JP7442106B2 - Terminal device, control method and control program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a terminal device, a control method, and a control program.

Conventionally, games in which a player operates a character located in a virtual space have become popular. In such a game, a character moves within a virtual space by an operation by a player that specifies a direction of movement. Then, the player advances the game by fighting against enemy characters that the character has encountered and conquering events that have occurred.

In such games, a player encounters an enemy character or causes an event to occur by operating the character to a predetermined target position. The game progresses by visiting the target positions in a predetermined order. As a method for supporting such a player's operation of a character, Patent Document 1 describes a movement control method for automatically moving a character to a target position specified by the player.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-176878

In the movement control method described in Patent Document 1, a player specifies a target position in order to move a character to the target position. However, the operation of specifying a target position is less intuitive for the player than the operation of specifying a direction of movement and moving a character. Furthermore, in the movement control method described in Patent Document 1, the player needs to know the target position in advance in order to specify the target position. However, the player does not have accurate knowledge about the target position, such as when the player has never visited the target position, or when the player knows only the direction of the target position but does not know the exact position. There was a case. In such a case, the player cannot specify the target position, and the movement control method described in Patent Document 1 cannot support the player's operation of the character.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to support the player's operation of a character through intuitive operation for the player.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a terminal device according to the present invention includes a display unit that displays game content located in a virtual space, a storage unit that stores information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space, and a terminal device that displays game content located in a virtual space. an acquisition unit that acquires a movement instruction including a direction; a calculation unit that calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to a predetermined position; and a determination unit that determines whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the movement direction. and a display control unit that controls display of the game content so that the game content moves to a predetermined position along the route when it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition.

Further, in the terminal device according to the present invention, the route is constituted by a plurality of element routes, and the predetermined condition is that the size of the angle between the movement direction and the direction of the element route connecting the position of the game medium is a predetermined angle. It is preferable that the following is true.

Further, in the terminal device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the movement instruction includes information regarding the operating position, and the calculation unit does not calculate the route when the information regarding the operating position is within a predetermined range.

Further, in the terminal device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the display control unit controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves in the movement direction when it is determined that the route does not satisfy a predetermined condition. .

Further, in the terminal device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the display control unit displays at least a portion of the route in the virtual space when it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition.

Furthermore, in the terminal device according to the present invention, if the game medium moving along the route stops before reaching a predetermined position, the display control section displays information prompting the player to input a movement instruction on the display section. , is preferable.

Further, the terminal device according to the present invention includes an operation section that detects a touch by the player, and the acquisition section acquires the contact position where the player is touching the operation section at predetermined time intervals, and the movement direction is determined by the acquisition section. It is preferable that the direction is based on the contact position acquired immediately before the last acquired contact position.

Further, in the terminal device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the calculation unit calculates a plurality of routes from the position of the game medium and parameters related to each of the plurality of routes.

Furthermore, in the terminal device according to the present invention, when it is determined that a plurality of routes satisfy the predetermined condition, the display control section displays the game content according to the route with the smallest parameter among the routes determined to satisfy the predetermined condition. Preferably, the display of the game medium is controlled to move.

Furthermore, in the terminal device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the calculation unit calculates a route to a predetermined position that has a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a control method according to the present invention is a control method for a terminal device that includes a storage section and a display section that displays game content located in a virtual space. Information regarding the predetermined position is stored in the storage unit, a movement instruction including the movement direction from the player is obtained, a route is calculated from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the predetermined position, and the calculated route is related to the movement direction. The method includes determining whether a predetermined condition is satisfied, and if it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, controlling the display of the game content so that the game content moves to a predetermined position along the route.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a control program according to the present invention is a control program for a terminal device that includes a storage section and a display section that displays game content located in a virtual space. Information regarding the predetermined position is stored in the storage unit, a movement instruction including the movement direction from the player is obtained, a route is calculated from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the predetermined position, and the calculated route is related to the movement direction. determining whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied, and if it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, controlling the display of the game content so that the game content moves along the route to a predetermined position; Let the device execute it.

With the terminal device, control method, and control program according to the present invention, it is possible to support the player's operation of the character through intuitive operation for the player.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of a game provided by a terminal device. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining an outline of a game provided by a terminal device. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a terminal device 1. FIG. (a) is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 410 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 420 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. It is a diagram. (a) is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 510 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 520 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. It is a diagram. (a) is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from the side with the operation unit 12 facing up, and (b) is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from the top with the operation unit 12 facing up. be. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from above with the operation unit 12 facing upward. (a) is a diagram showing an example of a process in which the terminal device 1 divides the movable area 413, and (b) is a diagram in which the terminal device 1 generates a route calculation graph, and in the route calculation graph, 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process for calculating a route from the position of the game medium 411 to the target position. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a calculated route and moving direction on a field screen 910. FIG. (a) is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of an area table 1010, and (b) is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the destination position table 1020. 3 is a flow diagram showing an example of movement processing in the terminal device 1. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing an example of a movement instruction acquisition process in the terminal device 1. FIG. 3 is a flow diagram showing an example of route calculation processing in the terminal device 1. FIG.

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, it should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but extends to the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

(Summary of this embodiment)
1 and 2 are schematic diagrams for explaining the outline of a game provided by a terminal device.

First, FIG. 1 will be explained. The terminal device displays the game content located in the virtual space and stores information regarding the target position in the virtual space ((1) in FIG. 1). In the example shown in (1) of FIG. 1, the game medium is a character operated by the player. The game medium is electronic data used in various games or various services provided by the game device, and may be, for example, a card or an avatar.

Game media may be items, points, virtual currency, tickets, or parameters. Further, the game content may be level information, status information, parameter information (physical strength value, attack power, etc.), or ability information (skills, abilities, spells, jobs, etc.). Game media may be any electronic data that can be acquired, held, used, managed, exchanged, synthesized, enhanced, sold, discarded, and/or gifted within a game by a player. Furthermore, the manner in which the game medium is used is not limited to that specified in this specification.

The target position represents a position in the virtual space that the player should reach by operating the game medium. The target position is, for example, the position of the enemy game medium or the position where an event occurs. The target position may be a parameter change position for changing the parameters of the game medium, a branch point of a passage provided in the virtual space, or an installation position of an object such as a monument provided in the virtual space. Furthermore, the target position may be any position within the virtual space that is reachable by the game medium. The target position may be arbitrarily set by the player. Further, the target position may be newly added or deleted depending on the progress of the game.

When the game medium reaches the target position, the player can play a competitive game against an enemy game medium or proceed with other events. Note that in the example shown in (1) of FIG. 1, the destination position is displayed, but the terminal device does not need to display the destination position. Note that the target position is an example of a predetermined position.

Subsequently, the terminal device obtains a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player ((2) in FIG. 1). The movement instruction is an instruction to automatically move the game medium to a target position. Further, the movement direction is the direction input by the player in which the game medium should first move in order to reach the target position. That is, the movement instruction including the movement direction is an instruction to move the game medium to a target position in the virtual space. Note that in the example shown in (2) of FIG. 1, the movement instruction including the movement direction is obtained by the terminal device when the player touches the operation section, which is a touch panel, and performs an operation to change the touch position. .

Next, FIG. 2 will be explained. The terminal device calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position ((3) in FIG. 2). A path is any path by which game media can reach a destination location. For example, the path may be the shortest path.

