JP6871321B2 - Server system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a server system that is communicated and connected to a user terminal and an arcade game machine.

Conventionally, in so-called arcade game machines installed in store facilities such as arcades, coin insertion has been the basis for payment of play consideration. However, in recent years, when playing on a commercial game device, by entering a user ID registered in advance instead of inserting coins, the play consideration is paid from the virtual currency (electronic money) account linked to the user ID. An electronic payment method for performing electronic payment withdrawing money has also come to be used (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

In the electronic payment method, if a user ID is input or an IC card (so-called user card) storing a medium ID associated with the user ID is read by an arcade game machine, the play consideration is automatically paid. Will be. It is popular because players do not have to carry coins with them and do not have to insert coins every time they play a game.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-262389 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-262390

In recent years, platforms for executing video games (execution environments for executing video games) have diversified. For example, not only computers designed mainly for executing games such as stationary home-use game devices, portable game devices, and commercial game devices, but also a wide range of computers including video games such as smartphones, tablet computers, and personal computers. Computers that can run various applications have also become popular as a platform. In particular, highly portable platforms such as portable game devices and smartphones are popular because they allow games to be played anytime, anywhere.

On the other hand, video games may be released on different platforms even if the related content is related to the game content.

The term "contents are related" here means that the characters appearing in one content and the characters appearing in the other content are common or related, or the settings and data of one content are defined. This applies when used for the other content.

As a specific example, this corresponds to a type in which the ability value of a character appearing in the first content (action game) of the first series is inherited by the second content (roof-playing game) of the second series. At this time, the character of the first content may appear as it is in the second content, or the parent character appears in the first content, and the child character in the second content is based on the ability of the parent character. May be generated and made to appear.

In addition, the type in which the result of the first content (character training game) (for example, the degree of growth of the character) affects the setting of the second content (competition game) (for example, the ability of the character that can be used for the battle) is also "content". It is relevant. "

Further, the first content is the content for setting the character, and in the second content, the combination of the game using the character set in the first content can be said to be "relevant to the content". For example, both the first content and the second content have the theme of "cultivating an idol group". Then, in the first content, group formation, setting of songs to be performed on the stage, setting of costumes of each group-organized idol character, setting of abilities and skills such as fatigue recovery and singing ability are performed. The second content corresponds to the case where the music game is played by applying the settings of the first content.

In addition, the first content and the second content have a common theme of "race", and the first content is a "driving simulation game" in which the player sets the race car to be used and practices driving, and the second content. Then, it is also possible to configure a "competitive multiplayer game" in which the race car created in the first content is used to play against other players on the circuit.

In addition, "relevant to the content" can be applied not only to characters but also to items, various rights, coupons, etc. that can be acquired in the content. For example, this is the case where a special card is given when the service code acquired according to the result of the "driving simulation game" of the first content is used in the "idol training card game" of the second content.

Of course, there may be other types of relationships in which the first content and the second content are related contents.

In any case, many customers who like related content are more likely to play games that feature their favorite characters across platforms. Therefore, related content developed on a cross-platform can be expected to have higher sales due to synergistic effects than content developed on a single platform.

Now, focusing on the business operators here, there are cases where the business operators that operate the related contents developed cross-platform by platform or by content are different. For example, the first content executed on a mobile terminal such as a smartphone is operated by a business operator on the game maker side, and the second content executed on an arcade game machine is operated by the business operator who has installed the arcade game machine. It is a case to operate. And, in the conventional general business practice, the sales of each content are attributed to the business operator that operates each content.

Each business operator tries to increase sales by providing services and events. However, as a characteristic of related content deployed cross-platform, it is difficult to predict which content on which platform the effect of services and events will appear. Therefore, for example, even if a business operator on the game maker side develops sales promotion activities such as services and events, there are cases where sales of the first content operated by the game maker do not increase but sales of the second content increase, or a game maker. There may be cases where the business operator on the side and the business operator that installs and operates the commercial game machine jointly develop the service, but sales of only one of the contents increase.

In this way, it is difficult to predict which platform will be selected and which content will be used by customers inspired by services and events. For this reason, in the past, even if such resulting inequality occurred, it was sometimes considered unavoidable. However, as mentioned above, the biggest merit is to create synergistic effects in related content that is developed cross-platform. It is not desirable for operators to be reluctant to provide services or events to boost relevant content just because the results can be unequal.

In addition, there are cases where services and events are provided at each business establishment, not as a business operator, and sales are competed at each business establishment.
The present invention has been devised in view of such a background, and an object of the present invention is to reduce a sense of inequality in sales between different businesses and business establishments related to related contents developed cross-platform.

The first invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is a user terminal that executes a first content including a billing element, and an arcade game that executes a second content related to the first content and the content content. A server system that communicates with devices
First sales management means for managing billing sales data related to the first content (for example, server system 1100 in FIG. 1, control board 1150, server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, sales management unit 243, first content sales. Historical data 630, steps S40 to S42 in FIG. 14),
Business entity data storage means for storing the business establishment where the commercial game device is installed or the business operator of the commercial game device (hereinafter collectively referred to as "business entity") in which the commercial game device is installed in association with the business game device. (For example, the server system 1100 in FIG. 1, the IC memory 1152, the storage 1140, the server storage unit 500s in FIG. 8, and the business entity management data 700).
The entity that provides a part or all of the billed sales as a source of funds, and a benefit determination means for determining the benefit amount (for example, the server system 1100 in FIG. 1, the control board 1150, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, and the benefit determination unit). 250, a server system including step S54) of FIG.

According to the first invention, a part or all of the billing sales related to the first content can be used as a source of funds to provide benefits to an entity operating an arcade game machine that executes the second content. Even if the sales are biased toward the first content, the profit can be shared even though the related content is developed cross-platform. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the feeling of inequality in sales between business entities.

The second invention is the server system of the first invention, wherein the benefit determining means determines the entity and the benefit amount of the recipient as the distribution destination and the distribution amount to distribute the resources for each business entity. ..

According to the second invention, the resources can be distributed to the business entity.

The third invention is a second sales management means (for example, the server system 1100 of FIG. 1, the control board 1150, and the server processing of FIG. 8) that manages sales data related to the execution of the second content for each business entity. The unit 200s, the sales management unit 243, the second content sales history data 650, and steps S44 to S46 in FIG. 14) are further provided, and the benefit determination means distributes the resources by using the sales by the business entity. This is the server system of the second invention that determines the amount of benefits for each business entity.

According to the third invention, since each benefit amount can be determined according to the sales of the second content for each business entity, for example, the effect of the promotion activity on the business entity side can be reflected in the benefit amount. .. It can be expected to have the effect of increasing motivation for voluntary promotion activities by business entities.

In the fourth invention, the commercial game device is configured to enable payment of consideration for the execution of the second content in any payment type of cash or virtual currency, and the second sales management means is the business. The 33rd payment method manages the sales by body for each payment type, and the payment type determines the benefit amount for each business entity to which the resources are distributed by using the sales of the virtual currency. Is the server system of the invention.

According to the fourth invention, the benefit amount can be determined based on the sales of the virtual currency in the payment related to the second content. Promotional activities to promote the voluntary use of virtual currency by business entities are expected, and as a result, promotion of the use of virtual currency can be expected.

