JP7321971B2 - game program, method, information processing device - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to game programs, methods, and information processing apparatuses.

There is a technique for preventing a player from playing the game for a long time due to being too absorbed in the game.

For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-103326 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique for ending a game by changing the difficulty level of the game around the estimated end time based on the estimated end time set by the player. Are listed.

In addition, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-104170 (Patent Document 2) discloses that a user who is so absorbed in a game that he/she is tired or gets too close to a screen, for example, has a predetermined success rate of the user's operation instruction. It is described that determination is made by being out of range. Patent Literature 2 describes that when the success rate of the player's operation instruction is outside a predetermined range, the game image is made difficult to see by performing processing such as fogging the game image. As described above, Patent Document 2 describes that the user's game play is suppressed by increasing the difficulty of progressing the game and making the progress of the game difficult.

JP 2005-103326 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-104170

However, if the game play is to be ended according to the scheduled end time, it is up to the user to decide how to set the scheduled end time to end the game, and it is expected that the user will be prevented from becoming overly engrossed in the game. It may not be possible.

In addition, even if the progress of the game is made difficult by increasing the difficulty level, etc., the user ignores the increase in difficulty level, or the difficulty level becomes appropriate for the user. In addition, the user may not be motivated to end the game, and may continue playing the game.

Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technology that enables a user to break away from becoming overly absorbed in a game due to overplaying the game.

According to one embodiment, a game program is provided for execution by a computer comprising a processor and memory. The game program provides the processor with a first step of acquiring information on the play time relating to the user's game play, and satisfying a predetermined condition for the play time, whereby the game parameters of the user's player character are disadvantageous in the game play. a second step of setting the effect and

According to one embodiment, a game program is provided for execution by a computer comprising a processor and memory. The game program instructs the processor to obtain continuous play time information indicating the time the user has played the game without ending the game, regardless of the unit of the game played by the user. a second step of setting a disadvantageous effect on the user in the game play regardless of the difficulty level set in the game play when the continuous play time exceeds a predetermined period; and If the predetermined period of time is not exceeded, a third step of allowing the user to play the game without setting the disadvantageous effect is performed.

According to one embodiment, a method is provided for causing a computer comprising a controller and a memory to execute a game. The method comprises: a first step of acquiring information of play time related to the user's game play; and a second step of setting the desired effect.

According to one embodiment, an information processing device is provided that includes a control unit and a storage unit. A first step in which the control unit obtains information on the play time related to the user's game play, and the play time satisfies a predetermined condition, so that the game parameter of the user's player character has a disadvantageous effect on the game play. a second step of setting;

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent the user from becoming overly enthusiastic about the game due to overplaying the game.

It is a figure which shows the structure of the whole game system 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a terminal device 10 configuring game system 1 of Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a server 20; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing data structures of a user information database 281, a friend list 282, and excess mode condition information 283 stored by the server 20. FIG. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process in which a user designates a game unit and consumes the consumption set for the game unit from the current value of the stamina value to play the game. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the terminal device 10 receives the conditions which switch to excess mode from a user, and the process which the server 20 changes to excess mode based on the information of the play time regarding a user's game play. 4 is a diagram showing a screen example of the terminal device 10. FIG.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<1 Configuration diagram of the entire game system>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a game system 1. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, a game system 1 includes a plurality of terminal devices (terminal device 10A and terminal device 10B are shown in FIG. 1; hereinafter collectively referred to as "terminal device 10"), and a server. 20. The terminal device 10 and the server 20 are connected for communication via the network 80 .

The terminal device 10 is a device operated by each user. The terminal device 10 is implemented by a mobile terminal such as a smart phone or a tablet compatible with a mobile communication system. In addition, the terminal device 10 may be, for example, a stationary PC (Personal Computer), a laptop PC, or a dedicated game machine. The terminal device 10 may also function as a head mounted display, for example, as a transmissive, non-transmissive, or see-through head mounted display. For example, the terminal device 10 may function as a mobile terminal when not functioning as a head-mounted display, and may function as a head-mounted display when attached to a goggle-type device. In this case, the terminal device 10 can switch between a mode functioning as a mobile terminal and a mode functioning as a head mounted display. In the case of the mode functioning as a head-mounted display, the terminal device 10 detects the movement of the user's head with a motion sensor built into the terminal device 10, and displays the display image on the display in conjunction with the movement of the user's head. to update. As shown as terminal device 10B in FIG. The server 20 includes a communication IF 22 , an input/output IF 23 , a memory 25 , a storage 26 and a processor 29 .

The terminal device 10 is communicably connected to the server 20 via the network 80 . The terminal device 10 is a wireless base station 81 compatible with communication standards such as 5G and LTE (Long Term Evolution), and a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11. It is connected to the network 80 by communicating with a communication device such as a wireless LAN router 82 .

The communication IF 12 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the terminal device 10 communicates with an external device. The input device 13 is an input device (for example, a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc.) for receiving an input operation from a user. The output device 14 is an output device (display, speaker, etc.) for presenting information to the user. The memory 15 temporarily stores programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The storage unit 16 is a storage device for storing data, and is, for example, a flash memory or a HDD (Hard Disc Drive). The processor 19 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of arithmetic units, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

As illustrated, the terminal device 10 is connected to the game controller 11 by wire or wirelessly. A user can operate the game controller 11 to play a game. The terminal device 10 may be capable of communicating with multiple game controllers 11 . For example, multiple users can play a game using one terminal device 10 . Also, the game controller 11 may have a structure that is detachable from the terminal device 10 . The game controller 11 may be one device that can be held by both hands of the user, or may be composed of two devices that are held by both hands of the user. For example, the game controller 11 has a gyro sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like, and may detect the movement of the user's body (for example, hand movement) when the user holds the game controller 11.

The server 20 manages information of each user. The server 20 stores, as user information, the amount of game characters, game items, and virtual currency owned by each user (including those given to users free of charge and those given to users for a fee), The current value and maximum value (upper limit) of the parameter (also called "stamina value") of the amount of activity consumed to play (also called quest), other users registered as friends by each user information, etc.