Next, the terminal device determines whether or not the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the movement direction, and if it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, the terminal device causes the game medium to move to the destination position along the route. , controls the display of game content ((4) in FIG. 2). For example, the predetermined condition is that the size of the angle between the direction in which the game medium initially moves along the calculated route and the movement direction included in the movement instruction is less than or equal to the predetermined angle.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the terminal device displays the game content located in the virtual space and stores information regarding the target position in the virtual space. Further, the terminal device obtains a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player. The terminal device also calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position. Further, the terminal device determines whether or not the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the movement direction, and if it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, the terminal device causes the game medium to move to the destination position along the route. Control the display of game media. As a result, the terminal device allows the player to automatically move the game medium to the target position through intuitive operation even if the player does not know the target position accurately, and allows the player to play the game Assist with media operations.

Note that the above description of FIGS. 1 and 2 is merely an explanation for deepening understanding of the content of the present invention. Specifically, the present invention is implemented in each embodiment described below, and may be implemented by various modifications without substantially exceeding the principles of the present invention. All such variations are within the scope of the invention and disclosure herein.

(Configuration of terminal device 1)
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the terminal device 1. As shown in FIG.

The terminal device 1 may be a communication terminal such as a multifunctional mobile phone (so-called "smartphone"). The terminal device 1 may be a mobile phone (so-called "smartphone"), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet terminal, a tablet PC (Personal Computer), or the like. The terminal device 1 may be a portable game machine, a portable music player, a notebook PC, or the like.

The terminal device 1 provides a game that is played by a player operating a character. For this purpose, the terminal device 1 includes a storage section 11, an operation section 12, a display section 13, and a processing section 14.

The storage unit 11 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 11 stores operating system programs, driver programs, application programs, data, etc. used in processing by the processing unit 14. The driver programs stored in the storage unit 11 include an input device driver program that controls the operation unit 12, an output device driver program that controls the display unit 13, and the like. The application program stored in the storage unit 11 is a control program that controls the progress of the game. The data stored in the storage unit 11 includes various data (for example, information regarding the game content, etc.) used when the game is executed. Furthermore, the storage unit 11 may temporarily store data related to predetermined processing.

The operation unit 12 is a pointing device such as a touch panel. Note that the operation unit 12 may be an input key or the like. The player can use the operation unit 12 to input characters, numbers, symbols, positions on the display screen of the display unit 13, and the like. When operated by the player, the operation unit 12 generates a signal corresponding to the operation. The generated signal is then supplied to the processing section 14 as an instruction from the player.

The display section 13 is a liquid crystal display. Note that the display section 13 may be an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or the like. The display section 13 displays a video according to the video data supplied from the processing section 14, an image according to the image data, and the like.

The processing unit 14 is a circuit including one or more processors that operate according to a computer program, one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least some of various types of processing, or a combination thereof. Can be configured. The processing unit 14 controls the overall operation of the terminal device 1, and is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing unit 14 executes various information processing in appropriate steps based on the program stored in the storage unit 11 and various instructions inputted by the player in response to the operation of the operation unit 12, and displays the information on the display unit 13. Control behavior. The processing unit 14 executes various information processing based on the operating system program, driver program, and application program stored in the storage unit 11. Furthermore, the processing unit 14 can execute multiple programs in parallel.

(Explanation of various screens)
Examples of various screens displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

FIG. 4A is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 410 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. The field screen 410 is a screen on which the player operates the game medium located in the virtual space to advance the game. In the example shown in FIG. 4(a), the field screen 410 is a two-dimensional screen surface when a three-dimensional virtual space is projected onto a predetermined two-dimensional screen surface at a predetermined viewpoint position and a predetermined viewing direction in the virtual space. Contains images. For example, the predetermined viewpoint position is in the vicinity of the game medium. Further, for example, the predetermined line of sight direction is the direction of the position of the game medium with respect to the predetermined viewpoint position.

The field screen 410 may be displayed when the terminal device 1 receives a game start instruction from a player on a main menu screen (not shown). The main menu screen may be displayed following a predetermined title screen or the like when an application program for executing the game is started by the player's operation on the operation unit 12.

The field screen 410 includes a game medium 411, a target position 412a, a target position 412b, a movable area 413, an operation instruction object 414, and a menu screen display instruction object 415. Note that, hereinafter, the target position 412a and the target position 412b may be collectively referred to as the target position 412.

Game media 411 is a game media located in a virtual space that is operated by a player. The player operates the game medium 411 via the operation unit 12 to progress the game.

The target position 412 represents a position in the virtual space that the player should reach by operating the game medium. In the example shown in FIG. 4A, the target position 412 is displayed by a predetermined object so that the player can visually recognize the position. The target position 412 does not have to be displayed so that the player can see it. As a result, in a game including a more realistic expression such as a 3D game, it is possible to express a situation close to reality and improve operability for the user. Further, whether or not the target position 412 is displayed may be changed depending on the progress of the player's game. For example, destination location 412 may not be displayed until a predetermined event occurs. As a result, the player is no longer able to grasp the target position 412, and therefore cannot predict the content of the event based on the target position 412, making it possible to enjoy the game even more.

For example, the target location 412 may be a location where enemy game content is placed. In this case, when the game medium 411 reaches the target position 412, a battle game screen with an enemy game medium (not shown) is displayed, and the player can play a battle game with the enemy game medium. Further, for example, the destination position 412 may be a position set as an event occurrence position. In this case, when the game medium 411 reaches the target position 412, an event screen (not shown) is displayed, and the player can view a scenario corresponding to the event.

Furthermore, the target position 412 may be any position within the virtual space. For example, the destination position 412 may be a branch point of a passage provided in the virtual space. As a result, the game medium 411 stops at the branch point of the passage, so the player can decide for himself which branch to select, giving the player a sense of progressing through the game based on his own choices. You can taste it.

The movable area 413 is an area in which the game medium 411 can move within the virtual space. The movable area 413 may be set so that its shape changes depending on the player's progress in the game. For example, in response to the occurrence of a predetermined event, the movable area 413 may be expanded so that the game medium 411 can reach a new target position 412. This allows the player to progress through the game in an appropriate order.

The operation instruction object 414 is an object for inputting manual operation instructions for the player to operate the game medium 411. When the player operates the operation unit 12 and inputs an input position within the display area of the operation instruction object 414, the terminal device 1 acquires a manual operation instruction including a direction corresponding to the input position as the operation direction. Having acquired the manual operation instruction, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 moves in the operation direction on the field screen 410. The direction according to the input position is the direction of the input position with respect to the center of the display area of the operation instruction object 414. The player can manually operate the game medium 411 using the operation instruction object 414.

Note that hereinafter, when the player operates the operation unit 12 and inputs an input position within the display area of the object, it may be referred to as the player selecting an object.

The menu screen display instruction object 415 is an object for the player to input a menu screen display instruction for displaying a menu screen. When the player selects the menu screen display instruction object 415, the terminal device 1 obtains a menu screen display instruction for displaying the menu screen. The terminal device 1 that has received the menu screen display instruction displays a menu screen (not shown). The menu screen displays information useful for the player to progress through the game. For example, the menu screen displays information about the game medium 411, information about the position of the game medium 411, information about the target position, information about the movable area 413, information about the progress of the game, and the like.

FIG. 4B is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 420 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. The field screen 420 is a screen that is displayed when the terminal device 1 obtains a movement instruction including a movement direction on the field screen 410. Note that the same components as those described above are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. Further, a movement instruction including a movement direction is obtained by the terminal device 1, for example, when the player touches the operation unit 12, which is a touch panel, and performs an operation to change the touch position. Details of the movement instruction including the movement direction will be described later.