A fifth invention is a designated business entity storage means (for example, the server system of FIG. 1) that stores a user of the user terminal in association with the business entity designated by the user (hereinafter referred to as "designated business entity"). 1100, IC memory 1152, storage 1140, server storage unit 500s of FIG. 8, user management data 600), the first sales management means manages billing sales for each user, and the benefit determination means , The server system of the first invention, in which a part or all of the user's billed sales associated with the designated business entity is set as the benefit amount, and the designated business entity is determined as the business entity to be paid.

The sixth invention further comprises a designated business entity storage means for storing the user of the user terminal and the business entity designated by the user (hereinafter referred to as "designated business entity") in association with each other.
The first sales management means manages billing sales for each user, and the benefit determining means uses the billing sales of the user associated with the designated business entity to distribute the resources for each business entity. It is a server system of any of the second to fourth inventions that determines the amount of benefits.

According to the fifth and sixth inventions, it is possible to provide the business entity with billing sales related to the first content of the user associated with the business entity of the benefit recipient. From the perspective of a business entity, increasing the number of customers who designate themselves as a designated business entity leads to an increase in profits, so it can be expected that the business entity will make voluntary efforts to acquire customers.

The seventh invention is a play business entity storage means (for example, a play business entity storage means) that stores a user of the user terminal in association with the business entity (hereinafter referred to as "play business entity") of the business game device played by the user. The server system 1100 of FIG. 1, the IC memory 1152, the storage 1140, the server storage unit 500s of FIG. 8, the second content sales history data 650) are further provided, and the first sales management means collects billed sales for each user. According to the first invention, the benefit determination means determines a part or all of the user's billed sales associated with the play entity as the benefit amount, and determines the play entity as the benefit recipient entity. It is a server system.

The eighth invention further provides a play business entity storage means for storing a user of the user terminal in association with the business entity (hereinafter referred to as "play business entity") of the business game device played by the user. The first sales management means manages the billing sales for each user, and the benefit determining means uses the billing sales of the user associated with the play business entity to distribute the resources. It is a server system of any one of the second to fourth and sixth inventions that determines another benefit amount.

According to the seventh and eighth inventions, the amount of benefits to the business entity can be determined based on the billing sales related to the first content of the user who uses the arcade game machine operated by the business entity. Therefore, it can be expected that the business entity will voluntarily try to attract customers.

In the ninth invention, the first sales management means further manages the billing sales date and time of the user (for example, the sales date and time 631 in FIG. 10), and the play entity storage means is the play date and time (for example, the play date and time of the user). For example, according to the eighth invention, the sales date and time 651) in FIG. 11 is further associated and stored, and the benefit determination means changes the benefit amount to be distributed by using the elapsed time from the billing sales date and time to the play date and time. It is a server system.

According to the ninth invention, the benefit amount can be changed according to the elapsed time from the billing sales date and time to the play date and time.

The tenth invention is a means for determining the amount of resources (for example, the server system 1100 in FIG. 1, the control board 1150, the server processing unit 200s in FIG. 8, the benefit determination unit 250, and FIG. 15) for determining the amount of resources based on the charged sales. The server system according to any one of the first to ninth inventions, further comprising steps S70 to S74).

According to the tenth invention, the amount of funds for benefits can be determined based on the billed sales.

In the eleventh invention, the first content is content including a special billing element whose billing amount is the source of funds, and the first sales management means manages the billing sales of the special billing element and uses the source of funds. The amount determining means is the server system of the tenth invention, in which the charged sales of the special charging element are used as the source of funds.

According to the eleventh invention, the chargeable sales of the special charge element can be used as the source of the benefit.

The twelfth invention is a contract form information storage means (for example, the server system 1100 of FIG. 1, IC memory 1152, storage 1140, FIG. 8) for storing contract form information related to the business of the commercial game device of the business entity. The server storage unit 500s, the business entity management data 700, and the contract type information 712) of FIG. 12 are further provided, and the benefit determination means changes the benefit amount using the contract type information of the business entity to be paid. , A server system according to any one of the first to eleventh inventions.

According to the twelfth invention, the amount of benefit can be determined according to the contract form of the arcade game machine of the business entity to be paid.

The figure which shows an example of the structure of a game system. The front view which shows the configuration example of the arcade game machine. The front view which shows the configuration example of the user terminal. Diagram showing an example of related content deployed cross-platform. Schematic diagram of a mechanism for reducing sales inequality between different businesses related to cross-platform related content. The figure for explaining the sales contribution degree CSn by store. The functional block diagram which shows the functional configuration example of the arcade game machine. A functional block diagram showing an example of functional configuration of a server system. The figure which shows the data structure example of the user management data. The figure which shows the data structure example of the 1st content sales history data. The figure which shows the data structure example of the 2nd content sales history data. The figure which shows the data structure example of the enterprise management data. A flowchart for explaining a processing flow in an arcade game machine. A flowchart for explaining the processing flow of the server system. A flowchart for explaining the flow of sales benefit processing. A flowchart for explaining the flow of the sales contribution calculation process for each store.

As an embodiment to which the present invention is applied, a case where the first content and the second content related to the content are operated by different business entities on different platforms will be described as an example.
The first content and the second content include a billing element by electronic payment. The billing element is a play consideration of the content and sub-contents such as items, characters, wallpapers, and music used for the play.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a game system according to the present embodiment.
The game system of the present embodiment includes a server system 1100, a user terminal 1500 used by the user 2 to execute the first content, and an arcade game machine installed in a store 3 or the like to play the second content. 1300 and. Then, the server system 1100, the arcade game machine 1300, and the user terminal 1500 can each be connected to the communication line 9 and perform data communication with each other. Note that, in FIG. 1, one user terminal 1500 and one arcade game machine 1300 are shown, but in an actual operation mode, a plurality of each will be added to the game system, and a large number of users will be involved in the game system. It can be used.

The server system 1100 is operated by a business operator on the game maker side (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a "first-class business operator"). The game maker is a supplier of the arcade game machine 1300, and is also a manufacturer of the first content and the second content. The arcade game machine 1300 installation / operation business operator (hereinafter referred to as “Type 2 business operator” as appropriate) purchases the arcade game machine 1300 from the game maker in bulk, in installments, pay-as-you-go, rental, etc. Obtain it, install it in your own store (business office), and operate it.

The second-class business operator installs and operates one or more arcade game machines 1300 at one or more business establishments. The "business establishment" referred to here is a business unit using the arcade game machine 1300, and a typical example thereof is a store. In this embodiment, the store 3 corresponds to this, but depending on the business form, it may be operated in a recreation facility or a part of the area in the shopping mall. Hereinafter, in order to facilitate understanding, the business establishment and the business operator operating the business establishment are collectively referred to as a “business entity”, and “store 3” will be used as a representative of the business entity.

The communication line 9 means a communication path capable of data communication. That is, the communication line 9 includes a telephone communication network, a cable network, a communication network such as the Internet, as well as a LAN (Local Area Network) using a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for direct connection and Ethernet (registered trademark). It is meaningful, and the communication method may be wired or wireless.

The server system 1100 includes, for example, a main unit 1101, a keyboard 1106, a touch panel 1108, and a storage 1140. A control board 1150 is mounted on the main body device 1101. The control board 1150 includes various microprocessors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 1151, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various IC memories 1152 such as VRAM, RAM, and ROM, and a communication device 1153. It is installed. Some or all of these may be realized by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (field-programmable gate array).