The server 20 performs user matching or the like as a process for promoting interaction between users, specifically, in order to support multi-play in which a plurality of users play a game. The server 20 also performs transmission and reception of messages between users.

The server 20 manages the current stamina value and maximum value of each user, and restores the current value to the maximum value over time. For example, the server 20 increases the current stamina value at predetermined time intervals such as every three minutes. The server 20 sets a timer for a predetermined period of time in response to the user decreasing the stamina value from the maximum stamina value by, for example, starting game play for each game. The timer detects that a predetermined time has passed, and increases the stamina value by a predetermined amount. The server 20 sets the timer again when the upper limit of the stamina value is not reached as a result of recovering the stamina value.

It should be noted that the amount of action amount parameters consumed in game play for each game may be the same value for any game unit (stamina consumption is fixed), or for each game unit, during game play The amount of the activity amount parameter to be consumed may be set.

The communication IF 22 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for the server 20 to communicate with an external device. The input/output IF 23 functions as an interface with an input device for receiving input operations from the user and an output device for presenting information to the user. The memory 25 temporarily stores programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). The storage 26 is a storage device for storing data, such as a flash memory or HDD (Hard Disc Drive). The processor 29 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of arithmetic units, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

In the illustrated example, the terminal devices 10 communicate with each other via the server 20, but the plurality of terminal devices 10 may directly communicate with each other by short-range wireless communication without the server 20. . For example, it may be possible to use two terminal devices 10 to play a match or the like by local communication without going through the Internet.

<1.1 Configuration of terminal device 10>
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the terminal device 10 that constitutes the game system 1 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a plurality of antennas (antenna 111, antenna 112), wireless communication units (first wireless communication unit 121, second wireless communication unit 122) corresponding to each antenna, and an operation unit. Reception unit 130 (including touch-sensitive device 131 and display 132), audio processing unit 140, microphone 141, speaker 142, position information sensor 150, camera 160, storage unit 180, and control unit 190 and including. The terminal device 10 also has functions and configurations not particularly shown in FIG. 2 (for example, a battery for retaining power, a power supply circuit for controlling power supply from the battery to each circuit, etc.). As shown in FIG. 2, each block included in the terminal device 10 is electrically connected by a bus or the like.

The antenna 111 radiates a signal emitted by the terminal device 10 as radio waves. Antenna 111 also receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to first wireless communication section 121 .

The antenna 112 radiates a signal emitted by the terminal device 10 as radio waves. Antenna 112 also receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to second wireless communication section 122 .

The first wireless communication unit 121 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 111 so that the terminal device 10 communicates with other wireless devices. The second wireless communication unit 122 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 112 so that the terminal device 10 communicates with other wireless devices. The first radio communication unit 121 and the second radio communication unit 122 are communication modules including a tuner, an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) calculation circuit, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) calculation circuit, a high frequency circuit, and the like. The first radio communication unit 121 and the second radio communication unit 122 perform modulation/demodulation and frequency conversion of radio signals transmitted/received by the terminal device 10 and provide received signals to the control unit 190 .

The operation accepting unit 130 has a mechanism for accepting user input operations. Specifically, operation accepting unit 130 is configured as a touch screen and includes touch-sensitive device 131 and display 132 . The touch-sensitive device 131 receives input operations of the user of the terminal device 10 . The touch-sensitive device 131 detects the user's touch position on the touch panel by using, for example, a capacitive touch panel. The touch-sensitive device 131 outputs a signal indicating the user's touch position detected by the touch panel to the control unit 190 as an input operation.

The display 132 displays data such as images, moving images, and text under the control of the control unit 190 . The display 132 is implemented by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

The audio processing unit 140 modulates and demodulates an audio signal. Audio processing section 140 modulates the signal supplied from microphone 141 and supplies the modulated signal to control section 190 . Also, the audio processing unit 140 provides an audio signal to the speaker 142 . The audio processing unit 140 is implemented by, for example, a processor for audio processing. Microphone 141 receives a voice input and provides voice signal corresponding to the voice input to voice processing section 140 . The speaker 142 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 140 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the terminal device 10 .

The position information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 10, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. A GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. The satellite positioning system receives signals from at least three or four satellites, and detects the current position of the terminal device 10 equipped with a GPS module based on the received signals. For example, in the game system 1 , if the location of a friend-registered user can be referenced, the terminal device 10 can display a list of friends near the user on the display 132 .

The camera 160 is a device for receiving light with a light receiving element and outputting it as a photographed image. The camera 160 is, for example, a depth camera that can detect the distance from the camera 160 to the subject.

The motion sensor 170 is composed of a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, etc., and detects the tilt of the terminal device 10 . The tilt of the terminal device 10 can be used for the user's game play when the terminal device 10 executes a game program, for example. For example, during game play, a specific game object can be moved in the game space according to the tilt of the terminal device 10 . Also, during game play, the range of the image to be displayed on the display of the terminal device 10 can be determined according to the inclination of the terminal device 10 .

The storage unit 180 is configured by, for example, a flash memory or the like, and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 10 . In one aspect, storage unit 180 stores user information 181 .

The user information 181 is user information in the game based on the game program. User information includes the user's game play history. For example, as a history of the user's game play, "continuous play time" that the user played the game continuously, "total number of times played" that is the total number of times the game was played, and the number of days that the game was played. Including "cumulative number of days played" and "total play time" that aggregated the time spent playing the game. Here, the "continuous play time" is the time when the user starts the game program on the terminal device 10 to start timing, and the user continues to play the game on the terminal device 10 without ending it. Say things. A user may play multiple predetermined game units in a single game play. For example, the user may specify a game unit (also called a quest) to play the game, or may play a series of game units in order in advance (play multiple stages in order to clear the game). ) is also available. For each game unit, the user's playing time (for example, the time until the game is cleared) can be recorded. "Continuous play time" means that when a user starts a single game play and plays a plurality of predetermined game units, the series of game units are played continuously without interrupting the game play. It means the time you are there.

