JP7445798B2 - Game system, game provision method and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a game system and program using a three-dimensional space.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various games such as love simulations, RPGs, and competitive games have been known in a three-dimensional space using a player character as a player's avatar.

Recently, with the development of wearable image display devices such as head-mounted displays (hereinafter referred to as "HMD"), which are worn by users to display images, and networks and communications, it has become possible to create a more immersive experience in the game world. Games that allow you to experience it in real life are also appearing.

In particular, such simulation games have a configuration in which the player's line of sight is detected, the detected line of sight of the player is reflected in the game space, and the game progresses while communicating with the target character in the game space. (For example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-231443

However, in the game system described in Patent Document 1, although it is possible to advance the game according to the player's line of sight, it is difficult to determine whether the player's line of sight input is appropriate for the game, and whether the player's line of sight input is appropriate for the game. It may be difficult to make the player recognize whether or not he or she is communicating with the character.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to allow a player to recognize the playing situation in response to the player's operation input, including the player's line of sight input, without sacrificing the sense of immersion; It is an object of the present invention to provide a game system and a program thereof, in which the recognition means can be used as an effect to enliven the game and an effect to communicate with the game characters in an easy-to-understand manner.

(1) In order to solve the above problems, the present invention:
A program that causes a computer to proceed with a game while imaging a game space in which a gazed character gazed at by a player is arranged as a virtual three-dimensional space, the program comprising:
The computer,
object control means for controlling each object including the gazing character in the game space;
reception means that executes processing for receiving player input including at least the player's viewing direction input by the player;
An image in which a position where a player character to be operated by the player is placed in the game space is set as the position of a virtual camera, and an image of the game space as seen from the line of sight of the player with the virtual camera as a viewpoint is generated. generation means,
virtual camera control means for controlling the virtual camera based on the accepted player input; and
display control means for performing display control to display a given display object in the vicinity of the watching character arranged in the game space;
function as
The display control means,
The display device is configured to control the mode of the display object or a change in the mode according to a given parameter related to the game of at least one of the watching character and the player character.

With this configuration, the present invention changes parameters based on the progress of the game, the player's operations, and the input status of the line of sight, such as the detection status of the player's line of sight and the relationship between the detected player's line of sight and the character being watched. Therefore, while the display object is displayed near the character that the player is looking at, the state of the display object or its change can be executed in accordance with changes in the parameters.

For example, in the case of a game in which the character to be watched and the player communicate with each other by aligning their gaze, etc., the present invention can be applied to the characteristics of the player, the game environment, the level of achievement of the communication, and the situation. The display mode of the display object and its change can be executed in accordance with the parameters that change based on.

Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to make the players aware of the character they are watching while also visualizing the relationship between the character they are watching and each player, such as whether or not they are communicating with the character they are watching. The player can easily and accurately recognize the progress status of the game, the player's input status such as the player's operation and line of sight with respect to the character being watched, and the play status during the game, such as a situation where communication is achieved. The display can be used as an effect to liven up the game.

As a result, the present invention can relieve the player's anxiety about the player's operations and game progress during a game in which the character to be watched is placed in the game space and is watching the game, and also realizes an easy-to-understand communication experience. It is possible to improve the interest of the game without impairing the player's sense of immersion in the virtual three-dimensional space.

Note that the gazed character includes, for example, a character that performs an action in the game space, such as an idol, or a character that confronts the player according to a preset scenario (RPG or mystery game) (not just a dynamic character). , static objects, etc.) that are watched by the player and are controlled by the computer.

For example, a character that performs an action may include an action that looks towards the position of the virtual camera (that is, towards the player character), or an action that is specially provided to the player character (when the gazing character and the player are idle). This includes a gaze character that performs a fan service action toward the player when it has a relationship with a fan.

The player character may be a character that becomes the player's alter ego in the game space (a so-called avatar), or a character that acts in the game space based on the player's will, such as a fellow character of the player. Good too.

In particular, the player character may not be imaged when the game space is imaged (that is, it may not be displayed), or may be imaged in the image of the game space.

When the player character is imaged, for example, parts such as the player's own limbs that can be seen from the player character, the player characters of other players, or the player character displayed on a monitor installed in the game space, etc. An image is created of what can be seen from the player's perspective.

Furthermore, player input may include player operations that are input or recognized according to the movement of the player's body such as the player's fingers, arms, head, line of sight, or eyelids, such as input to a controller, It may be an input (direction of sight or operation input) detected by a detection means such as image detection or vibration detection (gyro).

In particular, the player inputs may be input by a single player or by multiple players. Therefore, the number of players participating in the game may be one or more.

The given display object includes, for example, an object having a predetermined shape such as a heart shape.

In particular, the appearance of the displayed objects includes the shape, size, color, and animation pattern (for example, changes in facial expressions) of these objects, and the initial appearance or the appearance during the game is controlled.

Furthermore, the given parameters include, for example, parameters set for each player such as player attributes and billing status, and strategic parameters that can be set strategically or simply for the game; It includes game-linked parameters that change while the character is watching as the game progresses.

In addition to the above, the "nearby of the character being watched" may be, for example, the vicinity in the game space, or the area in the image displayed by being superimposed as an image in the vicinity of the character being imaged. It may be in the vicinity of .

In addition, in "controlling the appearance of a displayed object or a change in the appearance thereof," "controlling the appearance of a displayed object" refers to, for example, the performance movement of a gazing character, or the movement when confronting a player character. This indicates that the state of the displayed object at the start of gazing is controlled, and "control of change in the state of the displayed object" indicates, for example, a change in the state of the displayed object while the gazing character is gazing.

(2) The present invention also includes:
The display control means,
A configuration is included in which the game-related parameters of both the watching character and the player character are added up to calculate a total value, and the mode of the display object or a change in the mode is controlled according to the total value. are doing.

With this configuration, the present invention can display objects for visualizing the relationship between the player and the character who is watching, such as whether or not they are able to communicate with the character who is watching, rather than just the individual parameters of the player or the character that is watching. First, since it can be controlled using the parameters of both parties, the communication achieved between the two parties can be accurately reflected in the game world, and as a result, the communication between the character being watched and the player can be controlled. It is possible to accurately visualize the relationships shown in the game.

For example, the present invention provides a game in which a character to be watched and a player communicate with each other by making eye contact between the character and the player in the game space.
The degree of communication with the player from the gazing character side and the degree of communication with the gazing character from the player side can be combined and quantified as a parameter.

Further, for example, in the case where a game is played by a plurality of players, and the game is played by communicating between the player and the character being watched by aligning the gaze of the character with the player, each player The degree of cooperation can also be summed up and quantified as a parameter.

Therefore, the present invention can accurately quantify, as parameters, the progress of the game and the operation status for the player's communication with the character being watched. It is possible to make the player accurately recognize the input situation based on the operation, and to appropriately execute effects according to the play situation during the game.

(3) Furthermore, the present invention includes:
The given parameters related to the game are parameters that change and reflect game situation information related to the watching character or the player character.

With this configuration, the present invention can provide game situations related to the gazing character or the player character, such as parameters in which attributes, appearance, and equipment of the gazing character or the player character are quantified, or position-based parameters such as position and distance. The appearance of the displayed object or a change in the appearance can be controlled in accordance with parameters that change and reflect information.

Therefore, in the present invention, the appearance of displayed objects or changes in the appearance can be controlled by the attributes and appearance of the player character, or the operations on the player character, so the world view of the character and the situation in the game are important. In a game where a character is watched closely, its important elements can be reflected in the main functions of the game.

As a result, the present invention expands the world view of the game and allows players to enjoy the game from various angles, thereby making it possible to maintain and improve the interest of the game.

