and the right-end region of the game image G10, respectively. The central area of the game image G10 is not occupied by the partner character PC, and a scene outside the robot is displayed in the central area of the game image G10. That is, the enemy E located in the front direction of the robot is displayed in the central region of the game image G10 together with the aiming M.

The field of view VD changes according to a change in the position or orientation of the head-mounted display 16. For example, when the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 turns his / her face upward, the visual field direction VD is also turned upward accordingly. Further, for example, when the user turns his face to the left, the visual field direction VD is also turned to the left accordingly.

FIG. 7 shows an example of the game image G20 displayed on the head-mounted display 16 when the visual field direction VD changes to the direction D1 due to the user turning his / her face upward. As shown in FIG. 7, in this case, the face PF of the partner character PC is displayed in the central region of the game image G20 by setting the field of view direction VD to the direction D1.

When the view direction VD is set to the direction D1 (that is, when the user looks toward the face PF of the partner character PC), the partner character PC also directs the face PF toward the viewpoint VP (user character UC). As a result, the user (user character UC) and the partner character PC are staring at each other.

In the above shooting game, since the partner character PC is arranged as described above, when the field of view direction VD is set to the basic field of view direction D0, the field of view in the basic field of view direction D0 is obstructed by the partner character PC. You can try not to. Further, when the user changes the direction of the face upward, the face PF of the partner character PC is displayed on the head-mounted display 16 by changing the viewing direction VD to the direction D1. Therefore, while ensuring the field of view in the basic field of view direction D0, the user can enjoy the illusion of operating the robot in cooperation with the partner character PC while always feeling the partner character PC nearby. Will be possible.

The shooting game described above is only an example, and for example, the roles of the user character UC and the partner character PC may be exchanged. Further, the role of the user character UC or the partner character PC may be a role other than the attack on the enemy or the movement of the robot. Further, the partner character PC may be arranged in a prone position on the plate-shaped support portion installed above the viewpoint VP.

Further, although it has been described that the object indicating the user character UC is arranged in the virtual space, the object may be omitted. Without arranging the user character UC, only the viewpoint VP may be set at a position corresponding to the eyes of the user character UC when it is assumed that the user character UC is sitting in the cockpit SA.

Further, the game executed by the game device 10 is not limited to a shooting game, and another game in which a character who acts together with the user appears may be executed by the game device 10.

[3. Functional block] The functional block realized by the game device 10 will be described. FIG. 8 shows an example of a functional block realized by the game device 10. As shown in FIG. 8, the game device 10 includes a data storage unit 100, a virtual space setting unit 110, a detection result acquisition unit 120, and a display control unit 130.

The data storage unit 100 is realized by an optical disk mounted on the storage unit 12 or the optical disk drive unit 13. The data storage unit 100 may be realized by a storage unit included in another device accessible from the game device 10. On the other hand, the virtual space setting unit 110, the detection result acquisition unit 120, and the display control unit 130 are mainly realized by the control unit 11.

[3-1] The data storage unit 100 stores data necessary for executing the game. In the case of the shooting game described above, model data of each object (for example, user character UC, partner character PC, robot, enemy E, etc.) arranged in the virtual space is stored in the data storage unit 100. Model data is data that indicates the basic shape of an object. Further, the game status data is stored in the data storage unit 100. The game status data is data indicating the current status of the game. For example, data indicating the current state (position, posture, orientation, movement, moving speed, etc.) of each object, data indicating the current position of the aiming M, and data indicating the current viewpoint VP and viewing direction VD are game status data. include.

[3-2] The virtual space setting unit 110 sets the virtual space. The detection result acquisition unit 120 acquires the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. The display control unit 130 executes control for displaying an image showing the virtual space viewed from the viewpoint set in the virtual space on the head-mounted display 16. The display control unit 130 sets the viewing direction based on the detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. For example, the display control unit 130 sets the field of view to the basic field of view, and changes the field of view to a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display 16 in response to a change in the direction of the head-mounted display 16.

Here, "setting a virtual space" means constructing a virtual three-dimensional space in a graphic memory (VRAM) or the like.

The “detection result of the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16” is the detection result of the change direction and the amount of change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. When the head-mounted display 16 is attached to the user, it is the detection result of the change direction and the amount of change in the direction of the head-mounted display 16 that changes when the user changes the direction of the face. The above "detection result" is detected by a detection unit that detects a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. For example, a sensor (accelerometer, gyro sensor, etc.) or tracking unit 17 built in the head-mounted display 16 corresponds to an example of a “detection unit”.

The “field of view” is a direction that determines the virtual space (field of view) displayed on the head-mounted display 16. The “viewing direction” may or may not match the line-of-sight direction of the user wearing the head-mounted display 16.

The "image showing the virtual space viewed from the viewpoint in the visual field direction" is an image showing a region (that is, a visual field) within a predetermined viewing angle with respect to the visual field direction in the virtual space.

“Executing control for displaying an image on the head-mounted display 16” may mean generating an image and displaying it on the head-mounted display 16, or for displaying the image on the head-mounted display 16. The image data may be transmitted to another device connected to the head-mounted display 16 to cause the other device to display the image on the head-mounted display 16. The "image data" may be data indicating the image itself or may be data necessary for generating the image.

The "basic field of view direction" is a field of view direction set when the head-mounted display 16 is in the basic state (the head-mounted display 16 is facing the basic direction). The "basic direction" is, for example, the direction in which the head-mounted display 16 is facing when the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 is facing the front. The "basic state" is, for example, a state in which the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 is facing the front. In the case of a game in which the user character, which is the user's alter ego, is arranged in the virtual space, the "basic field of view direction" can also be said to be the front direction (or forward direction) of the user character's body. In the case of a game in which the user rides on a moving object together with a character, the "basic visual field direction" can also be said to be the front direction (or the traveling direction) of the moving object. In the case of the above-mentioned shooting game, the basic field of view direction D0 shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to an example of the “basic field of view direction”.