Here, interrupting the game play includes, for example, the terminal device 10 entering a sleep state (by receiving a user's operation of the home button of the terminal device 10, etc.). Further, to interrupt the game play means that the terminal device 10, such as when the user is using an application (SNS (Social Network Service), web browser, etc.) based on a program other than the game program on the terminal device 10. , including reaching a state in which an input operation to a program other than the game program is accepted from the user. Alternatively, suspending the game play includes the game program being put on standby as a task. Interrupting the game play includes determining in the server 20 that the user has interrupted the game based on the fact that a signal from the terminal device 10 has not arrived for a certain period of time.

As described above, the terminal device 10 or the server 20 starts timing the "continuous play time" when the user starts the game based on the game program on the terminal device 10, and the user selects any game unit in the game. Regardless of whether or not the game is being played, the clocking of the "continuous play time" may be advanced, and when the user ends the game play, the clocked continuous play time may be reset.

If the game program is executed and the game play is interrupted for a certain period of time, the "continuous play time" may not be reset. For example, even if the user interrupts the game play for a moment to send and receive a message on an SNS or the like, the user may continue to use a specific game program before and after executing an application other than the game program. If so, it may be assumed that the user continues to play the game once, and the "continuous play time" may not be reset.

On the other hand, the total play time when the user starts the game based on the game program and plays the game a plurality of times with interruptions in the game play is also referred to as "total play time". That is, when the user saves the game play state and continues the game play multiple times based on the saved data, the total time of each game play is also referred to as the "cumulative play time".

User information includes information identifying the user, user name, user level in the game based on the game program, current and maximum stamina values (upper limit), game objects held by the user ( (including game characters and game items), the amount of virtual currency held by the user, identification information of other users registered as friends with the user, and the like.

The control unit 190 controls the operation of the terminal device 10 by reading programs stored in the storage unit 180 and executing instructions included in the programs. The control unit 190 is, for example, an application processor. The control unit 190 functions as an input operation reception unit 191, a transmission/reception unit 192, a data processing unit 193, and a display control unit 194 by operating according to a program.

The input operation reception unit 191 performs processing for receiving a user's input operation to the input device such as the touch sensitive device 131 . The input operation reception unit 191 determines whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, or a drag (swipe) operation based on information on coordinates at which the user touches the touch-sensitive device 131 with a finger or the like. The type of operation, such as whether it is an operation or not, is determined.

The transmitting/receiving unit 192 performs processing for the terminal device 10 to transmit/receive data to/from an external device such as the server 20 or the game controller 11 according to a communication protocol.

The data processing unit 193 performs processing according to a program to perform computation on data input by the terminal device 10, and outputs the computation result to a memory or the like.

(i) Decrease in stamina value associated with quest game play: For example, the data processing unit 193 performs a series of processes such as subtracting the stamina value when the user selects a quest and plays the game. Specifically, a plurality of game units (quests) are displayed on the display 132, and designation of a game unit to be played is accepted from the user. When the current value of the user's stamina value exceeds the amount of consumption necessary for the game play for each game, the data processing unit 193 starts the game play for that game unit. The data processing unit 193 subtracts a predetermined amount of consumption from the current value of the stamina value as the user plays the game for each game. Also, if the amount of consumption set for each game that the user wants to play is greater than the current value of the user's stamina value (that is, if the quest cannot be started due to insufficient stamina value ), a screen or the like is displayed to prompt the user to consume items, etc., which can recover the stamina value. In the game based on the game program executed by the terminal device 10, the stamina value parameter may not be used, and the user may not consume the stamina value in playing the game for each game.

(ii) Restoration of stamina value over time: The data processing unit 193 performs processing for sequentially restoring the current stamina value to the maximum stamina value over time.

(iii) Purchase processing: The data processing unit 193 receives purchase processing from the user. For example, the data processing unit 193 gives paid virtual currency to the user by accepting the purchase process. In addition, the purchase process may recover the current stamina value, may provide the user with a specific game object (game character, game item, etc.), or may continue to provide benefits to the user ( It may also be possible to receive a special login bonus, etc.). The paid virtual currency can be used for various purposes, such as recovering the current stamina value and obtaining a game object through a lottery.

(iv) Evaluation of user's game play frequency: The data processing unit 193 evaluates the game play frequency based on the user's game play history. If the user's game play history satisfies a predetermined condition, the data processing unit 193 determines that the user is too enthusiastic about the game, and selects the second mode (normal mode) instead of the first mode (normal mode). It is possible to progress the game in excess mode).

(iv-1) Predetermined condition: The data processing unit 193 obtains information on the play time related to the user's game play, and by satisfying a predetermined condition for the play time, the second mode is selected instead of the first mode. Alternatively, the progress of the game from the first mode to the second mode may be started by satisfying the predetermined condition. For example, the data processing unit 193 may shift from the first mode to the second mode as the user's play time information when the length of the user's "continuous play time" reaches a certain time. Here, the second mode may be a mode in which the game is advanced by setting a disadvantageous effect for the user in the game play. Here, the disadvantageous effect in game play may include setting a disadvantageous effect in game play for the game parameter of the user's player character.

(iv-2) Predetermined condition: The game play history satisfying the predetermined condition means, for example, that the user's "continuous play time" exceeds a certain period of time, or that the "total number of times played" exceeds a certain number of times. "total number of play days" exceeds a certain number of days, the number of times played in a certain period of time exceeds a certain value (that is, the frequency of game play within a certain period of time), and the like.

Also, it may be determined whether the user's game play history satisfies a predetermined condition based on the game play history of other users.

Other users include, for example, a user who is registered as a friend with the user, a user who has played a multiplayer game with the user, and a user who has sent and received messages with the user.

Further, other users may be users specified based on life log data in which lifestyle habits, behaviors, and experiences of each user are recorded as location information, biometric information, video, and audio.