The field screen 420 includes a movement instruction acquisition effect 421. The movement instruction acquisition effect 421 is a display effect indicating that the movement instruction input by the player has been acquired by the terminal device 1. The movement instruction acquisition effect 421 may display the movement direction included in the movement instruction. In the example shown in FIG. 4(b), the movement instruction acquisition effect 421 displays the movement direction using an arrow. Thereby, the player can confirm whether the input movement instruction has been acquired by the terminal device 1 or not. Furthermore, the player can confirm what direction of movement the input movement instruction includes. Then, the player can recognize at an early stage that the game medium 411 will move to a target position not intended by the player due to the player's erroneous operation.

Further, the movement instruction acquisition effect 421 may be a display effect that disappears after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the visibility of the field screen 420 from decreasing due to the movement instruction acquisition effect 421.

FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 510 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. The field screen 510 is a screen that is displayed when the terminal device 1 is controlling the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 moves along the route to the destination position 412.

When a movement instruction including a movement direction is input on the field screen 420, the terminal device 1 calculates a route from the position of the game medium 411 to the destination position 412. Subsequently, the terminal device 1 determines whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the direction of movement. Subsequently, if it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 moves to the destination position 412 according to the route. Details of the process in which the terminal device 1 calculates a route and the process in which it determines whether a predetermined condition is satisfied will be described later. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 5A, it is determined that the route to the destination position 412a satisfies the predetermined condition.

The field screen 510 includes a route display effect 511. The route display effect 511 is a display effect that displays at least a portion of a route determined to satisfy a predetermined condition in a virtual space. The route display effect 511 is displayed when the game medium 411 is moving along the route to the destination position. This allows the player to confirm that the game medium 411 is moving toward the target position. Furthermore, the player can check what route the game medium 411 is moving along.

Furthermore, the route display effect 511 may display only the portion of the route from the current position of the game medium 411 to the destination position in the virtual space. This can prevent the visibility of the field screen 420 from decreasing due to the route display effect 511.

Note that even if the game medium 411 is moving along a route, the terminal device 1 can obtain manual operation instructions including the operation direction. In this case, the terminal device 1 stops controlling the display of the game content so that the game content 411 moves along the route. Subsequently, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 moves in the operation direction on the field screen 510.

Further, even if the game medium 411 is moving along the route, the terminal device 1 can newly obtain a movement instruction including the movement direction. In this case, the terminal device 1 calculates a route corresponding to each of the target positions 412 from the position of the game medium 411 at the time when the movement instruction is input. Subsequently, the same process as when a movement instruction is input on the field screen 420 is performed. With this, when the player wants to move the game medium 411 to another target position 412 while the game medium 411 is moving to the target position 412, the player can move the game medium 411 to the other target position with a simple operation. 412.

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example of a field screen 520 displayed on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1. The field screen 520 is a screen that is displayed when the game medium 411 moving along the route contacts an obstacle object before reaching the target position 412 on the field screen 510 . Note that, as the game medium 411 moves, the field screen 520 includes an image in which a three-dimensional virtual space is projected at a viewpoint position that is different from the field screen 510 and is in the vicinity of the game medium 411. The obstacle object is, for example, an enemy game medium. If the game medium 411 moving along the route comes into contact with an obstacle object before reaching the destination position 412, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 stops. Note that the case where the game medium 411 comes into contact with an obstacle object includes the case where the game medium 411 is included within a predetermined range from the obstacle object.

The field screen 520 includes an obstacle object 521 and a movement instruction input instruction effect 522. The obstacle object 521 is an object that is set so that the game medium 411 cannot move through it. Note that the obstacle object 521 may move within the virtual space under the control of the terminal device 1. The movement instruction input instruction effect 522 is information that prompts the player to input a movement instruction. In the example shown in FIG. 5B, the movement instruction input instruction effect 522 displays information that prompts the player to use an arrow and a finger to touch the operation unit 12, which is a touch panel, and change the contact position. ing. This allows the player to recognize that he or she must further operate the operation unit 12.

Note that if the game medium 411 moving along the route comes into contact with an obstacle object 521 that is an enemy game medium before reaching the target position, a battle game with the enemy game medium may be started. The competitive game may be advanced by displaying a competitive game screen (not shown) on the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1, or may be advanced on the field screen 520. In this case, after the competitive game ends, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game medium 411 so that the game medium 411 stops.

Further, the movement instruction input instruction effect 522 may be a display effect that prompts input of a movement instruction that includes the direction on the route in which the game medium 411 was moving immediately before it stopped as the movement direction. For example, the movement instruction input instruction effect 522 may be a display effect that includes an arrow pointing in the direction on the route that the game medium 411 was moving immediately before it stopped. This allows the player to recognize the moving direction in which the game medium 411 can reach the desired destination position. Further, when the game medium 411 stops at a position that is not on the route, the direction indicated by the movement instruction input instruction effect 522 may be a direction in which the game medium 411 returns to the position on the route. A case where the game medium 411 stops at a position that is not on the route is, for example, when the game medium 411 comes into contact with an obstacle object 521 and a competitive game, an event, etc. has started, and the game medium 411 is stopped at a position that is not on the route. This is the case when moving from the position.

(Explanation of the process by which the terminal device acquires movement instructions)
Below, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, a process in which the terminal device 1 acquires a movement instruction from a player will be described.

FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from the side with the operation unit 12 facing upward. FIG. 6(b) is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from above with the operation unit 12 facing upward. An example of a process in which the terminal device 1 acquires a movement instruction from a player when the operation unit 12 is a touch panel will be described below with reference to FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b).

First, the terminal device 1 determines whether or not the operation unit 12 has detected a contact of the player with the operation unit 12 . In the example shown in FIG. 6(a), the player is in contact with a position 611a of the operation section 12. Therefore, the terminal device 1 determines that the operation unit 12 has detected the player's contact with the operation unit 12.

Subsequently, if it is determined that the operation unit 12 has detected a contact, the terminal device 1 inputs the contact position where the player is touching the operation unit 12 at predetermined time intervals (for example, 1/30 seconds) as an input position. get. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the player changes the contact position from position 611a to position 611d. Then, the terminal device 1 acquires the positions 611a, 611b, 611c, and 611d that the player touched in the process of changing the contact position as input positions at predetermined time intervals.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 determines whether the operation unit 12 has detected the end of the player's contact with the operation unit 12. In the example shown in FIG. 6A, the player touches the position 611d of the operation section 12 and then ends the touch. Therefore, after acquiring the position 611d as the input position, the terminal device 1 determines that the operation unit 12 has detected the end of the player's contact with the operation unit 12.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 determines whether the input position acquired last and the input position acquired immediately before are separated by a predetermined distance or more. In the example shown in FIG. 6(b), the last input position acquired by the terminal device 1 is position 611d. Further, the input position acquired immediately before the terminal device 1 acquires the position 611d is the position 611c. Therefore, the terminal device 1 determines whether the position 611d and the position 611c are separated by a predetermined distance or more. The determination may be made based on the position coordinates of the operation unit 12 at the position 611d and the position coordinates of the operation unit 12 at the position 611c.

Subsequently, if it is determined that the input position acquired last and the input position acquired immediately before are separated by a predetermined distance or more, the terminal device 1 acquires an operation instruction. The operation instruction includes the position coordinates of the first acquired input position on the operation unit 12 as the coordinates of the operation position. Further, the operation instruction includes, as the movement direction, a direction based on the input position acquired immediately before the input position acquired last. In the example shown in FIG. 6(b), the coordinates of the operation position are the position coordinates of the operation unit 12 at position 611a. Further, the moving direction is a direction based on the position 611c of the position 611d. Note that the coordinates of the operating position are an example of information regarding the operating position.

