JP7148590B2 - Game processing system, game processing method, and game processing program - Google Patents

Description

The disclosure herein relates to an application processing system, an application processing method, and an application processing program that provide interaction with a virtual character. More specifically, the disclosure herein provides an application processing system, an application processing method, and an application processing program for processing an application capable of providing interaction with a virtual character according to information detected by a head-mounted display. Regarding. An example of this application is a game. Therefore, the disclosure in this specification more specifically relates to a game processing system, a game processing method, and a game processing program for processing a game.

A simulation game that provides interaction with a virtual character is known as an application that provides interaction with a virtual character. Such a simulation game is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-055644 (Patent Document 1).

In games that provide interaction with such virtual characters, a head-mounted display (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "HMD") is sometimes used in order to enhance the sense of immersion in the game. For example, a VR game is known in which a virtual space is displayed on an HMD, and a virtual character appearing in this virtual space can be interacted with using the HMD. As this type of VR game, "Summer Lesson" by BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc. is known (see Non-Patent Document 1).

The HMD includes a tracking sensor for detecting the position and orientation of the player's head, as described in Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2017-058969 (Patent Document 2). In a VR game played using an HMD, a viewpoint in the virtual space is determined based on the detection information detected by the tracking sensor, and an image of the virtual space seen from the thus determined viewpoint is displayed on the HMD. be done.

In the above-mentioned "Summer Lesson", a function is realized in which an interaction with a virtual character is specified according to information detected by the tracking sensor of the HMD, and the player experiences this specified interaction. For example, when the player wearing the HMD nods in response to the movement of the image of the virtual character displayed on the HMD, the movement of the player's head corresponding to the nod is detected. Then, based on the detected movement of the head, an image of the virtual character performing an action corresponding to the nod of the player is displayed on the HMD.

As described above, in a conventional VR game in which an HMD is used to interact with a virtual character, an image of the virtual space is displayed so as to follow the movement of the player's head, and a virtual space image is displayed according to the movement of the player's head. Since the player experiences interaction with the character, the player can obtain a high sense of immersion.

JP 2012-055644 A JP 2017-058969 A

"Summer Lesson", [online], December 12, 2017, Internet (URL: HYPERLINK "http://summer-lesson.bn-ent.net/" http://summer-lesson.bn-ent .net/)

In order to play VR games, it is necessary to wear an HMD on the head. At present, HMDs are not devices that are used on a daily basis, and some players are reluctant to wear HMDs because they block the view of the real world when worn. Therefore, a technical improvement is desired to prompt the player to wear the HMD when starting to play the VR game, and/or to reduce the player's reluctance to wear the HMD.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide technical improvements that solve or alleviate at least some of the problems in the prior art discussed above.

A game processing system in one embodiment is a game processing system that includes one or more computer processors and a memory that stores mode transition conditions, and that processes a game having a first mode and a second mode. This mode transition condition defines a condition for starting the transition to the second mode. The one or more computer processors execute computer-readable instructions to respond to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode. providing an interaction with a virtual character, determining whether or not the mode transition condition is satisfied in the first mode, and when it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied in accordance with the progress of the first mode; displaying a transition start object on the information processing device, starting transition processing from the first mode to the second mode by selecting the transition start object, and after performing the transition processing, in the second mode, Interaction with the virtual character is provided according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display worn on the player's head.

In one embodiment of the game processing system, the interaction with the virtual character in the first mode includes prompting the virtual character to transition to the second mode.

In one embodiment, interaction with the virtual character in the first mode includes interaction to select settings in the second mode.

In one embodiment of the game processing system, the transition process is initiated in response to interaction with the virtual character in the first mode.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, the transition process is started by selecting a transition start object displayed on the information processing device in the first mode.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, the transition processing includes displaying on the information processing device guidance prompting the user to wear the head-mounted display in accordance with the selection of the transition start object.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, the transition processing includes transitioning to the second mode in response to selection of a selectable transition object by the player's gaze.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, the one or more computer processors display a login screen for starting the first mode on the information processing device after the second mode ends.

In a game processing system according to one embodiment, the head-mounted display includes a wearable item worn on the head of the player, and the information processing device attached to the wearable item.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, in the second mode, head tracking information for specifying at least one of the position and orientation of the player's head is calculated based on the second detection information, and the head tracking information is calculated based on the second detection information. Interaction with the virtual character is provided according to the tracking information.

In the game processing system according to one embodiment, the virtual character is displayed as a stereoscopic image in the second mode, and the virtual character is displayed as an image other than the stereoscopic image in the first mode.

A game processing method according to one embodiment processes a game having a first mode and a second mode by one or more computer processors executing computer readable instructions. The game processing method includes, in the first mode, providing interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head; a step of determining whether or not the mode transition condition defining the condition for starting the transition to the second mode is satisfied; and determining that the mode transition condition is satisfied according to the progress of the first mode a step of displaying a transition start object on the information processing device when the determination is made; a step of starting transition processing from the first mode to the second mode in response to selection of the transition start object; providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display mounted on the player's head in the second mode after performing the transition processing; Prepare.

A game processing program according to one embodiment is a program for executing game processing having a first mode and a second mode by being executed by one or more computer processors. The game processing program causes the one or more computer processors to interact with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode. a step of determining whether or not the mode transition condition defining a condition for starting transition to the second mode in the first mode is satisfied; displaying a transition start object on the information processing apparatus when it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied; and switching from the first mode to the second mode in response to selection of the transition start object. and the virtual character according to the second detection information detected by the head-mounted display mounted on the head of the player in the second mode after performing the transition process. and providing an interaction of .

According to the embodiment, it is possible to prompt the player to wear the head mounted display while the game is progressing in the first mode.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a game processing system according to one embodiment; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a head-mounted display that can be used in the game processing system of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a head-mounted display worn by a game player; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating mode transitions of a game processed by the game processing system according to one embodiment; It is a flow figure showing a flow of processing in chat mode in one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in chat mode in one embodiment; The screen of FIG. 6 shows message options to be selected by the player. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in chat mode in one embodiment; The screen of FIG. 7 shows the message selected by the player. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in chat mode in one embodiment; The screen of FIG. 8 shows a message prompting transition to VR mode, a message for selecting settings in VR mode, and a message for selecting items used in VR mode. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in chat mode in one embodiment; The screen of FIG. 9 shows a transition start object. It is a flow figure showing a flow of mode change processing in one embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the display image in the mode transition process in one embodiment. The screen of FIG. 11 shows guidance prompting the user to attach the display to the attachment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in transition processing in one embodiment; The screen of FIG. 12 shows a transition object. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing the flow of processing in VR mode in one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display image in VR mode in one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a game processing system according to another embodiment; FIG.

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described with appropriate reference to the drawings. Identical or similar components are provided with the same reference numerals in several drawings.

A game processing system according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a game processing system 1 according to one embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a head-mounted display 10 (hereinafter referred to as "HMD 10") used in the game processing system 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the HMD 10 attached to the player 5. FIG.

The game processing system 1 may be configured to process applications other than games. The game processing system 1 includes, for example, simulations in driving and other fields, training applications in medical and other fields, applications for experiencing products and services, and applications for watching movies and various other forms of entertainment. , and may be configured to provide various applications other than these.