(i) For example, when the position information of each user is acquired and recorded as life log data by the position information sensor 150 or the like, the terminal device 10 stores the position information of the user during execution of the game, the daily life of each user, It is possible to acquire a range of activities (for example, a travel route from home to a destination, and places where the user stays for a certain period of time, such as home or office). Here, other users related to the user may be other users in a certain range near the position where the user is playing the game, and the user's action range (moving route, long-term stay place, etc.) etc.) may be other users who are similar to a certain extent.

As a result, for example, by comparing the game play histories of users living in the same area or in an adjacent area, it is possible to determine a user who is exceptionally enthusiastic about the game. In addition, even if the users live in different areas, it is possible to compare the game play histories of users who belong to the same school, company, or the like, and to identify users who are overly enthusiastic about the game.

The area where the user lives and the range of activity of the user are not limited to the life log data, and may be determined by the user inputting them in the game or by inputting predetermined information. For example, in a game, designation of the country where the user resides and the designation of the language used by the user may be accepted to specify the region where the user lives and the range of activity of the user. Also, for example, by reading a transportation ticket (departure and destination are described), a passport, etc., from images taken by a camera, etc., the area where the user lives and the user's activity range can be specified. may be

(ii) When biometric information of each user is acquired and recorded as lifelog data by a wearable device, a sensor such as the terminal device 10, or a photographed image of the terminal device 10 or the like, the terminal device 10 stores the biometric information of each user Other users associated with the user can be identified based on . Examples of biological information include heart rate, body weight, sleep time information, and the like. For example, sleep time can be measured by a wearable device worn by the user or a sensor installed on the user's bed. Also, the user's physical condition can be estimated by photographing the user's face or the like and analyzing the image.

As a result, for example, it is possible to determine a user who is conspicuously overly enthusiastic about the game by comparing the users with similar sleeping habits.

(iii) It is also possible to acquire and record the content experienced by each user based on the location information, video, etc. of each user. For example, visits to specific landmarks, entrances to facilities, and the like can be identified from photographed images, position information, and the like. Here, other users related to the user may be other users who have experienced the same content as the user.

When the frequency of game play by the user is higher than that of other users who are registered as friends with the user (as described above, the "continuous play time" exceeds a certain period of time, etc.), the user's game play history satisfies a predetermined condition. In addition, when the game play history of another user satisfies the above-described predetermined condition, it may be possible for that user to progress the game in the second mode as well. In other words, when it is determined that another user who interacts with the user during game play is too enthusiastic about the game, the game can be progressed in the second mode for that user as well.

(iv-3) Game parameters set in the second mode: Comparing the case where the game is progressed in the second mode and the case where the game is progressed in the first mode, the second mode Then, a more disadvantageous effect in game play than in the first mode is set for the user.

Specifically, in order to set a disadvantageous effect in game play, (1) game parameters unique to the player character (physical strength, attack power, defense power, available skills, etc.) are set to be disadvantageous in game play. (Reducing these physical strength values, attack power, etc. so as to be disadvantageous to game play, etc.).

In addition, setting a disadvantageous effect in game play includes (2) changing the amount of game parameters that the user can acquire as the user operates the player character so as to be disadvantageous in game play (for example, , the quality and quantity of experience points, material items, etc. that the user can acquire by clearing the game unit is reduced, etc.).

Alternatively, setting a disadvantageous effect in game play may include (3) restricting functions unrelated to game play difficulty adjustment in a game based on a game program (e.g., inability to use cooperative play, other such as being unable to send and receive messages with the user).

Specifically, in the second mode, compared to the first mode, the number of item drops when a predetermined quest is cleared is reduced, the probability of item drops is lowered, and a disadvantageous effect is imparted to the game character. (Giving a so-called debuff effect to the game character, starting the game with the game character's skill gauge lowered, making it difficult for the skill gauge to rise, etc.), not presenting advice to the user to progress the game, etc. parameters are set. In the second mode, parameters such as increasing the stamina value consumed to play a predetermined game unit (quest) and decreasing the amount of stamina value recovered over time are set. . For example, by increasing the amount of stamina consumed to play a game unit, it is possible to reduce the number of times a user plays that game unit within a given period of time (within the range of the current value of the user's stamina, the game decrease the number of times the unit can be played). As a result, when the user shifts to the second mode, the stamina value is insufficient to play the game, and the user's efficiency in achieving the goal in the game decreases.

As described above, in the second mode, rewards such as items are smaller than in the first mode, thereby lowering the efficiency of progressing the game. In addition, in the second mode, the efficiency of progressing the game is lowered by making it more difficult to satisfy the conditions for clearing the game (such as weakening the player character) than in the first mode. Alternatively, the second mode may not provide quests that can be played in the first mode. For quests not provided in the second mode, for example, the difficulty of game clearing is low (e.g., it is easy to clear even a character operated by a user who has just started the game), while the quest can be cleared by clearing the game. The reward obtained when doing the quest may be difficult to obtain in the normal quest play.

The notification control unit 194 performs processing for displaying a display image on the display 132 , processing for outputting sound to the speaker 142 , and processing for causing the camera 160 to vibrate.

<1.2 Functional Configuration of Server 20>
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the server 20. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3 , the server 20 functions as a communication section 201 , a storage section 202 and a control section 203 .

The communication unit 201 performs processing for the server 20 to communicate with an external device.

The storage unit 202 stores data and programs used by the server 20 . The storage unit 202 stores a user information database 281, a friend list 282, excess mode condition information 283, and the like.

The user information database 281 is a database for holding information of each user in the game based on the game program. Details will be described later.

The friend list 282 is a database for holding information on users registered as friends by each user. Details will be described later.

The excess mode condition information 283 is information indicating conditions for determining whether or not each user is too enthusiastic about playing the game. When the conditions indicated in the excess mode condition information 283 are satisfied, the user is allowed to play the game in the second mode (excess mode).

The control unit 203 exhibits functions shown as various modules when the processor of the server 20 performs processing according to a program.

The operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires the user's operation content. The operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires, for example, which game unit the user has designated as a game play target, as the user's operation content.

The reception control module 2042 controls processing for the server 20 to receive a signal from an external device according to a communication protocol.

The transmission control module 2043 controls the processing by which the server 20 transmits signals to external devices according to the communication protocol.

A matching module 2044 matches users who play multiplayer or the like. The matching module 2044 may match, for example, the user's friends registered in the friend list.

The game progress module 2045 determines whether the user has sufficient stamina to play the game unit based on the user's operation of specifying the game unit, and determines whether the game The user information DB 281 is updated by subtracting the consumption amount set in the unit. The game progress module 2045 responds to the terminal device 10 of the user with data necessary for game play (character voice data, character movement map data, enemy character data, etc.).

<2 Data structure>
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the data structures of the user information database 281, friend list 282, and excess mode condition information 283 stored by the server 20. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, each record of the user information database 281 has an item "user identification information (user ID)", an item "user name", and an item "user level" for each piece of information that identifies a user. , the item 'current stamina value', the item 'maximum stamina value', the item 'continuous play time', the item 'game play history', the item 'elapsed time since the end of the game', and the like. The user information database 281 may include items such as "excess parameter" (not shown). The user information database 281 includes, in addition to the illustrated example, items such as the item "possessed game object", the item "free virtual currency", and the item "paid virtual currency" as user information.

The item “user identification information (user ID)” is information for identifying each user.
The item "user name" is the name set by the user.
The item "user level" is a parameter that increases separately from the level of the game character or the like as the user repeats the game play. For example, as the user level rises, the value set in the item "maximum stamina" increases. As a result, the higher the user level, the easier it is for the user to play a game unit that consumes a larger amount of stamina value.
The item "current stamina value" is the current value of the user's activity amount parameter (current stamina value). If the current stamina value is less than the amount of consumption set for each game, the user cannot start playing the game for that game. The user can increase the current stamina value by consuming game items that restore the stamina value, or by consuming paid or free virtual currency. At this time, the current stamina value may be restored to exceed the maximum stamina value.
The item “maximum stamina value” is the maximum value (maximum value, upper limit value of stamina value) of the user's activity amount parameter. The current stamina value recovers to the maximum value over time.
The item "continuous play time" indicates the time during which the user has been playing the game continuously.
The item "game play history" indicates the user's game play history, such as total play time, cumulative number of days played, total number of times played, and the like.
The item "elapsed time since game end" indicates the elapsed time since the user ended the game. When the user terminates the game, the user performs an operation (such as "return to the title screen") to terminate the execution of the game program on the terminal device 10, and the server 20 receives a signal from the terminal device 10 for a certain period of time or longer. including not receiving The server 20 starts timing based on the timing at which it can be assumed that the user has finished playing the game on the terminal device 10, and updates the item "elapsed time since the end of the game". After the user finishes the game, the server 20 resets the item "elapsed time since the end of the game" by receiving an operation of logging in to the game again.
The item "excess parameter" indicates that the terminal device 10 or the server 20 uses parameters such as the user's game play history (continuous play time, total play time, cumulative play days, total number of times played, frequency of game play in a predetermined period, etc.) Based on this, it is a parameter that comprehensively evaluates the degree to which the user is enthusiastic about the game. It is assumed that there is
The item "possessed game object" is information such as game characters and game items owned by the user. This item also includes information such as the level of each game character and game item.
The item "gratis virtual currency" indicates the amount of virtual currency given to the user free of charge that the user has. For example, the terminal device 10 provides the user with free virtual currency as a login bonus, an event reward, or the like.
The item "paid virtual currency" indicates the amount of virtual currency given to the user for payment that the user has. For example, the terminal device 10 grants the paid virtual currency to the user by accepting the processing of purchasing the paid virtual currency through the purchase processing.

Each of the records in the friend list 282 includes the item “user 1”, the item “user 2”, the item “friend registration date”, the item “gift sending history”, and the like.

The item "user 1" indicates one of the users who are mutually registered as friends.
The item "user 2" indicates the other user among the users who are mutually registered as friends.
The item "friend registration date" indicates the date and time when the users were registered as friends.
The item "gift sending history" indicates a history of transfers of stamina values and the like between users.
As a method of friend registration, one user may apply for friend registration to another user, and when the other user approves, the user may be registered in the friend list. Also, one user may be able to add to the list (follow) without the other user's approval. In this case, both users follow each other to enter a state of mutual follow.

Each record of the excess mode condition information 283 includes an item “condition number”, an item “condition for transition to excess mode”, an item “game parameter for excess mode”, and the like.

The item "condition number" is information for identifying each condition.
The item "Condition for transition to excess mode" indicates the condition for transition from the first mode to the second mode. Specifically, the condition includes that the user's "continuous play time" exceeds a certain period of time (first period of time). As illustrated, the conditions for transitioning to the second mode may include multiple conditions. The server 20 shifts the user's game play from the first mode to the second mode when at least one of these multiple conditions is satisfied.
The item "excess mode game parameter" indicates the content of the game parameter set when the user plays the game in the second mode. As noted above, in the second mode (excess mode), game parameters are set to reduce the efficiency of game play.

Note that the item "condition for transition to excess mode" may be set in advance in the game program, or the condition may be specified according to the user's operation. Here, when the user specifies a condition, the specification is accepted within a range in which the possibility of satisfying the condition is higher than the condition set in advance in the game program (so that it is easier to shift to the second mode). You can do it. As shown in the figure, the condition with the value "01" of the item "condition number" is a condition preset in the game program, and the condition "continuous play time is longer than the first ” is stipulated. On the other hand, the condition with the value "02" of the item "condition number" is a condition specified by the user, and as a condition for transitioning to the excess mode, the condition "continuous play time is equal to or longer than the second time length is shorter than the first time)" is defined. Therefore, the condition with the value "02" of the item "condition number" is more likely to be satisfied than the condition with the value "01" of the item "condition number" (there is a higher possibility of shifting to the second mode). It can be said.