[3-3] The virtual space setting unit 110 arranges a humanoid character above the viewpoint. Here, the "humanoid character" is a character indicating a human being. Alternatively, the "humanoid character" may be a machine (robot or the like) imitating a human being or a character indicating a fictitious creature. That is, the "human-shaped character" may be a human figure or a character indicating a machine or a fictitious creature having a human-like appearance.

In the above-mentioned shooting game, the partner character PC corresponds to an example of a “human character”, and the virtual space setting unit 110 arranges the partner character PC above the viewpoint VP.

[3-3-1] The virtual space setting unit 110 arranges the humanoid character in a posture in which the character's face is positioned in the first direction upward from the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. For example, the virtual space setting unit 110 arranges the character in such a posture that the face of the character is positioned in the first direction and the left and right hands of the character are located on the left and right sides of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. .. Then, in the display area of the head-mounted display 16, an image showing the situation of the game is displayed in the area between the position where the left hand of the character is displayed and the position where the right hand of the character is displayed.

Here, the "first direction" is a direction in which the angle between the direction A and the direction A is smaller than the basic visual field direction, assuming that the direction directly upward from the viewpoint is the direction A. That is, the "first direction" is a direction in which a relationship such as "angle between direction A and basic visual field direction"> "angle between direction A and first direction" is established. The head of the character located in the first direction when viewed from the viewpoint may or may not be displayed on the head-mounted display 16 when the visual field direction is set to the basic visual field direction. That is, the "first direction" may be a direction that deviates upward from the field of view when the field of view is set to the basic field of view, or the direction of the field of view when the field of view is set to the basic field of view. The direction may be included in the upper end region of the house.

The "left side in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint" is an area on the left side of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. In other words, the "left side in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint" is the region on the left side of the vertical plane including the straight line extending in the basic visual field direction. Similarly, the "right side in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint" is an area on the right side of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. In other words, the "right side in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint" is the area on the right side of the vertical plane including the straight line extending in the basic visual field direction.

The "area between the position where the character's left hand is displayed and the position where the character's right hand is displayed" means that the horizontal direction of the display area of the head-mounted display 16 is the Xs axis and the right direction is the positive direction of the Xs axis. Assuming that the Xs-axis coordinate value of the position where the character's left hand is displayed is xl and the Xs-axis coordinate value of the position where the character's right hand is displayed is xr, this is an area where xl <Xs <xr.

The "image showing the situation of the game" is, for example, an image showing the situation of an object other than the character arranged in the virtual space (the area in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint). The "image showing the situation of the game" may be, for example, an image capable of grasping the progress of the game in the virtual space.

In the case of the above-mentioned shooting game, the direction D1 shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to an example of the "first direction". In the virtual space setting unit 110, the face PF of the partner character PC is located in the direction D1 when the partner character PC is viewed from the viewpoint VP, and the partner character PC is located on the left and right sides of the basic viewing direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP. Arrange in a posture so that the left hand PL and the right hand PR are located. Further, in the game image displayed on the head-mounted display 16, the area (center area) between the position where the left-hand PL of the partner character PC is displayed and the position where the right-hand PR is displayed is a virtual space outside the robot. (Situation of enemy E) is shown.

[3-3-2] The virtual space setting unit 110 is an axis corresponding to the vertical direction when viewed from the viewpoint with the viewpoint as the origin, and the axis having the upward direction as the positive direction is the first axis and the first axis. When the axis orthogonal to and the axis whose basic viewing direction is the positive direction is the second axis, the coordinate value of the first axis is a positive value and the coordinate value of the second axis is positive. It can be paraphrased that the humanoid character is arranged so that the face of the character is located in the area which is the value. Further, the virtual space setting unit 110 is an axis corresponding to the left-right direction when viewed from the viewpoint, and when the axis whose right direction is the positive direction is the third axis, the coordinate value of the third axis is a negative value. In other words, the character is placed so that the left hand of the character is located in the area where the character is, and the right hand of the character is located in the area where the coordinate value of the third axis is a positive value. ..

Here, the "first axis" is an axis extending in the vertical direction when viewed from a viewpoint, and is an axis having an upward direction as a positive direction. The "third axis" is an axis extending in the left-right direction when viewed from a viewpoint, and an axis having a right direction as a positive direction. The "second axis" is an axis orthogonal to the first axis and the second axis, and is an axis whose basic viewing direction is the positive direction.

In the case of the above-mentioned shooting game, the Y-axis shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to an example of the "first axis", and the Z-axis corresponds to an example of the "second axis". Further, the X-axis shown in FIG. 5 corresponds to an example of the “third axis”. In the above-mentioned shooting game, the virtual space setting unit 110 has the face PF of the partner character PC in the area where the Y-axis coordinate value is a positive value and the Z-axis coordinate value is a positive value. The left-hand PL of the partner character PC is located in the area where the X-axis coordinate value is negative, and the right-hand PR of the partner character PC is located in the area where the X-axis coordinate value is positive. In this way, the partner character PC is arranged.

[3-3-3] The virtual space setting unit 110 can be paraphrased as arranging the humanoid character in a posture in which the front portion of the body of the character faces the viewpoint.

Here, the "front portion of the fuselage" is a portion on the front side of the fuselage. Specifically, the chest or abdomen corresponds to the "front part of the torso".

The "posture in which the front portion of the character's body faces the viewpoint" is a posture in which the viewpoint is located in the front direction (normal direction) of the front portion of the character's body. Even if there are other objects between the front of the torso and the viewpoint, if the viewpoint is located in the front direction of the front of the character's torso, "the front of the character's torso faces the viewpoint. It becomes a posture to do.

In the above-mentioned shooting game, in the virtual space setting unit 110, the face PF of the partner character PC is located in the direction D1 when the partner character PC is viewed from the viewpoint VP, and the chest or abdomen of the partner character PC is the viewpoint VP. Arrange them in a facing position.

[3-3-4] The virtual space setting unit 110 is supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint, and is a left side member and a right side member arranged on the left side and the right side in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Can be rephrased as arranging the above-mentioned humanoid character that grasps with the left hand and the right hand, respectively. For example, the virtual space setting unit 110 can be rephrased as arranging a character that straddles a saddle-shaped portion arranged above the viewpoint and grips the left side member and the right side member with the left hand and the right hand, respectively.

