JP7226912B2 - Game device, game server, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game device, game server, and program.

Crane game machines installed in amusement facilities, etc., place prize products (prize) in the field provided inside the machine so that the prize can be obtained by a crane arm (catcher) operated from the outside of the machine. is configured to For example, by operating a button, the player can move the crane arm vertically/horizontally to a position above the target prize, and cause the crane arm to grab the prize. can. In order to move the crane arm to the target position, the player changes the direction of viewing the inside of the housing (the position of the head) and operates the buttons while grasping the positional relationship between the moving crane arm and the prize. .

By the way, in recent years, a game service (hereinafter sometimes referred to as an online crane game) has been provided in which a crane game machine can be used through a network. In this type of game service, images of crane game machines are provided to electronic devices such as personal computers and smartphones used by players through a network. By performing a predetermined input operation on the electronic device while watching the video, the player can transmit an operation instruction to the crane game device to be photographed through the network and control the crane arm. As a result, the player can use the remotely installed crane game machine through the network.

JP 2014-193243 A

In a conventional online crane game, movement of a crane arm is controlled according to an input operation to an electronic device. For example, the crane game apparatus horizontally moves the crane arm laterally in response to a horizontal direction instruction, and then moves the crane arm horizontally in a vertical direction in response to a vertical direction instruction. When the horizontal positioning is completed, the crane arm moves downward to pick up the prize, then moves upward and moves horizontally to the prize drop opening.

For this reason, in conventional online crane games, in order to make it easier to give operation instructions to the crane arm, the image displayed on the electronic device is switched according to the direction in which the crane arm is moved. That is, when the crane arm is moved in the horizontal direction, an image of the crane game device taken from the vertical direction is displayed, and when the crane arm is moved in the vertical direction, an image of the crane game device taken from the horizontal direction is displayed. is switching to As a result, the crane arm moves laterally in the image to facilitate positioning.

Conventionally, however, since a crane game machine is photographed by a monocular camera, stereoscopic perception due to binocular parallax is not possible in the photographed image, making it difficult to perceive space. Also, the position of the camera for photographing the crane game device is fixed, and only images photographed from a specific direction corresponding to the moving direction of the crane arm are displayed. In other words, it is not possible to check the state of the crane arm or the prize inside the housing by displaying the video shot from the direction requested by the player. Therefore, in conventional online crane games, it is difficult to grasp the positional relationship between the moving crane arm and the prize, making it difficult for the player to position the crane arm as intended.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances described above, and an object thereof is to provide a game device, a game server, and a program that make it easier to grasp the execution status of a game.

In order to solve the above-described problems, the game apparatus of the present invention includes image input means for inputting a plurality of images of a member provided in the game apparatus that is moved in accordance with the player's operation, each of which is photographed from different directions; As a mode for displaying images on an external device, a first mode in which any one of the plurality of images input by the image input means is selected and displayed; Input means for inputting an instruction to switch between a second mode in which an image is selected and displayed on one screen and a third mode in which an image to be displayed is subjected to image processing and displayed, and according to the switching instruction, an image generating means for selecting any image from the plurality of images and generating a game image for displaying the image in one screen according to the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode; and video output means for outputting the game video to an external device.

According to the present invention, it is possible to make it easier to grasp the execution status of the game.

1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game system 5 in this embodiment; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a game server 6 according to the embodiment; FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an external configuration of a game device 10 according to the present embodiment; FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 according to the embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the game server 6 in this embodiment. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the game device 10 according to the present embodiment; 4 is a flowchart for explaining game image generation processing of the game device 10 according to the present embodiment. 4 is a flowchart for explaining play history processing of the game device 10 according to the present embodiment; The figure which shows an example of menu screen SA which the game server 6 in this embodiment provides. The figure which shows an example of the browsing screen SB displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the play screen SC displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of play history list screen SD in this embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the play-history detailed screen SE in this embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an animated verification video according to the embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SF displayed on the electronic device 2 according to the embodiment; The figure which shows an example of the play screen SG displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a game system 5 according to this embodiment. A game system 5 shown in FIG. 1 is a system for providing game services to electronic devices 2 (2-1, . . . , 2-m) connected via a network 4 including the Internet. The electronic device 2 is, for example, a personal computer, a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a television, or the like used by a player who uses the game service.

The game system 5 includes a game server 6, a video distribution server 7, and at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, . . . , 10-n).
The game server 6 is connected to the network 4 and transmits and receives data to and from the electronic device 2 . The game server 6 is connected to at least one game device 10 (10-1, 10-2, . . . , 10-n) installed in the facility through a network 8 such as a LAN (Local Area Network). , control the operation of the game device 10, transmit and receive data, and the like. In addition, the game server 6 is used for recording video images of the game device 10 during game execution in the moving image distribution server 7 and for transmitting (distributing) images recorded in the moving image distribution server 7 to the electronic devices 2 . Execute control.

The game server 6 provides a game service that allows the electronic devices 2 connected via the network 4 to play the game device 10 via the network 4 . The game server 6 transmits a game viewing image for viewing of a specific game device 10 selected from a plurality of game devices 10 in response to an instruction from the electronic device 2 connected via the network 4 . The images to be browsed can be targeted not only for game devices 10 in which games are being played by other players, but also for game devices 10 in which games are not being played.

Further, when receiving a game execution request from the electronic device 2, the game server 6 enables a specific game device 10 selected from the plurality of game devices 10 to execute the game in response to the game execution request. The game server 6 transmits a game video image of the game device 10 for game execution to the electronic device 2 that has issued the game execution request. The game server 6 outputs the operation data received from the electronic device 2 to the game device 10, and operates according to the operation data. A player who operates the electronic device 2 can perform an input operation for controlling the game device 10 while confirming the operating state of the game device 10 from the video received from the game server 6 .

In addition, the game server 6 causes the video distribution server 7 to store video data such as a game video captured by the game device 10 executing the game, reads the video data as necessary, and distributes or downloads the video data to the electronic device 2 or the like. Let The game server 6 can also provide a player-only Web page to a player who has registered as a member. The player-dedicated Web page displays the player's past game results, game usage status, coin purchases, and the like.

The game device 10 executes a game under the control of the game server 6. FIG. The game device 10 receives, via the game server 6, operation data output in accordance with the player's input operation on the electronic device 2, and executes control according to the operation data. In the game system 5 of this embodiment, the game device 10 is implemented as, for example, a crane game device. A crane game device places a prize (prize product) on a prize stage provided in a housing, and controls the movement of a crane arm (catcher) according to an input operation by a player to move the prize out of the housing. It is configured so that it can be dispensed (dropped into the prize drop opening).

For example, different prizes are placed on the plurality of game devices 10 provided in the game system 5, and the state of placing the prizes on the prize stage is different. A player who operates the electronic device 2 can check the types and conditions of the prizes placed on each of the plurality of game devices 10 and can arbitrarily select the game device 10 to play.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the game server 6 in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the game server 6 includes, for example, a CPU 6a, a RAM 6b, a storage device 6c, an input device 6d, a display device 6e, and a communication device 6f.

Based on the programs and data stored in the RAM 6b, the CPU 6a performs overall control of the game server 6, management of data stored in the storage device 6c, processing for providing network game services, and control of the game device 10. / Execute various processing such as management.

The RAM 6b stores various programs executed by the CPU 6a, data executed by various processes, and the like. The programs stored in the RAM 6b include a basic program (OS (Operating System)), a management program for controlling/managing a plurality of game devices 10, recording video to the video distribution server 7, and A video management program for controlling video playback and distribution to the electronic device 2, a judgment request receiving program for receiving a judgment request from the electronic device 2 by e-mail, etc., and a video corresponding to the judgment request from the electronic device 2 It includes a determination processing program and the like for determining the content of the game based on the video recorded in the distribution server 7 and transmitting the determination result to the electronic device 2 .