Note that if it is determined that the input position acquired last and the input position acquired immediately before are not separated by a predetermined distance or more, the terminal device 1 does not acquire the operation instruction. As a result, the game medium 411 automatically moves to the target position when the speed at which the player is changing the contact position is high, so that the player can perform an intuitive operation. Furthermore, the player can input different game operations depending on the speed at which the contact position is changed. The terminal device 1 can then provide a variety of game operations.

Subsequently, in response to acquiring the operation instruction from the player, the terminal device 1 determines whether the coordinates of the operation position included in the operation instruction are within a predetermined range.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the terminal device 1 viewed from above, with the operation section 12 facing upward. Below, using FIG. 7, a process in which the terminal device 1 determines whether the coordinates of the operation position included in the operation instruction are within a predetermined range will be described. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the rectangular operation unit 12 has an upper region 711a above two diagonals, a lower region 711b below the two diagonals, an upper region 711a and a lower region. It is divided into a horizontal region 711c that is not included in 711b.

The terminal device 1 determines whether the coordinates of the operation position included in the operation instruction are included in the horizontal area 711c. For example, the terminal device 1 determines whether the coordinates of the operating position are located above one diagonal line of the operating unit 12 and below the other one, thereby determining the operating position. It is determined whether the coordinates are included in the horizontal area 711c. If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are not included in the horizontal area 711c, the terminal device 1 determines that the operation instruction is a movement instruction. That is, the terminal device 1 acquires the operation instruction as a movement instruction including the coordinates of the operation position and the movement direction. If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are included in the horizontal area 711c, the terminal device 1 does not acquire the operation instruction as a movement instruction. Note that the fact that the coordinates of the operation position are included in the horizontal area 711c is an example of the fact that the coordinates of the operation position are within a predetermined range.

By doing so, the player can input different game operations depending on the coordinates of the operation position included in the movement instruction, and the terminal device 1 can provide a variety of game operations. . Note that if it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are not included in the horizontal area 711c, the terminal device 1 may acquire the operation instruction as a viewpoint movement instruction. The terminal device 1 that has acquired the viewpoint movement instruction changes the display of the field screen so that at least one of the viewpoint position and the line-of-sight direction moves according to the movement direction included in the movement instruction.

(Explanation of the process by which the terminal device calculates the route)
Below, with reference to FIG. 8, a process in which the terminal device 1 calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position will be described.

First, in response to acquiring a movement instruction from the player, the terminal device 1 calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the destination position, as will be described later.

FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an example of a process in which the terminal device 1 divides the movable area 413. Further, FIG. 8(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of a process in which the terminal device 1 generates a route calculation graph and calculates a route from the position of the game medium 411 to the target position in the route calculation graph. .

The terminal device 1 that has obtained the movement instruction specifies the polygonal area that includes the position of the game medium 411 from among the plurality of polygonal areas obtained by dividing the movable area 413. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, the terminal device 1 is configured such that among the polygonal regions 413a to 413e obtained by dividing the movable region 413, the polygonal region 413a is a polygonal region that includes the position of the game content. It is specified that

Note that the plurality of polygonal regions obtained by dividing the movable region 413 may be stored in advance in the storage unit 11, and the polygonal regions obtained by dividing the movable region 413 may be stored in advance in the storage unit 11. It may also be calculated by the terminal device 1. For example, the terminal device 1 may calculate a plurality of polygonal regions obtained by dividing the movable region 413 using a known algorithm such as Delaunay's algorithm.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 extracts, from among the target positions 412, a target position 412 that has a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium 411. For example, a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium 411 means that the distance from the position of the game medium 411 in the virtual space is equal to or less than a predetermined distance. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, it is assumed that the target position 412a and the target position 412b are extracted as the target position 412 having a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium 411.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 specifies a polygonal area that includes each of the extracted target positions 412. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, the polygonal region 413b is specified as the polygonal region including the target position 412a. Further, the polygonal region 413c is specified as the polygonal region including the target position 412b.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 generates a route calculation graph including a plurality of nodes and at least one link connecting the plurality of nodes. The nodes of the route calculation graph include the position of the game medium, the target position, and the vertices of a plurality of polygonal areas. In the example shown in FIG. 8(b), the nodes of the route calculation graph correspond to the vertices 822 of the polygonal areas 413a to 413e, the node 823 corresponding to the position of the game medium 411, and the target position 412a and the target position 412b. 824a and 824b. In addition, links in the route calculation graph are straight lines connecting the edges of multiple polygonal areas, the vertices of the polygonal area including the position of the game medium or the target position, and the node corresponding to the position of the game medium or the target position. including. In the example shown in FIG. 8(b), the links of the route calculation graph correspond to the sides of the polygonal areas 413a to 413e, the vertices of the polygonal area 413a including the position of the game medium 411, and the position of the game medium 411. and a straight line connecting the node 823. Similarly, the links in the route calculation graph include a straight line connecting the vertex of the polygonal region 413b and the node 824a, and a straight line connecting the vertex of the polygonal region 413c and the node 824b. In this way, by making the route calculation graph a graph that includes only the extracted destination positions as nodes, it is possible to suppress the computational load required for route calculation.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 calculates the shortest route from the position of the game medium 411 to each of the extracted target positions 412. For example, the terminal device 1 may calculate the shortest path from the position of the game medium to the target position using a known algorithm for determining the shortest path, such as Dijkstra's algorithm or A* algorithm. In the example shown in FIG. 8(b), the terminal device 1 connects a route 825a from a node 823 corresponding to the position of the game medium 411 to a node 824a corresponding to the target position 412a, and a route 825a from the node 823 to a node corresponding to the target position 412b. The route 825b to 824b is calculated.

Note that the shortest route is the route with the lowest route cost. The route cost is the sum of the costs of links included in the route. The cost of a link is the straight-line distance (the length of the link) in virtual space between nodes at both ends of the link. By doing so, the time required for the game medium 411 to move to the target position can be shortened, and the player's desire to continue playing the game can be maintained and improved. Note that the route cost is an example of a parameter related to the route.

Further, by using the well-known algorithm for finding the shortest route as described above, the terminal device 1 calculates a plurality of routes from the position of the game medium 411 and a route cost for each of the plurality of routes.

Note that the terminal device 1 may be configured to calculate only routes whose route cost is less than or equal to a predetermined cost. For example, the terminal device 1 extracts only routes whose route cost is less than or equal to a predetermined cost from among the shortest routes to each of the calculated and extracted destination positions. Only a certain route may be calculated. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the processing load and processing time of processing for determining whether or not a route satisfies a predetermined condition, which will be described later.

Note that the cost of a link may be a value other than the length of the link. For example, the cost of a link may be the length of the link multiplied by a predetermined coefficient. Further, the predetermined coefficient may be determined according to an event or a game effect that occurs when the game medium 411 moves between nodes at both ends of the link. For example, the predetermined coefficient may be set to a value greater than 1 if a disadvantageous effect for the player occurs when the game medium 411 moves between nodes. Effects that are disadvantageous to the player include, for example, a decrease in a parameter such as the physical strength value of the game medium 411, a decrease in the movement speed of the game medium, or an effect such as contact with an enemy game medium. Further, the predetermined coefficient may be set to a value smaller than 1 if an advantageous effect for the player occurs when the game medium 411 moves between nodes. Effects advantageous to the player include, for example, an increase in the parameters of the game medium, an increase in the movement speed of the game medium, and the ability to acquire game contents such as items. By doing so, the game medium 411 moves to the destination position along a route that is advantageous to the player, thereby motivating the player to input a movement instruction.