Here, the "support portion" is an object that supports the character. For example, a saddle-shaped portion (saddle or the like) on which the character straddles, or a mat portion or a base portion that supports the prone character corresponds to an example of a “support portion”. In the case of the shooting game described above, the saddle-shaped portion SB corresponds to an example of the “support portion”.

The "left side member" and the "right side member" are members that are grasped by the hand of the character. In other words, the "left side member" and the "right side member" are members held by the character's hand. For example, the grip portion or the handle portion corresponds to an example of the "left side member" and the "right side member". In the case of the shooting game described above, the moving members ML and MR correspond to an example of the “left side member” and the “right side member”.

"Upper to the viewpoint" is an area above the viewpoint. In other words, "above the viewpoint" is the area above the horizontal plane containing the viewpoint. When the vertical direction is the first axis when viewed from the viewpoint, the upward direction is the positive direction of the first axis, and the first axis coordinate value of the viewpoint is Yv, "above the viewpoint" means the first axis coordinate value. Is a region larger than Yv. In the case of the shooting game described above, the Y-axis shown in FIG. 4 corresponds to an example of the "first axis" here.

In the above-mentioned shooting game, the virtual space setting unit 110 straddles the partner character PC over the saddle-shaped portion SB arranged above the viewpoint VP, and moves the moving members ML and MR with the left-hand PL and the right-hand PR, respectively. Place it in the grasped state.

[3-4] The display control unit 130 changes the viewing direction to the first direction according to the upward change in the direction of the head-mounted display 16. The virtual space setting unit 110 changes the direction of the character's face toward the viewpoint in response to the upward change in the direction of the head-mounted display 16.

Here, the "upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16" means that the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 changes upward. In other words, the "upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16" is a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 when the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 looks up. Expressing based on the body of the user wearing the head-mounted display 16, "upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16" means that the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 is in a certain state (for example, facing the front). The change is from the user's feet to the head.

"The viewing direction is changed to the first direction according to the upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16" means that the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 is changed as a result of changing the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 upward. When the direction corresponds to the first direction, the viewing direction is set to the first direction.

"Changing the direction of the character's face toward the viewpoint" means changing the direction of the character's face so that the character faces the viewpoint.

"The orientation of the character's face is changed to the direction toward the viewpoint according to the upward change of the orientation of the head-mounted display 16" means that when the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 is changed upward, the character's face is changed. The direction is to turn to the viewpoint. For example, when the direction of the field of view is changed to the first direction as a result of changing the direction of the head-mounted display 16 upward, the direction of the character's face is turned to the viewpoint. In other words, when the viewing direction is changed to the first direction, the character looking toward the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 is displayed. Whenever the direction of view is changed to the first direction, the direction of the character's face may be changed to the direction to the viewpoint, and only when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the direction of the character's face may be changed. You may change the direction to the viewpoint. Further, when the visual field direction is changed to the first direction, the direction of the character's face may be immediately changed to the direction toward the viewpoint, or after a predetermined condition is satisfied (for example, after a predetermined time has elapsed). In other words, when the state in which the visual field direction is the first direction continues for a predetermined time), the direction of the character's face may be changed to the direction toward the viewpoint.

In the above-mentioned shooting game, the display control unit 130 changes the view direction VD to the direction D1 in response to the upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16, and the virtual space setting unit 110 changes the face PF of the partner character PC. The direction of is changed from the face PF of the partner character PC to the viewpoint VP (see FIG. 7).

The virtual space setting unit 110 sets the direction of the face PF of the partner character PC to the partner character only when the relationship parameter indicating the relationship between the user (user character UC) and the partner character PC satisfies a predetermined condition. The direction from the face PF of the PC to the viewpoint VP may be changed. For example, the relation parameter is a parameter indicating the favorability from the partner character PC to the user (user character UC), and is a favorability parameter that increases as the game progresses (for example, increases by attacking the enemy E). Is. The virtual space setting unit 110 may change the direction of the face PF of the partner character PC from the face PF of the partner character PC to the viewpoint VP only when the favorability parameter is equal to or higher than the threshold value.

[3-5] The virtual space setting unit 110 is a moving body that moves in the virtual space, and arranges a moving body that includes a viewpoint and a character in the virtual space.

The virtual space setting unit 110 includes a mobile body control unit 111. The moving body control unit 111 executes control regarding the moving body. The mobile body control unit 111 executes one of the first control and the second control regarding the moving body based on the operation on the operating means, and the other of the first control and the second control is executed based on the operation by the character. Performs control to make the user look as if.

Here, the "moving body" is a moving body that moves in the virtual space. For example, the vehicle on which the character rides corresponds to an example of a "moving body". The "vehicle" may be a vehicle existing in the real world or a fictitious vehicle. In the case of the shooting game described above, the robot corresponds to an example of a "moving body".

"Control regarding the moving body" is control regarding the movement of the moving body. "Control regarding the movement of a moving body" is to control the moving direction, moving speed, and the like of the moving body. Alternatively, the "control regarding the moving body" may be another control regarding the moving body (that is, control regarding a function other than the movement of the moving body). For example, "another control regarding a moving body" may be a control regarding an attack from a moving body to an enemy when the moving body has an attack function against an enemy. "Control regarding attack from a moving body to an enemy" means, for example, when an attack means such as a bullet or a laser beam is ejected or radiated toward the enemy to attack the enemy, the ejection direction of the attack means or It is to control the direction of radiation and to execute the injection or radiation of attack means.

The "first control" is, for example, a control relating to the movement of a moving body, and the "second control" is, for example, another control relating to the moving body (control relating to an attack from the moving body to an enemy, etc.).

The "operating means" is used by the user to perform an operation. For example, a stick (lever), a button (key), a touch panel, or a pointing device (mouse or the like) corresponds to an example of an "operating means". The "operating means" may be for the user to perform an operation by voice or gesture.

The "operation on the operating means" is an operation performed on the operating means by the user. In other words, the "operation on the operating means" is an operation performed by the user using the operating means.