The storage device 6c stores various programs, data, and the like. Various programs and data stored in the storage device 6c are loaded into the CPU 6a and processed by the CPU 6a. The storage device 6c can store image data such as a game image of the game device 10 input from the game device 10 .

The display device 6e displays a screen according to the processing by the CPU 6a on a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). On the display device 6e, the video stored in the moving image distribution server 7 is reproduced.

The input device 6d inputs data and instructions according to various processes by the CPU 6a through input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse.
The communication device 6f controls communication with the electronic device 2 via the network 4 and communication with the video distribution server 7 and the game device 10 via the network 8 under the control of the CPU 6a.

Note that the electronic device 2 has a CPU, a RAM, a storage device, an input device, a display device, a communication device, etc., which constitute a computer, in the same manner as the game server 6 shown in FIG. Based on the programs and data stored in the RAM, the CPU of the electronic device 2 controls the entire electronic device 2, manages data stored in the storage device, and performs various processes such as processing for using network game services. Execute the process. The programs loaded into the RAM include, in addition to the basic program (OS), a viewing program for viewing sites published by the game system 5 (game server 6) or the like via the network 4, and the like.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the game device 10 (crane game device) according to the present embodiment.
It is assumed that the game device 10 shown in FIG. 3 is realized by one of two game units (left unit, right unit) mounted in one housing (the left unit in FIG. 3). Note that the game device 10 may have one game unit mounted in one housing.

The game device 10 is composed of an upper housing and a lower housing. The front and side surfaces of the outer peripheral surface of the housing of the upper housing are covered with a transparent plate so that the inside of the housing can be visually recognized through the transparent plate. Since the game device 10 is not directly operated by the player, it does not have to be covered with a transparent plate.

A crane arm 10A whose operation is controlled according to operation data input from the game server 6 is provided in the upper part of the upper housing (game space). A crane mechanism (not shown) for moving the crane arm 10A in, for example, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction (vertical direction) is provided in the upper part of the upper housing. The crane mechanism is driven according to operation data indicating, for example, lateral movement (left and right), vertical movement (back and forth), and descent (catch). An arm (gripping claw) for gripping a prize is provided at the tip of the crane arm 10A, and the operation is controlled to close (grasp an object) at a position where the prize is reached by descending. .

A front camera 12A supported by a camera stand 12B is installed on the front of the game device 10, and a side camera 14A supported by a camera stand 14B is installed on the side. The front camera 12A and the side camera 14A capture images including the crane arm 10A and prizes in the upper housing, with at least the upper housing as the imaging range.

Also, although not shown in FIG. 3, an upper camera 13A (shown in FIG. 4) is provided for photographing the inside of the upper housing of the game apparatus 10 from above. The upper camera 13A is provided, for example, on the ceiling within the upper housing, on the side upper portion of the upper housing, or on the crane arm 10A (main body).

A prize stage 10B on which prizes are placed is provided in the upper housing of the game device 10 . Although the prize stage 10B of the game device 10 shown in FIG. 3 is configured in a plane shape, it may be configured in a shape other than a plane shape so that prizes can be placed in various states. For example, the prize stage 10B can be configured to have steps such as steps, or to have a plurality of rod-shaped members spanned.

A prize drop opening 10C is formed in a part of the prize stage 10B. The prize drop opening 10C communicates with a prize outlet provided in the front surface of the lower housing through a prize guide space provided in the lower portion of the prize stage 10B. A prize dropped into the prize drop opening 10C by the operation of the crane arm 10A is detected by a prize detection sensor (to be described later). Also, the prize is guided to the prize outlet through the prize guiding space.

The front camera 12A shoots the upper housing from the front of the game device 10, so that the crane arm 10A and the prize can be seen against the background of the stage rear surface 10D and the stage side surface 10E (partition plate between the right unit and the right unit) of the upper housing. Shoot footage that contains Similarly, the side camera 14A captures an image of the upper housing from the side of the game device 10, thereby capturing an image including the crane arm 10A and the prize against the background of the stage rear surface 10D and the stage side 10E of the upper housing. do.

In addition, the upper camera 13A shoots the inside of the upper housing (prize field) from above, so that it is difficult to confirm from the images taken by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A. It is possible to shoot an image in which the positional relationship of directions can be easily grasped at the same time.

The example shown in FIG. 3 shows an example in which two cameras, the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A, are provided. The device 10 may take a picture and output the video.

In the game system 5 according to the present embodiment, images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 are transmitted to the electronic device 2 that requested the execution of the game and the game device 10 viewing the game. Distribute through server 6 .

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the game device 10 according to this embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 4, inside the housing of the game device 10, a control PCB (Print Circuit Board) 68 on which various units are mounted is provided. Units mounted on the control PCB 68 include a CPU 70 , a RAM 71 , a storage device 72 , an input/output processing unit 73 , a camera control section 74 , a motor drive section 76 , an arm drive section 77 and a communication control section 78 .

The CPU 70 controls the entire game apparatus 10 by executing control programs and game programs stored in the RAM 71 or storage device 72 . The CPU 70 controls the motor drive section 76 and the arm drive section 77 to operate the crane arm 10A according to operation data from the game server 6 input through the communication control section 78 . The CPU 70 also controls image processing for images taken by the front camera 12A, upper camera 13A and side camera 14A, output of images taken by the front camera 12A, upper camera 13A and side camera 14A. CPU 70 inputs a plurality of images captured by front camera 12A, upper camera 13A, and side camera 14A, and generates game images displayed on game device 10 during game execution. The game image may include not only one image of a plurality of images, but also an image in which a plurality of images are displayed on one screen.

The RAM 71 temporarily stores various programs such as control programs and game programs, as well as various data for controlling the game associated with the processing executed by the CPU 70 . The data recorded in the RAM 71 includes, for example, position data indicating the position (X position, Y position) of the crane arm 10A, and images generated based on images captured by the front camera 12A, upper camera 13A, and side camera 14A. Game video data and the like are included.

The storage device 72 stores programs and data in non-volatile storage media such as ROMs and hard disks.

The input/output processing unit 73 is an interface with various input/output devices provided outside the control PCB 68 . For example, a prize sensor 84 is connected to the input/output processing unit 73 . The prize sensor 84 detects a prize dropped into the prize drop opening 10</b>C and outputs a detection signal to the input/output processing unit 73 .

The camera control unit 74 controls photographing by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A according to instructions from the CPU 70. FIG.

The motor driving section 76 controls the driving of the motor 82 provided in the mechanism section 69 (movement control in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction). The arm driving section 77 controls driving of an arm motor 83 for opening and closing the arm provided on the crane arm 10A.

The motor 82 is driven by the motor drive unit 76, and includes an X-axis motor for moving the crane arm 10A in the X-axis direction (horizontal direction), a Y-axis motor for moving the crane arm 10A in the Y-axis direction (vertical direction), and a Y-axis motor for moving the crane arm 10A in the Z-axis direction. It includes a Z-axis motor that moves (up and down). The arm motor 83 is driven by the arm driving section 77 and opens and closes the crane arm 10A.

When the operation data (“CATCH”) for causing the crane arm 10A to execute the prize acquisition sequence is received from the game server 6, the motor drive unit 76 and the arm drive unit 77 cause the motor 82 to execute the prize acquisition sequence. lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it reaches the prize, and the arm motor 83 causes the arm to pick up the prize. to open the arm.

The communication control unit 78 controls communication with the game server 6 and the video distribution server 7 under the control of the CPU 70 .