Note that the route calculated according to the above explanation is the shortest route in the route calculation graph. The terminal device 1 may calculate the shortest route in the movable area 413 by further performing smoothing processing on the calculated route.

(Explanation of the process by which the terminal device determines whether the route satisfies the predetermined conditions)
Hereinafter, a process in which the terminal device 1 determines whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the movement direction will be described using FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the calculated route and moving direction displayed on the field screen 910. FIG. 9 shows a field screen 910, a movement direction 911, a path 912a from the position of the game medium to the target position 412a, and a path 912b from the position of the game medium to the target position 412b. The route 912a includes an element route 912a1 that connects to the position of the game medium, and an element route 912a2 that connects to the element route 912a1. The path 912b includes an element path 912b1 that connects to the position of the game medium, and an element path 912b2 that connects to the element path 912b1. Note that an element route refers to a straight line portion that constitutes a route, and corresponds to one link in a route calculation graph. Furthermore, in the following, among the element routes that constitute the route, the element route that connects to the position of the game medium will be referred to as a first element route. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the first element route among the element routes configuring the route 912a is the element route 912a1. Further, among the element routes forming the route 912b, the first element route is the element route 912b1. Note that the moving direction 911, the route 912a, and the route 912b are shown for explanation purposes, and do not need to be displayed on the field screen 910.

First, the terminal device 1 calculates the size of the angle between the movement direction 911 included in the movement instruction and the direction of the first element route among the element routes that constitute the calculated route. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the terminal device 1 calculates the size of the angle 913a formed by the movement direction 911 and the direction of the element route 912a1. Similarly, the terminal device 1 calculates the size of the angle 913b formed by the movement direction 911 and the direction of the element route 912b1.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 determines whether the calculated angle size is less than or equal to a predetermined angle. In the example shown in FIG. 9, it is assumed that the terminal device 1 determines that the size of the corner 913a is less than or equal to the predetermined angle, and that the size of the corner 913b is not less than or equal to the predetermined angle. By doing so, the terminal device 1 determines whether the size of the angle between the moving direction and the direction of the first element route is less than or equal to the predetermined angle. Note that the fact that the size of the angle between the movement direction and the direction of the first element path is less than or equal to a predetermined angle is an example of satisfying the predetermined condition regarding the movement direction.

Subsequently, the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves to the destination position according to the path determined to have the angle size less than or equal to the predetermined angle. This reduces the difference between the movement direction included in the movement instruction and the direction in which the game medium initially moves, allowing for intuitive operation.

Note that if it is determined that the angle between the movement direction and the direction of the first element route is less than or equal to a predetermined angle in the plurality of routes, the terminal device 1 selects the game content according to the route with the smallest route cost. The display of the game medium 411 is controlled so as to move to the target position. As a result, when a plurality of target positions exist in the same direction, the game medium 411 is moved to the closest target position, so that the moving time can be reduced.

In addition, in the above description, the direction of the first element path refers to the direction of the first element path defined in the three-dimensional virtual space, when the first element path is projected onto the two-dimensional screen at a predetermined viewpoint position and a predetermined line-of-sight direction. is the direction of the first element path in the dimensional screen. That is, the direction of the first element route is not the direction in the three-dimensional virtual space but the direction of the first element route on the field screen displayed on the display unit 13. By setting in this way, the player only has to input a movement instruction based on the direction displayed on the display unit 13, which enables more intuitive operation.

(Explanation of various data)
Hereinafter, various data stored in the storage unit 11 will be explained using FIG. 10.

FIG. 10A is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a region table 1010 that manages information regarding polygonal regions. In the region table 1010, a region ID 1011, a vertex 1012, an adjacent region ID 1013, etc. are stored in association with each other.

The region ID 1011 is identification information that can uniquely identify a polygonal region. The vertex 1012 is information that can uniquely identify the vertex of the polygonal region. In the example shown in FIG. 10(a), the vertex 1012 is the coordinate of the vertex of the polygonal region. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 10(a), three coordinates are stored in the vertex 1012. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 10(a), the polygonal area is a triangle. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 10(a), the coordinates of each vertex are described in a two-dimensional coordinate system, but they may be described in a three-dimensional coordinate system or in another coordinate system. . Adjacent area ID 1013 is identification information of another polygonal area adjacent to the polygonal area. Adjacent polygonal areas refer to polygonal areas that share at least one side.

FIG. 10(b) is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a destination position table 1020 that manages information regarding destination positions. In the destination position table 1020, a destination position ID 1021, a position 1022, an area ID 1023, etc. are stored in association with each other. Note that the data stored in the destination position table 1020 is an example of information regarding the destination position in the virtual space.

The destination position ID 1021 is identification information that can uniquely specify the destination position. The position 1022 is a coordinate representing the position of the target position. The area ID 1023 is identification information of a polygonal area that includes the target position.

(Description of processing unit 14)
The processing unit 14 of the terminal device 1 will be explained below.

As shown in FIG. 3, the processing unit 14 includes an acquisition unit 141, a calculation unit 142, a determination unit 143, and a display control unit 144 as its functional blocks. Each of these units is a functional module realized by a program executed by a processor included in the processing unit 14. Each of these parts may be implemented in the terminal device 1 as firmware.

The acquisition unit 141 acquires a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player. For example, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether or not the operation unit 12 has detected the player's contact with the operation unit 12 . If it is determined that contact has been detected, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the contact position where the player is touching the operation unit 12 as an input position at predetermined time intervals.

Subsequently, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the operation unit 12 has detected the end of the player's contact with the operation unit 12. If it is determined that the end of the contact has been detected, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the input position acquired last and the input position acquired immediately before are separated by a predetermined distance or more. If it is determined that the distance is a predetermined distance or more, the acquisition unit 141 acquires an operation instruction. The operation instruction includes the position coordinates of the first acquired input position on the operation unit 12 as the coordinates of the operation position. Further, the operation instruction includes the direction of the input position acquired last with respect to the input position acquired immediately before that as the movement direction.

Subsequently, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the coordinates of the operation position included in the operation instruction are within a predetermined range. If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are not within the predetermined range, the acquisition unit 141 acquires the operation instruction as a movement instruction. If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are within the predetermined range, the acquisition unit 141 does not acquire the movement instruction. Note that if it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are within a predetermined range, the acquisition unit 141 may acquire the operation instruction as a viewpoint movement instruction.

The acquisition unit 141 also acquires manual operation instructions for operating the game medium 411 from the player. For example, when the player operates the operation unit 12 and makes an input in which the input position is within the display area of the operation instruction object 414 on the field screen 410, the acquisition unit 141 performs a manual operation including a direction corresponding to the input position as the operation direction. Get operating instructions.

The acquisition unit 141 also acquires a menu screen display instruction from the player for displaying a menu screen. For example, the acquisition unit 141 acquires a menu screen display instruction in response to the player operating the operation unit 12 and selecting a menu screen display object on the field screen 410.

The calculation unit 142 specifies a polygonal area that includes the position of the game medium 411 from among the plurality of polygonal areas obtained by dividing the movable area 413 in response to the acquisition unit 141 acquiring the movement instruction from the player. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 refers to the target position table 1020 and extracts a target position 412 whose distance in the virtual space from the position of the game medium is a predetermined distance or less. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 refers to the target position table 1020 and identifies polygonal regions that include each of the extracted target positions 412. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 generates a route calculation graph. Subsequently, the calculating unit 142 calculates a route from the position of the game medium 411 to each of the extracted target positions 412. Further, the calculation unit 142 calculates the route cost related to each route.