"Execution of one of the first control and the second control based on the operation on the operating means" means executing one of the first control and the second control based on the operation by the user. As one of the first control and the second control, the control corresponding to the operation by the user is performed.

"Implementing control to make the user see that the other of the first control and the second control is being executed based on the operation by the character" means that the other of the first control and the second control is the operation by the character. Is to display an image indicating that the execution is performed based on the above on the head-mounted display 16. For example, when "the other of the first control and the second control" is the movement control of the moving body, the CPU is made to perform the moving operation of the moving body (for example, the moving body is moved by AI or the like). An image showing how the character is performing the movement operation of the moving body is displayed on the head-mounted display 16, and a sound showing the above state is output from the sound output unit 18. Further, for example, when "the other of the first control and the second control" is the attack control to the enemy, the CPU is made to perform the attack operation to the enemy (for example, the attack to the enemy is performed by AI or the like). The head-mounted display 16 displays an image showing how the character is performing an attack operation on the enemy, and the sound indicating the above state is output from the sound output unit 18. It is to move an object indicating etc. toward an enemy in the virtual space.

In the case of the above-mentioned shooting game, the mobile body control unit 111 executes attack control from the robot to the enemy based on the operation on the operation unit 15, and whether the movement control of the robot is executed based on the operation by the partner character PC. Execute control to make it look like to the user.

[4. Process] The process executed by the game device 10 will be described. FIG. 9 shows an example of processing executed by the game device 10 at predetermined time (for example, 1/60 second or 1/30 second) during the game. When the control unit 11 executes the process shown in FIG. 9 according to the program, the control unit 11 functions as the virtual space setting unit 110, the detection result acquisition unit 120, and the display control unit 130. Note that FIG. 9 mainly shows the processing for realizing these functional blocks, and omits other processing (for example, movement processing of the enemy E, attack processing from the enemy E to the robot, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 9, first, the control unit 11 executes the movement process of the robot to be operated by the user (S100). For example, the control unit 11 determines the direction and speed in which the robot should move based on a predetermined algorithm (or AI), and updates the position and direction of the robot according to the moving direction or speed. In this case, among the current state data, the data indicating the current state (position, orientation, moving speed, etc.) of the robot is updated. As the robot moves, the positions of the user character UC, the partner character PC, and the viewpoint VP in the virtual space are also updated. That is, among the game status data, the data indicating the current state (position, etc.) of the user character UC, the partner character PC, and the viewpoint VP is also updated.

Further, the control unit 11 determines whether or not an attack operation has been performed by the user based on the operation signal supplied from the operation unit 15 (S102). Then, when the attack operation is performed by the user, the control unit 11 executes the attack process from the robot to the enemy E (S104).

For example, in step S102, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the stick included in the operation unit 15 is tilted, and if the stick is tilted, in step S104, the control unit 11 determines the tilt direction of the stick. Aim M is moved according to. In this case, among the game status data, the data indicating the position of the aiming M is updated.

Further, for example, in step S102, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the predetermined button included in the operation unit 15 is pressed, and if the predetermined button is pressed, the control unit 11 sends to the enemy E in step S104. To carry out the attack. In this case, the control unit 11 determines the success or failure of the attack on the enemy E based on the positional relationship between the aiming M and the enemy E. Then, when it is determined that the attack on the enemy E is successful, the control unit 11 damages the enemy E or destroys the enemy E. In this case, among the game status data, the data indicating the current state of the enemy E is updated. When the enemy E is destroyed, the state of the enemy E is updated to the destroyed state, and then the enemy E is removed from the virtual space.

Further, the control unit 11 specifies the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 (S106), and sets the field-of-view direction VD according to the orientation of the head-mounted display 16 (S108). In this case, among the game status data, the data indicating the field of view direction VD is updated.

After executing step S108, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the visual field direction VD is the direction toward the face PF of the partner character PC (S110). That is, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the field of view VD is the direction D1 shown in FIG. Then, when the visual field direction VD is the direction D1, the control unit 11 directs the face PF of the partner character PC toward the viewpoint VP (S112). On the other hand, when the viewing direction VD is not the direction D1, the control unit 11 directs the face PF of the partner character PC to the front (front direction or traveling direction of the robot) (S114). In step S112 or S114, among the game status data, the data indicating the posture (direction of the face PF) of the partner character PC is updated.

After executing the above processing, the control unit 11 updates the game image displayed on the head-mounted display 16 (S116). That is, the control unit 11 generates a game image showing a virtual space when the field of view VD is viewed from the viewpoint VP based on the game situation data and the model data of each object, and the game image is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. indicate.

[5. Summary] In the game device 10, when the partner character PC is arranged above the viewpoint VP and the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 changes the direction of the face upward, the face PF of the partner character PC is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. It is displayed (see FIG. 7). Further, in the game device 10, since the partner character PC is arranged in such a posture that the face PF of the partner character PC is located in the direction D1 upward from the basic visual field direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP, the basic visual field direction D0 The field of view can be prevented from being obstructed by the partner character PC (see FIG. 6). As a result, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby while ensuring the field of view.

In other words, in the game device 10, the partner character PC is located above the viewpoint VP in a region where the Y-axis coordinate value shown in FIG. 4 is a positive value and the Z-axis coordinate value is a positive value. The face PF of the partner character PC is arranged so as to be located inside, and the visual field direction VD changes according to the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. Therefore, when the user wearing the head-mounted display 16 turns upward, the face PF of the partner character PC or the like is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. As a result, the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby. Further, since the partner character PC is arranged above the viewpoint VP, it is possible to prevent the field of view from being obstructed by the partner character PC. That is, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby while ensuring the field of view.

In other words, in the game device 10, the partner character PC is arranged above the viewpoint VP in a posture in which the chest or abdomen of the partner character PC faces the viewpoint VP, so that the user faces upward. When changed, the chest or abdomen of the partner character PC is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. Therefore, the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby. Further, since the partner character PC is arranged above the viewpoint VP, it is possible to prevent the field of view from being obstructed by the partner character PC. That is, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby while ensuring the field of view.