Next, the operation of the game system 5 in this embodiment will be described.
FIG. 5 is a flow chart for explaining the operation of the game server 6 in this embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (game processing) of the game device 10 in this embodiment. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the game video generation processing of the game device 10 in this embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining play history processing of the game device 10 in this embodiment.

The game server 6 publishes a site (hereinafter referred to as a game site) for providing network game services via the network 4 . The game server 6 causes the electronic device 2 that has accessed the game site to display a menu screen for selecting a game device 10 to be executed or viewed (step A0). Here, it is assumed that the electronic device 2 is a personal computer with a relatively wide display screen.

When using the network game service provided by the game server 6, the player must register as a member in advance to obtain unique identification data (user ID, password, etc.), and a virtual player managed as data. It is assumed that it is necessary to purchase a suitable coin (hereinafter simply referred to as a coin). Identification data shall be entered when accessing the game site. Purchasing coins is executed by carrying out a predetermined procedure through the electronic device 2 at, for example, a site for purchasing coins. The game server 6 stores and manages coins possessed by each player (player ID) registered as a member. It should be noted that the network game service may be used not only by purchasing coins in advance but also by paying with a credit card or an electronic money card.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the menu screen SA provided by the game server 6 in this embodiment.
The menu screen SA shown in FIG. 9 is provided with a coin display area SA1, a function selection area SA2, and a game selection area SA3.

The coin display area SA1 displays the number of coins possessed by the player (in units of TC). A coin purchase button SA11 is provided in the coin display area SA1, and can be moved to a site for coin purchase.

The function selection area SA2 is provided with a plurality of buttons for selecting functions executable through the game site. For example, the function selection area SA2 is provided with a title search button SA21, a free gift button SA22, a play history button SA23, a notification button SA24, a setting button SA25, an account button SA26, an other button SA27, a support button SA28, and a game button SA29. ing. The play history button SA23 is a button for viewing records of past game plays performed by the player.

The game selection area SA3 is provided with a plurality of buttons SA31 corresponding to each of the plurality of game devices 10 for selecting the game device 10 to be played. Buttons provided in the game selection area SA3 display images of prizes that can be obtained by playing the game device 10, prize information SA31a that describes the prize, and whether or not the game device 10 is being played by another player. , placement pattern information SA31c indicating the placement pattern of prizes on the prize stage, the number of coins SA31d required to play the game device 10, and the like. For example, prizes can be placed directly on the prize stage (jikaoki), or placed on or hooked on a rod-shaped member passed between the sides of the housing above the prize stage (hashiwatashi). .

The plurality of buttons SA31 are classified into, for example, a plurality of categories (eg, "recommended", "plush toy", "figure", etc.), and horizontal scrolling can be performed for each category according to the operation of the button SA32. In addition, the menu screen SA is provided with an up scroll button SA41 and a down scroll button SA42, allowing the plurality of buttons SA31 displayed in the game selection area SA3 to be vertically scrolled.

A player operating the electronic device 2 can select one of the game devices 10 by referring to the buttons SA31 corresponding to each of the plurality of game devices 10 displayed on the menu screen SA.

When the game server 6 (CPU 6a) selects one of the game devices 10 (button SA31) from the menu screen SA on the electronic device 2 (step A1, Yes), the game server 6 (CPU 6a) to send a game viewing request. The CPU 6a receives a game viewing video output from the game device 10 that has transmitted the game viewing request, and electronically converts video data for displaying a viewing screen (hereinafter referred to as a viewing screen) including the game viewing video. Output to the device 2 (step A2). The video for viewing the game is a composite image obtained by photographing the game device 10 from different directions with the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 and displaying the video on one screen. In addition, the image|video image|photographed by the upper camera 13A may be included. The video data for displaying the browsing screen is for displaying the video for game browsing in the video display area provided in the frame designed for game browsing.

The video for viewing the game is a video synthesized to display a plurality of videos on one screen in the game device 10, but video data captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A can also be used. good. In this case, the game server 6 synthesizes a plurality of video data corresponding to each of the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A input from the game device 10 to generate a game viewing video.

Based on the image data of the browsing screen input from the game server 6, the electronic device 2 causes the display device to display the browsing screen.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the browsing screen SB displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment.
On the browsing screen SB shown in FIG. 10, game browsing images SB1 (SB1a, SB1b) captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 are displayed. On the browsing screen SB, a game browsing image SB1a taken by the front camera 12A and a game browsing image SB1b taken by the side camera 14A are simultaneously displayed in one screen. Shooting direction information SB2a and SB2b indicating the shooting direction are added to the display areas for displaying the game viewing images SB1a and SB1b, respectively.

On the viewing screen SB, when another player is playing the game, the state of play can be confirmed by the game viewing images SB1 (SB1a, SB1b) . For example, it is possible to simultaneously check how the crane arm 10A is being moved with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage by viewing images from the front and side directions. By comparing images taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. This can be used as a reference when playing. Also, even if other players are not playing the game, the state of the prize placed on the prize stage can be checked based on the images taken from different directions. Therefore, it is possible to judge the ease of winning prizes and to consider how to move the crane arm 10A when playing the game before playing the game.

In addition, on the browsing screen SB, a reservation button SB3, a coin purchase button SB4, a detail button SB5, a prize information SB6, an up button SB7, a down button SB8, and a reservation number display area are provided in a frame designed for viewing the game. SB9 and viewing number display area SB10 are included.

The reservation button SB3 is a button for instructing reservation of play of the game device 10 being browsed. By operating the reservation button SB3, if another player has already reserved the game device 10, the player is added to the reservation waiting state, and if there is no reservation by another player, the game can be shifted to the game play. The coin purchase button SB4 is a button for moving to a site for coin purchase. The up button SB7 and the down button SB8 are buttons for instructing to change the game device 10 to be browsed. By operating the upper button SB7 or the lower button SB8, other game devices 10 are targeted according to a preset order without returning to the menu screen SA and again selecting the game device 10 from the game selection area SA3. The display can be switched to the viewing screen SB.

In the reservation number display area SB9, the number of players who have reserved and registered for the game device 10 to be browsed is displayed. In addition, the viewing number display area SB10 displays the number of players who are viewing the game device 10 to be viewed.

Here, in the electronic device 2, it is assumed that the reservation button SB3 has been operated on the browsing screen SB. The electronic device 2 transmits a reservation request to the game server 6 . When the CPU 6a of the game server 6 receives the reservation request from the electronic device 2 (step A3, Yes), it checks whether the player has the number of coins required to play the game device 10 (coins have been purchased). discriminate.

Here, when it is determined that the player does not have the necessary number of coins to play (step A4, No), the CPU 6a returns the display on the game device 10 to the browsing screen SB. On the browsing screen SB, by operating the coin purchase button SB4, it is possible to move to a site for purchasing coins and carry out procedures for purchasing coins necessary for playing the game.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the player has the necessary number of coins to play (step A4, Yes), the CPU 6a sends a confirmation response to the player of the electronic device 2 regarding the play reservation and coin consumption. A confirmation screen (not shown) for asking is displayed on the game device 10 . On the play reservation confirmation screen, for example, a message "Do you want to make a play reservation?" indicating that coins will be consumed by playing the game is displayed along with "Yes" or "No" buttons, which the player can select. Let In addition, on the play reservation confirmation screen, the number of tickets that can be used instead of coins (obtained by a separate procedure from coin purchase), the number of coins, the number of times you can play, etc. to refer to.

Here, if the play reservation is canceled by selecting the "No" button (step A5, No), the CPU 6a returns the display on the game device 10 to the viewing screen SB. On the other hand, when the execution of the play reservation is instructed by selecting the "Yes" button (step A5, Yes), the CPU 6a assumes that an approval response has been received for the play reservation and coin consumption, and can shift to game play. Determine whether the That is, the CPU 6a determines whether the game device 10 is idle.