Furthermore, the calculation unit 142 may calculate only those routes whose route cost is equal to or less than a predetermined cost among the extracted routes to the destination position 412. For example, the calculation unit 142 extracts only routes whose route cost is less than or equal to a predetermined cost from among the calculated shortest routes to each of the extracted destination positions. Calculate only a certain route.

As explained above, the calculation unit 142 calculates a route to each of the target positions 412 extracted from the position of the game medium 411 when the coordinates of the operation position included in the movement instruction by the player are within a predetermined range. do not.

The determination unit 143 determines whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the direction of movement. For example, the predetermined condition is that the size of the angle formed by the direction of movement and the direction of the first element route that connects the position of the game medium 411 among the element routes constituting the route is less than or equal to a predetermined angle (for example, 60 degrees). It is to be. Note that when the calculation unit 142 calculates a plurality of routes, the determination unit 143 determines whether a predetermined condition regarding the movement direction is satisfied for each of the plurality of calculated routes.

When it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves to the destination position along the route. For example, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content by supplying display data to the display unit 13 for displaying an image in which the game content appears to be walking in the moving direction.

Further, when it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition, the display control unit 144 controls the display unit 13 to display at least a portion of the route in the virtual space. For example, the display control unit 144 may display only the portion of the route from the current position of the game medium 411 to the destination position 412 in the virtual space.

Furthermore, when it is determined that a plurality of routes satisfy the predetermined condition, the display control unit 144 controls the game so that the game content moves along the route with the smallest route cost among the routes determined to satisfy the predetermined condition. Control the display of media.

Furthermore, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game medium so that if the game medium moving along the route comes into contact with an obstacle object before reaching the destination position, the game medium stops.

Furthermore, if the game medium moving along the route stops before reaching the destination position, the display control unit 144 displays information on the display unit that prompts the player to input a movement instruction.

Furthermore, if it is determined that the route does not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the display control unit 144 controls the display unit 13 so that the game content moves straight in the movement direction included in the movement instruction input by the player. Control the display of game media. Thereby, even if there is no target position in the movement direction, the player can move the game medium in the movement direction, and it is possible to provide a more intuitive operation for the player. The display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content so that when the game content moving straight reaches the outer edge of the movable area, the game content stops.

Further, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves in the operation direction included in the manual operation instruction in response to the acquisition unit 141 acquiring the manual operation instruction from the player.

Further, the display control unit 144 controls the display unit 13 to display a menu screen in response to the acquisition unit 141 acquiring a menu screen display instruction from the player. For example, the display control unit 144 acquires display data for displaying a menu screen from the storage unit 11 and supplies it to the display unit 13.

In addition, in response to the acquisition unit 141 acquiring the viewpoint movement instruction from the player, the display control unit 144 controls the display unit 13 to display the field screen so that at least one of the viewpoint position and the line of sight direction moves. change. For example, the display control unit 144 moves the viewpoint position in the moving direction included in the viewpoint movement instruction, and displays the field screen so that the direction of the game medium based on the viewpoint position after the movement is the viewpoint direction. change.

(Explanation of processing flow by terminal device)
The flow of processing by the terminal device 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing an example of the flow of movement processing by the terminal device 1. As shown in FIG.

First, the storage unit 11 of the terminal device 1 stores information regarding the target position in the virtual space (S1101). Subsequently, the display unit 13 of the terminal device 1 displays the game content located in the virtual space (S1103). Subsequently, the acquisition unit 141 of the terminal device 1 executes a movement instruction acquisition process (S1105). Details of the movement instruction acquisition process will be described later. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 of the terminal device 1 executes route calculation processing (S1107). Details of the route calculation process will be described later.

Subsequently, the determination unit 143 of the terminal device 1 determines the angle formed by the movement direction included in the movement instruction and the direction of the first element route connecting to the position of the game medium among the element routes configuring the calculated route. It is determined whether the size of the angle is less than or equal to a predetermined angle (S1109). If it is determined that the angle size is less than or equal to the predetermined angle (S1109-Y), the display control unit 144 of the terminal device 1 controls the display of the game content so that the game content is moved along the route (S1111). ). Subsequently, the display control unit 144 determines whether the game medium moving along the route has reached the destination position (S1113). If it is determined that the target position has not been reached, that is, if it is determined that the game medium moving along the route has stopped before reaching the target position (S1113-N), the display control unit 144: Information instructing the player to input a movement instruction is displayed (S1115), and the process advances to S1105. If it is determined that the target position has been reached (S1113-Y), the series of processing ends. Further, if it is determined that the size of the corner is not less than the predetermined angle (S1109-N), the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves straight in the movement direction included in the movement instruction. (S1117), and the series of processing ends.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of the flow of movement instruction acquisition processing in the terminal device 1. First, the acquisition unit 141 of the terminal device 1 determines whether or not the operation unit 12 has detected the player's contact with the operation unit 12 (S1201). If it is determined that contact has not been detected (S1201-N), the process advances to S1201. If it is determined that contact has been detected (S1201-Y), the acquisition unit 141 acquires the contact position where the player is touching the operation unit as an input position at a predetermined time interval (S1203). Subsequently, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the operation unit 12 has detected the end of the player's contact with the operation unit 12 (S1205). If it is determined that the end of contact has not been detected (S1205-N), the process advances to S1203. If it is determined that the end of contact has been detected (S1205-Y), the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the input position acquired last and the input position acquired immediately before are separated by a predetermined distance or more. (S1207). If it is determined that the distance is a predetermined distance or more (S1207-Y), the acquisition unit 141 acquires an operation instruction including the coordinates of the operation position and the movement direction (S1209). If it is determined that the distance is not more than the predetermined distance (S1207-N), the process advances to S1201. Subsequently, the acquisition unit 141 determines whether the coordinates of the operation position included in the operation instruction are within a predetermined range (S1211). If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are not within the predetermined range (S1211-N), the acquisition unit 141 acquires the operation instruction as a movement instruction (S1213), and ends the series of processing. If it is determined that the coordinates of the operation position are within the predetermined range (S1211-Y), the process advances to S1201.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of the flow of route calculation processing in the terminal device 1. First, the calculation unit 142 of the terminal device 1 specifies a polygonal area that includes the position of the game content (S1301). Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 extracts, from among the target positions, a target position that has a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium 411 (S1303). Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 identifies polygonal regions including each of the extracted target positions (S1305). Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 generates a route calculation graph (S1307). Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 calculates the shortest route from the position of the game medium to each of the target positions extracted and the route cost for each route (S1309), and ends the series of processing.

As described above, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention includes the display unit 13 that displays game content located in a virtual space. Furthermore, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention includes a storage unit 11 that stores information regarding a target position in a virtual space. Furthermore, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention includes an acquisition unit 141 that acquires a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player. Furthermore, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention includes a calculation unit 142 that calculates a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position. Furthermore, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention includes a determination unit 143 that determines whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the direction of movement. The terminal device 1 according to the present invention also includes a display control unit 144 that controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves along the route to the destination position when it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition. By having such a configuration, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention can support the player's operation of the character.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the route may be configured by a plurality of element routes. Further, the predetermined condition may be that the size of the angle between the moving direction and the direction of the element route connecting the position of the game medium is less than or equal to the predetermined angle. By doing so, the game medium moves in a direction close to the movement direction included in the movement instruction input by the player, so that an intuitive operation for the player is realized.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the movement instruction may include information regarding the operating position. Further, the calculation unit 142 does not need to calculate the route when the information regarding the operation position is within a predetermined range. By doing this, it becomes possible to assign different game operations when the information regarding the operation position is within a predetermined range, increasing the variety of game operations.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the display control unit 144 may control the display of the game content so that the game content moves in the movement direction when it is determined that the route does not satisfy a predetermined condition. . By doing this, even if the route does not satisfy the predetermined conditions, the game medium will move in a direction close to the movement direction included in the movement instruction input by the player, making it more intuitive for the player. operations are realized.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the display control unit 144 may display at least a portion of the route in the virtual space when it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition. By doing so, the player can easily confirm the route that the game medium will travel from now on.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the display control unit 144 displays information on the display unit that prompts the player to instruct the player to move when the game medium that is moving along the route stops before reaching a predetermined position. It's fine. By doing so, the player can recognize that he must further operate the operation unit 12.