In other words, in the game device 10, the partner character PC straddles the saddle-shaped portion SB arranged above the viewpoint VP, and is arranged on the left and right sides of the basic viewing direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP. The members ML and MR are arranged in a posture in which they are grasped by the left-hand PL and the right-hand PR, respectively. Therefore, when the left-hand PL and the right-hand PR of the partner character PC having a forward leaning posture that covers the viewpoint VP above the viewpoint VP are displayed on the head-mounted display 16, and the user turns his / her face upward, the partner character The face PF of the PC is displayed on the head-mounted display 16. That is, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the partner character PC nearby while ensuring the field of view.

Further, in the game device 10, since the partner character PC is arranged in such a posture that the left hand PL and the right hand PR of the partner character PC are located on the left side and the right side of the basic visual field direction D0 when viewed from the viewpoint VP, the visual field direction VD is basic. The left-hand PL and right-hand PR of the partner character PC are displayed on the head-mounted display 16 when the field of view is set to D0 (see FIG. 6). In this respect as well, the user can easily feel the partner character PC nearby.

Further, in the game device 10, the enemy E or the like is located in the display area of the head-mounted display 16 between the position where the left-hand PL of the partner character PC is displayed and the position where the right-hand PR of the partner character PC is displayed. Since the image showing the game situation is displayed, the user can grasp the game situation while always feeling the partner character PC nearby.

Further, in the game device 10, since the attack operation of the robot is performed by the user and the movement operation of the robot is performed based on the partner character PC, the user feels that the robot is operated in cooperation with the partner character PC. be able to.

Further, in the game device 10, the face PF of the partner character PC faces the viewpoint VP in response to the upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display 16. That is, when the user changes the direction of the face upward, the partner character PC looks toward the user, so that the user can more strongly experience the feeling of attacking the enemy while communicating with the partner character PC in the virtual space. Can be done.

[6. Modifications] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[6-1] The present invention can also be applied to a game executed while performing data communication between a game device and a game server.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game system 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The game system 1 includes a game device 10A and a game server 30. The game device 10A and the game server 30 are connected to the network N, and data communication is possible between the game device 10A and the game server 30. Since the game device 10A is the same as the game device 10 shown in FIG. 1, description thereof will be omitted here.

The game server 30 is, for example, a server computer. As shown in FIG. 10, the game server 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an optical disk drive unit 33, and a communication unit 34. These are the same as the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, the optical disk drive unit 13, and the communication unit 14 shown in FIG. Programs and data are supplied to the game server 30 via an optical disc. The game server 30 may be provided with a component (for example, a memory card slot) for reading a program or data stored in an information storage medium (for example, a memory card) other than an optical disk. Then, the program or data may be supplied to the game server 30 via an information storage medium other than the optical disk. Alternatively, the program or data may be supplied to the game server 30 via the network N.

In the game system 1, all of the functional blocks shown in FIG. 8 may be realized by the game device 10A (an example of the game control device) or the game server 30 (another example of the game control device). Good. Further, a part of the functional blocks shown in FIG. 8 may be realized by the game device 10A, and the rest may be realized by the game server 30.

For example, in the game system 1, operation data indicating an operation performed by using the operation unit 15 is transmitted to the game server 30, the game status data is updated by the game server 30, and the updated game status data is transferred to the game device 10A. The game device 10A may generate a game image for display on the head mount display 16 based on the updated game status data and display it on the head mount display 16.

Alternatively, in the game system 1, data regarding the orientation and position of the head mount display 16 is also transmitted to the game server 30, the game status data is updated by the game server 30, and the head mount display is based on the updated game status data. The game image to be displayed on the head mount display 16 may be displayed by generating the game image to be displayed on the 16 and transmitting the game image to the game device 10A.

Further, the present invention can be applied not only to a game in which a user plays alone, but also to a game in which a user plays with one or a plurality of other users. For example, the present invention can be applied to a game in which a plurality of moving objects corresponding to a plurality of users are arranged in a virtual space, and the plurality of users cooperate to defeat an enemy or fight with each other.

[6-2] Although the shooting game has been mainly described above, the present invention can be applied to games other than the shooting game. The present invention can be applied to various games in which a character who acts together with a user appears.

[7. Supplementary note] From the above description, the present invention can be grasped as follows, for example. In addition, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, the reference numerals described in the drawings are appropriately described in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated mode.

1) The game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention has a field of view from a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and a viewpoint (VP) set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) for executing control for displaying an image (G10 or G20) showing the virtual space in view of the direction (VD) on the head-mounted display (16), and the head-mounted display (16). The display control means (130) sets the field of view to the basic field of view (D0), and includes the detection result acquisition means (120) for acquiring the change detection result, and the virtual space setting means (110). Is such that the face (PF) of the humanoid character (PC) is located above the viewpoint and in the first direction (D1) facing upward from the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Arranged in a posture, the display control means (130) changes the field of view to the first direction in response to an upward change in the direction of the head-mounted display (16).

13) The game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention shows a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition means (120) that acquires a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). The display control means (130) sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and the virtual space setting means (110) views the humanoid character above the viewpoint and from the viewpoint. The character's face is arranged in a first direction upward from the basic visual field direction, and the display control means (130) is directed upward in the direction of the head-mounted display (16). The field of view is changed to the first direction according to the change.

17a) Further, the program according to one aspect of the present invention is the game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to any one of 1) to 12), or the game system (1) according to 13). It is a program for operating a computer.

18a) The information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium in which the program described in 17a) is recorded.

19) Further, the game control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a virtual space setting step (S100, S104, etc.) for setting a virtual space, and the virtual field of view viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control step (S108, S116) for executing control for displaying an image showing space on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition step (S106) for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. In the display control step, the field of view is set to the basic field of view, and in the virtual space setting step, the humanoid character is placed above the viewpoint and the basic field of view as viewed from the viewpoint. The character's face is arranged so as to be positioned in the first direction upward from the direction, and in the display control step, the field of view is changed in response to an upward change in the direction of the head-mounted display (16). The direction is changed to the first direction.