Then, the server system 1100 realizes the following functions by performing arithmetic processing on the control board 1150 based on a predetermined program and data.
1) A unique user ID (user identification information) is given to the user 2 who has undergone a predetermined registration procedure, and the save data of the user 2 related to the first content and the second content is stored and managed, and for electronic payment. A user management function that stores and manages data related to virtual accounts.
2) A first game server function that provides the user terminal 1500 with the data necessary to execute the first content.
3) The first sales management function that manages the sales due to the billing element related to the first content.
4) A second game server function that provides data necessary for executing the second content to the arcade game machine 1300.
5) A second sales management function that manages sales due to billing factors related to the second content.
6) A benefit function that provides sales related to the first content to the second-class business operator.
7) An inter-business electronic payment function that realizes electronic payment between a first-class business operator and a second-class business operator.

In the example of FIG. 1, the server system 1100 is described as a single unit, but a plurality of blade servers are mounted to share each function of 1) to 7) above, and each other via an internal bus. The configuration may be such that data communication is possible. Alternatively, as a server system 1100 as a whole, a plurality of independent servers installed in remote locations and sharing each function of 1) to 7) above may be made to communicate data with each other via the communication line 9. It may be configured to function. In that case, the server that bears each of the above functions 1) to 7) may be operated and managed by a business operator other than the first-class business operator.

FIG. 2 is a perspective external view showing a configuration example of the arcade game machine 1300. The arcade game machine 1300 is a computer and electronic device (electronic device) that can be connected to a communication line 9 to access the server system 1100, and is installed in a store 3 such as a game center.

The commercial game device 1300 according to the present embodiment includes a joystick 1302, a button switch 1304, a touch panel 1306 that functions as an image display device and a contact position input device, a speaker 1310, a deposit device 1330, a medium reading device 1344, and the like. It includes a control board 1350.

The deposit device 1330 accepts deposits with coins such as 50 yen, 100 yen, and 500 yen, or banknotes such as 1000 yen, 2000 yen, 5000 yen, and 10000 yen, like the conventional commercial game device 1300. It is a device.

The medium reading device 1344 is a device capable of reading and writing data from the electronic payment medium 6. The electronic payment medium 6 stores key data for using an electronic payment system using virtual currency (electronic money: valuable information). The electronic payment medium 6 may be any medium as long as it can store information, and may be a dedicated medium such as an IC card or a small computer. In this embodiment, the user terminal 1500 also serves. Therefore, the medium reading device 1344 is realized by a device for data communication with the user terminal 1500, for example, a short-range wireless device or an infrared communication device.

The key data includes, for example, a unique user ID set at the time of user registration and a unique medium ID (for example, a card ID for an IC card, a MAC address or a SIM card ID for an information device such as a smartphone). It can be set as appropriate, including device-specific information).

In the present embodiment, when the player acquires the user ID through a predetermined user registration procedure in advance, the player purchases virtual currency separately, deposits the money into his / her own account, and further obtains the unique medium ID of the electronic payment medium 6 separately. Can be registered in association with its own user ID. By registering the electronic payment medium 6 in association with the user ID, the electronic payment medium 6 can be used for payment of play consideration and purchase of items that can be used in the game, as if it were a prepaid card. become able to.

The control board 1350 is equipped with a CPU 1351, various microprocessors such as GPU and DSP, various IC memories 1352 such as VRAM, RAM and ROM, and a communication device module 1353 for communication connection to the communication line 9.

In addition, a so-called driver circuit for the touch panel 1306, a circuit for receiving signals from the joystick 1302 and the button switch 1304, an output amplifier circuit for outputting an audio signal to the speaker 1310, and a signal input / output circuit for the deposit device 1330 and the medium reading device 1344. It is equipped with an I / F control IC 1357 (interface circuit) and the like. Each element mounted on the control board 1350 is electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and is connected so as to be able to read / write data and send / receive signals. In addition, a configuration in which a part or all of the control board 1350 is realized by ASIC or FPGA may be used.

The control board 1350 executes and performs arithmetic processing of a program for executing the second content, and controls each part of the commercial game device 1300 in response to operation input from the joystick 1302, the button switch 1304, and the touch panel 1306 to play the game. To enable. The arcade game machine 1300 of the present embodiment stores necessary programs and various setting data in advance in the IC memory 1352, but may be configured to be downloaded from the server system 1100 each time it is started.

The realization of the second content may be a so-called stand-alone type realized by arithmetic processing of the arcade game machine 1300 alone, or an online game type in which part or all of the arithmetic processing is entrusted to the server system 1100. In this embodiment, the latter is used.

Therefore, under the control of the control board 1350, the commercial game device 1300 sequentially transmits the result of the operation input via the joystick 1302, the touch panel 1306, etc. to the server system 1100, while playing the game (second content). Various data of the above are received from the server system 1100. Then, an image of the game screen is generated and displayed on the touch panel 1306, and sound signals of sound effects and operation sounds are generated and emitted from the speaker 1310. That is, the player (user 2) can enjoy the second content by operating the joystick 1302 or the like while watching the game screen displayed on the touch panel 1306 and listening to the game sound flowing from the speaker 1310.

The deposit device 1330 and the medium reader 1344 are not limited to the configuration integrated with the housing 1301, and may be configured to be externally capable of communication connection. For example, a terminal device that is communication-connected to the arcade game machine 1300 is separately prepared (not shown). Then, a deposit device 1330 and a medium reading device 1344 may be provided in the terminal device, and the terminal device may be configured to specify the arcade game machine 1300 to be used and pay the play price as a game participation registration procedure.

FIG. 3 is a front external view showing a configuration example of the user terminal 1500.
The user terminal 1500 is a computer and an electronic device (electronic device) capable of connecting to the communication line 9 and accessing the server system 1100. The user terminal 1500 of the present embodiment is a device classified as a so-called smartphone, but is a portable game device, a stationary home-use game device, a game controller of a stationary home-use game device, a personal computer, a tablet computer, and a wearable. It may be a device classified as a computer or the like.

The user terminal 1500 in the present embodiment includes a direction input key 1502, a button switch 1504, a touch panel 1506 that functions as an image display device and a contact position input device, a speaker 1510, a built-in battery 1509, a microphone 1512, and an image sensor. It includes a unit 1520, a control board 1550, and a memory card reader 1542 that can read and write data from a memory card 1540, which is a computer-readable storage medium. In addition, a power button, a volume control button, etc. (not shown) are provided. Further, an IC card reader or the like capable of reading and writing data in a non-contact manner with respect to an IC card type credit card or a prepaid card may be provided.

The control board 1550 wirelessly communicates with the CPU 1551, various microprocessors such as GPU and DSP, various IC memories 1552 such as VRAM, RAM and ROM, and a mobile phone base station and a wireless LAN base station connected to the communication line 9. Wireless communication module 1553, is installed. In addition, the driver circuit of the touch panel 1506, the circuit that receives the signals from the direction input key 1502 and the button switch 1504, the output amplifier circuit that outputs the audio signal to the speaker 1510, and the input signal that generates the audio signal collected by the microphone 1512. It is equipped with a so-called I / F circuit 1557 (interface circuit) such as a generation circuit, input of image data captured / generated by the image sensor unit 1520, and a signal input / output circuit to the memory card reader 1542. Each element mounted on the control board 1550 is electrically connected via a bus circuit or the like, and is connected so as to be able to read / write data and transmit / receive signals. A part or all of the control board 1550 may be composed of ASIC or FPGA.