Further, the terminal device 1 according to the present invention may include an operation unit 12 that detects contact by a player. Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the acquisition unit 141 may acquire the contact position where the player is touching the operation unit 12 at predetermined time intervals. Further, the moving direction may be a direction based on a contact position acquired immediately before the last contact position acquired by the acquisition unit 141. By doing so, the player can move the game medium by changing the contact position in the direction in which he or she wants the game medium to move, allowing for more intuitive operation.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, when it is determined that a plurality of routes satisfy the predetermined condition, the display control unit 144 selects the route that has the smallest route cost among the routes determined to satisfy the predetermined condition. The display of the game medium may be controlled to move outside the game medium. By doing this, when there are multiple target positions in the same direction, the game content is moved to the closest target position, so the travel time can be reduced.

Furthermore, in the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, the calculation unit 142 may calculate a route to a destination position that has a predetermined relationship with the position of the game medium. By doing so, it is possible to reduce the computational load required for route calculation.

Further, the method for controlling the terminal device 1 including the storage unit 11 and the display unit 13 that displays game content located in the virtual space according to the present invention includes storing information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space in the storage unit 11. Including remembering. Further, the control method according to the present invention includes obtaining a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player. Further, the control method according to the present invention includes calculating a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position. Furthermore, the control method according to the present invention includes determining whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the direction of movement. Further, the control method according to the present invention includes controlling the display of the game content so that the game content moves to a predetermined position along the route when it is determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition. By having such a configuration, the control method according to the present invention makes it possible to support the player's operation of the character.

Further, the control program of the terminal device 1 according to the present invention, which includes the storage unit 11 and the display unit 13 that displays game content located in the virtual space, stores information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space in the storage unit 11. The terminal device 1 is caused to perform operations including storing. Further, the control method according to the present invention causes the terminal device 1 to perform a step including acquiring a movement instruction including a movement direction from the player. Further, the control method according to the present invention causes the terminal device 1 to perform a process including calculating a route from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the target position. Further, the control method according to the present invention causes the terminal device 1 to perform a step including determining whether the calculated route satisfies a predetermined condition regarding the direction of movement. Further, the control method according to the present invention includes controlling the display of the game content so that the game content moves to a predetermined position along the route when it is determined that the route satisfies a predetermined condition. have it executed. By having such a configuration, the control program according to the present invention can support the player's operation of the character.

(Modification 1)
In the above description, the calculation unit 142 extracts a target position whose distance in the virtual space from the position of the game medium is a predetermined distance or less, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, after calculating the routes and route costs from the position of the game medium to all the target positions in the route calculation graph, the calculation unit 142 may extract target positions whose route costs are equal to or less than a predetermined value. Furthermore, when a value other than the link length is used as the link cost, the calculation unit 142 may extract destination positions where the total value of the lengths of links included in the route is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

Further, the polygonal region may be associated with any one of a plurality of region groups. The calculation unit 142 may then extract the target position included in the polygonal area associated with the area group associated with the polygonal area including the position of the game medium. In this case, the storage unit 11 stores identification information for identifying an area group in association with each polygonal area in the area table 1010. After specifying the polygonal area including the position of the game medium, the calculation unit 142 refers to the area table 1010 and obtains the identification information of the area group associated with the specified polygonal area. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 obtains the region ID 1011 of another polygonal region associated with the obtained identification information of the region group. Subsequently, the calculation unit 142 refers to the destination position table 1020 and extracts the destination position by acquiring the destination position ID 1021 of the destination position associated with the acquired area ID 1023. By doing so, it becomes possible to flexibly set the target position to which the game content can automatically move and the target position to which it cannot automatically move.

(Modification 2)
In the above description, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game medium so that if the game medium moving along the route comes into contact with an obstacle object before reaching the destination position, the game medium stops. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the game medium may avoid contact with an obstacle object.

In this case, the storage unit 11 stores a plurality of polygonal areas obtained by dividing the movable area excluding a predetermined area around the obstacle object. This ensures that the game medium moving along the path does not come into contact with any obstacle objects before reaching the destination location.

Further, depending on the type of the obstacle object, whether or not the game medium comes into contact with the obstacle object may be set to differ. For example, the obstacle object may include an enemy game medium whose contact with the game medium starts a competitive game, and an NPC (non-player character) whose event starts when it comes into contact with the game medium. . Then, the storage unit 11 stores a plurality of polygonal areas obtained by dividing the movable area excluding a predetermined area around the obstacle object, which is an NPC. As a result, the game medium moving along the route does not come into contact with obstacle objects that are NPCs before reaching the destination position, but can come into contact with obstacle objects that are enemy game objects. By inputting a movement instruction, the player can enjoy a competitive game against an enemy game medium while omitting events with NPCs. Furthermore, the game medium moving along the route may be set so as not to come into contact with obstacle objects that are enemy game objects, but to be able to come into contact with obstacle objects that are NPCs. Thereby, the player can enjoy the event with the NPC while omitting the competitive game.

(Modification 3)
In the above explanation, the size of the angle formed by the direction of the first element route, which is the element route connecting to the position of the game medium, and the movement direction included in the movement instruction among the element routes composing the route is less than or equal to a predetermined angle. Although it has been determined that the route satisfies the predetermined condition when , the route is not limited to this. Whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied may be determined based on whether the degree of deviation between the first element route and the movement instruction input by the player is less than or equal to a predetermined value.

In this case, the acquisition unit 141 of the terminal device 1 acquires a movement instruction including a series of acquired input positions instead of the operation position and movement direction. The determination unit 143 of the terminal device 1 calculates the distance between the line segment representing the first element route and the coordinates of each of the acquired series of input positions. Subsequently, the determination unit 143 calculates the degree of deviation by averaging each calculated distance. Subsequently, the determining unit 143 determines whether the route satisfies a predetermined condition by determining whether the degree of deviation is less than or equal to a predetermined value. As a result, the game medium first moves along the input position included in the movement instruction input by the player, thereby realizing a more intuitive operation for the player.

Note that the degree of deviation may be calculated by any method other than the above method. For example, the degree of deviation may be the total value of the distances between the line segment representing the first element route and the coordinates of each of the acquired series of input positions. Further, the determination unit 143 extracts a predetermined number of distances having a small or large value among the distances between the line segment representing the element route connecting to the position of the game medium and the coordinates of each of the obtained series of input positions. , their average value or total value may be used as the deviation degree.

Further, whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied may be determined based on whether the degree of coincidence between the first element route and the movement instruction input by the player is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The degree of matching may be, for example, the inner product of the vector corresponding to the first element route and the vector corresponding to the movement instruction input by the player. The vector corresponding to the first element route is, for example, a vector whose starting point is one of the two end points of the first element route, which is the position of the game medium, and whose end point is the other end point. The vector corresponding to the movement instruction input by the player is, for example, a vector whose end point is the input position acquired last among the input positions included in the movement instruction and whose start point is the input position acquired immediately before that. The vector corresponding to the movement instruction may be a vector determined based on another input position.