A game processing system 1 according to one embodiment realizes various games by executing a game processing program according to one embodiment. A player can use the game system 1 to play various games. The game processing system 1 can realize, for example, a game in which a virtual character and a player interact in a virtual space. A game realized by the game processing system 1 has a first mode and a second mode. A common game medium may be used for the first mode and the second mode. A game content is electronic data used in a game realized by the game processing system 1, and is acquired, owned, used, managed, exchanged, combined, enhanced, sold, discarded, gifted, or otherwise used in the game by a user. can be used in the manner of Game media include, for example, cards, items, virtual currency, tickets, characters, avatars, level information, status information, parameter information (physical strength, attack power, etc.), ability information, skills, abilities, spells, jobs, and the like. Includes various electronic data that can be used in games other than The game media that can be used in the game processing system 1 and the mode of use thereof are not limited to those specified in this specification. An example of the first mode is chat mode and an example of the second mode is VR mode. The first mode and second mode will be described later.

A game processing system 1 includes an HMD 10 and a server 50 . The HMD 10 and the server 50 are connected via a network 40 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

As shown in FIG. 2, the HMD 10 includes an attachment 11 to be worn on the head of a person, and an information processing device 20 attached to the attachment 11 .

The wearing tool 11 has a goggle-shaped housing 11a formed with an opening 11d, a first belt 11b and a second belt 11c attached to the housing 11a, and a lid 11e. The lid 11e is attached to the housing 11a so as to be openable and closable. An opening 11d is formed in front of the housing 11a. In FIG. 2, the lid 11e is open. When the HME 10 is in use, the lid 11e is closed to block the opening 11d.

The information processing device 20 is detachably provided inside the lid 11 e of the HMD 10 . The information processing device 20 has a display 24 . The information processing device 20 is attached to the lid 11e such that the display 24 faces the inside of the housing 11a when the lid 11e is closed. The information processing device 20 is attached to the wearing tool 11 when the HMD 10 is used. The information processing device 20 is removed from the wearing tool 11 when the HMD 10 is not used.

In the illustrated embodiment, the information processing device 20 is a smart phone. The information processing device 20 may be a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, an electronic book reader, a wearable computer, a game console, or various information processing devices other than a smart phone. The information processing device 20 removed from the HMD 10 is used for its original purpose.

The information processing device 20 includes the display 24 as described above. In the illustrated embodiment, when the information processing device 20 is attached to the wearing tool 11 , the display 24 functions as a device for displaying images on the HMD 10 . Therefore, when playing a game using the HMD 10, the display 24 displays the virtual space of the game, the virtual characters, and other images related to the game.

The shape of the wearing tool 11 is not limited to the illustrated goggle shape. The wearer 11 can include a structure of any shape that can follow the movement of the head of the player wearing it and can place the display 24 in front of the wearer's eyes when worn. The wearing tool 11 may have, for example, a shape that imitates glasses, a shape that imitates a hat, or a shape that imitates a helmet. In order to improve the player's sense of immersion, the HMD 10 is desirably configured so that the display 24 covers the player's eyes when the wearer 11 is worn on the player's head.

When in use, the HMD 10 is attached to the head of the player 5 via the mounting tool 11, as shown in FIG. An information processing device 20 is attached to the wearing tool 11 worn on the head of the player 5 .

The information processing apparatus 20 will be further described with reference to FIG. 1 again. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the information processing device 20 includes a computer processor 21 , a memory 22 , a communication I/F 23 , a display 24 , a sensor unit 25 , a sound collector 26 and a storage 27 .

The computer processor 21 is an arithmetic device that loads various programs that implement an operating system and game logic from the storage 27 or other storage into the main memory 22 and executes instructions contained in the loaded programs. The computer processor 21 is, for example, a CPU, MCU, FRPG, or various other arithmetic devices. Although computer processor 21 is illustrated as a single component in FIG. 1, computer processor 21 may be a collection of a plurality of physically separate computer processors. In this specification, a program or instructions included in the program described as being executed by the computer processor 21 may be executed by a single computer processor, or may be executed by a plurality of computer processors in a distributed manner. good too. Also, the program executed by the computer processor 21 or the instructions contained in the program may be executed by multiple virtual computer processors.

The memory 22 is used to store instructions executed by the computer processor 21 and various other data. At least part of the game processing program according to one embodiment is loaded into the memory 22 at any time as the game progresses. The memory 22 is, for example, a main storage device (main memory) that can be accessed at high speed by the computer processor 21 . The memory 22 is, for example, a RAM such as a DRAM or an SRAM.

The communication I/F 23 is implemented as hardware, firmware, communication software such as a TCP/IP driver or PPP driver, or a combination thereof. The information processing device 20 can transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the communication I/F 23 .

The display 24 has a display panel 24a and a touch panel 24b. For example, the touch panel 24b is laminated on the upper surface or the lower surface of the display panel 24a. The display panel 24a is a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, an inorganic EL panel, or any other display panel capable of displaying an image. The touch panel 24b is configured to be able to detect the player's touch operation. The touch panel 24b can detect various touch operations such as tapping, double tapping, and dragging by the player.

The sensor unit 25 comprises one or more sensors. Sensor unit 25 includes, for example, at least one of a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a geomagnetic sensor. The sensor unit 25 may include an eye tracking sensor that directly detects the movement of the player's eyeballs. An eye tracking sensor is, for example, a line-of-sight sensor that receives near-infrared light into the iris and detects the reflected light. As will be described later, at least one of the position and orientation of the head of the player 5 wearing the HMD 10 is specified based on the detection information detected by the sensor unit 25 . At least some of the various sensors that make up the sensor unit 25 may be provided on the mounting tool 11 and/or a member different from the information processing device 20 other than the mounting tool 11 .

The sound collector 26 is configured to be able to collect sound. The sound collecting device 26 is, for example, a microphone. The voice of the player 5 is detected based on the voice information collected by the sound collector 26 .

Storage 27 is an external storage device accessed by computer processor 21 . The storage 27 is, for example, a magnetic disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory. The storage 27 stores various programs such as a game processing program. The storage 27 also stores various data used in the game. At least part of the programs and various data that can be stored in the storage 27 may be stored in a storage that is physically separate from the information processing device 20 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the storage 27 stores image data 28a, chat data 28b, scenario data 28c, event data 28d, game progress data 28e, and various other data necessary for the progress of the game. be.

The image data 28a includes data for drawing the background of the virtual space in which the game is played, data for drawing virtual characters, and data for drawing objects other than the virtual characters used in the game. The image data 28a may include position information of the object in the virtual space.