If the game device 10 is not idle (step A6, No), the CPU 6a adds the player (browsing electronic device 2) to reservation registration (step A12). In this case, the CPU 6a outputs to the electronic device 2 video data for displaying a viewing screen including the game viewing video (step A13). That is, the viewing screen SB is displayed on the electronic device 2, and subsequently the video of the game device 10 being played by another player is viewed, thereby waiting for the game to be played.

The player of the electronic device 2 waits until his or her turn comes around while viewing how other players are playing the game. It should be noted that, when a reservation is registered, instead of continuing the viewing state of the reserved game device 10, for example, it may be possible to shift to viewing or playing a game of another game device 10. FIG. As a result, the player can effectively utilize the reservation waiting time. In addition, by enabling other game devices 10 to play games, it is possible to improve the operating efficiency of the game device 10 .

Note that when viewing or playing a game on a game device 10 different from the game device 10 that has been reserved and registered, if the reservation order of the game device 10 that has been reserved and registered is approaching (for example, the order set in advance (2 second, etc.)), the electronic device 2 may be notified (display on the viewing screen or the play screen, etc.). In response to this notification, the player of the electronic device 2 can select whether to continue browsing or playing the game on the currently running game device 10 or return to waiting for the game play on the game device 10 for which the reservation has been registered. .

On the other hand, if the game device 10 is idle when the reservation is registered (step A6, Yes), and if the play by the other player waiting for the reservation ends (step A14, Yes), the CPU 6a A game start preparation screen (not shown) is displayed on the device 2 . On the game start preparation screen, for example, a "start" button for instructing the start of game play is displayed, and the remaining time (effective time) during which the operation of the "start" button is effective is counted down. For example, the initial valid time is set to "60" seconds, and the display is changed to "59", "58", and so on as time elapses.

Here, if the "start" button is not operated within the valid time, the CPU 6a determines that the game reservation has been canceled by the player of the electronic device 2 (step A7, No), and deletes the reservation registration. , the number of people currently reserved is subtracted (-1) (step A11). Then, the CPU 6a causes the electronic device 2 to display the menu screen SA and returns to the processing state (step A0).

On the other hand, if the "start" button is operated within the effective time (step A7, Yes), the CPU 6a starts game processing for causing the player of the electronic device 2 to execute the game device 10 (step A8). The CPU 6a updates (subtracts) the number of coins possessed by the player according to the number of coins required for executing the game, and causes the game device 10 to start the game.

The CPU 6a outputs a game execution request to the game device 10, and displays a play screen (hereinafter referred to as a play screen) including a game play video output from the game device 10 in response to the game execution request. is transmitted to the electronic device 2 to display the play screen. On the play screen, an image of the game device 10 captured within a frame for game play is displayed.

Note that the game play video is basically the same as the game viewing video described above. The image data for displaying the play screen is for displaying the image for game play in the image display area provided in the frame designed for game play.

Based on the video data of the play screen input from the game server 6, the electronic device 2 causes the display device to display the play screen.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the play screen SC displayed on the electronic device 2 in this embodiment.
In the play screen SC shown in FIG. 11, game play images SC1 (SC1a, SC1b) captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A of the game device 10 are displayed. On the play screen SC, a game play image SC1a taken by the front camera 12A and a game play image SC1b taken by the side camera 14A are displayed simultaneously in one screen. Shooting direction information SC2a, SC2b indicating the shooting direction is added to each of the display areas for displaying the game play images SC1a, SC1b.

On the play screen SC, the position of the crane arm 10A with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage can be simultaneously confirmed by images viewed from the front and side directions. By comparing images taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. As a result, the positioning of the crane arm 10A with respect to the prize can be reliably and easily performed as intended by the player. That is, it is possible to make it easier to grasp the execution status of the game.

Also, on the play screen SC, a "CATCH" button SC3 provided in a frame designed for game play, directional buttons SC4, SC5, SC6 and SC7 corresponding to left, right, down, and up directions, respectively, and remaining game play time are displayed. A display area SC8, a reservation number display area SC9, and a viewing number display area SC10 are included.

The "CATCH" button SC3 is a button for causing the crane arm 10A to execute a prize acquisition sequence. The direction buttons SC4 and SC5 are buttons for moving the crane arm 10A in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction) when viewed from the front, and the direction buttons SC6 and SC7 are buttons for moving the crane arm 10A in the front-rear direction (Y It is a button for moving in the axial direction).

In the play screen SC shown in FIG. 11, four direction buttons SC4 to SC7 are displayed because the target is the game device 10 that moves the crane arm 10A in the front, rear, left, and right directions. In the case of the game device 10 that is played by moving the crane arm 10A only in one direction, two direction buttons are displayed.

The number of reserved players display area SC9 displays the number of players who have reserved and registered for the game device 10 to be browsed. In addition, the viewing number display area SC10 displays the number of players who are viewing the game device 10 to be viewed.

When the game starts, the CPU 6a displays the initial value of the remaining game play time, for example, "60" seconds, in the remaining game play time display area SC8, and changes the display to "59", "58", and so on as time elapses. To go. Further, the CPU 6 a receives operation data corresponding to each button in response to the input operation to the direction buttons SC4, SC5, SC6, SC7 of the electronic device 2, and outputs the operation data to the game device 10. FIG. The game device 10 operates the crane arm 10A according to the operation data. The player of the electronic device 2 can confirm the movement of the crane arm 10A based on the game play images SC1a and SC1b displayed on the play screen SC shown in FIG.

In the game device 10 of this embodiment, the direction buttons SC4, SC5, SC6, and SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time. Therefore, when moving the crane arm 10A, the relative positions of the crane arm 10A and the prize can be checked while simultaneously confirming the game play image SC1a viewed from the front and the game play image SC1b viewed from the lateral direction. Knowing the relationship, it is possible to fine-tune the position of the crane arm 10A. Therefore, the crane arm 10A can be moved accurately to the position intended by the player.

In the example shown in FIG. 11, in the play screen SC, the game play image SC1a taken by the front camera 12A and the game play image SC1b taken by the side camera 14A are simultaneously displayed in one screen. However, it is also possible to switch the game play video during the game play.

The game server 6 switches the game play video to be displayed on the play screen SC in accordance with a game video switching instruction input by the player's operation on the electronic device 2, or in accordance with a preset condition. process for In this case, the game server 6 outputs operation data indicating a video switching instruction to the game device 10 . Note that the preset conditions include, for example, the elapsed time, the position of the crane arm 10A, the preset player operation, the kind of prize, the form of the prize stage, and the manner in which the prize is placed on the prize stage (placement form information). and so on.

As a method for switching the video for game play, for example, any one of the plurality of videos captured by each of the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, and the side camera 14A provided in the game device 10 is selected. The second mode is to select and display at least two images with different combinations from among a plurality of images. There is a third form of displaying, and so on.

Any one of the first to third modes can be combined for implementation. For example, as the first mode, an image captured by the front camera 12A is selected, one of the two display areas for displaying the game play image is displayed as the normal image, and the other display area is displayed as the third mode. Display an enlarged image. As a result, the positional relationship between the tip of the crane arm 10A and the prize can be confirmed by the enlarged image while confirming the overall state including the crane arm 10A and the prize.

Note that, when game play images are input from the game device 10, the game server 6 instructs the game device 10 to generate images for displaying the images in the above-described first to third modes on one screen. . The game device 10 generates a game play image according to an instruction from the game server 6 and outputs the image to the game server 6 .

In addition, in the case where the game server 6 is configured to input video data captured by each of a plurality of cameras input from the game device 10, the game server 6 receives the above-described A video for game play is generated for displaying the video in the first to third modes on one screen.