According to the inventions described in 1), 13), 17a), 18a), and 19) above, when a humanoid character is placed above the viewpoint and the orientation of the head-mounted display changes upward, the viewing direction becomes the first. By changing to one direction, the character's face is displayed on the head-mounted display, so when the user wearing the head-mounted display changes the direction of the face upward, the character's face is displayed on the head-mounted display. To. Therefore, the user can always feel the character close. Further, according to the present invention, since the character is arranged in a posture in which the character's face is positioned in the first direction upward from the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint, the visual field in the basic visual field direction is obstructed by the character. You can try not to. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the character close to the character while ensuring the field of view.

2) In one aspect of the present invention, the virtual space setting means (110) directs the character's face toward the viewpoint in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). You may change it.

In the invention described in 2), the orientation of the character's face changes in the direction toward the viewpoint in response to the upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. According to the present invention, when the user changes the direction of the face upward, the character looks toward the user, so that the user can more strongly experience the feeling of acting together while communicating with the character in the virtual space. Can be done.

3) In one aspect of the present invention, in the virtual space setting means (110), the character's face is located in the first direction, and the character is on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. The character may be arranged in such a posture that the left hand and the right hand of the character are located.

According to the invention described in 3), since the character is arranged in a posture in which the left and right hands of the character are located on the left and right sides of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint, the visual field direction is set to the basic visual field direction. The head-mounted display shows the character's left and right hands. As a result, the user can easily feel the character nearby.

4) In one aspect of the present invention, in the display area of the head-mounted display (16), the area between the position where the left hand of the character is displayed and the position where the right hand of the character is displayed is the game. An image showing the situation of the above may be displayed.

According to the invention described in 4), an image showing the situation of the game is displayed in the area between the position where the character's left hand is displayed and the position where the character's right hand is displayed in the display area of the head-mounted display. Since it is displayed, the user can grasp the situation of the game while always feeling the character nearby.

5) In one aspect of the present invention, the virtual space setting means (110) is a moving body (for example, a robot) that moves in the virtual space, and includes the viewpoint and the moving body including the character inside. The virtual space setting means (110) is arranged in a space, and includes a mobile body control means (111) that executes control regarding the mobile body, and the mobile body control means (111) is a first unit relating to the mobile body. To execute one of the control and the second control based on the operation on the operating means, and to make the user appear as if the other of the first control and the second control is executed based on the operation by the character. Control may be performed.

According to the invention described in 5), one of the first control and the second control regarding the moving body moving in the virtual space is executed based on the operation on the operating means, and the other is executed based on the operation by the character. Since the control for making the user look as if is executed, the user can feel the character close to the character and feel that the moving body is controlled (operated) in cooperation with the character.

6) In one aspect of the present invention, the first control may be a control relating to the movement of the moving body, and the second control may be a control relating to an attack from the moving body to an enemy.

According to the invention described in 6), one of the control regarding the movement of the moving body and the control regarding the attack from the moving body to the enemy is executed based on the operation on the operating means, and the other is executed based on the operation by the character. Since the control is executed to make the user look as if he / she is, the user can feel the character close to the character and cooperate with the character to experience the feeling of attacking the enemy from the moving object.

7) In one aspect of the present invention, the virtual space setting means (110) positions the character's face above the viewpoint and in the first direction when viewed from the viewpoint, and the character's face is located. The front portion of the body of the character may be arranged so as to face the viewpoint.

According to the invention described in 7), the character is arranged above the viewpoint so that the front portion of the body of the character faces the viewpoint. Therefore, when the user changes the direction of the face upward, Since the front part of the character's torso is displayed on the head-mounted display, the user can always feel the character nearby.

8) In one aspect of the present invention, the virtual space setting means (110) is supported by a support portion (SB) arranged above the viewpoint, and is on the left side in the basic view direction when viewed from the viewpoint. A character that grabs the left side member (ML) and the right side member (MR) arranged on the right side with the left hand (PL) and the right hand (PR), respectively, may be arranged in the virtual space as the character.

According to the invention described in 8), the left-hand and right-hand members are supported by the support portion arranged above the viewpoint and arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Since the characters to be grabbed by are arranged, the left hand and the right hand of the character are displayed on the head-mounted display when the field of view direction is set to the basic field of view direction. As a result, the user can easily feel the character nearby.

9) The game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention has a view from a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and a viewpoint (VP) set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) for executing control for displaying an image (G10 or G20) showing the virtual space in view of the direction (VD) on the head-mounted display (16), and the head-mounted display (16). The virtual space setting means (110) includes a detection result acquisition means (120) for acquiring a detection result of a change in orientation, and the virtual space setting means (110) arranges a humanoid character (PC) above the viewpoint and sets the viewpoint. The axis corresponding to the vertical direction as the origin, the axis whose positive direction is the upward direction is the first axis (Y axis), and the axis orthogonal to the first axis, and the basic view direction is the positive direction. When the axis to be used is the second axis (Z axis), the virtual space setting means (110) has a positive coordinate value of the first axis and a positive coordinate value of the second axis. The character is arranged so that the face (PF) of the character is located in the area of the value, and the display control means (130) responds to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). The viewing direction is changed to a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display (16).

14) The game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention shows a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and the virtual space viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition means (120) that acquires a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). , The virtual space setting means (110) arranges a humanoid character above the viewpoint, has the viewpoint as the origin, is an axis corresponding to the vertical direction, and has the upward direction as the positive direction. When the axis is the first axis, the axis is orthogonal to the first axis, and the axis whose basic viewing direction is the positive direction is the second axis, the virtual space setting means (110) is the first axis. The character is arranged so that the face of the character is located in the area where the coordinate value of the second axis is a positive value and the coordinate value of the second axis is a positive value, and the display control means ( 130) changes the viewing direction in a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display (16) in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16).

17b) The program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for operating a computer as the game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to 9) or the game system (1) according to 14). is there.

18b) The information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium in which the program described in 17b) is recorded.