The control board 1550 temporarily stores programs and data for executing the first content on the user terminal 1500 in the IC memory 1552. Then, the program is executed to execute the arithmetic processing, and each part of the user terminal 1500 is controlled according to the operation input from the direction input key 1502, the button switch 1504, and the touch panel 1506 to enable the execution of the first content. .. In the present embodiment, the user terminal 1500 is configured to acquire necessary programs and various setting data from the server system 1100 or the like, but it may be configured to be read from a storage medium such as a separately obtained memory card 1540.

The realization of the first content may be a so-called stand-alone type realized by arithmetic processing of the user terminal 1500 alone, or an online game type in which part or all of the arithmetic processing is entrusted to the server system 1100. In this embodiment, the latter is used.

Therefore, under the control of the control board 1550, the results of the operation input via the touch panel 1506 and the like are sequentially transmitted to the server system 1100, while various data for playing the first content are received from the server system 1100. Then, an image of the display screen is generated and displayed on the touch panel 1506, and a sound signal of a sound effect or an operation sound is generated and emitted from the speaker 1510. That is, the player (user 2) can enjoy the first content by touching the touch panel 1506 while watching the game screen displayed on the touch panel 1506 and listening to the game sound flowing from the speaker 1510.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of related contents developed cross-platform in the present embodiment. The first content of this embodiment is a driving simulation game. In the first content, the equipment of the race car 10 used by user 2 (for example, chassis, tires, engine, gearbox, suspension, aero parts, fuel, etc.) is purchased online and the time attack runs on some circuits. You can go and enjoy yourself.

The second content of the present embodiment is an online battle race game using the race car 10 used in the first content.

The genres and contents of the first content and the second content are not limited to these and can be set as appropriate. For example, the first content may be the action game of the first work in the series, and the second content may be a role-playing game in which the settings such as the ability and appearance of the characters appearing in the first content are inherited. Further, the first content may be a character training game, the second content may be a battle game, and the setting (growth degree) of the character raised in the first content may affect the ability of the character in the battle.

[Explanation of mechanism]
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a mechanism for reducing sales inequality between different businesses related to related contents (first contents and second contents in the present embodiment) developed cross-platform.

The billing generated when the first content is executed on the user terminal 1500, that is, the sales of electronic payment is managed by the server system 1100 for each aggregation period. The sum of the sales related to the first content for each aggregation period is called "first content total sales (Mt1)". Then, in the present embodiment, the sense of sales inequality is reduced by providing a part or all of the first content total sales Mt1 to the store 3 for each aggregation period.

Specifically, the server system 1100 also manages sales related to the second content. The sum of the sales related to the second content for each aggregation period is called "second content total sales (Mt2)". Then, the server system 1100 calculates the resource ratio P based on the first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2.

The resource ratio P can be set as appropriate in consideration of the share of the first-class business operator. For example, it may be set in the range of 40% to 70% so that the resource ratio P increases as the total of both the total sales of the first content Mt1 and the total sales of the second content Mt2 increases, or the total sales of one and the other The resource ratio PVA fiber may be changed according to the relative ratio to the total sales. The resource ratio P can be set not only stepwise as shown in the graph shown in the upper center of FIG. 5, but also as a proportional function or a logarithmic function. The resource ratio P may be calculated based on only one of the first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2.

The server system 1100 determines the total benefit source amount Mt0 to be paid by multiplying the first content total sales Mt1 by the resource ratio P, and further divides this total benefit source amount Mt0 into the equal benefit source amount Mf1 and the contribution standard benefit source. Divide into the forehead Mf2.

Then, the server system 1100 provides the equal benefit source amount Mf1 by equal benefit for each store. This is referred to as "equal benefit amount Me".
In addition, the server system 1100 provides the contribution standard benefit source amount Mf2 according to the degree of contribution to the total sales Mt2 of the second content of each store. That is, the benefit amount Mdn (n = 1, 2, ...; store identification code) for each store is based on the equal benefit amount Me and the sales contribution CSn (n = 1, 2, 3 ...) for each store. Contribution standard Benefit source amount It is the sum of the amount divided from Mf2.

The split ratio between the equal benefit source amount Mf1 and the contribution standard benefit source amount Mf2 may be fixed, or may be determined by a predetermined function with the first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2 as variables. May be good.
For example, if all the total benefit source Mt0 is allocated to the equal benefit source Mf1, the amount to be paid will be simple but clear fairness will be obtained. Further, for example, the division ratio may be changed according to the elapsed date and time from the release of the first content or the second content. Specifically, even if the total benefit source Mt0 is allotted to the equal benefit source Mf1 for 3 months from the release, and the ratio of the contribution standard benefit source Mf2 is gradually increased every 30 days from the 4th month. Good. In this case, at the beginning of the release, the effect of gaining equal sales, sharing the joy of the release, and increasing the sense of unity among the businesses that operate the same related content is obtained, and the sales of the second-class businesses are gradually improved. It can be expected to have the effect of increasing motivation for efforts.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the sales contribution CSn for each store in the present embodiment.
First, there are a plurality of stores 3, and the user 2 can specify the store 3 as his / her own home ground (designated business entity) in the first content (or by a separate procedure). The number of stores that can be specified can be set as appropriate, but in this embodiment, it is set to "1".

By the way, the sales contribution CSn by store is the sales contribution CMm (m = 1, 2, ...; Device identification) related to the second content of the arcade game machine 1300 installed and operated in the store. It is the sum of the marks) and is calculated for each aggregation period (for example, one month) related to sales.

The sales contribution CMm for each arcade game machine 1300 is calculated by a predetermined derivation function F whose variable is a parameter value that describes the usage pattern of the arcade game machine 1300 by the user 2. The "parameter value that describes the usage pattern, etc." can be set as appropriate, but in this embodiment, the following parameter values are used.

The parameter value X1 is a value uniquely determined according to the contract form of the commercial game device, and is derived by a predetermined function having the contract type, the number of contracts, the contract period, and the like as variables. For example, the function is set so that the parameter value X1 becomes higher as the number of contracts and the contract period are larger. The derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is set so that the larger the parameter value is, the higher the value is derived.

The parameter value X2 is the total sales including both electronic payment and cash payment in the target device. The derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is set so that a higher value is derived stepwise as the parameter value X2 becomes larger.

The parameter value X3 is the sales amount or the sales ratio by electronic payment in the total sales of the target device. The derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is set so that a higher value is derived stepwise as the parameter value X3 becomes larger.

The parameter value X4 is the sales amount related to the first content by the home ground user who used the device during the aggregation period among the users 2 (home ground users) who have designated the store as the home ground.
Further, the parameter value X5 is the sales amount related to the first content by the non-home ground user who used the device during the aggregation period among the users 2 (non-home ground users) who did not specify the store as the home ground. ..
The derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is set so that the larger the parameter values X4 and X5 are, the higher the value is derived.

The parameter value X7 is a statistical value of the elapsed time from when the user 2 charges for the first content to when the second content is started. Specifically, the average value of the elapsed time until the second content start date and time (actually, the sales date and time of the play consideration of the second content) closest to the sales date and time calculated for each charge for the first content or The median value. In this embodiment, the average value is adopted. The derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is set so that the smaller the parameter value X7, the higher the value.

As an example of the derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device, the following equation can be used.
F = k1 ・ X1 + k2 ・ X2 + k3 ・ X3 + k4 ・ X4 + k5 ・ X5 + k7 ・ X7
(However, k1, k2, k3, k4, k5, k7 are coefficients)
The degree of weighting of each parameter value by the coefficient can be appropriately set according to the way of thinking about how to pay the first content total sales Mt1 and what the payment is based on. If the coefficient is set to zero, the criteria for that term can be ignored.