When the vertical and horizontal positioning of the crane arm 10A is completed while confirming the game play image displayed on the play screen SC, the player operates the "CATCH" button SC3 to instruct the execution of the prize acquisition sequence.

When the CPU 6a of the game server 6 receives the operation data instructing the prize acquisition sequence from the electronic device 2, it causes the game device 10 to execute the prize acquisition sequence. The game device 10 causes the crane arm 10A to perform the operation of the prize acquisition sequence. That is, the game device 10 lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it reaches the prize, causes the arm to grab the prize, and then raises the crane arm 10A and moves it to the top of the prize drop opening 10C. Then move the arm to open.

As a result, when a prize is dropped into the prize drop opening 10C, the prize sensor 84 detects it. The game device 10 notifies the game server 6 that the prize has been paid out (success in obtaining the prize) in response to the detection signal from the prize sensor 84 . Further, if the prize sensor 84 does not detect the prize within a predetermined time (for example, two seconds) after the execution of the prize obtaining sequence, the game device 10 confirms that the prize did not drop into the prize drop opening 10C (the failure). The game server 6 executes processing in response to the notification of prize acquisition from the game device 10 . For example, when the game server 6 is notified that the prize has been successfully won, the game server 6 causes the electronic device 2 to display a game-acquisition message screen (for example, "Congratulations on winning the prize") instead of the play screen SC.

In the above description, the direction buttons SC4 to SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time, but the "CATCH" button SC3 can be operated only once within the remaining game play time. be operable.

Also, it is possible to change the control over the crane arm 10A according to the remaining game play time when an instruction is given by operating the "CATCH" button SC3. For example, even if there is not enough time left to complete the prize acquisition sequence in the remaining game play time when there is an instruction by operating the "CATCH" button SC3, for example, the crane arm 10A can be moved horizontally. Increases the speed of movement in the direction (left, right, front, back) during normal control (within the remaining game play time). As a result, the prize acquisition sequence can be completed, and the lost time after the game play remaining time becomes "0" can be shortened. By shortening the lost time, when the player continues to play the game, the time until the next game starts can be shortened, and the operating efficiency of the game device 10 can be improved.

Also, during execution of the prize acquisition sequence, for example, if there is an instruction by operating the "CATCH" button SC3, the prize acquisition sequence is terminated midway and the crane arm 10A is moved faster than usual to the initial position. , so that the next game can be started. For example, when the player determines that the prize obtaining sequence does not need to be continued, the time required to move to the next game can be shortened by ending the prize obtaining sequence halfway. A situation in which it is not necessary to continue the prize acquisition sequence is, for example, when the prize is not grasped by the arm, or when the purpose of moving the prize by the crane arm 10A is achieved (there is no need to move the prize to the prize drop opening). , there is a situation.

Furthermore, when there is an instruction by operating the "CATCH" button SC3, the prize acquisition sequence is started. You may make it control so that it may return to an initial position.

Further, the CPU 6a of the game server 6 executes a game result recording process for recording the game result of one game as a play history for each player in association with the player's identification data (step A9).

In the game result recording process, for example, identification data (play ID) unique to one game is set, information about prizes placed on the game device 10 (prize image, prize description information, etc.), game play information, etc. The date and time, the status indicating the success/failure of acquiring a prize as a game result, etc. are recorded. Further, the video data of the video captured by the game device 10 during the execution of the game is recorded in the video distribution server 7. - 特許庁The video data recorded in the game recording process is, for example, game play video from the start of the game until a predetermined time after the prize acquisition sequence is executed, or video data captured by each of a plurality of cameras input from the game device 10. Any or all can be targeted. The game result recorded by the game result recording process is used in the later-described play history process. Further, in the game result recording process, data such as the number of game continuations and the number (and types) of prizes won are recorded for each player as the usage of the game device 10 by the player.

Next, the CPU 6a of the game server 6 causes the electronic device 2 to display a continue confirmation screen for confirming whether to continue the game. On the continue confirmation screen, for example, the message "CONTINUE?" In addition, the number of owned tickets, the number of coins, the number of playable times, etc. are displayed on the continuation confirmation screen for reference in deciding whether to continue the game.

Here, if the game play is canceled by selecting the "No" button (step A10, Yes ), the CPU 6a subtracts the current reserved number of people according to the end of the game play by one player. (-1) (step A11), and the display on the game device 10 is returned to the menu screen SA. The game server 6 also instructs the game device 10 to end the game.

On the other hand, if the continuation of the game play is instructed by selecting the "Yes" button (step A10, No ), the CPU 6a, in the same manner as described above, determines the number of coins possessed by the player as the number of coins required for executing the game. While updating (subtracting) according to the number, the game by the game device 10 is started. Thereafter, in the same manner as described above, processing for game play is executed (steps A7 to A10). Therefore, the player can repeat the game multiple times to win one prize.

Next, game processing by the game device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When the CPU 70 of the game device 10 receives a game viewing request from the game server 6 (step B1, Yes), it executes a game image generation process to generate images based on the images captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A. Then, a game viewing image is generated by the game image generating process and output to the game server 6 (step B2 ).

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing game video generation processing by the game device 10 in this embodiment.
The CPU 70 of the game device 10 receives image data of a plurality of images input from the front camera 12A and the side camera 14 (step C1), synthesizes the plurality of images, and displays them on one screen of the game device 10. A video for viewing the game is generated (step C2). The CPU 70 outputs the game viewing image to the game server 6 through the communication control section 78 (step C3). An image displayed on the game device 10 based on the game viewing image is shown in FIG. 10, for example.

When the game server 6 generates a game viewing image, the CPU 70 of the game device 10 outputs the image data input by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A to the game server 6 (steps C1 and C3). .

After that, when the CPU 70 of the game device 10 receives a game execution request from the game server 6 (step B3, Yes), it executes the game image generation processing in the same manner as described above, and images are captured by the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A. A video for game play is generated based on the generated video and output to the game server 6 (step B4). An image displayed on the game device 10 based on the game play image is shown in FIG. 11, for example.

After that, when the game device 10 receives operation data for any of the direction buttons SC4 to SC7 of the play screen SC in the game device 10 from the game server 6 (step B8, Yes), the crane arm 10A is moved according to the operation data. Control movement (step B9). As described above, in the game device 10 of the present embodiment, the direction buttons SC4 to SC7 can be operated any number of times within the remaining game play time. Control is performed to move the crane arm 10A each time according to the operation data received. Also, the game device 10 continues to output the game play video to the game server 6 while the game is being executed.

On the other hand, when the CPU 70 receives operation data instructing switching of the game play image from the game server 6 during the game (step B6, Yes), the CPU 70 executes image switching control according to the switching instruction (step B7). . That is, in the game image generation process, the CPU 70 changes the game play image to be displayed on the play screen SC of the game device 10 (step C5) according to the content of the image switching indicated by the operation data (step C4, Yes). . It should be noted that, in addition to the image data from the front camera 12A and the side camera 14A, the image data from the top camera 13A is input according to the content of switching of the game play image (step C1).

In video switching control, as described above, a video for game play is generated by combining the first to third modes or any one of the first to third modes.

For example, when an instruction is given to switch the display of the image captured by the upper camera 13A, the image captured by the upper camera 13A can be displayed instead of the image captured by the front camera 12A or the side camera 14A. can. Since the upper camera 13A photographs the inside of the upper housing from above, it is possible to grasp the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize when viewed from above. In a general crane game device, it is only possible to check the inside of the housing from the surroundings of the housing. It is possible to provide operability that cannot be obtained with a crane game machine.