The chat data 28b includes data for drawing the icon of the virtual character, data for drawing the icon of the player 5, data for specifying a plurality of messages of the virtual character, and each of the plurality of messages of the virtual character. and data used in other chat modes. A plurality of messages of the virtual character may be defined in a tree structure having nodes corresponding to each message and connecting the nodes with arcs. In this tree structure, for example, a plurality of arcs extend from the start message, which is the root node of the highest level, and each arc is connected to a lower node. Arcs also extend from this lower node, and the arcs are connected to further lower nodes. Each of the lower nodes corresponds to a candidate message of the virtual character that can be displayed after the starting message. Also, the chat data 28b may include a mode transition condition, which is a condition for starting transition from the chat mode to the VR mode. Mode transition conditions include, for example, that the elapsed time since the game was started in chat mode is equal to or longer than a predetermined time, that the chat has progressed to the terminal node in the message of the tree structure, and other conditions. be Chat data 28b may include data indicative of messages to be displayed in the resumed chat mode after incomplete selection of transition objects.

The scenario data 28c includes data defining scenarios experienced by the player 5 in the game. If there are multiple scenarios experienced by the player 5 in the game, the scenario data 28c may define scenario data for each of the multiple scenarios. Scenario data 28c may be defined as a set of multiple events. A plurality of events included in the scenario data 28c may be defined in a tree structure having nodes corresponding to each event and connecting the nodes with arcs. In this tree structure, for example, a plurality of arcs extend from the initial event, which is the highest root node, and each arc is connected to lower nodes. Arcs also extend from this lower node, and the arcs are connected to further lower nodes. Each lower node in a scenario corresponds to an event candidate that can occur after the opening event in the scenario.

The event data 28d is data for defining each of the events forming the scenario data 28c. The event data 28d may be defined as a set of data for specifying multiple actions of the virtual character in the game. A plurality of actions of the virtual character may be defined in a tree structure having nodes corresponding to each action and connecting the nodes with arcs. In this tree structure, for example, a plurality of arcs extend from the top root node, the beginning action, and each arc is connected to a lower node. Arcs also extend from this lower node, and the arcs are connected to further lower nodes. Each subordinate node in an event corresponds to a candidate action that can occur after the initial action in the event. The event data 28d includes, for each node, moving image data corresponding to the action corresponding to the node, data regarding actions that the player can take with respect to the virtual character, and data regarding other actions of the virtual character. can be done.

The game progress data 28e includes data used for managing the progress of the game. The game progress data 28e may be updated as the game progresses. The game progress data 28e may include, for example, data relating to the favorable impression of the virtual character on the player, data relating to points earned by the player in the game, and various other data that may change according to the progress of the game.

The components and functions of the information processing device 20 shown in FIG. 1 are exemplary. The information processing device 20 applicable to the present invention may include various components not shown. For example, the information processing device 20 may include a speaker that outputs game sound effects and virtual character voices.

Next, functions of the HMD 10 will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, various functions of the HMD 10 are implemented by executing computer readable instructions in the computer processor 21 of the information processing device 20 . The instructions executed by computer processor 21 include instructions contained in a game processing program according to one embodiment.

A game having a first mode and a second mode different from the first mode is realized in the game processing system 1 by executing the game processing program according to one embodiment by the computer processor 21 . A game implemented in the game processing system 1 may have modes other than the first mode and the second mode.

In the first mode of the game realized in the game processing system 1, the information processing device 20 performs the Processing related to the application is performed according to the detected first detection information. For example, when the application is a game, processing related to the game is performed according to the first detection information detected by the information processing device 20 . The first detection information includes information about the touch operation of the player 5 detected by the touch panel 24b of the information processing device 20, information about the player's voice detected by the sound collector 26, and whether the HMD 10 is attached to the player 5. It may include detection information other than the above that can be detected by the information processing device 20 when it is not present. In the first mode, the player 5 can perform game-related operations using the information processing device 20 removed from the wearing tool 11 . In the first mode, it is assumed that the game progresses when the player 5 is not wearing the HMD 10, so in one embodiment, the display 24 displays an image other than the stereoscopic image.

In the second mode of the game implemented in the game processing system 1, the second detection information detected by the HMD 10 worn on the head of the player 5 is used to process the application. For example, if the application is a game, the game-related processing is performed according to the second detection information detected by the HMD 10 . This second detection information is, for example, detection information detected by the sensor unit 25 . Based on this second detection information, head tracking information for specifying at least one of the position and orientation of the head of the player 5 is calculated. The processing for progressing the game in the second mode is executed based on, for example, head tracking information calculated based on the second detection information. The processing for progressing the game in the second mode may be executed using information other than the head tracking information in addition to the head tracking information. In preparation for playing the game in the second mode, the player 5 attaches the information processing device 20 to the wearing tool 11 and wears the wearing tool 11 to which the information processing device 20 is attached on the head. Thus, in the second mode, it is assumed that the game is progressed while the HMD 10 is worn by the player 5. Therefore, in one embodiment, in the second mode, the player 5 stereoscopically views the A stereoscopic image is displayed on the display 24 . A stereoscopic image is displayed on the display 24 by, for example, a parallax barrier method. In the parallax barrier method, a left-eye image and a right-eye image are displayed on the display 24 . Thus, a stereoscopic image is a set of images including a left-eye image and a right-eye image that are configured to be stereoscopically viewed using the parallax of the left and right eyes by being displayed on a display.

The first mode is, for example, chat mode. Chat mode is an example of the first mode. The chat mode implements the ability for the player to chat with the virtual character via text messages. In the first mode, the player can experience interaction with the virtual character by chatting with the virtual character. Interaction, in a broad sense, means that a virtual character reacts to an action performed by a player. Interaction with a virtual character includes interaction made as communication such as conversation with a virtual character. In this specification, an interaction performed as communication with a virtual character is sometimes called a communicative interaction. Interactions with virtual characters can include, in addition to communicative interactions, battles with virtual characters, cooperative play in which a game is played in cooperation with virtual characters, and interactions with other virtual characters. In this specification, an interaction performed as a battle with a virtual character is sometimes referred to as a battle interaction. In this specification, an interaction performed as cooperative play with a virtual character may be referred to as a cooperative interaction. Specific contents of processing in the chat mode will be described later. In the first mode, interaction with the virtual character may be provided in ways other than chat. For example, in the first mode, interaction with the virtual character is provided via email, phone, video call, or otherwise.

The second mode is VR mode, for example. In the VR mode, functions for performing various interactions with virtual characters appearing in the virtual space displayed on the display of the information processing device 20 are implemented. Specific contents of processing in the VR mode will be described later. The VR mode is an example of the second mode, and the second mode may include any game mode in which processing for progressing the game is performed using head tracking information.

In one embodiment, the game having the first mode and the second mode realized by the game processing system 1 may be a game in which interactions other than communicative interactions with virtual characters are performed. In the game realized by the game processing system 1, communicative interaction does not have to be performed. In one embodiment, the game is played in a two-dimensional space in a first mode and in a three-dimensional space in a second mode. In one embodiment, the game is played in a three-dimensional space in the first mode, and displayed in a display mode different from the three-dimensional space in the first mode in the second mode (or similar to the three-dimensional space in the first mode). are played in a three-dimensional space (configured in different ways). In one embodiment, the game realized by the game processing system 1 may use common game media in the first mode and the second mode. Parameters associated with this game content may be carried over between the first mode and the second mode. For example, if the parameters of a specific game medium are changed during play in the first mode, and then the mode is shifted to the second mode, the specific game medium in which the changed parameters are set is played in the second mode. Used. In one embodiment, certain game content parameters may be changed during transitions from the first mode to the second mode and/or during transitions from the second mode to the first mode. This change in the parameters of the game media may be a change that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the player 5 in terms of the progress of the game. In one embodiment, the result of playing in the first mode may be reflected in the game in the second mode, and the result of playing in the second mode may be reflected in the game in the first mode. For example, the experience value of player 5 acquired in the first mode may be inherited in the second mode.