Further, the determining unit 143 determines, among the calculated routes, a route that has the smallest degree of deviation between the first element route constituting the route and the movement instruction, or a route that matches the first element route constituting the route and the movement instruction. Only the route with the highest degree may be determined to be the route that satisfies the predetermined condition.

(Modification 4)
In the above description, the movement direction included in the movement instruction is the direction of the input position obtained last with respect to the input position obtained immediately before that, but is not limited to this. For example, the movement direction may be the direction of the last acquired input position relative to the first acquired input position. Further, the movement direction may be a straight line direction calculated based on a series of acquired input positions. In this case, the straight line to be calculated may be, for example, a straight line for which the sum of the distances (or a value based on distance, such as the square of the distance) from the acquired coordinates of the series of input positions is the minimum.

As a result, even if the player makes a mistake in the operation immediately before ending contact with the operation unit 12, the possibility that the game medium will move in a direction not intended by the player is reduced, and the operation can be performed in accordance with the player's intention. Realize.

(Modification 5)
In the above description, when it is determined that a plurality of routes satisfy the predetermined condition regarding the movement direction, the display control unit 144 controls the display of the game content so that the game content moves along the route with the smallest route cost. , but not limited to this. For example, if there are multiple routes in which the angle between the first element route constituting the route and the movement direction is less than or equal to a predetermined angle, the display control unit 144 displays the game content according to the route with the smallest angle. The display of the game medium may be controlled so that the game medium moves.

By doing so, the game medium moves along a path that minimizes the difference from the movement direction included in the movement instruction, thereby realizing a more intuitive operation for the player.

(Modification 6)
In addition, when determining whether the size of the angle formed by the direction of the first element route constituting the route and the movement direction included in the movement instruction is less than or equal to a predetermined angle, the determination unit 143 A predetermined angle may be determined. For example, the determination unit 143 may determine the predetermined angle such that the larger the route cost, the larger the predetermined angle. Further, the determination unit 143 may determine the predetermined angle such that the larger the distance in the virtual space between the position of the game medium and the target position reached by the route, the larger the predetermined angle becomes. Further, the determination unit 143 may determine the predetermined angle such that the longer the length of the first element path, the larger the predetermined angle.

When a player attempts to move the game medium to a distant destination position, it is difficult for the player to predict the shortest path, so the movement direction included in the movement instruction is likely to differ from the direction of the first element path. By configuring the determination unit 143 as described above, even when moving the game medium to a distant target position, the size of the angle between the first element path and the movement direction is likely to be less than or equal to the predetermined angle. Therefore, the player can easily move the game medium to a distant target position.

(Modification 7)
Note that the present invention may be provided by cooperation between a terminal device and a server device. In this case, the terminal device 1 includes a communication section and is communicably connected to the server device. Some of the functions of the terminal device 1 are provided by the server device. For example, the processing unit 14 of the terminal device 1 acquires a signal corresponding to a movement instruction from a player, and transmits it to the server device via the communication unit. Then, the server device generates display data for displaying the game content to move according to the received movement instruction, and transmits it to the terminal device 1. The processing unit 14 of the terminal device 1 then controls the display unit 13 to display the game content so as to move based on the received display data. By doing so, the game according to the present invention can be provided regardless of the processing capacity of the terminal device 1.

It should be understood that those skilled in the art can make various changes, substitutions, and modifications thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, within the spirit and scope of the present invention, the functions of the above-mentioned parts may be combined or divided as appropriate. Further, the processing of each part described above may be performed in a different order. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above may be implemented in appropriate combinations.

Claims (13)

a display unit that displays game media located in the virtual space;
a storage unit that stores information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space;
an acquisition unit that acquires movement instructions including a movement direction from the player;
A plurality of links are set within a movable area of the game medium, and one or more of the set links are connected from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the predetermined position. a calculation unit that calculates a route;
The route is set in the game based on the movement direction included in the movement instruction and the direction of the element route that connects to the position of the game medium among the element routes that constitute the route and correspond to the link. a determination unit that determines the movement path of the medium;
a display control unit that controls display of the game medium so that the game medium moves to the predetermined position along the movement route;
A terminal device comprising: The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein when the game medium moving along the movement path is included within a predetermined range regarding the specific object in the virtual space, a specific game related to the specific object is executed. The terminal device according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the calculation unit calculates the route based on a plurality of the links in the movable area and parameters of each link . The terminal device according to claim 3 , wherein the parameter of the link is a value obtained by multiplying the length of the link by a predetermined coefficient. The terminal device according to claim 4 , wherein the calculation unit calculates the route according to the sum of the parameters of one or more of the links that constitute the route. In a case where moving the game medium according to the link corresponding to the predetermined coefficient causes a disadvantageous game effect to the player, a value larger than a predetermined value is set as the predetermined coefficient;
The terminal device according to claim 5 , wherein the calculation unit calculates the route with the smallest sum of the parameters of one or more of the links that constitute the route. The game effect disadvantageous to the player is at least one of a decrease in a parameter of the game medium, a decrease in the movement speed of the game medium, and a contact between the game medium and an enemy game medium. Terminal device according to item 6 . If a game effect advantageous to the player occurs when the game medium moves according to the link corresponding to the predetermined coefficient, a value smaller than the predetermined value is set as the predetermined coefficient;
The terminal device according to any one of claims 5 to 7 , wherein the calculation unit calculates the route with the smallest sum of the parameters of one or more of the links constituting the route. 9. The game effect advantageous to the player is at least one of an increase in a parameter of the game medium, an increase in the movement speed of the game medium, and an acquisition of a first game medium. terminal device. In setting the link , the calculation unit divides the movable area into a plurality of polygonal areas, and uses a line segment between vertices of each of the plurality of polygonal areas as the link. The terminal device according to any one of . In setting the link , the calculation unit calculates a line segment connecting a point corresponding to the predetermined position and a vertex of the polygonal area including the predetermined position, and a point corresponding to the position of the game medium; 11. The terminal device according to claim 10 , wherein the link is a line segment connecting vertices of the polygonal area including the position of the game medium. A method for controlling a terminal device comprising a storage unit and a display unit displaying game content located in a virtual space, the method comprising:
storing information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space in the storage unit;
Obtain movement instructions including movement direction from the player,
A plurality of links are set within a movable area of the game medium, and one or more of the set links are connected from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the predetermined position. Calculate as a route,
The route is set in the game based on the movement direction included in the movement instruction and the direction of the element route that connects to the position of the game medium among the element routes that constitute the route and correspond to the link. Determined as the movement path of the medium,
controlling display of the game medium so that the game medium moves to the predetermined position according to the movement route;
control methods, including A control program for a terminal device comprising a storage unit and a display unit displaying game content located in a virtual space,
storing information regarding a predetermined position in the virtual space in the storage unit;
Obtain movement instructions including movement direction from the player,
A plurality of links are set within a movable area of the game medium, and one or more of the set links are connected from the position of the game medium in the virtual space to the predetermined position. Calculate as a route,
The route is set in the game based on the movement direction included in the movement instruction and the direction of the element route that connects to the position of the game medium among the element routes that constitute the route and correspond to the link. Determined as the movement path of the medium,
controlling display of the game medium so that the game medium moves to the predetermined position according to the movement route;
A control program that causes the terminal device to execute the following.

Images