Note that, for example, parameters for changing and reflecting game situation information related to the gazed character or player character include:
[1] A parameter in which attribute information indicating the attributes (gender and preferences) of the watching character and the player character is quantified;
[2] Parameters in which appearance (basic shape (including size) of a person, animal, or robot, appearance (including color), hairstyle) is quantified;
[3] Parameters in which the items (including chargeable items) equipped to the player character, such as costumes, accessories, and possessions (towels and psylliums) are quantified [4] The player character's Parameters determined based on gaze control (viewpoint position, gaze direction, gaze position and gaze time) in the game space,
[5] Parameters determined based on the positions, such as the positions of the watching character and the player character, or the distance between them within the game, or
[6] Parameters determined based on the movement of the player character and the accompanying movement of the watching character (the posture of the player character or the watching character, or the contact situation of the contact time and the contact position);
is included.

(4) The present invention also includes:
The given parameters related to the game have a configuration in which they are parameters that reflect the game situation of the player.

With this configuration, the present invention can control the appearance of the displayed object or a change in the appearance in accordance with parameters that do not depend on the watching character or the player character, such as game history, billing history, or in-game decoration.

Therefore, the present invention can control the appearance of the displayed object or a change in the appearance using game situations that are distant from the character, such as when the charge amount is high or when the number of times the game has been played in the past is large.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the game situation can be changed depending on the amount played or the amount charged, so the game can be expanded from various angles, and the interest in the game where the character is watched can be increased. can be improved.

For example, parameters that reflect the player's game situation include:
[1] Players' play frequency (number of plays, number of logins, and time elapsed since the last play), play time (total time since the start of the game), and play performance (highest performance in the past and ranking among multiple players) ) parameters determined based on game history, such as
[2] Parameters determined based on billing information such as billing history indicating the billing amount at a predetermined timing during the game and the cumulative billing amount from the start of the game;
[3] Parameters that are not associated with the gazing character or player character, such as magic items or in-game decorations or items for doing so (including paid items), or
[4] Contains parameters related to the game environment, such as the stage of the game being executed and the game level of the player.

(5) The present invention also includes:
The aspect of the display object includes at least one aspect of the shape, color, size, and display pattern of the display object.

With this configuration, the present invention expresses the displayed object and its changes through various variations by controlling the appearance of the displayed object and changes in the appearance by the shape, color, size, or display pattern of the displayed object. Therefore, it is possible to improve the interest of the game.

(6) Furthermore, the present invention includes:
further causing the computer to function as a control processing means for executing a control processing for controlling a providing means for providing sound or vibration related to the display object;
The control processing means
The present invention is configured to change the sound or vibration provided by the providing means in accordance with the mode of the display object or a change in the mode.

With this configuration, the present invention allows the player to recognize the progress of the game and the player's input status for the character being watched not only through visualization but also through auditory or tactile senses. A synergistic effect can be expected in terms of the effect of enlivening the play situation during the game, such as the situation where communication is achieved.

Therefore, the present invention can further enhance the player's sense of immersion in the virtual space and improve the interest of the game.

The providing means includes, for example, a speaker or headphone output, an operation means such as a controller operated by the player, a structure that vibrates a display device worn on the player that displays game images, wind from a blower, heat from an electric heater, This also includes water vapor from humidifiers.

(7) The present invention also includes:
The image generating means,
Displaying the generated image of the game space on a display means constituted by a wearable image display device having a structure that covers the field of view of the player and allowing the image of the virtual three-dimensional space to be viewed;
The reception means is
The player is configured to receive the player's line-of-sight direction as the player's input.

With this configuration, the present invention can apply a virtual three-dimensional space that changes according to the position and posture of the player's head to the game space, so that the player can actually experience the game within the game space. It can provide a similar feeling.

Therefore, the present invention can further enhance the player's sense of immersion and improve the interest of the game.

(8) Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, the present invention includes:
A game system in which a game progresses while a game space in which a gazed character gazed at by a player is arranged is visualized as a virtual three-dimensional space, the game system comprising:
object control means for controlling each object including the gazing character in the game space;
a receiving unit that executes processing for receiving player input including at least the line of sight direction of the player;
An image in which a position where a player character to be operated by the player is placed in the game space is set as the position of a virtual camera, and an image of the game space as seen from the line of sight of the player with the virtual camera as a viewpoint is generated. a generating means;
virtual camera control means for controlling the virtual camera based on the accepted player input;
Display control means for performing display control to display a given display object in the vicinity of the watching character placed in the game space;
Equipped with
The display control means,
The display device is configured to control the mode of the display object or a change in the mode according to a given parameter related to the game of at least one of the watching character and the player character.

With this configuration, the present invention makes it possible to make the players aware of the character they are watching and to visualize the relationship between the character they are watching and each player, such as whether or not they are able to communicate with the character they are watching. , it is possible to easily and accurately make the player recognize the progress of the game and the player's input status such as the player's operation and line of sight with respect to the character being watched, and also to improve the situation during the game, such as the situation where communication is possible. The display of the play situation can be used as an effect to enliven the game.

Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to eliminate the player's anxiety about the player's operations and game progress during a game in which a gazed character is placed in the game space and gazed at it, and also realizes a communication experience in an easy-to-understand manner. It is possible to improve the interest of the game without impairing the player's sense of immersion in the three-dimensional space.

1 is a configuration diagram showing a schematic configuration of an embodiment of a game system according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a game according to an embodiment. It is an example of a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a server device in one embodiment. It is a figure showing an example of display object information stored in a storage part of a server device in one embodiment. It is an example of a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a terminal device in one embodiment. 1 is an example of a diagram showing an external configuration of a terminal device in an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 1) for explaining a mode control process of a display object according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram (part 2) for explaining the mode control process of a display object according to an embodiment; FIG. 7 is a diagram (Part 3) for explaining the mode control process of a display object according to an embodiment; 2 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the operation of game processing in the performance of the acting character, including the mode control processing of the display object, which is executed by the server device of one embodiment. 12 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the operation of game processing in the performance of the acting character, including the mode control processing of the display object, which is executed by the server device of one embodiment.

Embodiments will be described below. Note that the embodiments described below do not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, not all of the configurations described in this embodiment are essential components of the present invention. Furthermore, the following embodiments are applied to a game system and program according to the present invention for a game system that provides a game by simulating a virtual three-dimensional space using an HMD (head mounted display) as a wearable image display device. This is an embodiment in which the following is applied.

[1] Game System [1.1] Overview First, the overview and general configuration of the game system 1 of this embodiment will be described using FIG. 1. Note that FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration showing the configuration of a game system 1 of this embodiment.

The game system 1 of this embodiment is a VR experience (virtual reality experience) in which a player character (hereinafter referred to as "avatar") appears in a virtual space and is perceived as if it exists around the player. ) is a game system that provides users with online games (client-server type online games).

In particular, the game system 1 of the present embodiment allows the player to play with a plurality of virtual three-dimensional idols (so-called gazing characters that are gazed at by the player, characters that perform actions in the game space (hereinafter referred to as "acting characters"). As one of the fans of a group consisting of It has a configuration that provides a simulation game that allows dimensional stereoscopic viewing.

That is, in the game system 1 of the present embodiment, the acting character performs an action of looking toward the player in the game space (that is, toward the position of the virtual camera) or an action that is specially provided to the player. (Fan service behavior towards the player when the acting character and the player have a relationship with an idol and a fan, hereinafter referred to as "fan service"). It has a configuration that

In addition, the game system 1 is
(1) Displaying the generated image of the game space in 3D on an HMD (wearable image display device) that has a structure that covers the player's field of view and allows the image of the virtual 3D space to be viewed;
(2) Control the virtual camera based on the attitude of the HMD,
(3) The game is configured to advance the game by accepting inputs from the player wearing the HMD, including the direction of the player's line of sight detected by the detection means provided in the HMD.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the game system 1 includes a server device 10 that provides games such as competitive games and RPGs, and an HMD worn by the player. Terminal devices 20 (for example, terminal devices 20A, 20B, 20C) used to play the transmitted game are configured to be connectable to a network such as the Internet.