As described above, the first mode and the second mode of the game implemented in the game processing system 1 are modes that are distinguished from each other. That is, the first mode is a mode different from the second mode. In one embodiment, the HMD 10 is not worn on the head of the player 5 when the game realized in the game processing system 1 is played in the first mode, whereas the game is played in the second mode. In this case, the HMD 10 is attached to the head of the player 5 . In this case, in the first mode, the game is processed according to the first detection information detected by the information processing device 20 not worn on the head of the player 5, and in the second mode, the Game processing is performed according to the second detection information detected by the HMD 10 mounted on the head.

In one embodiment, a stereoscopic image is displayed on the display 24 in the second mode, whereas an image other than the stereoscopic image is displayed on the display 24 in the first mode, as described above. In the second mode, at least the virtual character image among the game images is displayed as a stereoscopic image, and in the first mode, the virtual character image is displayed as an image other than the stereoscopic image.

In one embodiment, in the first mode, processing is performed to progress the game without using head tracking information calculated based on the second detection information, whereas in the second mode, the head tracking information is not used. Based on this, processing for advancing the game is performed.

In one embodiment, in the first mode, the game progresses according to the touch operation detected by the touch panel 24b, whereas in the second mode, there is no process according to the touch operation of the touch panel 24b. not. In another embodiment, the process corresponding to the operation of the touch panel 24b may be performed even in the second mode.

In one embodiment, when interaction with a virtual character is provided in a game realized by the game processing system 1, in the first mode, the information processing device 20 that is not worn on the head of the player 5 detects Interaction with the virtual character according to the detected first information is provided, and in the second mode, interaction with the virtual character according to the second detected information detected by the HMD 10 mounted on the head of the player 5 is provided. interaction is provided.

After starting the game, it is possible to switch between the first mode and the second mode, which are distinguished as described above. With reference to FIG. 4, an outline of mode transition of the game processed by the game processing system 1 will be described. As shown in the figure, when the game is started in step S1, chat mode S2, which is the first mode, is started in step S2. In this chat mode, when transition processing for transitioning to the VR mode, which is the second mode, is started, the process proceeds to step S3, and transition processing to the second mode is performed. When the transition process is completed, the VR mode, which is the second mode, is started in step S4. When the VR mode ends or is interrupted, processing for returning to the chat mode is performed.

Next, functions realized by the computer processor 21 will be described more specifically. The computer processor 21 functions as a chat mode execution unit 21a, a transition processing unit 21b, and a VR mode execution unit 21c by executing computer-readable instructions. At least part of the functions implemented by computer processor 21 may be implemented by a computer processor other than computer processor 21 of game system 1 . At least part of the functions implemented by the computer processor 21 may be implemented by a computer processor installed in the server 50, for example.

The chat mode execution unit 21a performs processing for providing a game in the chat mode, which is the first mode, by executing the game processing program according to one embodiment. The chat mode execution unit 21a implements a function for chatting between the player 5 and the virtual character. After logging into the chat mode, the chat mode execution unit 21a displays the message of the virtual character and the message input or selected by the player 5 on the display 24, and causes the virtual character and the player 5 to chat. can be done. The chat mode execution unit 21a may display on the display 24, following the message of the virtual character, a plurality of options regarding the player's 5 response to the message. A message corresponding to the option specified from the plurality of options according to the player's 5 operation is displayed as the player's 5 message following the virtual character's message. The player 5 can select a desired one of the displayed options by performing a touch operation on the touch panel 24b. The virtual character's message and the player's options for the message can be specified by referring to the chat data 28b according to the game processing program. The message of the virtual character may be displayed together with the image of the virtual character, and the message of the player 5 may be displayed together with the image of the player 5 . The message of the virtual character includes a message prompting the transition to the VR mode, which is the second mode, a message for allowing the player 5 to select settings in the VR mode, and other messages associated with the VR mode. may be

In one embodiment, in the chat mode, a transition start object for starting transition to the second mode, the VR mode, is displayed according to the progress of the chat. The transition start object is displayed when the mode transition condition is satisfied according to the game processing program. The chat mode execution unit 21a can detect that a transition start object has been selected based on a detection signal from the touch panel 24b or other user interface. When it is detected that the transition start object has been selected, transition processing to the VR mode, which is the second mode, is started. In another embodiment, the transition process is initiated in the first mode by a method other than selecting a transition initiation object. For example, when the conditions for starting transition are satisfied in the first mode, detecting a specific operation of a controller operable by the user 5 (a device different from the information processing device 20), The transition process may be initiated upon recognition of voice and/or other recognition of an instruction from user 5 .

The transition processing unit 21b performs transition processing for transitioning from the first mode to the second mode. This transition processing includes displaying on the display 24 guidance prompting the user to attach the information processing device 20 to the mounting tool 11, and causing the display 24 to display a transition object that can be selected by the player's gaze. It's okay. After displaying this transitional object, the transition processing unit 21b receives a detection signal from the sensor unit 25 or other sensors, and determines whether or not the transitional object has been selected by gaze based on this detection signal. can be done. For this determination, the transition processing unit 21b calculates at least one of the position and orientation of the HMD 10 based on the detection signal of the sensor unit 25, and based on at least one of the calculated position and orientation of the HMD 10, the player Identify the gaze position of 5. Identification of the gaze position can be performed by various known methods. For example, the central portion of the stereoscopic image displayed based on the second detection information may be specified as the gaze position. Alternatively, the gaze position may be specified based on the detection signal of the eye tracking sensor. The transition processing unit 21b measures, for example, the time (gazing time) during which the gaze position is on the transitional object, and determines that the selection of the transitional object has been completed when the gaze time reaches a predetermined time. When the migration processing unit 21b determines that the selection of the migration object is completed, it starts the VR mode, which is the second mode. In other embodiments, transition to the second mode may be effected by methods other than selection of a transition object. For example, detecting a specific operation of a controller (a device different from the information processing device 20) operable by the user 5, recognizing a voice uttered by the user, and/or other aspects from the user 5 A transition may occur upon recognition of an indication of The transition object may be configured to be selected differently than the transition start object. For example, the transition start object is selected by operating the touch panel 24b, and the transition object is selected by the player's gaze.

The VR mode execution unit 21c calculates head tracking information for specifying at least one of the position and orientation of the HMD 10 based on the detection signal from the sensor unit 25, and calculates the position and orientation of the HMD 10 based on the calculated head tracking information. At least one of the can be specified. The VR mode execution unit 21 c constructs a virtual space corresponding to at least one of the specified position and orientation of the HMD 10 and outputs image information for displaying this virtual space to the display 24 . The VR mode execution unit 21c, for example, calculates the gaze position based on at least one of the position and orientation of the HMD 10, and, out of the entire virtual space, a predetermined range defined by the angle of view and the like centering on the specified gaze position. Generate image information. Based on the image information generated in this manner, the display 24 displays an image of the virtual space within a predetermined range. Image data 28a, scenario data 28c, event data 28d, game progress data 28e, and other data stored in the storage 27, for example, can be used to generate image information.