The variables used in the derivation function F are not limited to the above parameter values X1 to X5 and X7, and can be appropriately added or omitted as appropriate.
For example, if the parameter value X4 related to the home ground user is emphasized or limited to this, it can be expected that the store 3 will make a sales effort to increase the number of home ground users and to value the home ground user. ..

For example, if the parameter value X3 related to electronic payment is emphasized or limited to this, it can be expected that the store 3 will make a sales effort to encourage the user to make electronic payment.
Further, for example, the arcade game machine 1300 includes the total operating time for which the consideration is paid and is used for executing the second content as the parameter value X8, and the derivation function F of the sales contribution CMm for each device is obtained. The larger the parameter value X8, the higher the value may be derived.

[Explanation of function configuration]
Next, an example of a functional configuration for realizing the present embodiment will be described.
FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the arcade game machine 1300 according to the present embodiment. The arcade game machine 1300 includes an operation input unit 100, a medium reading unit 102, a deposit detection unit 104, a processing unit 200, a sound output unit 390, an image display unit 392, a communication unit 394, and a storage unit 500. And.

The operation input unit 100 outputs an operation input signal to the processing unit 200 in response to various operation inputs made by the user 2 (player). For example, it can be realized by a push switch, a joystick, a touch pad, a trackball, an accelerometer, a gyro, a gesture controller, and the like. In the example of FIG. 2, the joystick 1302, the button switch 1304, and the touch panel 1306 correspond to this.

The medium reading unit 102 is realized by a known reading device according to the technical method adopted in the electronic payment medium 6, and reads the data stored in the electronic payment medium 6 and outputs the data to the processing unit 200. In the present embodiment, since the user terminal 1500 also serves as the electronic payment medium 6, it can be realized by a short-range wireless device. If the electronic payment medium 6 is a card with a built-in contactless IC chip, it will be realized by a contactless reader / writer according to the specifications. In the example of FIG. 2, the medium reader 1344 corresponds to this.

The deposit detection unit 104 is a means for detecting the inserted cash and outputting information indicating the deposit amount to the processing unit 200, which can be realized by a known deposit device, coin insertion device, or the like. In the example of FIG. 2, the deposit device 1330 corresponds to this.

The processing unit 200 is realized by, for example, a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, or an electronic component such as an IC memory, and performs input / output control of data with each functional unit including an operation input unit 100 and a storage unit 500. Then, various arithmetic processes are executed based on a predetermined program and data, an operation input signal from the operation input unit 100, data read by the medium reading unit 102, data received from the server system 1100, and the like, and a business game. Controls the operation of device 1300. In the example of FIG. 2, the control board 1350 corresponds to this.

The processing unit 200 of the arcade game machine 1300 includes a play consideration payment processing unit 210, a second content control unit 211, and a timekeeping unit 212.

The play consideration payment processing unit 210 processes the payment of the play consideration of the second content by cash or electronic payment. Specifically, when cash is inserted, the payment can be determined by comparing the amount of cash detected by the deposit detection unit 104 with the predetermined tax-included play consideration. When the medium reading unit 102 detects the electronic payment medium 6 (which also serves as the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment), the key data is read from the electronic payment medium 6. Then, the server system 1100 is accessed to transmit information regarding the sales of the second content.

The second content control unit 211 performs various processes for executing the second content. When the second content is designed as a stand-alone game, all the processes necessary for controlling the progress of the game are executed. If the second content is designed as an online game, the second content control unit 211 executes the process as a game client. That is, the operation input signal detected by the operation input unit 100 is transmitted to the server system 1100, data is received from the server system 1100, and the game screen is displayed or the game sound is emitted. In this embodiment, the latter is used. Depending on the design of the client / server system, it may take some control necessary for the progress of the game.

The timekeeping unit 212 uses the system clock to perform various timekeeping processes. For example, timekeeping of the current date and time, timekeeping from the start to the end time of play, timer processing in the second content, and the like are included.

The sound generation unit 290 is realized by, for example, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processor such as a voice synthesis IC, an audio codec capable of playing a voice file, or the like, and outputs sound signals of sound effects, BGM, and various operation sounds related to the game. Generate and output to the sound output unit 390.

The sound output unit 390 is realized by a device that outputs sound effects, BGM, and the like based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 290. The speaker 1310 in FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The image generation unit 292 is realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or a digital signal processor (DSP), a program such as a video signal IC or a video codec, an IC memory for a drawing frame such as a frame buffer, or the like. Then, the image generation unit 292 generates or decodes an image of one game screen in one frame time (for example, 1/60 second), and outputs an image signal of the game screen to the image display unit 392.

The image display unit 392 displays various game images based on the image signal input from the image generation unit 292. For example, it can be realized by an image display device such as a flat panel display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, or a head-mounted display. In this embodiment, the touch panel 1306 of FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The communication control unit 294 executes data processing related to data communication, and realizes data exchange with an external device via the communication unit 394. The communication unit 394 connects to the communication line 9 to realize communication. For example, it is realized by a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack of a wired communication cable, a control circuit, and the like, and the communication device module 1353 of FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The storage unit 500 stores a system program for realizing the processing unit 200 with various functions for integrally controlling the arcade game machine 1300, a program necessary for game play, various data, and the like. Further, it is used as a work area of the processing unit 200, and temporarily stores the calculation result executed by the processing unit 200 according to various programs, the input data input from the operation input unit 100, and the like. Such a function is realized by, for example, an IC memory such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk, an optical disk such as a CD-ROM or DVD, or the like. The IC memory 1352 mounted on the control board 1350 of FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The storage unit 500 stores a system program for realizing the processing unit 200 with various functions for integrally controlling the arcade game machine 1300, a program necessary for executing the second content, various data, and the like. Further, it is used as a work area of the processing unit 200, and temporarily stores the calculation result executed by the processing unit 200 according to various programs, the input data input from the operation input unit 100, and the like. Such a function is realized by, for example, an IC memory such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk, an optical disk such as a CD-ROM or DVD, or the like. The IC memory 1352 mounted on the control board 1350 of FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The storage unit 500 includes a system program 520, a second content program 521, a second content initial setting data 522, a second content play data 523, a store ID 524, a device ID 525, a tax-included play price 526, and the current date and time. Memorize 527. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate. For example, the key data read from the electronic payment medium 6 can be appropriately stored as the payment of the play consideration is electronically settled. In addition, information such as timers, counters, and various flags can be stored as appropriate.

The system program 520 is a program for realizing the basic input / output functions required as a computer by being read and executed by the processing unit 200. The second content program 521 can make the processing unit 200 realize the function as the second content control unit 211.

The store ID 524 corresponds to the identification information for each business entity in which the arcade game machine is installed. The device ID 525 is identification information unique to the arcade game machine.

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the server system 1100 according to the present embodiment. The server system 1100 in the present embodiment includes an operation input unit 100s, a server processing unit 200s, an image display unit 392s, a communication unit 394s, and a server storage unit 500s.

The operation input unit 100s is a means for inputting various operations for managing the server. In the example of FIG. 1, the keyboard 1106 corresponds.

The server processing unit 200s is realized by, for example, a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU and an electronic component such as an IC memory, and controls data input / output between each functional unit including the operation input unit 100s and the server storage unit 500s. Do. Then, various arithmetic processes are executed based on a predetermined program and data, an operation input signal from the operation input unit 100s, and data received from the business game device 1300 to comprehensively control the operation of the server system 1100. .. In the example of FIG. 1, the control board 1150 corresponds to this.