The server device 10 is, for example, an information processing device that can provide an online game that is executed using an API (application programming interface), a predetermined platform, or the like.

Furthermore, the server device 10 may be configured with one (device, processor), or may be configured with a plurality of (devices, processors).

Information such as billing information and game information stored in the storage area (storage unit 140 described later) of the server device 10 is stored in a database (in a broad sense, a storage device, memory ), or information such as the player information 146 stored in the storage area may be stored in a database (storage device, memory in a broad sense) connected via a network (intranet or Internet). You can do it like this.

In particular, the server device 10 receives input information based on the operation (player input) of the user of the terminal device 20 (i.e., the player who executes the game), and performs game processing based on the received input information. There is.

Then, the server device 10 transmits a three-dimensional image of the game space (including data for displaying the image) and game processing results to the terminal device 20.

The terminal device 20 is a device that includes an HMD unit 200 and a terminal control unit 300, and executes games such as competitive games, simulation games, and RPGs while displaying a three-dimensional image of a game space.

In addition, the terminal device 20 is constituted by an information processing device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PHS, a computer, a game device, a PDA, a portable game device, etc., and an image generation device, and is connected via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN. This is a device that can be connected to the server device 10. Note that the communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be wired or wireless.

The terminal device 20 also has a communication control function for communicating with the server device 10, performs display control using data received from the server device 10, and transmits operation information input by the player to the server device 10. It has a configuration that includes a function to send data to.

The terminal device 20 has a configuration that provides the player with a game that is transmitted from the server device 10 and is realized in a three-dimensional space. However, the terminal device 20 may acquire game control information provided from the server device 10, execute predetermined game processing, and execute a game based on the game processing.

Note that the game system 1 of this embodiment may be a system dedicated to a single player mode in which only one player can play, or may be a system having a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play.

Furthermore, when multiple players play, the game images and game sounds provided to these multiple players may be generated using a single terminal, or they may be connected via a network (transmission line, communication line), etc. It may also be generated by distributed processing using a plurality of terminal devices (game machines, mobile phones).

[1.2] Game Description Next, the outline of the game realized by this embodiment as a VR experience will be explained using FIG. Note that FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the game of this embodiment.

For example, the game space is constructed as a VR space (virtual three-dimensional space) 2, as shown in FIG. A plurality of spectator seats 6 are provided in which avatars 5 are placed.

An idol character 8 (acting character), which is an NPC (non-avatar), performs on the stage, and the player can watch the performance of the idol character 8 through the avatar 5.

The content of the live stage is a live performance such as singing songs, playing musical instruments, dancing, and street performances. For example, in this embodiment, a live performance of singing a choreographed song is performed. .

The stage 4 can be appropriately set, for example, as an outdoor stage, a concert hall, a live house, or the like. Furthermore, depending on the content of the game, it is possible to set situations such as the stage of a school gymnasium, a classroom lectern, a truck bed, or a deck.

The spectator seats 6 are viewing positions for viewing the live stage, and a large number of seats 6 are prepared for one person per seat in one live stage venue. The arrangement layout of the spectator seats 6 can be set as appropriate depending on the design of the stage 4. Note that FIG. 2(A) shows an example in which the viewing seats 6 are set as standing seats. However, it may be a seated type.

The gender, age, and number of idol characters 8 who perform can be set as appropriate. In particular, in this embodiment, the idol characters 8 are composed of a duo of a first idol character 8a and a second idol character 8b, as shown in FIG. 2(A). However, it may be composed of one person or a group of three or more people.

An avatar 5 having a role as a fan of the idol is placed in the audience seat 6, and the player participates in the game by being associated with at least one avatar 5 whose appearance, appearance, items, etc. are set.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2(B), each avatar 5 is automatically controlled to be synchronized with and linked to the player's motion detected by the HMD unit 200 attached to the player 2.

Specifically, the head posture of the avatar 5 is synchronized with the head posture of the player 2 detected by the HMD unit 200, and the line of sight of the avatar 5 is synchronized with the head posture of the player 2 detected by the HMD unit 200. are synchronized, and the avatar 5 in the game space 11 is automatically controlled based on these player inputs.

At the position of the avatar 5 in the game space 11, virtual cameras for the right eye and the left eye, whose shooting angle of view and depth of field are set to correspond to the viewing angle of a human, are set so as to face the front of the head. The images taken with these images are displayed on the HMD unit 200 (specifically, a right-eye display panel 261 and a left-eye display panel 262, which will be described later). Therefore, the player 2 can view the image of the game space 11 as a three-dimensional image through the eyes of the avatar 5 by changing the direction and posture of the head and the direction of the line of sight.

Note that the game of this embodiment is compatible with multiplayer, and in the spectator seats 6, avatars 5 corresponding to each player are placed in each seat. However, even in the seats 6 where the avatars 5 are not placed, NPCs are automatically placed and automatically controlled by the computer to act as fans of the idol.

Furthermore, in the game of the present embodiment, the avatar 5 associated with each player may or may not be displayed in the three-dimensional image provided to each player, and the avatar 5 provided to each player may or may not be displayed. Similarly, the avatar 5 may or may not be displayed in the three-dimensional image provided to the player.

[2] Server Device First, the outline and configuration of the server device 10 of this embodiment will be described using FIGS. 3 and 4. Note that FIG. 3 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the server device 10 of this embodiment, and FIG. 4 is an example of display object information stored in the storage unit 140 of this embodiment. Further, the server device 10 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 3 are omitted.

The server device 10 mainly includes a server processing unit 100 that executes processing related to the game to be provided, an input unit 120 that is used for administrator and other input, a display unit 130 that displays a predetermined display, and various types of equipment that are mainly used for the game. It includes a storage unit 140 that stores data, an information storage medium 180 that stores predetermined information, and a communication unit 196 that communicates with the terminal device 20 and others.

The input unit 120 is used by a system administrator or the like to enter game-related settings and other necessary settings and data. For example, the input unit 120 of this embodiment is configured with a mouse, a keyboard, or the like.

The display unit 130 displays an operation screen for the system administrator. For example, the display unit 130 of this embodiment is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like.

The information storage medium 180 (computer readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions include optical disks (CDs, DVDs), magneto-optical disks (MO), magnetic disks, hard disks, and magnetic tapes. , or a memory (ROM).

The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with the outside (for example, terminals, other servers, and other network systems), and its functions are performed by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs. It is composed of programs, etc.

The storage unit 140 serves as a work area for the server processing unit 100, the communication unit 196, and the like, and its functions are configured by RAM (VRAM) and the like. Note that the information stored in the storage unit 140 may be managed in a database.

In the present embodiment, the storage unit 140 also includes a main storage unit 142 used as a work area, a game information 144 indicating information regarding the game to be provided, and a player information 144 indicating information regarding the user as a player regarding the game to be provided. Information 146, display object information 148 indicating information regarding display object objects, and table data 149 used for calculating game parameters are stored. However, in addition to the above-mentioned information, the storage unit 140 stores various information necessary for game calculations.

The player information 146 includes player identification information such as name, age, gender, and account information for billing and settlement, game play information indicating the player's level and progress during the game, and billing in association with the player ID for each player. Billing history information in which information is registered as history is stored.

In particular, the game play information includes avatar information, and the avatar information includes the basic shape (basic shape (including size) of a person, animal, or robot, etc.), and appearance (including color) such as hairstyle and makeup. , hairstyle), and owned items (costumes, accessories, belongings (towels, psyllium)), and other information for setting the avatar.

Further, the billing history information includes billing date and time indicating the date and time when billing was executed, the type of billing element such as purchase of an item or purchase of a twist, and the billing amount indicating the amount charged.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the display object information 148 includes (1) basic specification information indicating basic specifications, which is associated with the display object ID for each type of display object;
(2) multiple change specification information that defines change specifications that have changed from the basic specifications for each game parameter range;
(3) Sound effect information when displaying a display object for each change specification information,
is defined.