The VR mode execution unit 21c displays an image of the virtual character in the virtual space according to the game processing program, and realizes interaction between the virtual character and the player 5. FIG. The VR mode execution unit 21c determines the behavior of the virtual character in the virtual space according to the game processing program, and generates image information and audio information corresponding to the behavior of the virtual character. The image information is output to the display 24 , and the audio information is output to the speaker of the HMD 10 . As a result, an image in which the virtual character moves in the virtual space is displayed on the display 24, and sound corresponding to the movement of the virtual character is output from the speaker. For example, when the virtual character speaks to the player 5, an image in which the head and mouth of the virtual character move is displayed on the display 24, and the sound corresponding to the speech of the virtual character is output from the speaker. For example, image data 28a, scenario data 28c, event data 28d, game progress data 28e, and other data stored in the storage 27 are used to generate image information and audio information corresponding to actions of the virtual character. obtain. In one embodiment, the virtual character that interacts with player 5 in each of VR mode and chat mode is the same virtual character. For example, a virtual character appearing in the VR mode and a character appearing in the chat mode have the same name, and have similarities in appearance to the extent that they can be recognized as the same character. However, while the virtual character image is displayed as a stereoscopic image in the VR mode, the virtual character image is displayed as an image other than the stereoscopic image in the chat mode. The images are different from each other. However, such a difference in representation does not prevent the identity of the virtual characters.

In addition to the above functions, the VR mode execution unit 21c identifies the action of the player 5 using the HMD 10 based on the detection signal from the sensor unit 25, and the virtual space of the virtual character according to the identified action. It may have a function to determine actions (reactions) within. Actions by the player 5 wearing the HMD 10 include nodding, shaking of the head, and other actions involving head movements, as well as movements of the line of sight. Motions associated with such head movements are calculated based on information detected by the sensor unit 25 . Specifically, at least one of the position and orientation of the HMD 10 worn on the head is calculated as the position in the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system and the angle around each axis. This three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system is, for example, an orthogonal coordinate system composed of a roll axis along the front-rear direction, a yaw axis along the vertical direction, and a pitch axis along the left-right direction. The action of player 5 to cause the virtual character to react may include moving the line of sight. Such eye movement can be detected by an eye tracking sensor included in sensor unit 25 . The VR mode execution unit 21c generates image information for displaying the action of the virtual character determined according to the action of the player 5, and outputs the generated image information to the display 24 as a stereoscopic image. As a result, the display 24 displays an image of the virtual character performing the action determined according to the action of the player 5 . In this manner, the VR mode execution unit 21c determines the action of the virtual character according to the action of the player's 5 head or the movement of the line of sight detected by the HMD 10, and displays the image of the virtual character corresponding to the determined action. The information is displayed on display 24 . In the second mode, interaction between the player 5 and the virtual character displayed as a stereoscopic image is realized in this way.

The VR mode execution unit 21c performs termination processing for terminating the VR mode when the termination condition is satisfied. The end conditions are, for example, that a predetermined time (for example, one minute) has elapsed since the start of the VR mode, that an end target operation has been detected, and that the last event included in the scenario being executed in the VR mode has ended. , and other conditions. The termination process performed when the termination condition is satisfied includes displaying guidance on the display 24 prompting the user to remove the information processing device 20 from the wearing tool 11, and displaying a login screen for the chat mode, which is the first mode. Displaying may be included.

Next, chat processing in the chat mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9. FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in chat mode in one embodiment, and FIGS. 6 to 9 show examples of display images in chat mode. It is assumed that the HMD 10 is not attached to the head of the player 5 and the information processing device 20 is removed from the attachment 11 when the chat mode is started.

In the game processing system 1, the game is started in chat mode. In step S<b>11 , a login screen for logging into the chat mode is displayed on the display 24 of the information processing device 20 . When the player 5 performs the login process, the chat process proceeds to step S12.

In step S12, messages are exchanged between the player 5 and the virtual character, whereby a chat is conducted between them. When the chat mode is logged in, a chat display image for displaying a chat between the player 5 and the virtual character is generated and displayed on the display 24 . FIG. 6 shows a chat display image 70 that is an example of a chat display image displayed on the display 24 . The chat display image 70 includes a chat display area 71 including an icon 73 corresponding to the player 5, an icon 74 corresponding to the virtual character, a message 75a from the player 5, and messages 76a and 76b from the virtual character. The chat display image 70 also includes a menu area 72 arranged above the chat display area 71 . The virtual character messages 76a and 76b are specified based on the chat data 28b and other data stored in the storage 72 according to the game processing program. For example, virtual character messages are displayed in order from the message at the root node with reference to the chat data 28b defined in the tree structure. At a node branch point, a node is selected according to the branch condition, and a message corresponding to the selected node is displayed.

The chat display image 70 of FIG. 6 includes a display showing message options 77 of the player 5 at the bottom of the chat display area 71 . Player 5 can select one of the displayed options 77 . This selection is made by touching with a finger the area where the option to be selected is displayed on the display 24 . When this selection is made, a message 75b corresponding to the selected option is newly displayed in the chat display area 71 as a message for the player 5, as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 8, during the chat process, messages 76c and 76d prompting selection of settings in the second mode, VR mode, may be displayed as virtual character messages. The message 76c prompts selection of a scene in the VR mode, and the message 76d prompts selection of items used by the virtual character in the VR mode (for example, clothes worn by the virtual character in the virtual space of the VR mode). is the message. That is, the settings in the second mode can include scenes defining the background of the VR mode, items used by the virtual character in the VR mode, and various other settings. After the message 76c prompting the selection of the scene is displayed, the display 24 displays scene options. Player 5 can select a favorite scene from these options. After the message 76d prompting the user to select an item is displayed, the display 24 displays item options. Player 5 can select a favorite item from these options. During the chat process, a message prompting the transition to the second mode may be displayed as a message of the virtual character.

In step S13, it is determined whether or not the condition for mode transition from the first mode to the second mode is satisfied. As a mode transition condition from the first mode to the second mode, for example, a condition that a predetermined time (for example, one minute) has passed since the start of the chat mode is used. Elapsed time from the start of the chat mode is measured using, for example, the system clock. The process returns to step S12 and the chat process continues until it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied, the chat process proceeds to step S14.

In step S14, the transition start object 78 is displayed on the display 24, and the chat process proceeds to step S15. As shown in FIG. 9, the transition start object 78 is displayed, for example, in the chat area 71 as an object with a circular outer edge. Transition start object 78 may be displayed in an area outside chat area 71 , for example, in menu area 72 . In this case, the player 5 can select the transition start object 78 displayed in the menu area 72 to transition to the VR mode. The transition start object 78 may be displayed selectably in the menu area 72 even if the mode transition condition is not satisfied. As a result, the player 5 can transition to the VR mode at desired timing even if the mode transition condition is not satisfied. In step S15, when the selection of the transition start object is confirmed, the chat process proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the selection of the transition start object is not confirmed even after a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed since the transition start object was displayed, it is determined that the transition start object was not selected, and the chat process ends. do. When it is determined that the transition start object has not been selected, the process may return to step S12 and perform processing for resuming the chat. Whether or not the transition start object has been selected may be determined according to the operation on the touch panel 24b. For example, when it is detected from the detection signal from the touch panel 24b that a touch operation (for example, a tap operation) has been performed on a position overlapping the display area of the transition start object, it is determined that the transition start object has been selected. .