20) In the game control method according to one aspect of the present invention, a virtual space setting step (S100, S104, etc.) for setting a virtual space and the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space are viewed. A display control step (S108, S116) for executing control for displaying the indicated image on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition step (S108, S116) for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). S106), and in the virtual space setting step, the humanoid character is arranged above the viewpoint, the viewpoint is the origin, the axis corresponds to the vertical direction, and the upward direction is the positive direction. When the axis is the first axis, the axis is orthogonal to the first axis, and the axis whose basic viewing direction is the positive direction is the second axis, the coordinate value of the first axis is set in the virtual space setting step. The character is arranged so that the face of the character is located in the area where is a positive value and the coordinate value of the second axis is a positive value, and in the display control step, the head In response to a change in the orientation of the mounted display (16), the viewing direction is changed to a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display (16).

According to the inventions described in 9), 14), 17b), 18b), and 20) above, the humanoid character is above the viewpoint, with the viewpoint as the origin, and is an axis corresponding to the vertical direction. When the axis whose direction is the positive direction is the first axis and the axis which is orthogonal to the first axis and the axis whose basic viewing direction is the positive direction is the second axis, the coordinate values of the first axis are positive. Since the character's face is arranged so as to be located in the area where the coordinate value of the second axis is a positive value and is a value, the viewing direction changes according to the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. When the user wearing the head-mounted display faces upward, the character's face and the like are displayed on the head-mounted display. Therefore, the user can always feel the character close. Further, according to the present invention, since the character is arranged above the viewpoint, it is possible to prevent the field of view from being obstructed by the character. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the character close to the character while ensuring the field of view.

10) The game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention has a field of view from a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and a viewpoint (VP) set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image (G10 or G20) showing the virtual space in view of the direction (VD) on the head-mounted display (16), and the head-mounted display (16). The virtual space setting means (110) includes a detection result acquisition means (120) for acquiring a detection result of a change in orientation, and the virtual space setting means (110) places a humanoid character (PC) above the viewpoint and the body of the character. The front portion of the head-mounted display (130) is arranged so as to face the viewpoint, and the display control means (130) changes the viewing direction of the head-mounted display (16) according to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). ) Is changed in the direction corresponding to the direction.

15) The game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention shows a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and the virtual space viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition means (120) that acquires a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). The virtual space setting means (110) arranges the humanoid character above the viewpoint in such a posture that the front portion of the body of the character faces the viewpoint, and the display control means. (130) changes the field of view in a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display (16) in response to a change in the direction of the head-mounted display (16).

17c) Further, the program according to one aspect of the present invention is for operating the computer as the game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to 10) or the game system (1) according to 15). It is a program.

18c) Further, the information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium in which the program described in 17c) is recorded.

21) Further, the game control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a virtual space setting step (S100, S104, etc.) for setting a virtual space, and the virtual view direction viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control step (S108, S116) for executing control for displaying an image showing space on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). In the virtual space setting step including the step (S106), the humanoid character is arranged above the viewpoint in a posture in which the front portion of the body of the character faces the viewpoint, and the display is displayed. In the control step, the field of view is changed to a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display (16) in response to the change in the direction of the head-mounted display (16).

According to the inventions described in 10), 15), 17c), 18c), and 21) above, the humanoid character is placed above the viewpoint so that the front portion of the character's body faces the viewpoint. The direction of the field of view changes according to the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display. Therefore, if the user wearing the head-mounted display changes the orientation of the face upward, the character's face or the like is displayed on the head-mounted display. .. Therefore, the user can always feel the character close. Further, according to the present invention, since the character is arranged above the viewpoint, it is possible to prevent the field of view from being obstructed by the character. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the character close to the character while ensuring the field of view.

11) The game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to one aspect of the present invention has a view from a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and a viewpoint (VP) set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image (G10 or G20) showing the virtual space as viewed in a direction (VD) on the head-mounted display (16), and the head-mounted display (16). The display control means (130) sets the view direction to the basic view direction (D0), and the virtual space setting means includes a detection result acquisition means (120) for acquiring a detection result of a change in orientation. The left side member (ML) and the right side member (MR) supported by the support portion (SB) arranged above the viewpoint and arranged on the left side and the right side in the basic view direction when viewed from the viewpoint. A humanoid character (PC) grasped by the left hand (PL) and the right hand (PR) is arranged in the virtual space, and the display control means (130) responds to a change in the direction of the head-mounted display (16). Therefore, the viewing direction is changed to a direction corresponding to the direction of the head-mounted display (16).

16) The game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention shows a virtual space setting means (110) for setting a virtual space and the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control means (130) that executes control for displaying an image on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition means (120) that acquires a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). The display control means (130) sets the view direction to the basic view direction, and the virtual space setting means (110) is supported and supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint. A humanoid character that grasps the left side member and the right side member arranged on the left side and the right side in the basic viewing direction from the viewpoint with the left hand and the right hand, respectively, is arranged in the virtual space, and the display control means (130). Changes the viewing direction in a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display (16) in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16).

17d) Further, the program according to one aspect of the present invention is for operating the computer as the game control device (10, 10A, or 30) according to 11) or the game system (1) according to 16). It is a program.

18d) Further, the information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium in which the program described in 17d) is recorded.

22) Further, the game control method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a virtual space setting step (S100, S104, etc.) for setting a virtual space, and the virtual view direction viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space. A display control step (S108, S116) for executing control for displaying an image showing space on the head-mounted display (16), and a detection result acquisition for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display (16). Including the step (S106), in the display control step, the view direction is set to the basic view direction, and in the virtual space setting step, the support portion is supported and is arranged above the viewpoint. A humanoid character who grasps the left side member and the right side member arranged on the left side and the right side in the basic viewing direction from the viewpoint with the left hand and the right hand, respectively, is arranged in the virtual space, and in the display control step, the head In response to a change in the orientation of the mounted display, the viewing direction is changed to a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display.