Further, when animation is instructed as the third mode, the CPU 70 generates an animation image by performing image processing on images taken by the front camera 12A, the upper camera 13A, or the side camera 14A, for example. For example, the CPU 70 detects various objects such as the crane arm 10A, prizes, and prize fields (prize drop openings) from the video, displays them in graphics, and corresponds to the crane arm 10A and prizes that change in the video. Create an animation that changes the position of a shape that moves. In addition, the animation images are added with figures representing objects unrelated to the images, such as decoration figures for game production (enjoyment), figures advising the player about the direction of movement of the crane arm 10A, various character messages, and the like. It is also possible to As a result, it is possible to add an effect that cannot be obtained with a general crane game machine, and to provide amusement to the player.

While the game is being executed (step C6, No), the CPU 70 continues the process of generating the game play image according to the instruction to switch the image (steps C1 to C5).

Next, when the game device 10 receives operation data for the "CATCH" button SC3 on the play screen SC of the game device 10 from the game server 6 (step B10, Yes), it executes prize acquisition sequence control (step B11). . That is, the game device 10 lowers the tip of the crane arm 10A to a position where it reaches the prize, causes the arm to grab the prize, and then raises the crane arm 10A and moves it to the top of the prize drop opening 10C. Then move the arm to open. After that, the game device 10 notifies the game server 6 of the success or failure of obtaining the prize according to the detection signal from the prize sensor 84 .

When the game is repeatedly executed by the player of the electronic device 2, the game device 10 repeatedly executes the processes described above (steps B4 to B12). When the game server 6 instructs the game to end the game (step B12, No), the game device 10 ends the game process.

Next, play history processing by the game server 6 in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

As described above, the game server 6 records the game result for each game when the game device 10 is played by the player of the electronic device 2 . The player can browse past game results recorded in the game server 6 . In viewing the game results, the player requests the administrator of the game system 5 to determine whether or not the prize acquisition was successful, or re-determines whether or not the prize acquisition was successful. You can request verification of the acquisition of prizes to do so.

When the game server 6 executes the play history process, the player operating the electronic device 2 operates the play history button SA23 on the menu screen SA shown in FIG.

When the game server 6 (CPU 6a) determines that the play history button SA23 of the menu screen SA has been operated in the electronic device 2 (step A1, Yes), the game result recorded as the play history for the player is determined. Then, the play history list is generated, and the play history list screen is displayed on the electronic device 2 (step D1).

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the play history list screen SD in this embodiment.
The play history list screen SD shown in FIG. 12 displays, for example, a prize image SD1a, a game play date and time SD1b, a station number SD1c for identifying the game device 10, and prize description information SD1d for the game result of one game. The player can refer to the displayed information and arbitrarily select any game result from the play history list screen SD.

Here, when a game result is selected from the play history list screen SD (step D2, Yes), the CPU 6a of the game server 6 generates a play history detail screen for the selected game result, display (step D3).

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the play history detail screen SE in this embodiment.
On the play history detail screen SE shown in FIG. 13, a video area SE1, an information area SE2, an acquisition verification request button SE3, an acquisition determination request button SE4, and a return button SE5 are displayed.

A video display area SE1p for displaying a video image is provided in the video area SE1. In addition, a playback button SE1a for video control, a playback time/remaining time SE1b, a seek bar SE1c, a full screen button SE1d, and a download button SE1e are displayed below the video display area SE1p. The full screen button SE1d can enlarge the image display area SE1p to full screen and display the image. The download button SE1e can download a video file of video data recorded as a game result.

The information area SE2 displays, for example, information about the prize (name of the prize, etc.), date and time of game play, status indicating success/failure of winning the prize, and play ID, which are recorded as game results. The information area SE2 is also provided with an address input area for inputting an e-mail address to which determination results are to be sent when the player requests acquisition determination.

Acquisition verification request button SE3 is a button for requesting prize acquisition verification for re-determining whether or not prize acquisition is successful. The acquisition determination request button SE4 is a button for requesting the administrator or the like of the game device 10 to determine whether a prize has been acquired. The return button SE5 is a button for returning the display to the play history list screen SD.

Here, when the play button SE1a in the video area SE1 is operated (step D4, Yes), the CPU 6a of the game server 6 sends the video data captured during the game play recorded as the game result from the video distribution server 7. Upon reception, the reproduction of this reproduction data is started and displayed in the image display area SE1p (step D5). If there is no operation during reproduction of the video data, the CPU 6a reproduces and displays the video to the end of the video data (step D6, Yes).

The image data reproduced here may be, for example, game play images including images captured by a plurality of cameras, or a single image captured by any one of the front camera 12A, the side camera 14A, or the upper camera 13A. It is good as Which image is to be displayed may be set in advance in the game server 6, or may be set in advance according to an instruction from the player. Alternatively, the player may designate the image immediately before or during the image reproduction. As a result, the past game play status can be confirmed by a plurality of different images, and it is possible for the player to easily verify the game in which it has been determined that the winning of the prize has failed.

As a result of confirming the video, the player confirms that the status is "failed" (failed to obtain the prize), but if it seems that the prize has been obtained (has doubts), the player requests acquisition verification or acquisition determination. can do

Examples of situations in which a prize has been won even if the status is "failure" include, for example, the prize being too small to be detected by the prize sensor 84, or the prize reflecting light due to the optical prize sensor 84. Furthermore, it is possible that a plurality of prizes fall into the prize drop opening 10C at the same time and the number of prizes cannot be determined. Furthermore, the prize sensor 84 does not reach the position of the prize sensor 84 in spite of the fact that the prize is caught in the prize drop opening 10C or the prize is large, and the prize is actually dropped into the prize drop opening. There are situations that are not detected by 84.

Here, if the acquisition determination request button SE4 is operated (step D7, Yes), the CPU 6a transmits an acquisition determination request to the administrator or the like of the game device 10 (step D8). It should be noted that, when requesting acquisition judgment, the e-mail address to which the judgment result is to be sent is to be entered in the address input area of the information area SE2. Also, the acquisition determination request includes the information (play ID, e-mail address, status, etc.) displayed in the information area SE2.

As a method of transmitting the acquisition determination request, for example, display on the management screen of the game device 10 displayed on the display device 6e of the game server 6, send an e-mail to the administrator or the like, or use SNS (Social Networking Service). It is possible to use a method such as notification by

When the administrator or the like receives the acquisition determination request, the administrator or the like accesses the video distribution server 7 from the game server 6 or an electronic device (personal computer, etc.) used by the administrator or the like, and obtains, for example, the play ID included in the acquisition determination request. , the video data of the game to be requested for acquisition determination is specified, and the video during game play is reproduced and displayed. The manager or the like confirms the image during game play and determines whether the player has won the prize. As a result, when it is confirmed that the prize has been won, the game server 6 changes the status to indicate that the prize has been successfully obtained in response to an operation by the administrator or the like, and changes the status to indicate that the prize has been obtained. Allow work (delivery of prizes, etc.) to be performed. In addition, the game server 6 transmits an e-mail indicating the success of winning the prize as the judgment result of the prize acquisition judgment to the e-mail address included in the acquisition judgment request.

In addition, when it is confirmed that no prize has been won as a result of the prize acquisition determination, the game server 6 sends an e-mail to the e-mail address included in the prize acquisition determination request as a prize acquisition determination result. send an email indicating the failure of the

It should be noted that if the acquisition determination request is received through the SNS, the determination result may be transmitted through the SNS. In this case, instead of the e-mail address, the player inputs data indicating the SNS transmission destination in the information area SE2 of the play history detail screen SE. Also, the game server 6 may display the result of the acquisition determination request on a web page dedicated to the player.

In addition, if the manager or the like can respond to the acquisition determination request in a short period of time, the game server 6 inputs the determination result of the prize acquisition determination by the manager or the like, and sends the determination result to the electronic device 2 . screen (for example, the information area SE2 of the play history detail screen SE).