The server processing unit 200s of the present embodiment includes a user management unit 240, a first content management unit 241, a second content management unit 242, a sales management unit 243, a benefit determination unit 250, and electronic payment between vendors. A unit 252, a timing unit 254, an image generation unit 292s, and a communication control unit 294s are included.

The user management unit 240 assigns a unique user ID (user identification information), stores and manages user data related to the first content and the second content, and stores and manages data related to a virtual account for electronic payment. Take control.

The first content management unit 241 functions as a game server for the first content that provides the data necessary for executing the first content to the user terminal 1500.
The second content management unit 242 functions as a game server for the second content that provides the data necessary for executing the second content to the user terminal 1500.
When the first content and the second content are realized as a stand-alone type, these can be omitted.

The sales management unit 243 manages and aggregates the sales due to the billing element related to the first content and the sales due to the billing element related to the second content.

The benefit determination unit 250 determines the benefit amount Mdn (see FIG. 5) for each store 3 as the benefit destination for the sales related to the first content.

The inter-dealer electronic payment unit 252 controls for realizing electronic payment between the first-class business operator and the store 3.

The timekeeping unit 254 uses the system clock to perform various timekeeping processes. For example, timekeeping of the current date and time, timer processing in the first content and the second content, and the like are included.

The image generation unit 292s is realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or a digital signal processor (DSP), a program such as a video signal IC or a video codec, an IC memory for a drawing frame such as a frame buffer, or the like. Then, an image of the operation screen for the operator is generated, and the image signal is output to the image display unit 392s. Depending on the implementation form of the first content and the second content, the image generation unit 292s may be configured to generate an image of the game screen based on the processing results of the first content management unit 241 and the second content management unit 242.

The image display unit 392s displays various images for system management based on the image signal input from the image generation unit 292s. For example, it can be realized by an image display device such as a flat panel display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, or a head-mounted display. In the example of FIG. 1, the touch panel 1108 corresponds.

The communication control unit 294s executes data processing related to data communication, and realizes data exchange with an external device via the communication unit 394s.

The communication unit 394s connects to the communication line 9 to realize communication. For example, it is realized by a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack of a wired communication cable, a control circuit, and the like. In the example of FIG. 1, the communication device 1153 corresponds.

The server storage unit 500s stores a system program for realizing various functions for the server processing unit 200s to control the server system 1100 in an integrated manner, a program necessary for managing the game, various data, and the like. Further, it is used as a work area of the server processing unit 200s, and temporarily stores the calculation results and the like executed by the server processing unit 200s according to various programs. This function is realized by, for example, an IC memory such as RAM or ROM, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk, or an optical disk such as a CD-ROM or DVD. In the example of FIG. 1, the IC memory 1152 mounted on the main unit 1101, a storage medium such as a hard disk, and the storage 1140 correspond to this.

Then, the server storage unit 500s of the present embodiment includes the server system program 550, the user management program 551, the first content management program 552, the second content management program 553, the sales management program 554, and the benefit determination program 555. And the inter-dealer electronic payment program 556 are stored in advance.
Further, as the data to be sequentially generated / updated, the current date and time 590, the user management data 600, the first content play data 620, the first content sales history data 630, the second content sales history data 650, and the second The content play data 660 and the business entity management data 700 are stored. In addition, information such as timers, counters, and various flags can be stored as appropriate.

The server system program 550 is a system program for realizing the basic input / output functions required as a computer in the server system 1100 by reading and executing the server processing unit 200s.

The user management program 551, the first content management program 552, the second content management program 553, the sales management program 554, the benefit determination program 555, and the inter-dealer electronic payment program 556 are read and executed by the server processing unit 200s, respectively. This is a program for realizing the functions of the management unit 240, the first content management unit 241 and the second content management unit 242, the sales management unit 243, the benefit determination unit 250, and the inter-dealer electronic payment unit 252.

The user management data 600 is prepared for each user who has completed the registration procedure.
As shown in FIG. 9, for example, one user management data 600 includes 1) user ID 601 and 2) virtual currency account data 602 that stores data such as the balance of a virtual currency account for electronic payment, and 3) the user. Registered medium ID 604, which is the identification information of the electronic payment medium 6 that stores the key data for using the virtual currency account, and 4) Home ground store ID 605, which is the identification information of the store 3 specified by the user. It includes 5) first content save data 611, 7) second content save data 612, 8) first content play history data 613, and 9) second content play history data 614. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate. Therefore, in other words, the user management data 600 is data that stores the user 2 of the user terminal 1500 in association with the designated business entity (store 3 as the home ground) designated by the user, and is stored in the server storage unit. The 500s functions as a designated business entity storage means for storing it.

Returning to FIG. 8, the first content play data 620 is created for each execution of the first content, and stores various information related to the progress control of the first content. Since the first content is an online game in the present embodiment, it is realized in the same manner as the known technology related to the online game. When the first content is a stand-alone game, the data is created and managed by the user terminal 1500 and provided to the server system 1100 at an appropriate timing.

The first content sales history data 630 stores sales information related to the first content. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the first content sales history data 630 stores the user ID 632 indicating the payer, the sales type 633, and the sales 634 in association with the sales date and time 631 in which the charge occurred. .. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate.

Returning to FIG. 8, the second content sales history data 650 stores sales information related to the second content. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the second content sales history data 650 is associated with the sales date and time 651 corresponding to the play start date and time, and includes the store ID 652, the device ID 653, and the user ID 654 indicating the player and payer. , Cash or electronic payment type 655, sales 656, and play end date and time 657 are stored. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate.

Therefore, the second content sales history data 650 functions as data stored in association with the user 2 of the user terminal 1500 and the store 3 (business entity) in which the business game device 1300 played by the user is installed, and functions as a server. The storage unit 500s functions as a play business entity storage means for storing this.

The second content play data 660 is created for each execution of the second content, and stores various information related to the progress control of the second content. Since the second content is an online game in the present embodiment, it is realized in the same manner as the known technology related to the online game. When the second content is a stand-alone type game, the data is created and managed in the storage unit 500 of the arcade game machine 1300. Then, it is assumed that it is provided to the server system 1100 at an appropriate timing.

Returning to FIG. 8, the business entity management data 700 is prepared for each store 3 and stores information about the store. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, one business entity management data 700 includes a unique store ID 701, an arcade game machine management data 710 prepared for each arcade game machine installed in the store, and the arcade game machine management data 710. Includes a home ground registered user list 720 that stores the user ID of the user 2 who has designated / registered the store as the home ground, and remittance destination information 722. Of course, data other than these can be stored as appropriate.

One arcade game machine management data 710 stores a unique device ID 711, contract form information 712, and execution content ID 713.

The contract form information 712 is information regarding a contract for sales, use, etc. relating to the arcade game machine 1300 concluded with a game maker (same as a first-class business operator in this embodiment). For example, the type of contract type, the number of contracts, the contract period, and the like. Examples of types of contracts include bulk purchases, installment purchases, and pay-as-you-go payments in which the monthly payment amount to a first-class business operator is determined according to the sales amount. Therefore, in other words, the contract form information 712 is data for storing information related to the business of the arcade game machine 1300 for each store 3 (business entity), and the server storage unit 500s stores the contract form. It functions as an information storage means.