In particular, the basic specification information includes information regarding one or more elements, such as the shape, color, size, or animation display pattern (i.e., animation pattern) of a reference display object, and coordinate values (local It includes information necessary for displaying the display object in the game space, such as coordinates), number of pixels, RGB gradation values, or frame speed.

In addition, the change specification information is divided into multiple ranges (hereinafter referred to as "parameter ranges") from the minimum value to the maximum value of the game parameter, and the amount of change from the standard specification (standard shape , color, size, or difference value of each element of animation) is defined.

In addition, FIG. 4 shows the range of the total value of the game parameters (the total value of the game parameters calculated for each of the avatar and the acting character) for the hard display object "A" with the display object ID "001". It is shown that a defined first level range to a tenth level range is set, and specification information and sound effects are defined for each level range.

Furthermore, the first level range of the hard display object "A" in FIG. 4 shows a case where basic specification information is defined as specification information.

In the table data 149,
(1) A strategic game parameter table in which items related to the attributes of each acting character and player, appearance, items, emotions, and billing amount set for the avatar are associated with the values of each game parameter. ,
(2) An interlocking game parameter table that is linked to the game, in which each action of the acting character and avatar, each item regarding the position and game history information of the player, and each game parameter value are defined in association with each other. ,
including.

In particular, in the strategic game parameter table and the interlocking game parameter table, points for each game parameter are shown in association with items in which game parameters related to avatar settings, acting character performance, or game history are set. stipulated.

The server processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 142 in the storage unit 140 as a work area. The functions of the server processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

The server processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on programs (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores a program for making the computer function as each part of this embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute the processing of each part).

For example, the server processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on a program stored in the information storage medium 180, and also performs processing such as game control processing, image generation processing, or sound generation processing. I do.

The server processing unit 100 also performs game control processing such as processing to start the game when game start conditions are met, processing to progress the game, and processing to control various objects in object space (three-dimensional space) such as characters and maps. , displaying objects, calculating game results, or ending the game when game ending conditions are met.

Specifically, the server processing unit 100 of this embodiment includes a communication control unit 101, a user management unit 102, a parameter control unit 118, an information acquisition unit 104, a billing management unit 105, a game control unit 110, and a virtual camera control unit 106. and a sound generation section 107, an image generation section 108, and a timer section 16.
It has at least 0.

Note that, for example, the game control section 110 of the present embodiment constitutes an object control means, a display control means, and a control processing means of the present invention, and the information acquisition section 104 constitutes a reception means of the present invention. Further, for example, the virtual camera control unit 106 of this embodiment constitutes the virtual camera control means of the present invention, and the image generation unit 108 constitutes the image generation means of the present invention.

The communication control unit 101 performs a process of transmitting and receiving data to and from the terminal device 20 via the network. That is, the server device 10 performs various processes based on various information including player operation information received by the communication control unit 101 from the terminal device 20 and the like.

The user management unit 102 performs processing related to user registration procedures and storage management of data linked to an account (player ID).

Specifically, the user management unit 102 controls the provision of accounts, manages registration information to register and manage personal information about users, and creates a virtual account linked to an account and used as a source of payment for consideration for executing billing elements. settings and deposit/withdrawal control, registration of billing history related to billing elements by the user of the account, and storage and management of game play information related to game progress in association with the account.

The information acquisition unit 104 acquires various information necessary for processing by the server processing unit 100. That is, the processing for accepting this information is performed. For example, the information acquisition unit 104 acquires player operation information from each terminal device 20.

Specifically, the information acquisition unit 104 acquires player line-of-sight information based on image information captured by the imaging unit 210 of the HMD unit 200 in the terminal device 20 during the game, and information detected by the motion sensor 220 of the HMD unit 200. (hereinafter referred to as "motion detection information") and information on switch inputs input in conjunction with the game during execution of the game (hereinafter referred to as "switch input information").

In particular, the information acquisition unit 104 acquires information on each of the three axes regarding the player's head using the motion sensor 220 as motion detection information, and calculates rotation angles around the three axes based on the acquired motion detection information. By doing so, information about the direction in which the player's head is facing may be obtained as line-of-sight information, or imaging information obtained by capturing the direction of the player's eyeballs may be obtained, and predetermined image processing may be performed on the obtained imaging information. During execution, line-of-sight information indicating the player's line-of-sight direction may be acquired using the direction of the player's head calculated based on the motion detection information.

Note that the information acquisition unit 104 may acquire the line of sight information based on operation information from the input unit 260 (for example, a game controller) of the terminal device 20. For example, the information acquisition unit 104 acquires (specifies) line-of-sight information based on operation information obtained by the player operating a direction key, analog stick, operation button, etc. provided on the input unit 260. Good too.

Furthermore, in addition to the motion detection information of the motion sensor 220, the player's line of sight information may be acquired using an image captured by an image capturing unit (not shown) of a plurality of light emitting elements (LEDs) of a light emitting unit (not shown).

Furthermore, information other than the motion detection information of the HMD unit 200 may be used to detect the player's line of sight information. For example, a depth sensor capable of detecting depth information in a three-dimensional space is installed in an imaging unit (not shown), and skeleton information of the player is extracted using a color image from a color image sensor and depth information from the depth sensor. , the player's line of sight information may be obtained using the extracted skeleton information.

The billing management unit 105 executes billing processing for billing elements in the game based on instructions from the target player for each player, and stores information regarding billing (i.e., billing information) in the player information 146 as a billing history ( (hereinafter referred to as "billing processing").

In particular, in this embodiment, charging elements include the amount charged for preparing the avatar's appearance (e.g., make-up, costumes, items, etc.), and the amount charged for predetermined items (e.g., gifts, favors, etc.) for the acting character. ), and parameters corresponding to the amount charged when playing games such as Continue and Gacha.

Furthermore, the billing management unit 105 calculates the cumulative billing amount for each player during game execution based on billing history information in which billing information is registered as a history.

Note that the billing management unit 105 requests billing by using virtual currency or points, or by using a credit card or a prepaid card, and executes each billing process based on instructions from the player.

The game control unit 110 performs various processes related to game execution management. The game control unit 110 of this embodiment performs control to provide data necessary for game play while communicating with the terminal device 20.

Specifically, the game control unit 110 includes a game execution control unit 111, a spectator seat setting unit 112, an avatar setting unit 113, an object control unit 114, an avatar line of sight control unit 115, a line of sight detection unit 116, and a special control execution unit 117. , a parameter control section 118, and a notification control section 119.

Note that, for example, the notification control unit 119 of this embodiment works in conjunction with the object control unit 114 and the special control execution unit 117 to constitute object control means, display control means, and control processing means of the present invention.

The game execution control unit 111 executes various processes related to the execution of the game, including the start and end processes of the performance, including the performance of the acting character, and the processes executed by each game.

In particular, when executing a game that includes a performance by a performance character, the game execution control unit 111 sets a live stage in the game space where the performance character performs based on the player's operation input, and also sets a live stage in the game space where the performance character performs based on the player's operation input. Performs various controls such as playback of music and lighting during a performance for an acting character to perform (that is, during the performance).

The spectator seat setting unit 112 sets the placement position of the player's avatar on the live stage set by the game execution control unit 111, that is, the viewing position of the stage, based on the player's operation input, and sets the position corresponding to the viewing position. Set a virtual camera (for the right eye and for the left eye) that becomes the player's viewpoint.

The spectator seat setting unit 112 of this embodiment sets a viewing position by specifying a reservation as a spectator seat prior to a live stage performance.

The avatar setting unit 113 sets an avatar associated with the player based on the player's operation input, and registers the set avatar in the player information 146.

Specifically, the avatar setting unit 113 sets the basic shape (basic shape (including size) of a person, animal, or robot, etc.), appearance (including color) such as hairstyle and makeup, based on the player's operation. Make settings for dressing the avatar, such as hair style) and owned items (costumes, accessories, and belongings (towels and psyllium)).