The player who has transmitted the acquisition judgment request by operating the acquisition judgment request button SE4 receives, for example, the result of the prize acquisition judgment (success/failure in acquiring the prize) sent by the administrator or the like by the electronic device 2 used by the player. can be verified.

The acquisition determination request to the administrator or the like may include data indicating the usage status such as the number of game continues and the number (and types) of acquired prizes. For example, when the number of continuations is relatively large, that is, as a result of repeating the game many times, the manager or the like has reached a situation where it seems that a prize has been won (for example, a state in which the prize is caught in the prize drop opening 10C). If it is determined, it can be determined that the prize has been successfully obtained. In other words, by sending data indicating the usage status and making it possible to determine whether a prize has been won, the staff who manage the actual crane game machines installed in amusement facilities, etc., carry out their normal management work It is possible to determine whether or not a prize is obtained in the same manner as in the above.

On the other hand, if the acquisition verification request button SE3 is operated (step D9, Yes), the CPU 6a generates a verification video based on the video data corresponding to the play ID, and displays it in the video display area SE1p (step D10). ). In the verification image, for example, various objects such as the crane arm 10A, the prize, and the prize field (the prize drop opening 10C) are detected from the video, and each of them is graphically displayed. Create an animation in which the position of the shape corresponding to changes. In addition, the prize and the prize drop opening 10C, which are the reference for prize acquisition determination, are visualized even if they are hidden in the actual image, so that it is easy to judge whether the prize is dropped into the prize drop opening 10C.

In addition, the CPU 6a executes prize acquisition determination based on the animated verification video (step D11).

FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams showing an example of an animated verification image in this embodiment. FIGS. 14A and 14B show the state after the prize acquisition sequence control is executed for the crane arm 10A. Also, FIG. 14(A) shows a verification image based on the image taken by the upper camera 13A, and FIG. 14(B) shows a verification image based on the image taken by the side camera 14A. showing.

For example, in the verification video, virtual lines VL1 and VL2 indicating the positions of the prize drop opening 10C hidden by the prizes OB1 and OB2 are displayed, and the percentage of the prize drop opening 10C that includes the prizes OB1 and OB2 is calculated. If the percentage included in the range of the prize drop opening 10C is larger than a predetermined reference value, it is determined that the prize acquisition is successful, and if it is equal to or less than the reference value, it is determined that the prize acquisition is unsuccessful ( Step D11). For example, verification videos based on videos shot from a plurality of different directions may be combined for determination, or if any one of the verification videos satisfies the conditions, it may be determined that the prize has been successfully acquired. good.

In the verification images shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the parts included in the range of the prize drop opening 10C of the prizes OB1 and OB2 are displayed in a color different from that of the others, for example, so that the grounds for determining whether the prize is won are displayed. clearly indicate to the player. This makes it possible to convince the player of the determination result based on the verification video.

Furthermore, the acquisition determination is not limited to the data based on the positional relationship between the prize and the prize drop opening 10C described above, but data indicating the game usage status (number of continuations, number of prizes won (and type), etc.) may be used. . For example, if the number of continuations is greater than a preset number, the aforementioned reference value for determining prize acquisition is lowered. This makes it easier for the prize acquisition to be determined to be successful. In addition, when the number of winning prizes is greater than a preset number, the reference value can be raised to make it easier to determine that the winning of prizes has failed. Note that the determination method in acquisition verification is not limited to the method described above.

The CPU 6a displays the determination result, for example, in the information area SE2 (status) of the play history detail screen SE (step D12).

The player can confirm the determination result (success/failure in obtaining the prize) by the verification image displayed in the image display area SE1p and the display of the status. The CPU 6a records the determination result of the acquisition verification and terminates the acquisition verification process (step D13).

When the return button SE5 is operated (step D14, Yes), the CPU 6a causes the electronic device 2 to display the play history list screen SD (step D1). When any game result is selected from the play history list screen SD (step D2, Yes), the CPU 6a executes the process for the selected game result in the same manner as described above (steps D3 to D14). When an operation to close the play history detail screen SE is performed, the CPU 6a ends the play history processing (step D15, Yes), and causes the electronic device 2 to display the menu screen (step A0).

In this way, in the play history processing in the present embodiment, it is possible to check the results of games played in the past, including the images of the games played. Also, if there is any doubt about the determination result of prize acquisition, it is possible to make a request for prize acquisition determination or a request for verification of prize acquisition. As a result, similar to an actual crane game machine installed in an amusement facility or the like, even in a situation where the game machine 10 (prize sensor 84) does not judge that a prize has been obtained, it is determined that the prize has been successfully obtained. This makes it possible to provide the player with an opportunity to win a prize. That is, since it is possible to accurately determine whether a prize has been obtained, it is possible to encourage the player to continue using the game service without giving the player a sense of distrust.

In the above description, the electronic device 2 is assumed to be a personal computer with a wide display screen, but an example in which the electronic device 2 is a smartphone with a relatively narrow display screen will be described.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a viewing screen SF displayed on the electronic device 2 (smartphone) in this embodiment.
The viewing screen SF shown in FIG. 15 shows a state in which a game viewing image SF1 captured by the front camera 12A in the game device 10 is displayed. When the electronic device 2 using the game service is a smart phone, the game server 6 initially displays a game viewing image SF1 captured by either the front camera 12A or the side camera 14A. A photographing direction switching button SF2 is provided on the viewing screen SF. The shooting direction switching button SF2 is a button for instructing switching of the shooting direction of the game viewing image SF1. As described above, the electronic device 2 outputs operation data for instructing video switching to the game server 6 in response to the operation of the shooting direction switching button SF2.

The shooting direction switching button SF2 shown in FIG. 15 indicates that the currently displayed video for viewing the game SF1 is a video shot from the front (the stuffed toy is facing the front), and that the shooting direction can be changed. Displayed by the design shown. That is, the shooting direction switching button SF2 also serves as shooting direction information indicating the shooting direction.

On the viewing screen SF, when the shooting direction switching button SF2 is operated in a state in which the game viewing image SF1 captured by the front camera 12A is displayed, the game server 6 displays the game viewing image captured by the side camera 14A. Switch the display to SF1. Also, the design of the shooting direction switching button SF2 is changed to a design showing that the image is shot from the side (the stuffed animal is facing sideways) and that the shooting direction can be changed.

Therefore, on the viewing screen SF, the shooting direction of the game viewing image SF1 can be switched at any timing, and images from different directions can be confirmed.

On the viewing screen SF, when another player is playing the game, the state of play can be confirmed by the game viewing image SF1. For example, depending on the current position of the crane arm 10A, the image of how the crane arm 10A is being moved with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage can be switched to the front or side image. can be confirmed. The positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped by checking the image taken from the direction desired by the player while the crane arm 10A is moving. This can be used as a reference when playing. Also, even if other players are not playing the game, the state of the prize placed on the prize stage can be checked based on the images taken from different directions. Therefore, it is possible to judge the ease of winning prizes and to consider how to move the crane arm 10A when playing the game before playing the game.

The viewing screen SF includes a reservation button SF3, a coin purchase button SF5, a detail button SF4, a prize information SF6, a reservation number display area SF7, a viewing number display area SF8, A coin display area SF9 and a back button SF10 are included. Note that each button and area are substantially the same as those of the menu screen SA shown in FIG. 9 and the viewing screen SB shown in FIG. 10, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing an example of the play screen SG displayed on the electronic device 2 (smartphone) in this embodiment.
In the play screen SG shown in FIG. 16A, a game play image SG1f captured by the front camera 12A of the game device 10 is displayed, and in the play screen SG shown in FIG. A game play video SG1s captured by 14A is displayed.