The remittance destination information 722 is information necessary for remittance of the benefit amount Mdn related to the store to the second-class business operator that operates the store. For example, information about bank accounts and electronic currency accounts.

Therefore, in other words, the business entity management data 700 is data in which the business establishment where the arcade game machine 1300 is installed or the business operator of the arcade game machine installed is associated with the arcade game machine, and is stored in the server. The unit 500s functions as a business entity data storage means.

[Explanation of processing flow]
Next, the operation of the game system in this embodiment will be described.
It is assumed that the user 2 has already completed the user registration procedure, possesses the user ID and the electronic payment medium 6, and has sufficient virtual currency deposited in the virtual currency account. Further, it is assumed that the registration for the store 3 has been completed and the business entity management data 700 already exists in the server system 1100.

The setting of the store as the home ground on the user terminal 1500, the execution of the first content, and the handling of the charge related to the first content can be appropriately realized by known techniques related to online games, and thus the description thereof will be omitted. For example, an online game (so-called social game) service for registered users in a social networking service is a good example.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing in the arcade game machine 1300, which is implemented by the processing unit 200 executing the second content program 521 (see FIG. 7).

The arcade game machine 1300 is usually in a so-called standby mode waiting for the entry of the user 2 (step S10). When the user 2 inserts cash into the deposit device 1330 or holds the electronic payment medium 6 (which also serves as the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment) over the medium reading device 1344 during the standby mode, the arcade game machine 1300 uses them. Is detected and it is determined that the payment of the play consideration has been detected (YES in step S12), and the sales information is transmitted to the server system 1100 (step S14).

The sales information includes the current date and time 527, the store ID 524, the device ID 525, the user ID of the player, the payment type identification information, and the sales amount (see FIG. 7). Of course, data other than these can be included as appropriate. The user ID of the player is read from the electronic payment medium 6 (also serving as the user terminal 1500 in this embodiment) when held over the medium reading device 1344. The sales amount is the tax-included play price 526 of the second content.

Then, when the play consideration is paid, the arcade game machine 1300 starts the second content (step S16). The second content of the present embodiment starts a competitive online game using the race car 10 (see FIG. 4) used in the first content.

When the second content ends, that is, when the race ends in the present embodiment (step S18), the arcade game machine 1300 sets the store ID 524, the device ID 525, and the end date and time of the second content (current date and time 527 at that time). It is transmitted to the server system 1100 (step S20). Then, the save data related to the second content and the information related to the play history are transmitted to the server system 1100 (step S20), and the standby mode is returned again.

Since the second content of the present embodiment is an online game, step S20 can be omitted if the current date and time of the server system 1100 is adopted as the end date and time of the second content. Similarly, step S22 can be omitted if the server system 1100 manages all the data related to the progress control of the second content.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the processing flow of the server system 1100 of the present embodiment. The process described below is implemented by the server system 1100 executing the user management program 551, the first content management program 552, the second content management program 553, the sales management program 554, and the benefit determination program 555. Program.

When the server system 1100 detects the charge related to the first content in the user terminal 1500 (YES in step S40), the server system 1100 updates the first content sales history data 630 (step S42; see FIG. 10).

Further, when the server system 1100 detects the charge related to the second content in the arcade game machine 1300 (YES in step S44), the server system 1100 obtains the second content sales history data 650 based on the sales information received from the arcade game machine. Update (step S46; see FIG. 11).

Then, when a predetermined aggregation period, for example, one month has elapsed from the previous aggregation (YES in step S50), the server system 1100 refers to the first content sales history data 630 and the second content sales history data 650, and recently The first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2 in the aggregation period are calculated (step S52), and the sales benefit process is executed (step S54).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of sales benefit processing.
In the same process, the server system 1100 first calculates the resource ratio P in the range of "0 to 1.0" based on the first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2 (step S70; see FIG. 5).

Then, the total sales of the first content Mt1 is multiplied by the resource ratio P to calculate the total benefit resource amount Mf0 (step S72), and the equal benefit resource amount Mf1 and the contribution standard benefit resource amount Mf2 are determined (step S74). .. In step S74, the calculation of the division ratio between the equal benefit source amount Mf1 and the contribution standard benefit source amount Mf2 can be appropriately included based on the first content total sales Mt1 and the second content total sales Mt2.

Next, the server system 1100 executes the sales contribution calculation process for each store (step S76).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of the sales contribution calculation process for each store. In the same process, the server system 1100 executes a loop A for each store 3 corresponding to the business entity management data 700 to calculate the sales contribution CSn for each store (steps S100 to S132; see FIG. 5).

In the loop A, the server system 1100 first executes the loop B for each arcade game machine 1300 installed in the store to be processed in the loop A, and calculates the sales contribution CMm for each device (steps S102 to S126).

In loop B, loop C is executed for each user who uses the processing target device (arcade game machine 1300 to be processed) (steps S104 to S110).

In loop C, the elapsed time from the sales date and time 631 (see FIG. 10) of the sales of the first content to the latest sales date and time 651 of the second content is calculated for each sales of the first content by the processing target user (step S106). ).
Specifically, from the second content sales history data 650, the store ID 701 is adapted to the processing target store of loop A, the device ID 711 is adapted to the processing target device of loop B, and the user is the processing target user of loop C. Extract the sales date and time 651 that the ID 654 matches (see FIG. 12). Then, for each sales of the first content, the one closest to the sales date and time 631 is searched from the extracted ones, and the elapsed time from the sales date and time 631 of the sales of the first content is calculated. Then, the server system 1100 calculates the primary statistical value X6 (specifically, the average value) from the elapsed time calculated in the loop C (step S108), and ends the loop C (step S110).

When the loop C is terminated, the server system 1100 performs the parameter value X7 (specifically, the average of the primary statistical values X6) as the secondary statistical values from the primary statistical value X6 of all the users who used the processing target device of the loop B. (Value) is calculated (step S120), and the parameter values X1 to X5 related to the other devices to be processed are calculated (step S122; see FIG. 6).

Then, the server system 1100 calculates the sales contribution CMm for each device of the processing target device by the derivation function F using these parameter values X1 to X5 and X7 (step S124), and ends the loop B (step S126).

If Loop B is executed for all the arcade game machines 1300 installed in the stores to be processed in Loop A, the server system 1100 adds up the sales contribution CMm of all the arcade game machines 1300 for each device. The sales contribution CSn for each store of the processing target store is calculated (step S130), and the loop A is terminated (step S132). Then, when the loop A is executed for all the stores 3, the sales contribution calculation process for each store is terminated.

Returning to FIG. 15, the server system 1100 then calculates the equal benefit amount Me (step S170). Specifically, the equal benefit source amount Mf1 is divided by the total number of stores 3 that can be recipients (see FIG. 5).

Next, the server system 1100 executes the loop E for each store 3 (steps S180 to S188). In loop E, the benefit amount Mdn to the processing target store is calculated (step S182), and the collection amount to be collected from the processing target store is subtracted from the benefit amount Mdn to determine the remittance amount (step S184). The amount to be collected is determined by a contract between the manufacturer of the arcade game machine 1300 and a second-class business operator (a contract relating to the sale and use of the arcade game machine 1300).

Then, the server system 1100 performs remittance processing (step S186) according to the remittance destination information 722 (see FIG. 12) of the processing target store, and ends the sales benefit processing.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the feeling of inequality in sales between different business entities related to related contents (first contents and second contents related to the contents) developed cross-platform.