The avatar setting unit 113 also performs settings for making the avatar prepare by selecting predetermined parts and the like. In addition, when setting an avatar by charging, the avatar setting unit 113 executes the avatar setting in conjunction with the charging management unit 105 for the portion where charging occurs.

Note that expiration dates are set for the components and items of the avatar's appearance, and the avatar setting section 113 stores items whose expiration date has passed even if the player already owns them. , even if a setting instruction from the player is input, the setting is disabled.

On the other hand, the avatar setting unit 113 assigns items to the avatar that are associated with real goods such as costumes and equipment (including gifts and favors for the acting character) that exist in real space based on the player's operations. It has a configuration that can be set.

Specifically, when the avatar setting unit 113 acquires identification information such as a product number assigned to an item or code information of a two-dimensional barcode transmitted from the terminal device 20 by the player's operation, the avatar setting unit 113 acquires the identification information. The avatar has a configuration in which an item corresponding to the digitized item can be set as the corresponding avatar.

It should be noted that items may be provided by a medium such as a game card instead of an actual item, and conceptual items such as a twist are similarly provided by a medium such as a game card.

In addition, when used during a game such as during a performance of a performance character such as twisting, the avatar setting section 113 can register the item in the player information 146 in advance as an item based on the player's operation before starting the game. It has a configuration that allows for

The object control unit 114 performs a setting process for an object space (a game space that is a three-dimensional virtual space) in which a plurality of objects are arranged. For example, various objects (primitive surfaces such as polygons, free-form surfaces, or subdivision surfaces) that represent display objects such as characters (people, animals, robots, etc.), maps (terrain), buildings, courses (roads), trees, walls, water surfaces, etc. (object consisting of) in the object space. In other words, determine the position and rotation angle (synonymous with orientation and direction) of the object in the world coordinate system, and set the position (X, Y, Z) at the rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, Z axes). Place objects.

Specifically, the storage unit 140 stores object data such as the position, rotation angle, moving speed, and moving direction of an object (part object) in association with an object number. Further, the object control unit 114 performs, for example, a process of updating this object data for each frame.

Further, the object control unit 114 controls the arrangement of various objects including acting characters and the movement of various objects such as acting characters and avatars, including movement within the game space.

In particular, the object control unit 114 controls the movement (choreography) of each part of each acting character, including the direction of the face, eye movement, line of sight direction, body direction, and dialogue on the stage during the game, including during the acting performance. control.

Furthermore, when the avatar is displayed on a monitor such as a large display device in the game space, the object control unit 114 controls the movement of the displayed avatar.

The avatar line-of-sight control unit 115 controls the posture of the virtual camera associated with the player based on the line-of-sight input, which is the player's operation input, output from the terminal device 20, thereby controlling the line of sight of the avatar.

The line-of-sight detection unit 116 detects for each avatar that the line-of-sight of the acting character matches the line-of-sight of the avatar in the game space, that is, that a given line-of-sight condition for detecting the “line-of-sight state” is satisfied. and detection for each acting character.

The special control execution unit 117 determines whether or not special control of the acting character can be executed based on the game parameters, and executes the special control based on the result.

In particular, for special control of acting characters,
(1) Improving the frequency of directing the acting character's line of sight to the avatar;
(2) Providing a special opportunity to direct the acting character's gaze toward the avatar (wink, blow a kiss, gesture, make a heart with both hands, etc.);
(3) Providing opportunities for contact with avatars;
(4) The acting character performs a certain line or pose toward the avatar, or
(5) Performing two or more controls among (1) to (4);
is included.

The parameter control unit 118 is a parameter that is set for each player, such as player attributes and billing status, and can be set strategically or easily for the game, or parameters that can be set for the acting character as the game progresses. Controls parameters that change during gaze (hereinafter referred to as "game parameters").

In particular, the parameter control unit 118 controls not only the game parameters set for each player, but also the game parameters set for the acting character for each player, and controls the total value of the player's game parameters and the acting character's game parameters. calculate.

The notification control unit 119 allows the player to communicate with the acting character according to game parameters of at least one of the acting character and the player (specifically, the avatar) during the acting character's performance or at a predetermined timing. A display object mode control process for displaying a display object on a game screen in the vicinity of the acting character for visualizing the relationship between the acting character and each player, such as whether or not the acting character is playing. Execute.

In particular, the notification control unit 119 may control the display object to be placed near the acting character in the game space, or may control the display object to be placed near the acting character in the game space, or may control the display object to be placed near the acting character in the game space, or to display the game space imaged from the perspective of the virtual camera. Display control may be performed to display the image in a superimposed manner on the image.

The virtual camera control unit 106 controls a virtual camera (viewpoint, reference virtual camera) for generating an image that can be seen from a given (arbitrary) viewpoint in the object space (in this embodiment, the position where the player object is placed). Performs control processing.

Specifically, processing for controlling the position (X, Y, Z) or rotation angle (rotation angle around the X, Y, Z axes) of the virtual camera (processing for controlling the viewpoint position, line of sight direction, or angle of view) I do.

The image generation unit 108 performs drawing processing based on the results of various processes (game processing, simulation processing) performed by the server processing unit 100, thereby generating an image, and transmitting the generated image data to the terminal device 20. do.

Specifically, the image generation unit 108 performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation (world coordinate transformation, camera coordinate transformation), clipping processing, perspective transformation, or light source processing, and generates drawing data ( (position coordinates, texture coordinates, color data, normal vectors, α values, etc. of the vertices of the primitive surface) are created. Based on this drawing data (primitive surface data), the object (one or more primitive surfaces) after perspective transformation (after geometry processing) is converted into image information in pixel units in a drawing buffer (not shown) (frame buffer, work buffer, etc.). (a buffer that can store the data). This generates an image visible from a virtual camera (a given viewpoint) in object space.

Note that the drawing processing performed by the image generation unit 108 can be realized by vertex shader processing, pixel shader processing, or the like.

Then, the image generation unit 108 generates parallax images (for the right eye and for the left eye) for realizing stereoscopic vision by allowing both eyes of the player wearing the HMD unit 200 to view an image of the game space having a predetermined amount of parallax. generate.

The sound generation unit 107 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the server processing unit 100, generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or voices, and sends the game sounds to the HMD unit 200 via the communication unit 196. (Specifically, the sound output section 240).

The vibration generation unit 150 generates control data for controlling a pattern for vibrating the vibrating body 341 provided in the terminal device 20 based on the results of various processes performed by the server processing unit 100, and outputs it to the terminal device 20. do.

The timer unit 160 uses the system clock to measure time for executing processes for measuring timer values such as the current date and time, time limit, and time management for game progress control.

[3] Terminal Device Next, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment will be described using FIGS. 5 and 6. Note that FIG. 5 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the terminal device 20 in this embodiment, and FIG. 6 is an example of a diagram showing the external configuration of the terminal device 20 in this embodiment. Further, the terminal device 20 of this embodiment may have a configuration in which some of the components (each unit) in FIG. 5 are omitted.

The HMD unit 200 includes an imaging section 210 that detects the line of sight of the player wearing it, a motion sensor 220 that detects the posture including the head position and direction of the player, an interface 230, a sound output section 240, and a switch 250. It consists of and.

The HMD unit 200 includes an imaging section 210 that detects the line of sight of the player wearing it, a motion sensor 220 that detects the posture including the head position and direction of the player, an interface 230, a sound output section 240, and a switch 250. It consists of and.

Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the HMD unit 200 holds a terminal control unit 300 and has a structure that is worn by the player.

The HMD unit 200 includes a display panel (for the right eye) 261 for realizing stereoscopic vision by allowing both eyes of the player wearing the terminal device 20, which is an HMD, to view an image of the game space having a predetermined amount of parallax. and a display panel (for left eye) 262, and has a structure for displaying the right eye parallax image and the left eye parallax image displayed on the terminal device 20.