According to the inventions described in 11), 16), 17d), 18d), and 22) above, the left side and the right side in the basic visual field direction are supported by the support portion arranged above the viewpoint and viewed from the viewpoint. A humanoid character who grabs the left and right members arranged in the left hand and the right hand, respectively, is arranged in the virtual space, and the field of view changes according to the change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, so the field of view is the basic field of view. When the direction is set, the left and right hands of the character are displayed on the head-mounted display, and if the user wearing the head-mounted display changes the direction of the face upward, the face of the character or the like is displayed on the head-mounted display. Because it is displayed in, the user can always feel the character close. Further, according to the present invention, since the character is arranged above the viewpoint, it is possible to prevent the field of view from being obstructed by the character. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to ensure that the user can always feel the character close to the character while ensuring the field of view.

12) In one aspect of the present invention, the support portion is a saddle-shaped portion, and the virtual space setting means (110) straddles the saddle-shaped portion arranged above the viewpoint and the left side member. And the character who grabs the right side member with the left hand and the right hand, respectively, may be arranged in the virtual space.

According to the invention described in 12), the left-hand and right-hand members straddle the saddle-shaped portion arranged above the viewpoint and are arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Since the characters to be grabbed by are placed in the virtual space, the left and right hands of the character having a forward leaning posture that covers the viewpoint are displayed above the viewpoint, and when the user turns his face upward, the character's Since the face and the like are displayed on the head-mounted display, the user can always feel the character close.

1 game system, N network, 10,10A game device, 11 control unit, 12 storage unit, 13 optical disk drive unit, 14 communication unit, 15 operation unit, 16 head-mounted display, 17 trekking unit, 18 sound output unit, 30 games Server, 31 control unit, 32 storage unit, 33 optical disk drive unit, 34 communication unit, 100 data storage unit, 110 virtual space setting unit, 111 mobile control unit, 120 detection result acquisition unit, 130 display control unit, U user, VP viewpoint, VD view direction, UC user character, UF face, PC partner character, PF face, PL left hand, PR right hand, PB chest, SA cockpit, SB saddle, AL, AR attack member, ML, MR moving member , D0 basic view direction, D1 direction.

Claims (13)

A game control device that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with a user appears.
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
A display control means for displaying the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space and displaying an image showing the situation of the game on the head-mounted display.
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The character's face is located above the viewpoint set in the moving body and in the first direction toward the upper side of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint . In addition, the characters are arranged in such a posture that the left and right hands of the character are located on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint .
The display control means changes the visual field direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to claim 1,
The virtual space setting means changes the orientation of the character's face toward the viewpoint in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to claim 1 or 2 .
An image showing the situation of the game is displayed in the area between the position where the left hand of the character is displayed and the position where the right hand of the character is displayed in the display area of the head-mounted display.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 .
The virtual space setting means
The virtual space setting means includes a mobile body control means that executes control regarding the mobile body.
The mobile body control means
One of the first control and the second control regarding the moving body is executed based on the operation on the operating means.
Performing control to make the user appear as if the other of the first control and the second control is being executed based on an operation by the character.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to claim 4 ,
The first control is a control relating to the movement of the moving body.
The second control is a control relating to an attack from the moving body to an enemy.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 .
In the virtual space setting means, the face of the character is located above the viewpoint and in the first direction when viewed from the viewpoint, and the front portion of the body of the character faces the viewpoint. Place in a posture like
A game control device characterized by that. A game control device that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with a user appears.
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
A display control means for displaying the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space and displaying an image showing the situation of the game on the head-mounted display.
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The character's face is positioned above the viewpoint set in the moving body and in the first direction upward from the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Arrange in a good posture
The display control means changes the viewing direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
The virtual space setting means is supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint, and left and right hands of left and right members arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. The characters to be grabbed by are arranged in the virtual space as the characters.
A game control device characterized by that. It is a game system that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with the user appears.
hand,
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
Shows the virtual space viewed viewing direction from the viewpoint set in the virtual space, and the
Display control means for executing control for displaying the status of the game shown to image the head-mounted display,
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The left and right hands are the left and right members that are supported by the support portion that is arranged above the viewpoint set in the moving body and that are arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. in placing the humanoid character grab respectively to the moving body,
The display control means changes the viewing direction to a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
A game control device characterized by that. In the game control device according to claim 8 .
The support portion is a saddle-shaped portion and is
The virtual space setting means arranges the character in the virtual space, which straddles the saddle-shaped portion arranged above the viewpoint and grips the left side member and the right side member with the left and right hands, respectively.
A game control device characterized by that. A game system that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with a user appears.
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
A display control means for displaying the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space and displaying an image showing the situation of the game on the head-mounted display.
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The character's face is located above the viewpoint set in the moving body and in the first direction toward the upper side of the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint . In addition, the characters are arranged so that the left and right hands of the character are located on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint .
The display control means changes the viewing direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
A game system that features that. A game control device that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with a user appears.
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
A display control means for displaying the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space and displaying an image showing the situation of the game on the head-mounted display.
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The character's face is positioned above the viewpoint set in the moving body and in the first direction upward from the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Arrange in a good posture
The display control means changes the viewing direction to the first direction in response to an upward change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
The virtual space setting means is supported by a support portion arranged above the viewpoint, and left and right hands of left and right members arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. The characters to be grabbed by are arranged in the virtual space as the characters.
A game system that features that. A game system that executes a game in which a humanoid character that cooperates with a user appears.
Virtual space setting means to set virtual space and
A display control means for displaying the virtual space as viewed from a viewpoint set in the virtual space and displaying an image showing the situation of the game on the head-mounted display.
A detection result acquisition means for acquiring a detection result of a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display, and
Including
The display control means sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction, and sets the visual field direction to the basic visual field direction.
The virtual space setting means
A moving body that moves in the virtual space and includes the viewpoint and the character inside is arranged in the virtual space.
The left and right hands are the left and right members that are supported by the support portion that is arranged above the viewpoint set in the moving body and that are arranged on the left and right sides in the basic visual field direction when viewed from the viewpoint. Place the characters to be grabbed by each in the moving body,
The display control means changes the viewing direction to a direction corresponding to the orientation of the head-mounted display in response to a change in the orientation of the head-mounted display.
A game system that features that. Game controller according to any one of claims 1 to 9, or a program for causing a computer to function as a game system according to any one of claims 1 0 to 1 2.

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