[Modification example]
Although the embodiments to which the present invention is applied have been described above, the embodiments to which the present invention can be applied are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and constituent elements can be added, omitted, or changed as appropriate.

For example, the method of calculating the benefit amount Mdn is not limited to the above embodiment and can be changed as appropriate.
Specifically, from the derivation function F (see FIG. 6) of the sales contribution CMm for each device, the sales amount of the first content by the home ground user, that is, the parameter value X4 (charged sales of the user associated with the designated business entity) is calculated. except. On the other hand, as in equation (2), the direct benefit amount MSn (n = 1, 2, ...; store identifier) calculated by multiplying the total ΣX4 of the parameter values X4 by the parameter value X1 is calculated, and the equation ( It may be included in the derivation formula of the benefit amount Mdn as in 3).
Direct benefit amount MSn = k1 · ΣX4m (m = 1, 2, ...; device identifier) ... Equation (2)
Benefit amount Mdn = Mf2 (CSn / ΣCS) + Me + MSn ... Equation (3)

According to this configuration, a part or all of the billing sales of the first content by the home ground user can be regarded as a part of the sales of the store 3 designated as the home ground in the first place and returned.

In calculating the direct benefit amount MSn, another parameter value may be used instead of the parameter value X1. For example, the parameter value X2, which is the total sales of the arcade game machine 1300, may be used. In this case, the range regarded as the direct benefit amount MSn should be further expanded to the billing sales of the first content by all the users who visited and played at the store 3 (that is, the billing sales of the users associated with the play entity). Can be done.

Further, in the above embodiment, the total benefit resource amount Mf0 is calculated by multiplying the first content total sales Mt1 by the resource ratio P, but it may be calculated by other methods. For example, the first content sales history data 630 (see FIG. 10) is configured to store the billing target ID in association with the sales date and time 631. Then, a special billing element (specifically, a special item, a right to participate in a special event, a lottery right, etc. can be set as appropriate) is set for the first content, and based on the sales of the special billing factor. The total benefit source amount Mf0 may be calculated. Specifically, the total sales of the special billing factor may be equal to the total benefit source amount Mf0. If a special billing element is set, the first content can be basically free to play, but can also have a limited billing element.
The idea of using the sales of this special billing element as a source of funds can be applied to the benefits based on the direct benefit amount MSn as it is, and can be configured to use the direct benefit amount MSn as a source of funds.

2 ... User 3 ... Store 200s ... Server processing unit 240 ... User management unit 241 ... 1st content management department 242 ... 2nd content management department 243 ... Sales management department 250 ... Benefit decision unit 500 ... Processing unit 500s ... Server storage unit 524 … Store ID
525 ... Device ID
551 ... User management program 552 ... 1st content management program 553 ... 2nd content management program 554 ... Sales management program 555 ... Benefit decision program 600 ... User management data 602 ... User ID
604 ... Registered media ID
605 ... Home Grand Store ID
630 ... First content sales history data 631 ... Sales date and time 632 ... User ID
633 ... Sales type 634 ... Sales 650 ... Second content Sales history data 651 ... Sales date and time 652 ... Store ID
653 ... Device ID
654 ... User ID
655 ... Payment type 656 ... Sales 700 ... Business entity management data 701 ... Store ID
710 ... Arcade game machine management data 711 ... Device ID
712 ... Contract type information 720 ... Home ground registration user list 1100 ... Server system 1150 ... Control board 1300 ... Commercial game device 1350 ... Control board 1500 ... User terminal CMm ... Sales contribution by device CSn ... Sales contribution by store MSn ... Direct benefit amount Mdn ... Benefit amount Me ... Equal benefit amount Mf0 ... Total benefit source amount Mf1 ... Equal benefit source amount Mf2 ... Contribution level standard benefit source amount Mt0 ... Total benefit source amount Mt1 ... Total sales P ... Resource ratio

Claims (9)

A user terminal that executes the first content related to a character including a billing element , and a game content that is an electronic device installed in a business establishment by a business operator and in which the character appears when the user pays a consideration. 2 A server system that communicates with the electronic device on which the user plays the content.
A first sales management means for managing billing sales data related to the first content, and
A business entity data storage means for storing a business establishment in which the electronic device is installed or a business operator of the electronic device in which the electronic device is installed (hereinafter collectively referred to as a "business entity") in association with the electronic device.
A designated business entity storage means that stores a user of the user terminal in association with the business entity designated by the user (hereinafter referred to as "designated business entity").
By determining the distribution destination and the distribution amount to distribute the resources to each business entity using a part or all of the billed sales as the resources, the benefit determination means for determining the business entity and the benefit amount to be paid.
With
The first sales management means manages billing sales for each user and manages the billing sales.
The benefit determination means determines the amount of benefits for each entity to which the resources are distributed, using the user's billed sales associated with the designated entity.
Server system. A second sales management means for managing sales data related to the execution of the second content for each business entity,
Further prepare
The benefit determination means uses the sales of each business entity to determine the amount of benefits for each business entity to which the resources are distributed.
The server system according to claim 1. The electronic device is configured to be capable of paying for the execution of the second content in either cash or virtual currency payment type.
The second sales management means manages sales by business entity for each payment type.
The benefit determination means determines the benefit amount for each business entity to which the resources are distributed by using the sales of the virtual currency whose payment type is the virtual currency.
The server system according to claim 2. Wherein a user of the user terminal, the entity of the electronic apparatus to which the user has used (hereinafter referred to as "use Entities") utilizing entity storing means for storing the association with,
Further prepare
The first sales management means manages billing sales for each user and manages the billing sales.
The benefit determination means uses a charge sales users associated with the use entities, said determining entity-specific benefits which distributes the funds,
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A user terminal that executes the first content related to a character including a billing element , and a game content that is an electronic device installed in a business establishment by a business operator and in which the character appears when the user pays a consideration. 2 A server system that communicates with the electronic device on which the user plays the content.
A first sales management means for managing billing sales data related to the first content, and
A business entity data storage means for storing a business establishment in which the electronic device is installed or a business operator of the electronic device in which the electronic device is installed (hereinafter collectively referred to as a "business entity") in association with the electronic device.
A user entity storage means that stores a user of the user terminal in association with the entity of the electronic device used by the user (hereinafter referred to as "user entity").
By determining the distribution destination and the distribution amount to distribute the resources to each business entity using a part or all of the billed sales as the resources, the benefit determination means for determining the business entity and the benefit amount to be paid.
With
The first sales management means manages billing sales for each user and manages the billing sales.
The benefit determination means uses the user's billed sales associated with the user entity to determine the benefit amount for each entity to which the resources are distributed.
Server system. The first sales management means further manages the billing sales date and time of the user.
The user entity storage means further associates and stores the usage date and time of the user.
The benefit determination means changes the amount of benefits to be distributed by using the elapsed time from the billing sales date and time to the usage date and time.
The server system according to claim 4 or 5. A means for determining the amount of resources, which determines the amount of resources based on the charged sales.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising. The first content is content that includes a special billing element whose billing amount is the source of funds.
The first sales management means manages the billing sales of the special billing element and manages the billing sales.
The means for determining the amount of resources use the sales of the special charging element as the amount of funds.
The server system according to claim 7. Contract type information storage means for storing contract type information related to the business of the electronic device of the business entity,
Further prepare
The benefit determination means changes the benefit amount by using the contract type information of the business entity to which the benefit is to be paid.
The server system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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