Note that the parallax images for realizing stereoscopic vision are the same as conventional three-dimensional moving images, and therefore detailed description will be omitted. Further, FIG. 6(B) is a diagram in which the sound output section 240 is omitted from the terminal device 20.

The imaging unit 210 images the eyes (eye movements) of the player wearing the HMD unit 200, detects the line of sight direction, and outputs a signal according to the detection.

The imaging unit 210 also includes an imaging camera 211 having a predetermined imaging device such as a CCD and an optical system such as a lens, and an image of the object imaged based on the output of the imaging camera and sends the image to the terminal control unit 300 as image data. The image generation unit 212 outputs an image.

The motion sensor 220 is realized by, for example, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor. For example, the motion sensor 220 uses an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor to detect the rotational movement of the player's head (HMD) around three axes, the X, Y, and Z axes; Detects rotation angle, angular velocity, etc.

The interface 230 is, for example, a wired input/output interface such as HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface/registered trademark), USB (Universal Serial Bus/registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark), or IEEE802.11a, g , n, ac, etc., and has a function of communicating with the terminal control unit 300 (specifically, the communication section 296) by wire or wirelessly.

Further, the interface 230 is configured by hardware such as a communication ASIC or a communication processor, and communication firmware.

The sound output unit 240 outputs the sound generated by the server processing unit 100, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a speaker or headphones.

The switch 250 is linked to the switch of the terminal control unit 300 and is used to input a predetermined operation while the HMD unit 200 is being attached.

The terminal control unit 300 includes an input section 260, a storage section 270, an information storage medium 280, a display section 290, a communication section 296, a vibration section 340, and a terminal processing section.

The input unit 260 is a device for inputting input information from a user, and outputs the user input information to the terminal processing unit 310. The input unit 260 of this embodiment has a configuration that detects user input information (input signal). For example, the input unit 260 includes a lever, a button, a steering wheel, a microphone, a touch panel display, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like.

Note that the input section 260 of this embodiment is formed by a touch panel formed on the display section 290.

On the other hand, the input unit 260 may be provided with a microphone for collecting the voice of the player in order to recognize the voice instruction of the player, or may be configured with an imaging camera.

In particular, imaging cameras are used to image two-dimensional barcodes as identification information to identify items when digitizing real items to be used in avatars or games. It is provided.

In addition to the above, the input unit 260 may also include an acceleration sensor, a line of sight detection sensor, and the like. Note that the acceleration sensor and the line of sight detection sensor may function in place of the imaging section 210 and motion sensor 220 provided in the HMD unit 200.

The storage unit 270 serves as a work area for the terminal processing unit 310, the communication unit 296, and the like, and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM) or the like. The storage unit 270 of this embodiment includes a main storage unit 271 used as a work area and an image buffer 272 in which final display images and the like are stored. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which some of these are omitted.

The information storage medium 280 (computer readable medium) stores programs, data, etc., and its functions include optical disks (CD, DVD), magneto-optical disks (MO), magnetic disks, hard disks, and magnetic tapes. , or a memory (ROM).

The terminal processing unit 310 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 280. The information storage medium 280 can store a program for making a computer function as each part of this embodiment (a program for making the computer execute the processing of each part).

In addition, in this embodiment, the program and game data for making a computer function as each part of this embodiment stored in the information storage medium 180 and storage part 140 which the server apparatus 10 has are received via a network, The received program and data are stored in the information storage medium 280. Programs and data received from the server device 10 may be stored in the storage unit 270. The scope of the present invention also includes the case where the network system functions by receiving programs and data in this manner.

The display unit 290 outputs the image generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, LCD, touch panel display, HMD (head mounted display), or the like.

For example, the display unit 290 displays the parallax image transmitted from the server device 10 at the positions of the right-eye display panel 261 and the left-eye display panel 262 when the HMD unit 200 is attached. Note that in this embodiment, the display section 290 is formed by a touch panel type display.

The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communicating with an external device such as the server device 10, and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like.

The terminal processing unit 310 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, image generation processing, or sound generation processing based on input information and programs output from the input unit 260 and the HMD unit 200.

Specifically, the terminal processing unit 310 performs various processes using the main storage unit 271 within the storage unit 270 as a work area. The functions of the terminal processing unit 310 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), and programs.

Note that the terminal processing section 310 includes a communication control section 311, a game processing section 312, a drawing section 320, and a sound processing section 330. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which some of these are omitted.

The communication control unit 311 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data with the server device 10. Further, the communication control unit 311 performs processing for storing data received from the server device 10 in the storage unit 270, processing for analyzing the received data, control processing regarding transmission and reception of other data, and the like.

Note that the communication control unit 311 may perform a process of storing and managing server destination information (IP address, port number) in the information storage medium 280. Further, the communication control unit 311 may communicate with the server device 10 when receiving input information from the user to start communication.

The game processing unit 312 performs various game calculation processes. For example, there are processes for starting the game when game start conditions are met, processes for advancing the game, and processes for ending the game when game end conditions are met.

Further, the game processing unit 312 may execute a part of the game processing in the server device 10, or may execute predetermined game processing in conjunction with the server device 10.

The drawing unit 320 performs drawing processing based on various processes (for example, game processing) performed by the terminal processing unit 310, thereby generating an image and outputting it to the display unit 290. In particular, the drawing unit 320 generates a parallax image based on the image data transmitted from the server device 10, and displays the generated parallax image on the display unit 290.

The sound processing unit 330 performs sound processing based on the sound data output from the server device 10 and the results of various processes performed by the terminal processing unit 310, and generates game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, or voices. , is output to the sound output section 240.

The vibrating unit 340 has a vibrating body 341, and generates vibrations based on vibration pattern data output from the server device 10 and vibration pattern data generated based on the results of various processes performed in the terminal processing unit 310. It has a configuration that causes the body 341 to vibrate.

[4] Method of this embodiment [4.1] Overview Next, an overview of the method of this embodiment (aspect control processing of a display object) will be described using FIG. Note that FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the display object mode control process of this embodiment.

The server device 10 of this embodiment works in conjunction with the terminal device 20, and allows the acting character and the player (i.e., the avatar) to communicate with each other by, for example, aligning the eyes of the acting character and the player (that is, the avatar) in the game space. Run the game.

In particular, the server device 10 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to control the line of sight of the avatar (that is, the line of sight of the player) while the acting character is performing in the game space, or controls the appearance (costumes and decorations) of the avatar 5. By making settings such as these, it is configured to appeal to the acting character and to parameterize the fact that communication with the acting character has been achieved, including the fact that the acting character has made eye contact with the acting character.

Then, the server device 10 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20, and displays the degree of communication achievement between the acting character and the player in the vicinity of the acting character placed in the game space according to the game parameters thus parameterized. It has a configuration that displays display objects for visualizing relationships such as.

That is, the server device 10 of the present embodiment works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to determine the player's game settings, the player's operations during the game, etc., based on the player's characteristics, the game environment, the level of communication achieved during the game, and the situation. It has a configuration that calculates a game parameter that changes based on the calculated game parameter, and executes a display object mode control process that controls the mode of the display object or a change in the mode according to the calculated game parameter.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7A, the server device 10, before or during the performance of the performance character 8, based on the characteristics of the player, the game environment, the degree of communication achieved during the game, and the situation Game parameters are calculated, and display settings for a display object (heart-shaped display object) 30 near the acting character 8 are executed in accordance with the calculated game parameters.

Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, when the acting character 8 is present in the line of sight direction of the avatar 5, the server device 10 displays a display object ( An image of a heart-shaped display object) 30 is provided.