<3 Operation>
The game processing by the terminal device 10 will be described below.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing a process in which a user designates a game unit and consumes the consumption amount set for the game unit from the current value of the stamina value to play the game.

In step S501, the terminal device 10 displays a quest as a play unit on the display 132, and accepts selection of a quest from the user.

In step S503, the terminal device 10 determines whether or not the current value of the user's stamina value exceeds the stamina consumption amount set for the quest specified by the user. When the current stamina value of the user exceeds the stamina consumption amount of the quest, the terminal device 10 transmits to the server 20 a signal indicating to start the game play of the quest. The terminal device 10 subtracts the stamina consumption set in the quest from the current stamina value of the user.

In step S553, the server 20 updates the user information DB 281 by subtracting the consumption amount from the user's stamina value based on the consumption amount set for the quest specified by the user.

In step S505, the terminal device 10 progresses the game play of the quest specified by the user according to the user's input operation.

In step S507, the terminal device 10 determines whether or not the end condition of the quest is satisfied (for example, the game character operated by the user defeats the boss character set in the quest, or the game character operated by the user fights). become impossible, etc.), update various parameters when ending the quest. For example, the terminal device 10 updates various parameters by increasing the user's experience value, giving the user a drop item set in the quest, or the like.

In step S555, the server 20 updates the user information DB 281 based on the update result of various parameters of the user.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing a process of accepting from the user a condition for switching to the excess mode by the terminal device 10, and a process of switching to the excess mode by the server 20 based on the play time information regarding the user's game play.

In step S601, the terminal device 10 receives from the user a specification of a condition for switching the game play from the normal mode to the excess mode. The terminal device 10 transmits information indicating the conditions specified by the user to the server 20 .

In step S<b>653 , the server 20 updates the excess mode condition information 283 by setting a condition for switching to the excess mode according to the specification of the user of the terminal device 10 .

In step S655, the server 20 shifts to the excess mode in response to the play time information (user information database 281) relating to the user's game play satisfying the condition for switching to the excess mode (excess mode condition information 283). The terminal device 10 is notified of this. The server 20 sets a disadvantageous effect on the user's game play for game parameters such as player characters as game parameters for the excess mode.

In step S603, the terminal device 10 notifies the user of a warning indicating that the conditions for switching to the excess mode are satisfied and that the user is too enthusiastic about the game play.

In step S605, the terminal device 10 switches the user's game play from the normal mode to the excess mode. The terminal device 10 sets a disadvantageous effect in the user's game play for game parameters such as player characters as game parameters in the excess mode (excess mode condition information 283). Thereafter, the terminal device 10 advances the user's game play based on the set game parameters.

In step S607, the terminal device 10 detects that the user has performed an operation to end the game play.

In step S657, the server 20 detects that the user of the terminal device 10 has performed an operation to end the game play, and resets the user's continuous play time. The server 20 counts the elapsed time after the user's game play ends.

In step S659, the server 20 cancels the excess mode and shifts to the normal mode in response to the fact that the time elapsed since the user finished playing the game reaches a certain period of time. The server 20 notifies the terminal device 10 that the game can be played in the normal mode.

In step S609, the terminal device 10 releases the excess mode and notifies the user by video or audio that the game can be played in the normal mode.

In the above processing, when the user continues to play the game after the user's game play shifts to the excess mode (when the continuous play time is updated), the game parameters set for the user are set to continuous play. You may change so that the efficiency of a game may fall, so that time becomes long. For example, the longer the continuous play time is, the lower the physical strength value or other parameters set for the game character, and the lower the experience value or other parameters that can be obtained through game play.

As a result, the more the user is enthusiastic about the game, the more inconvenient it becomes to proceed with the game. It is assumed that the goal is to raise the score, clear a predetermined game unit, etc.). On the other hand, as in steps S659 and S609, when the user ends the game, the excess mode is switched to the normal mode again. This makes it easier for the user to eliminate the state of being overly enthusiastic about the game.

<4 Screen example>
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a screen example of the terminal device 10. As shown in FIG.

Screen example (A) in FIG. 7 shows a situation in which the terminal device 10 notifies that the play time of the user's game play satisfies the conditions for shifting to the overtime mode and shifts to the overtime mode. This corresponds to steps S603 and S605 in FIG.

As shown in the screen example (A), the terminal device 10 has a display 132, a level display section 132A showing information on the user level of the user, and a stamina value display section 132B showing the current and maximum stamina values of the user. to display. The terminal device 10 displays a reception unit 132F that receives an operation for starting game play in units of predetermined games. Information (name of each game, difficulty level of each game) for each game to be played by the user is shown in the reception section 132F.

The terminal device 10 determines whether the user's game play play time, play history (user information database 281), and whether the user's game play history satisfies the conditions indicated in the excess mode condition information 283 (user is determined to be too enthusiastic about the game) is displayed on the notification unit 132C. This corresponds to step S603 in FIG.

The terminal device 10 displays text for notifying the user of switching to the excess mode on the notification section 132D. The notification unit 132D provides the content of the condition for switching to the excess mode (that the continuous play time has reached the time indicated in the excess mode condition information 283), and the content that affects the user's game play in the excess mode (the player character weakened, etc.). In addition, the terminal device 10 displays the mode in which the game play progresses (transition to the excess mode) on the notification unit 132E. In the illustrated example, when transitioning to the excess mode, there is no change in the difficulty level for each game between the normal mode and the excess mode, and the user's game character is weakened. become inconvenient and less efficient. That is, in the excess mode, regardless of the difficulty level set for each game, there is a disadvantageous effect on the user's game play (the strength of the enemy character in each game does not change between the normal mode and the excess mode, and the player character is weakened) is set.