In step S16, processing for shifting to the VR mode, which is the second mode, is started. Once the transition process is started, the chat process ends.

The chat processing described above is executed by the chat mode execution unit 21a. The chat mode execution unit 21a can execute the above-described chat processing independently or appropriately in cooperation with other functions. When executing the chat process, in addition to the data stored in the storage 27, data stored in other storages, detection information detected by various sensors, or data other than these are used as necessary. can be

Next, mode transition processing from the chat mode, which is the first mode, to the VR mode, which is the second mode, will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12 . FIG. 10 is a flow diagram showing the flow of mode transition processing in one embodiment.

When the migration process is started, in step 31 , guidance is displayed on the display 24 of the information processing device 20 to prompt the user to wear the HMD 10 . A guidance display image 80, which is an example of a guidance display image including the guidance, is shown in FIG. Guidance display image 80 includes guidance prompting to attach information processing device 20 to mounting tool 11, guidance prompting to mount HMD 10 on the head, and various other guidance necessary to start the VR mode. can include Guidance display image 80 shown in FIG. 11 includes guidance 81 for prompting attachment of information processing device 20 to wearing tool 11 . This guidance may include instructions on how to attach the information processing device 20 to the attachment 11 . When a predetermined period of time elapses after the guidance is displayed, the mode transition process proceeds to step S32.

At step S32, the transition object is displayed on the display 24. FIG. An example of a transition processed image containing transition objects is shown in FIG. A transition object 86 is included in the transition processed image 85 shown in FIG. The transition processed image 85 may be displayed as a stereoscopic image. In one embodiment, the image displayed on the display 24 is switched from a non-stereoscopic image to a stereoscopic image at the start of the mode transition process or at a predetermined timing after the start of the mode transition process. For example, an image displayed in the chat mode is displayed as an image other than a stereoscopic image, and an image displayed after the transition process is started is displayed as a stereoscopic image.

Next, in step S33, it is determined whether or not the selection of the transition object 86 has been completed. If it is determined that the selection of the transition object 86 has been completed, the transition to the VR mode is confirmed, and the mode transition process proceeds to step S34. The transition object 86 is selected, for example, by the player 5 continuing to gaze at it for a predetermined period of time. Therefore, in order to select the transitional object 86, it is a prerequisite that the player 5 is wearing the HMD 10 . In one embodiment, whether or not the transitional object 86 has been selected is determined by whether or not the gaze position calculated based on the detection signal from the HMD 10 remains on the transitional object 86 for a predetermined period of time or longer. The gaze position can be calculated based on information detected by the sensor unit 25 provided in the HMD 10, as described above. The above determination can be made by measuring the gaze time during which the gaze position exists on the transition object 86 using the system clock, and determining whether or not the measured gaze time has reached a predetermined time. For example, when the fixation time reaches the predetermined time, it is determined that the selection of the transition object 86 has been completed, and the mode transition process proceeds to step S34. Once the transition object 86 has been selected, the display of the transition object 86 may be changed. For example, the shape, color, or other appearance of the transitional object may be changed in response to the selection of the transitional object 86 being completed. By changing the appearance of the transition object 86, the player 5 can be made to recognize that the transition to the VR mode, which is the second mode, will be performed. When the selection of the transition object 86 is completed, the transition to the VR mode may be notified to the user 5 in a manner other than changing the appearance of the transition object 86 . On the other hand, if it is not detected that the selection of the transition object 86 has been completed even after a predetermined period of time has passed since the transition object 86 was displayed, it is determined that the selection of the transition object 86 has not been completed, and the mode transition processing is executed. The process proceeds to step S35.

After the transition to the VR mode is confirmed, the VR mode, which is the second mode, is started in step S34. Specific processing in the VR mode will be described later.

In step S35, since transition to the VR mode was not selected, processing for returning to the chat mode is started. When the return processing to the chat mode is completed, the chat mode is resumed. In this resumed chat mode, a message from the virtual character relating to the failure to transition to VR mode may be displayed.

The above mode transition processing is executed by the transition processing section 21b. The transition processing unit 21b can execute the above-described mode transition processing independently or appropriately in cooperation with other functions.

Next, VR processing in the VR mode will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing the flow of VR processing in VR mode in one embodiment, and FIG. 14 shows an example of a display image in VR mode. As described above, the player 5 wears the HMD 10 in order to select the transition object 86 in the mode transition process. It is assumed that the HMD 10 is worn on the head of the player 5 at the start of the VR mode.

When the VR mode is started, in step S41, image information of the virtual space is generated according to the scenario, and an image corresponding to the image information is output to the display 24. FIG. The scenario used in step S41 may be specified independently of the player's 5 selection according to the game processing program, or may be specified based on the player's 5 selection. The identified scenarios include, for example, multiple events defined in a tree structure. Each event included in the specified scenario and its tree structure can be specified by referring to the scenario data 28c. In step S41, first, image information corresponding to the opening event corresponding to the root node of the tree structure may be generated. After displaying the image information corresponding to the beginning event, the next node is selected according to the branch condition, and the image information corresponding to the event corresponding to the selected node is displayed.

The image information of each event is generated by referring to the event data 28d, for example. The image information of each event can include an image of the virtual character and an object corresponding to the background. FIG. 14 shows an example of a VR image displayed on the display 24 based on image information generated in VR mode. A VR image 90 shown in FIG. 14 includes a virtual character image 91 representing a virtual character, images 92a to 92c representing objects corresponding to the background, and images representing various other objects. A VR image 90 is an image corresponding to a predetermined range in the virtual space. The range of the virtual space corresponding to the VR image 90 can be a range defined by the angle of view, for example, based on at least one of the position and orientation of the HMD 10 . The image data 28a is used for generating the image information. The VR image 90 and other images displayed in the VR mode are displayed as stereoscopic images.

The virtual character image 91 can perform an action specified by the event data 28d within the virtual space. For example, the actions of the virtual character image 91 include talking to the player 5 (toward the position of the player 5 in the virtual space), moving in the virtual space, and picking up an object placed in the virtual space. , and various other actions in the virtual space.

When the sensor unit 25 of the HMD 10 detects the movement of the head of the player 5 while the VR image 90 is being displayed on the display 24, the action of the player 5 is specified based on the detected movement of the head. be done. Then, an action (reaction) of the virtual character is determined according to the identified action of the player 5, and image information of the virtual character image 91 performing the determined action is generated. The image information generated in this manner is output to the display 24 . For example, when a nodding motion of the player 5 is detected, image information of the virtual character image 91 that reacts to the nodding motion of the player 5 is generated and displayed on the display 24 . Thus, in the VR mode, an interaction between the player 5 and the virtual character is realized using the stereoscopic image of the virtual character.