Specifically, in a game in which the server device 10 progresses the game while visualizing a game space in which acting characters are placed, which are watched by a player who operates the terminal device 20, as a virtual three-dimensional space,
(1) Control each object including the acting character in the game space,
(2) Execute processing to receive player input including at least the player's line of sight direction input by the player via the terminal device 20;
(3) The position where the avatar to be operated by the player (i.e. avatar) is placed in the game space is set as the position of the virtual camera, and the image of the game space as seen from the player's line of sight with the virtual camera as the viewpoint is generate,
(4) controlling the virtual camera based on the received player input;
(5) Displaying a display object near the acting character placed in the game space at a predetermined timing or during a predetermined period, and controlling the mode of the display object according to game parameters, or executing a process for controlling the change in the aspect (i.e., a process for controlling the aspect of the display object);
It has a structure.

In this embodiment, by having such a configuration, while making the player aware of the acting character, the relationship between the acting character and each player, such as whether or not communication is possible with the acting character, can be made. can now be visualized.

In this embodiment, it is possible to easily and accurately make the player recognize the progress of the game and the player's input status such as the player's operations and line of sight with respect to the acting character, and also to facilitate communication. The display of the play situation during the game, such as the situation where the player is playing, can be used as an effect to liven up the game.

As a result, in the present embodiment, in a game in which the player must pay close attention to the acting character, it is possible to relieve the player's anxiety about the player's operations and the progress of the game, and to realize a communication experience in an easy-to-understand manner. This makes it possible to improve the interest of the game without sacrificing the immersion.

In the present embodiment, "controlling the state of the displayed object" refers to, for example, controlling the state of the displayed object at the time the acting character starts gazing, such as performance movements in acting or actions when confronting an avatar. Show control.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, "controlling the change in the appearance of the display object" refers to, for example, a change in the appearance of the display object during the performance of the acting character.

[4.2] Game Parameters Next, game parameters of this embodiment will be explained.

(Type of game parameters)
In this embodiment, the game parameters used in the display object mode control processing include parameters set for each player, such as player attributes and billing status, which can be set strategically or simply for the game. This includes game parameters that have the meaning of advance preparation in a game that can be played (strategic game parameters), or parameters that change during the performance of the acting character as the game progresses (interlocking game parameters).

Specifically, strategic game parameters include:
(A) characteristic parameters related to the characteristics of at least one of the acting character and avatar in the game, or parameters based on the characteristic parameters;
(B) Emotional parameters related to emotions toward the acting character in the avatar, or parameters based on the emotional parameters;
(C) Item parameters related to items provided to the avatar, or parameters based on the item parameters,
(D) Charging parameters regarding the charging status and charging history for the player's game, or charging parameters;
One or more parameters are included.

In particular, the characteristic parameters include, for example, parameters related to attribute information indicating the acting character and the attributes of the player (position and preference of gazing at the acting character), appearance (basic shape (including size) of a person, animal, robot, etc.). ), appearance (including color), hairstyle).

Furthermore, the emotion parameters include parameters related to the emotion of the avatar, which is determined based on either the accepted player input or the action of the acting character with respect to the avatar.

In addition, item parameters include items set for the player character (including paid items, such as costumes, decorations, and belongings (towels and psyllium)), and items consumed in the game such as presented to acting characters. (including chargeable items), items that do not depend on characters such as magic items and stage change items used in the game (including chargeable items), and parameters regarding information to be provided to acting characters.

Furthermore, the billing parameters include the amount charged for preparing the player character (for example, with makeup, costumes, or items), the amount charged when providing a predetermined item to the gazing character, and the amount charged when performing a twist, etc. It includes parameters corresponding to the amount charged in a charging event executed at a predetermined timing, such as, and the amount charged in the past when playing a game such as Continue or Gacha.

The billing parameters include parameters corresponding to the billing amount charged in the past, and also include not only the amount but also parameters that can be used in the same way as money in the game, such as points acquired or consumed in the past.

Note that "parameters based on characteristics, items, or charging parameters" include parameters that are affected by these parameters, such as parameters obtained by multiplying the characteristics, items, or charging parameters by a predetermined coefficient.

On the other hand, the interlocking game parameters include
(a) Parameters determined based on the actions of at least one of the acting character and the avatar (hereinafter referred to as "action-induced parameters"), or parameters based on the action-induced parameters (b) At least one of the acting character and the avatar A parameter determined based on the position in the game space in one of the above (hereinafter referred to as a "position-based parameter"), or a parameter based on the position-based parameter, and
(c) Includes one or more parameters related to game history information indicating the player's game history (hereinafter referred to as "game history-based parameters") or parameters based on the game history-based parameters.

In particular, motion-related parameters include gaze control of the avatar in the game space (direction of gaze, gaze position, and gaze time), or movement of the avatar and accompanying movement of the acting character (posture of the avatar or acting character, or contact time). It is a parameter determined based on the contact situation (contact position and contact position).

Further, the position-based parameter is a parameter determined by the distance between the acting character and the avatar in the game space.

In addition, the game history-based parameters include the player's playing frequency (number of plays, number of logins, and elapsed time since the last play), play time (total time since the start of the game), and playing performance (highest performance in the past, multiple This is a parameter determined based on the ranking among players.

Note that "parameters based on motion-based parameters, position-based parameters, or game history-based parameters" refer to "parameters based on motion- or position-based parameters, or parameters related to game history, multiplied by a predetermined coefficient." Indicates that the parameters include parameters that are based on parameters or that are influenced by parameters related to game history.

(Game parameters calculated before the start of the performance)
The parameter control unit 118 calculates strategic game parameters based on avatar information before the acting character starts acting.

Specifically, the parameter control unit 118
(1) Avatar attributes (preferences such as favorite acting character when acting characters are in a group),
(2) Appearance of the avatar (basic shape of person, animal, robot, etc., its size, appearance (including color), hairstyle, etc. of the avatar),
(3) Items held by the avatar (costumes, decorations, belongings (towels, psyllium)) or items used in the game (presents including twists),
(4) Player billing status (securing seats, preparing clothes, purchasing items, etc.) and billing history,
Based on this, strategic game parameters are calculated using a strategic parameter table.

For example, regarding avatar attributes, predetermined points are set in the strategy parameter table for each acting character for avatar attributes, appearance, items, and combinations thereof that the acting character prefers.

Further, for example, regarding the appearance of the avatar, predetermined points are set in the strategic parameter table for each aspect of the avatar, such as basic shape, size, appearance, and hairstyle. In particular, the more conspicuous the appearance, such as flashy costumes, hairstyle, appearance, etc., the higher the points are set in the strategic parameter table.

For example, for avatar items, the strategic parameter table shows predetermined points for costumes, accessories, belongings (towels and psylliums), and presents (including twists) provided to the acting character. It is set.

In particular, flashy costumes and makeup, eye-catching items such as glowing items such as psyllium and towels that can be swung around, actual character goods related to acting characters, and items that are effective when used during games such as presents and twists. Therefore, high points are set in the strategy parameter table.

As mentioned above, items that exist in real space, such as character goods, are acquired by capturing the identification information such as the identification number or barcode of the character goods when the character goods are acquired through purchase. It is now possible to do so. However, intangible objects such as twists may be provided in advance by a storage medium such as a game card.

Additionally, avatar items such as twists and presents can be set even while the character is acting. That is, at a predetermined timing during the performance, it can be set as an avatar by paying for the purchase.

In the player billing situation, the strategic parameter table includes information for each billing element such as securing a seat, playing the game (including continues), setting an avatar, and purchasing items, or by billing amount (billing range). Predetermined points are set in association with or in association with past cumulative billing amounts. In particular, the higher the billing amount or the more important billing elements (billing elements used in the game, such as presents provided to acting characters such as continues and twists), the higher the points are set in the strategic parameter table.

In this way, the parameter control unit 118 uses the strategy parameter table described above to calculate game parameters based on the attributes of the avatar and acting character, the appearance of the avatar, the items held by the avatar, and the player's billing status.

(Game parameters calculated during performance)
The parameter control unit 118 calculates various interlocking game parameters including action-based parameters, position-based parameters, and game history-based parameters based on player input while the acting character is performing.

In addition, the parameter control unit 118 calculates the game parameters associated with the avatar and the game parameters associated with the acting character, respectively, regarding the interlocking game parameters.