A shooting direction switching button SG2f is provided on the play screen SG shown in FIG. 16(A), and a shooting direction switching button SG2s is provided on the play screen SG shown in FIG. 16(B). The shooting direction switching buttons SG2f and SG2s are buttons for instructing switching of the shooting direction of the game play images SG1f and SG1s, and have the same design as the shooting direction switching button SF2.

Also on the play screen SG, the display of the game play images SG1f and SG1s can be switched at any timing by operating the shooting direction switching buttons SG2f and SG2s.

On the play screen SG, the position of the crane arm 10A with respect to the prize placed on the prize stage can be confirmed by images viewed from the front and side directions. By comparing images taken from different directions, the positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily grasped. As a result, the positioning of the crane arm 10A with respect to the prize can be reliably and easily performed as intended by the player. That is, it is possible to make it easier to grasp the execution status of the game.

The play screen SG also includes a "CATCH" button SG3 provided in a frame designed for game play, direction buttons SG4 and SG5 corresponding to two directions, a remaining game play time display area SG6, a reservation A number of people display area SG7 and a number of viewers display area SG8 are included. Note that each button and area are substantially the same as those of the menu screen SA shown in FIG. 9 and the viewing screen SB shown in FIG. 10, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 16A, the direction buttons SG4 and SG5 are used to move the crane arm 10A in the horizontal direction when the game play image SG1f taken by the front camera 12A is displayed. It functions as a button for instructing, and as shown in FIG. 16B, when the game play image SG1s taken by the side camera 14A is displayed, the crane arm 10A can be moved in the front-rear direction. is input controlled to act as a button to indicate

In this way, even if the electronic device 2 has a relatively narrow display screen, such as a smartphone, it is possible to arbitrarily switch and display images shot from different directions on the viewing screen SF and the play screen SG. The relative positional relationship between the crane arm 10A and the prize can be easily confirmed by displaying an image according to the current position of the crane arm 10A.

Basically, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, one image taken from any direction is displayed. Alternatively, video switching control may be performed to display videos shot from a plurality of directions on one screen at the same time.

In the above-described invention, the game server 6 executes the product acquisition determination process, but the game device 10 may execute the process. For example, the game device 10 records video during game execution captured by the front camera 12A, upper camera 13A, and side camera 14A. When the play ID and acquisition determination request are instructed through the game server 6, the game device 10 executes the acquisition determination process based on the image corresponding to the play ID to determine acquisition in the same manner as described above. The game device 10 responds to the game server 6 with the determination result of the acquisition determination. By executing the acquisition determination process in the game device 10 in this way, the load of the acquisition determination process is distributed to the plurality of game devices 10, so that the processing load on the game server 6 can be reduced.

Also, in the above description, the object is a game service (online crane game) intended for a crane game device, but it is also possible to apply it to a game service intended for other game devices other than the crane game device. . For example, in the case of a medal game device (pusher game device), the pusher table into which the medals are inserted is photographed from multiple different directions, and a game image is generated by synthesizing the images photographed from each direction. 2. A player who operates the electronic device 2 can determine the insertion position of medals while simultaneously confirming a plurality of images shot from different directions in the game image, and perform an operation to instruct execution of insertion of medals.

Also, in the case of a coin-operated game machine, the division of one game is not clear unlike the crane game machine. For this reason, the game server 6, during the execution of an online game by one player, for example, at regular intervals, at each instruction from the player, or at each event (jackpot, item insertion, payout of a large amount of medals, etc.) that occurs during the game. The division of the game is set based on the above, and the image taken at each division of the game is recorded. As a result, it is possible to display a selection button for each segment on the play history detail screen, specify a segment of the game by operating the selection button, and reproduce and display the video.

Moreover, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the present invention at the implementation stage. Further, various inventions can be formed by appropriate combinations of the plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be omitted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

Further, the method described in the embodiment can be executed by a computer as a program (software means), such as a magnetic disk (flexible disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, DVD, MO, Blu-ray ( (registered trademark), etc.), semiconductor memory (ROM, RAM, flash memory, etc.), or can be transmitted and distributed via a communication medium. The programs stored on the medium also include a setting program for configuring software means (including not only execution programs but also tables and data structures) to be executed by the computer. A computer that realizes this device reads a program recorded on a recording medium, and optionally builds software means by a setting program, and executes the above-described processing by controlling the operation by this software means. It should be noted that the recording medium in this specification is not limited to those for distribution, and includes storage media such as magnetic disks and semiconductor memories provided inside computers or devices connected via a network.

2 Electronic device 6 Game server 6a CPU 10 Game device 10A Crane arm 10B Prize stage 10C Prize drop opening 12A Front camera 13A Top camera 14A Side camera.

Claims (5)

an image input means for inputting a plurality of images of a member provided in the game device that is moved according to the player's operation, each of which is captured from different directions;
As a mode for displaying images on an external device, a first mode in which any one of the plurality of images input by the image input means is selected and displayed; an input means for inputting an instruction to switch between a second mode in which an image is selected and displayed on one screen and a third mode in which an image to be displayed is subjected to image processing and displayed;
A game image for selecting any image from the plurality of images according to the switching instruction and displaying the image in one screen according to the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. a video generating means for generating;
and video output means for outputting the game video to an external device. The game device is a crane game device in which a crane arm is provided as the member, the crane arm is moved within a housing, and an object placed within the housing is acquired,
2. The game apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said image input means inputs images of said crane arm photographed from different directions so as to include the moving range of said crane arm. an image input means for inputting a plurality of images of a member that is provided in the game device and that is moved according to the operation of the player from different directions;
A first mode in which any one of a plurality of images input by the image input means is selected and displayed as a mode for displaying an image on the electronic device indicated by data received from the electronic device, a plurality of In response to an instruction to switch between a second form in which at least two images with different combinations are selected from among the images and displayed on one screen, and a third form in which the image to be displayed is subjected to image processing and displayed, generating means for generating a game image for selecting any image from the plurality of images and displaying the image in one screen according to the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode;
a transmitting means for transmitting the game video generated by the generating means to the electronic device, including a plurality of video images of a member provided in the game device that is moved in accordance with the player's operation, each captured from different directions; ,
receiving means for receiving, from the electronic device, data for controlling a game executed by the game device;
and game control means for controlling movement of the members of the game device according to data input from the electronic device. the computer,
an image input means for inputting a plurality of images of a member that is provided in the game device and that is moved according to the operation of the player from different directions;
As a mode for displaying images on an external device, a first mode in which any one of the plurality of images input by the image input means is selected and displayed; an input means for inputting an instruction to switch between a second mode in which an image is selected and displayed on one screen and a third mode in which an image to be displayed is subjected to image processing and displayed;
A game image for selecting any image from the plurality of images according to the switching instruction and displaying the image in one screen according to the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode. a video generating means for generating;
A program for functioning as video output means for outputting the game video to an external device. the computer,
an image input means for inputting a plurality of images of a member that is provided in the game device and that is moved according to the operation of the player from different directions;
A first mode in which any one of a plurality of images input by the image input means is selected and displayed as a mode for displaying an image on the electronic device indicated by data received from the electronic device, a plurality of In response to an instruction to switch between a second form in which at least two images with different combinations are selected from among the images and displayed on one screen, and a third form in which the image to be displayed is subjected to image processing and displayed, generating means for generating a game image for selecting any image from the plurality of images and displaying the image in one screen according to the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode;
a transmitting means for transmitting the game video generated by the generating means to the electronic device, including a plurality of video images of a member provided in the game device that is moved in accordance with the player's operation, each captured from different directions; ,
receiving means for receiving, from the electronic device, data for controlling a game executed by the game device;
A program for functioning as game control means for controlling the movement of the members of the game device in accordance with data input from the electronic device.

Images