In step S42, it is determined whether or not an end condition for ending the VR image display processing is satisfied. If it is determined that the termination condition is not satisfied, the process returns to step S41 to continue the VR image display processing. On the other hand, if it is determined that the end condition is satisfied, the VR process proceeds to step S43.

In step S43, VR mode end processing is performed. This termination process may include displaying on the display 24 guidance prompting the user to remove the information processing device 20 from the wearing tool 11, and displaying a login screen for the chat mode, which is the first mode. .

Next, a game processing system according to another embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing a game processing system 101 according to another embodiment. The game processing system 101 includes an information processing device 20 , an HMD 110 and an HMD 110 . The game processing system 101 differs from the game processing system 1 in that the VR mode can be provided without attaching the information processing device 20 to the HMD 110 . The game processing system 101 will be described below, focusing on the differences from the game processing system 1 .

The HMD 110, the information processing device 20, and the server 50 are connected via a network 40 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The HMD 110 and the information processing apparatus 20 may be communicably connected according to a short-range wireless system such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) without going through the network 40 . The HMD 110 differs from the HMD 10 of the game processing system 1 in that the VR mode can be provided without the information processing device 20 attached.

The HMD 110 includes a computer processor 121, a memory 122, a communication I/F 123, a display 124, a sensor unit 125, a sound collector 126, and a storage 127. The computer processor 121, the memory 122, the communication I/F 123, the display 124, the sensor unit 125, the sound collector 126, and the storage 127 are the computer processor 21, the memory 22, the communication I/F 23, the display 24, and the sensor of the information processing device 20. It is configured similarly to the unit 25 , sound collector 26 and storage 27 . However, the display 124 may not have a touch panel.

The functions of the chat mode execution unit 21a, the transition processing unit 21b, and the VR mode execution unit 21c are shared between the information processing device 20 and the HMD 110. FIG. Specifically, the function of the chat mode execution unit 21 a is implemented in the information processing device 20 , and the function of the VR mode execution unit 21 c is implemented in the HMD 110 . A part of the function of the transition processing unit 21 b is realized by the information processing device 20 and the remaining part is realized by the HMD 110 .

When starting the game in the game processing system 101 , the player 5 uses the information processing device 20 to start the chat mode. This chat mode processing is performed by the chat mode execution unit 21 a of the information processing device 20 .

When the mode transition condition is satisfied in the chat mode and the transition start object is selected, mode transition processing to the VR mode is started. This mode transition processing is performed by the step transition processing section 21b. In the mode transition process, the information processing device 20 displays the guidance corresponding to step S31. For example, guidance prompting the user to wear the HMD 110 is displayed on the display 24 of the information processing device 20 . On the other hand, the display of the transitional object 86 corresponding to step S32 and subsequent processing are executed in the HMD 110 .

When the VR mode is started, the VR mode processing is performed by the VR mode execution unit 21 c of the HMD 110 .

The above embodiment can exhibit the following effects. Specifically, according to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the VR mode using the HMD 10 is executed after the transition process from the chat mode to the VR mode. Therefore, the player 5 can start the game with a chat that does not require the HMD 10 to be worn on the head. Then, in the process of progressing the game in the chat mode, the player 5 is prompted to wear the HMD 10 . Similarly, in the game processing system 101, the wearing of the HMD 110 is prompted during the course of the game progressing in the chat mode.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, in the chat mode, the message prompting the transition to the VR mode is displayed as the message of the virtual character. is naturally prompted.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101, in the chat mode, the messages 76c and 76d prompting selection of settings in the VR mode are displayed as messages from the virtual character. , an opportunity to shift to the VR mode is given.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, according to the progress of the chat with the virtual character in the chat mode (for example, according to the message corresponding to the end node in the defined tree structure being displayed) ) Since the mode transition process is started, the transition to the VR mode is naturally prompted through the interaction with the virtual character in the chat mode.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, by displaying the transition start object 78 on the information processing device 20 in the chat mode, the transition from the chat mode to the VR mode is prompted.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the player who has selected the transition to the VR mode is provided with guidance prompting him/her to wear the HMD 10 and the HMD 110, thereby preparing for the transition to the VR mode. can encourage

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the shift to the VR mode is made when the transitional object 86 is gazed at. can encourage

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101, after the VR mode ends, the chat mode login screen is displayed on the information processing device 20. Therefore, the player can restart the game from the chat mode after the VR mode ends. can.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the player experiences interaction in the chat mode with the information processing device 20 detached from the mounting device 11, and VR mode interaction with the information processing device 20 attached to the mounting device 11. You can experience the interaction of

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the player can interact with the virtual character by moving the head in the VR mode. This realizes natural interaction with the virtual character.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, since it is possible to interact with the virtual character displayed as a stereoscopic image in the VR mode, a high sense of immersion can be obtained.

According to the game processing systems 1 and 101 described above, the transition from the first mode to the second mode is initiated by selecting the transition start object 78 and completed by selecting a transition object 86 different from the transition start object 78 . The transition start object 78 is based on detection information detected by the information processing device 20 or another device (for example, a controller different from the information processing device 20) used for progressing the game in the first mode. The selected transitional object 86 may be selected based on detection information detected by the HMD 10, 110 or other device used to progress the game in the second mode. Thus, transition start object 78 is configured for ease of selection during play of the game in the first mode, and transition object 86 is ready for play of the game in the second mode. It is designed to make selection easier when you are As described above, a smooth transition from the first mode to the second mode is realized.

Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, some or all of the functions performed by computer processor 21 and computer processor 121 may be implemented by computer processors not shown in the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the game processing system 1 and the game processing system 101 may include a game machine that executes at least part of a game processing program, and part of the functions realized by the processing of the computer processor 21 or the computer processor 121 are It may be realized by processing in the game machine.

Embodiments of the present invention may include various apparatus, devices, and electronic components in addition to those described above. For example, the game processing system 1 and the game processing system 101 may include an operation device for accepting the operation of the player 5 in addition to the information processing device 20 and the HMDs 10 and 110 . The game processing system 1 and the game processing system 101 may detect an operation of the player 5 using the operation device, and perform game processing according to the detected operation.

In the processing procedures described in this specification, especially in the processing procedures described using flow diagrams, some of the steps that make up the processing procedure are omitted, and as a step that makes up the processing procedure It is possible to add unspecified steps and/or change the order of the steps, and the processing procedures in which such omissions, additions, and order changes do not deviate from the spirit of the present invention. Included within the scope of the invention.