The terminal device 10 displays an operation reception unit 132G for receiving a designation from the user as to whether the play of each game is performed manually by the user or automatically performed without manual operation. In the illustrated example, the user advances the game by "automatic operation". When the user progresses the game with "automatic operation", the user's degree of fatigue in the game play decreases, but since it is supposed to shift to the excess mode regardless of whether it is manual operation or automatic operation, the user can avoid getting too engrossed in gameplay.

As described above, in the illustrated example, on the screen for accepting the operation for starting the quest, the user is notified that the user is too enthusiastic about the game (notification unit 132C). The screen also notifies the user that the mode has been switched to the excess mode (notification unit 132D, reception unit 132E). As a result, the user can recognize that the user is overly enthusiastic about playing the game, and that the efficiency of the game play is declining due to the shift to the excess mode. For example, the user may discontinue game play due to the realization that he or she is too engrossed in playing the game. This can prevent the user from becoming overly engrossed in the game play.

As shown in the screen example (B), the terminal device 10 displays on the display 132 a screen for receiving a specification of conditions for switching to the excess mode from the user. This corresponds to step S601 in FIG.

On the display 132, the terminal device 10 displays on the notification unit 132J whether or not the user has the authority to set the conditions for shifting to the excess mode. In the illustrated example, the user who is playing the game does not have the authority to set the conditions for shifting to the excess mode, and another user (user "B") sets the conditions. For example, if the user is a minor, the user's guardian can set conditions for transitioning to the excess mode.

The terminal device 10 displays a reception unit 132H for receiving settings from the user of conditions for transitioning to the excess mode, conditions for canceling after transition to the excess mode, and game parameters for the excess mode. As shown in the figure, in the game program, the condition for shifting to the overtime mode ("continuous play time" reaches a certain time) and the condition for canceling the overtime mode (elapsed time after the user ends the game reaches a certain time) and the game parameters in the excess mode are set as initial values (default values).

The illustrated example shows an example in which the user can set conditions that make it easier to shift to the excess mode than these initial values. For example, under the conditions specified by the user, the setting of the continuous play time for transitioning to the excess mode is a period shorter than the initial value, making it easier to transition to the excess mode. Also, the condition for canceling the excess mode is set to be stricter for the user than the initial value (the elapsed time setting is longer than the initial value). Among these items, items that cannot be specified by the user may be included.

In addition, the terminal device 10 displays in the notification section 132K that the longer the continuous play time after shifting to the excess mode, the greater the disadvantageous effect in the game play.

It should be noted that it is not necessary to accept all of the settings for shifting to the excess mode from the user. For example, the server 20 may display an operation reception section for the user to instruct that the setting value of each item shown in the reception section 132H is automatically determined without depending on the user's operation. Moreover, it is good also as applying the conditions which the other user who is a user's friend uses as conditions for a user to transfer to excess mode.

Screen example (C) shows a phase in which the user is progressing game play in excess mode. As shown in the screen example (C), the terminal device 10 has a notification unit 132L that notifies the user that the game is progressing in the excess mode, and a game parameter that is reset by shifting to the excess mode. and a notification section 132M for notifying the content of .

As shown in the notification section 132M, while the difficulty level for each game (the strength of the enemy character, etc.) does not change between the normal mode and the excess mode, the player character's parameters are lowered as a disadvantageous effect in the game play. , difficulty in obtaining experience points and material items, increase in stamina consumption, slowdown in recovery of stamina value over time (or no recovery), etc. there is

In the notification unit 132L, the terminal device 10 notifies the user that the game play is progressing in the excess mode, and also notifies the user that the game play is to end, and that the excess mode is canceled. Notification indicating the conditions of

In the illustrated example, the user is notified that the overtime mode can be canceled when "10 hours" have passed as a certain period of time after the user finished the game.

<5 Modifications>
(1) In the above embodiment, the game play may be forcibly terminated by satisfying a certain condition after transitioning to the excess mode. For example, the conditions for forcibly ending the game play are (i) reaching a target parameter (target parameter) in the game for the user, (ii) reaching a certain amount of time for game play in excess mode, (iii) A predetermined period of time has elapsed since transitioning to the excess mode, or the like.

The target parameter may be specified by the user in the game. For example, the terminal device 10 receives a specification such as "clear a predetermined game unit" as a goal from the user. Also, the target parameter may be set according to the content specified by the user in the game. For example, when the terminal device 10 accepts a designation such as "generate a specific equipment item" as a user's goal, the terminal device 10 sets the amount of material items required to generate the equipment item as a target parameter. In addition, when the terminal device 10 receives a designation such as "to release (unlock) an event such as an episode from a locked state" as a user's goal, the terminal device 10 satisfies the conditions necessary for the release (acquisition of a specific item, etc.). Set a target parameter (total amount of items needed to unlock) based on

Also, the target parameter may be presented to the user regardless of the user's designation. For example, the target parameters presented to the user may be determined based on the user's gameplay history. For example, when a user repeatedly plays a game unit in which a specific item is provided as a drop item, actions in the game that can be realized by the drop item (for example, consuming the drop item and synthesizing an item) , training facility objects, etc.) may be presented to the user as target parameters. Also, for example, when the user has acquired a game object such as a game character by lottery or the like, if an event related to the game character (episode release, predetermined game unit, etc.) is in a locked state, the locked state is released. Actions in the game (acquisition of necessary items, etc.) for doing so may be presented to the user as target parameters.

As in (i), when the game is forcibly ended by reaching the target parameter, the user will feel a sense of satisfaction when the user achieves the target by playing the game in excess mode. It is possible to give a trigger to end the game play while having it. As a result, it is possible to prevent the player from becoming overly enthusiastic about the game.

The goal in the game may be, for example, the content given as a mission in the game. For example, in a game, a game object is grown, such as the mission "Raise the level of the character to a predetermined value", the mission "Raise the level of the equipment item to the predetermined value", the mission "Let's evolve the character", and the like. I have a mission. In addition, there are missions that prompt the user to perform predetermined operations, such as the mission "Let's collect items from the facility" and the mission "Let's operate to obtain game objects by lottery." There are also missions that encourage players to play specific game units, such as the mission "Let's clear the main scenario."