The invention described in the scope of claims as originally filed in the original application of the present application will be additionally described below.
[1]
A game processing system comprising one or more computer processors and a memory for storing mode transition conditions, and performing processing of a game having a first mode and a second mode,
The mode transition condition defines a condition for starting transition to the second mode,
The one or more computer processors, by executing computer readable instructions,
In the first mode, providing interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head,
determining whether or not the mode transition condition is satisfied in the first mode;
displaying a transition start object on the information processing device when it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied according to the progress of the first mode;
starting transition processing from the first mode to the second mode by selecting the transition start object;
providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display mounted on the player's head in the second mode after performing the transition process;
game processing system.
[2]
The game processing system according to [1], wherein the interaction with the virtual character in the first mode includes prompting the virtual character to transition to the second mode.
[3]
The game processing system according to [1] or [2], wherein interaction with the virtual character in the first mode includes interaction for selecting settings in the second mode.
[4]
The game processing system according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the transition process is started in response to interaction with the virtual character in the first mode.
[5]
The game processing system according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the transition process is started by selecting a transition start object displayed on the information processing device in the first mode.
[6]
The game processing system according to [5], wherein the transition processing includes displaying on the information processing device guidance prompting the user to wear the head-mounted display according to the selection of the transition start object.
[7]
The game processing system according to [5] or [6], wherein the transition processing includes transitioning to the second mode in response to selection of a selectable transition object by the player's gaze.
[8]
The one or more computer processors display a login screen for starting the first mode on the information processing device after the second mode ends,
The game processing system according to any one of [1] to [7].
[9]
The head-mounted display according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the head-mounted display includes an attachment to be worn on the head of the player, and the information processing device attached to the attachment. game processing system.
[10]
In the second mode, head tracking information for specifying at least one of the position and orientation of the head of the player is calculated based on the second detection information, and the virtual character and the virtual character according to the head tracking information are calculated. The game processing system according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the interaction of is provided.
[11]
In the second mode, the virtual character is displayed as a stereoscopic image,
In the first mode, the virtual character is displayed as an image other than a stereoscopic image,
A game processing system according to [1] to [10].
[12]
A game processing method for processing a game having a first mode and a second mode by one or more computer processors executing computer readable instructions, comprising:
providing an interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode;
a step of performing transition processing from the first mode to the second mode;
providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display worn on the player's head in the second mode after performing the transition process;
A game processing method comprising:
[13]
A game processing program for executing game processing having a first mode and a second mode by being executed by one or more computer processors,
to the one or more computer processors;
providing an interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode;
a step of performing transition processing from the first mode to the second mode;
providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display worn on the player's head in the second mode after performing the transition process;
A game processing program that runs
[14]
A game processing system comprising one or more computer processors and processing a game having a first mode and a second mode,
The one or more computer processors, by executing computer readable instructions,
In the first mode, processing is performed according to first detection information detected by an information processing device that is not worn on the player's head,
starting transition processing from the first mode to the second mode in response to selection of a transition start object displayed on the information processing device in the first mode;
confirming transition to the second mode in response to selection of a transition object different from the transition start object by a head-mounted display mounted on the player's head;
After confirming the transition to the second mode, in the second mode, performing processing according to second detection information detected by the head mounted display mounted on the head of the player;
game processing system.
[15]
The game processing system of [14], wherein the transitional object is selected by the player's gaze.
[16]
A game processing method for processing a game having a first mode and a second mode by one or more computer processors executing computer readable instructions, comprising:
a step of performing processing according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode;
starting a transition process from the first mode to the second mode in response to selection of a transition start object displayed on the information processing device in the first mode;
a step of confirming transition to the second mode in response to selection of a transition object different from the transition start object by a head-mounted display mounted on the player's head;
a step of performing processing according to second detection information detected by the head-mounted display mounted on the head of the player in the second mode after the transition to the second mode is confirmed;
A game processing method comprising:
[17]
A game processing program for executing game processing having a first mode and a second mode by being executed by one or more computer processors,
to the one or more computer processors;
a step of performing processing according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode;
starting a transition process from the first mode to the second mode in response to selection of a transition start object displayed on the information processing device in the first mode;
a step of confirming transition to the second mode in response to selection of a transition object different from the transition start object by a head-mounted display mounted on the player's head;
a step of performing processing according to second detection information detected by the head-mounted display mounted on the head of the player in the second mode after the transition to the second mode is confirmed;
A game processing program that runs

1,101 game processing system

Claims (13)

one or more computer processors for providing interaction with a virtual character in a first mode and a second mode, wherein a common common game medium different from the virtual character is used in the first mode and the second mode A game processing system for processing a game,
The one or more computer processors, by executing computer readable instructions,
In the first mode, providing interaction with the virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head,
changing a game parameter associated with the common game content in the first mode;
It is determined whether or not a mode transition condition, which is a condition for starting transition to the second mode in the first mode, is met, and if it is determined that the mode transition condition is met, the first mode is determined. performing transition processing from the 1st mode to the second mode,
providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display mounted on the head of the player in the second mode after performing the transition processing;
After performing the transition process, the common game content associated with the game parameter changed in the first mode is used in the second mode.
game processing system. further changing the game parameter of the common game content in the second mode after performing the transition process;
A game processing system according to claim 1. the game parameters of the common game content are further changed in the transition process;
After performing the transition process, the common game medium associated with the game parameter changed in the first mode and further changed in the transition process is used in the second mode.
3. A game processing system according to claim 1 or 2. further changing the game parameter of the common game medium in the first mode after transitioning from the second mode to the first mode;
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the game parameter of the common game content is further changed in another transition process for transitioning from the second mode to the first mode;
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. interacting with the virtual character in the first mode includes competing in the game with the virtual character;
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. the interaction with the virtual character in the second mode includes competing in the game with the virtual character;
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. Interaction with the virtual character in the first mode includes cooperative play in which the game is played in cooperation with the virtual character.
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The interaction with the virtual character in the second mode includes cooperative play in which the game is played in cooperation with the virtual character.
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 8. In the first mode, an item to be worn by the virtual character is selected in the second mode;
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9. Determining whether or not the mode transition condition is satisfied is performed based on the interaction with the virtual character.
A game processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10. One or more processors executing computer readable instructions to provide interaction with a virtual character in a first mode and a second mode; A game processing method for processing a game using a common game content of
providing an interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head in the first mode;
changing a game parameter associated with the common game content in the first mode;
determining whether or not a mode transition condition, which is a condition for starting transition to the second mode in the first mode, is met based on the interaction with the virtual character, and determining that the mode transition condition is met; a step of performing transition processing from the first mode to the second mode according to the determination;
providing interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information detected by a head-mounted display worn on the player's head in the second mode after performing the transition process;
with
After performing the transition process, the common game content associated with the game parameter changed in the first mode is used in the second mode.
Game processing method. providing interaction with a virtual character in a first mode and a second mode by being executed by one or more processors, wherein a common common game content different from the virtual character is provided in the first mode and the second mode; A game processing program for executing game processing used,
to the one or more processors;
providing, in the first mode, an interaction with a virtual character according to first detection information regarding the action of the player detected by an information processing device not worn on the player's head;
changing a game parameter associated with the common game content in the first mode;
determining whether or not a mode transition condition, which is a condition for starting transition to the second mode in the first mode, is met based on the interaction with the virtual character, and determining that the mode transition condition is met; a step of performing transition processing from the first mode to the second mode according to the determination;
After performing the transition processing, in the second mode, providing an interaction with the virtual character according to second detection information regarding the player's action detected by a head-mounted display worn on the player's head. and
and
After performing the transition process, the common game content associated with the game parameter changed in the first mode is used in the second mode.
game processing program.

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