For example, in the case of the mission "Let's raise the character's level to a predetermined value", in the second mode (excess mode), points (e.g., experience points) and material items (e.g., experience points) for raising the character's level It is also possible to increase the drop rate of items that can be obtained). When the user plays the game in the second mode, collects material items, and accomplishes the mission "raise the character's level to a predetermined value", the terminal device 10 or the server 20 forces the user to play the game. may end at It should be noted that when the game play is forcibly terminated, it may be possible to prevent login to the game for a certain period of time until the condition for shifting from the excess mode to the normal mode is satisfied. This may force the game play to end to help form a habit of not being too engrossed in the game.

(2) In addition, when the conditions for shifting to the excess mode are satisfied, the functions that the user can use may be restricted.

<6 Notes>
The items described in the above embodiments will be added below.

(Appendix 1)
A game program for execution by a computer (10) comprising a processor (19) and a memory (15), wherein the game program acquires play time information (281) regarding a user's game play to the processor. Execute a first step and a second step of setting a disadvantageous effect (283) in game play for a game parameter of the user's player character by satisfying a predetermined condition (283) for the play time. game program.

(Appendix 2)
In the first step, as information on the user's play time, the user acquires information on the continuous play time (281) that the user plays continuously without ending the game play on the computer (Appendix 1) Game program as described.

(Appendix 3)
The game program according to (Appendix 2), wherein in the second step, as a predetermined condition, a disadvantageous effect is set when the length of the continuous play time reaches the first period (283).

(Appendix 4)
In a first step, the user starts the game based on the game program on the computer to start timing the continuous play time, regardless of which game unit the user is playing in the game, The game program according to (Appendix 2) or (Appendix 3), for resetting the measured continuous play time (281, S657) by advancing the timing of the continuous play time and ending the game play by the user. .

(Appendix 5)
The game program further causes the processor to switch between a first operation mode in which the game is progressed by manual operation by the user and a second operation mode in which the game is automatically progressed regardless of the user's operation. (132G) of receiving an input operation from the user, and in the second step, regardless of whether the mode is the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the play time The game program according to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 4), wherein a disadvantageous effect is set by satisfying a predetermined condition.

(Appendix 6)
In the second step, if a disadvantageous effect is set for the user, the setting of the disadvantageous effect is canceled when the second period elapses after the user finishes playing the game (S609, 132L), and the game program according to any one of (Appendix 2) to (Appendix 5).

(Appendix 7)
In the second step, setting a disadvantageous effect on the game parameter of the player character includes (1) changing a game parameter unique to the player character so as to be disadvantageous in game play; (3) in a game based on a game program, regardless of the difficulty level The game program according to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 6), including at least one of limiting the function (283).

(Appendix 8)
In the second step, the predetermined conditions for matching with the playing time are a first condition predetermined for the user in the game program and a second condition designated by the user who can operate the computer. wherein the second condition is a condition that is more likely to be satisfied than the first condition (132H), (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 8).

(Appendix 9)
A game program to be executed by a computer comprising a processor and a memory, the game program instructing the processor to finish the game play after the user starts the game play regardless of the unit of the game played by the user. a first step of acquiring continuous play time information (281, 132C, 132L) indicating the time to play without playing; a second step of setting (132D, 132M) a disadvantageous effect in game play to the user regardless of whether or not the user is allowed to play the game without setting the disadvantageous effect if the continuous playing time does not exceed a predetermined period; (132F) a third step to be performed; and

10A, 10B terminal device, 11 game controller, 12 communication IF, 13 input device, 14 output device, 15 memory, 16 storage unit, 19 processor, 20 server, 22 communication IF, 23 input/output IF, 25 memory, 26 storage, 29 processor, 80 network, 81 wireless base station, 82 wireless LAN base station, 130 operation reception unit (touch screen), 132 display, 181 user information, 281 user information database, 282 friend list.

Claims (5)

A game program to be executed by a computer comprising a processor and a memory, the game program comprising:
obtaining play time information about the user's game play;
A first operation mode in which the user manually operates a predetermined game action in the game play to progress the game, and a second operation mode in which the predetermined game action is automatically progressed without depending on the user's operation. a step of receiving an input operation from the user for switching between the two operation modes;
setting a disadvantageous effect in the game play for the game parameter of the player character of the user by satisfying a predetermined condition for the play time ;
In the setting step, regardless of whether the mode is the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the play time satisfies the predetermined condition so that the disadvantageous effect is obtained. Game program to set . 2. The game program according to claim 1, wherein the game screen displayed on the display of the computer displays that the second operation mode is specified. 2. A game screen displayed on a display of said computer displays that said predetermined condition is satisfied and said disadvantageous effect is occurring when said second operation mode is specified. Or the game program according to 2. A method for causing a computer, comprising a controller and a memory, to execute a game, the method comprising:
obtaining play time information about the user's game play;
A first operation mode in which the user manually operates a predetermined game action in the game play to progress the game, and a second operation mode in which the predetermined game action is automatically progressed without depending on the user's operation. a step of receiving an input operation from the user for switching between the two operation modes;
setting a disadvantageous effect in the game play for the game parameter of the player character of the user by satisfying a predetermined condition for the play time.
In the setting step, regardless of whether the mode is the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the play time satisfies the predetermined condition so that the disadvantageous effect is obtained. How to set . An information processing device comprising a control unit and a storage unit, wherein the control unit
obtaining play time information about the user's game play;
A first operation mode in which the user manually operates a predetermined game action in the game play to progress the game, and a second operation mode in which the predetermined game action is automatically progressed without depending on the user's operation. a step of receiving an input operation from the user for switching between the two operation modes;
setting a disadvantageous effect in the game play for the game parameter of the player character of the user by satisfying a predetermined condition for the play time;
In the setting step, regardless of whether the mode is the first operation mode or the second operation mode, the play time satisfies the predetermined condition so that the disadvantageous effect is obtained. Information processing device to set .