Specifically, the parameter control unit 118
(A1) Control of the avatar's line of sight in the game space (line of sight direction, gaze position and gaze time), or
(A2) Movement of the avatar and accompanying movement of the acting character (posture of the avatar or acting character, or contact time, contact position, and contact situation)
Based on this, the motion-induced parameters are calculated using the interlocking game parameter table.

For example, in (A1), the linked game parameter table includes the avatar's viewpoint direction (type of the acting character in the line of sight direction), gaze position (part of the acting character), and gaze time (part of the acting character). A predetermined point is set according to the amount of time the user is continuously gazing at the object.

In particular, the strategy parameter table includes points that are awarded when a favorite performance character is present in the line of sight, points that differ depending on the part of the favorite performance character that is gazing, and points that increase as the gaze time increases. It is set.

During the performance, the acting character moves on the stage due to choreography, or changes the direction of the line of sight and face, so it is necessary to follow the direction of the line of sight and the position of the player's gaze accordingly. The value of the game parameter will change depending on the operation.

Furthermore, the motion-induced parameters may be calculated using coefficients based on the timing of visual line control. For example, if you set a period for gazing at the acting character during a game and gaze at a predetermined part (face) of the acting character during the set period (including the gazing time), the time period set by the strategy parameter table. An operation may be performed that multiplies the points.

For example, in (A2), the interlocking game parameter table includes the avatar's posture (a posture that includes movements in the game space based on player input and game parameters), the acting character's posture (movements based on special control), A predetermined point is set according to the position (including posture) and the contact between the avatar and the acting character (contact time, contact position, and contact situation).

In particular, the strategy parameter table allows the acting character to perform special controls on the avatar (coming closer to the avatar, winking, throwing, etc.) depending on the game parameters, depending on the avatar's posture, such as waving a towel or psyllium. Different points are set depending on the duration of contact and the act of contact, such as when the acting character approaches the avatar and high-fives or hugs.

In addition, the strategy parameter table may include, for example, the number of times the avatar and the acting character look at each other, the length of time the avatar and the acting character look at each other, the timing at which the avatar and the acting character look at each other, or the accompanying actions of the acting character when the avatar and acting character look at each other (wink, blowing a kiss, etc.). ) points are set accordingly.

In particular, higher points are set in the strategy parameter table as the number of times the line of sight increases or the time increases. In addition, in the strategy parameter table, accompanying actions are executed when, for example, the line of sight meets the timing of special control such as when the acting character approaches the avatar, or when the line of sight matches with the acting character. Additional points are set when there is normal line of sight.

In addition, the strategy parameter table has items for avatars (items related to posture including movement) and items for acting characters (items related to posture including movement), and points are set for each item. has been done.

Note that the posture of the avatar, including its movements, is controlled by inputting operations such as gaze input and switch input at predetermined timings, and is also automatically activated and controlled based on the values of game parameters.

In addition, the posture including the action of the acting character is automatically activated and controlled according to a program based on game parameter values and avatar gaze input (including gaze position and timing).

On the other hand, the parameter control unit 118 calculates position-based parameters using the interlocking game parameter table based on the position of the acting character, the avatar, or both in the game space.

For example, in the interlocking game parameter table, predetermined points are set according to the avatar's viewpoint position (i.e., the position of the audience seats), the acting character's standing position on the stage, and the distance between the avatar and the acting character. ing.

In particular, in the strategy parameter table, the closer the acting character is to the stage where the acting performance is performed, and the closer the acting character is to the center, the more the acting character's standing position on the stage (reference position) changes from the avatar's position (i.e., the viewpoint position). , or the closer the distance between the acting character acting position and the avatar during acting, the higher the points are set.

Note that the standing position or acting position of the acting character varies depending on the acting performance to be provided or the date and time (timing) of the acting, and points are set in the strategy parameter table accordingly.

Additionally, the avatar's viewpoint position can be moved during the performance by player input, game parameters, or computer control.

On the other hand, the parameter control unit 118 controls the player's playing frequency (number of plays, number of logins, and elapsed time since the last play), playing time (total time since the start of the game), and playing results (the highest score in the past, multiple (rank among players), game history-based parameters are calculated using a linked game parameter table.

For example, in the linked game parameter table, higher points are set for higher playing frequency, longer playing time, or higher playing performance.

In addition, in the case of a multiplayer game in which multiple players watch the acting performance of acting characters, the parameter control unit 118 controls the game performance based on the real-time performance according to the value of the game parameter calculated during the performance. Calculate history-induced parameters.

(Changes in game parameters during performance)
The parameter control unit 118 calculates the relevant parameters among the strategic game parameters and the interlocking game parameters before the performance character starts acting, and also calculates the relevant game parameters during the performance of the performance character.

In particular, the parameter control unit 118 calculates a total value by adding up game parameters related to the player or avatar and game parameters using the acting character in order to change the mode of the display object or the mode.

In this embodiment, the parameter control unit 118 calculates either a game parameter related to a player or an avatar or a game parameter using an acting character as the mode of the display object or a game parameter for changing the mode. However, the mode of the display object may be controlled using only one of the game parameters.

On the other hand, the parameter control unit 118 sets each of the above-mentioned parameters as game parameters during the performance after a predetermined time has elapsed (10 seconds or 30 seconds) or at a predetermined timing (when playing the song during the performance). It is made to disappear at a timing that can be easily separated in terms of performance, such as until the end of the scene).

In particular, the parameter control unit 118 adds parameters added based on items set to the avatar during the performance, or game parameters changed during the performance of the acting character, such as action-based parameters and position-based parameters. The minute value disappears after a predetermined period of time or at a predetermined timing.

Further, expiration dates are set for the appearance of the avatar and items, and the parameter control unit 118 calculates parameters according to the expiration dates. For example, if an item is set that has an expiration date of only 30 seconds during a performance or only at a predetermined timing, the parameter control unit 118 prohibits its use after the applicable expiration date, and The calculation of game parameters based on this is canceled.

[4.3] Processing for controlling the appearance of a display object Next, the processing for controlling the appearance of a display object in this embodiment will be described using FIGS. 8 and 9. Note that FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams for explaining the display object mode control process of this embodiment.

The notification control unit 119 determines a preset type of display object for each acting character, each avatar, or each period in which an acting performance is performed (hereinafter referred to as "acting period") when the acting character starts acting. Identify.

Then, the notification control unit 119 sets the initial mode of the specified display object according to the game parameter calculated as the initial value, and displays the set display object near the acting character. Starts display control execution.

Specifically, the notification control unit 119 sends, for example, a heart-shaped , a plurality of star plus ellipse types, and a plurality of display object types of the acting character's facial expression type.

In addition, when the acting character starts acting, the notification control unit 119 selects basic specification information of the type of the specified display object from among the information specified in the display object information 148, and as an initial value as described above. Read out change specification information defined in the parameter range that includes the calculated game parameter.

Then, the notification control unit 119 forms a display object based on the read basic specification information and change specification information, and places the formed display object in the vicinity of the target performance character according to the avatar's line of sight direction. Execute display control to display on.

For example, the type of display object is "heart-shaped" and four parameter ranges are set, and in each parameter range, the shape of the "heart" of the display object increases as the game parameter increases. Assume that change specification information in which the value increases is registered in the display object object information 148.

In this case, if the game parameters as initial values are in the parameter range of the second stage, the notification control unit 119 reads the basic specification information and the changed specification information of the second stage, and uses the read basic specification information and the changed specification information. Based on the information, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a heart display object 30 having a second-stage shape is formed, an initial state is set, and the state control is performed. Start.

In particular, in controlling the display of display objects, the notification control unit 119 appropriately determines whether or not the acting character is placed in the line of sight direction in the game space specified by the avatar line of sight control unit 115, and If it is determined that a performance character is placed, display control is executed to display a display object set near the corresponding performance character.

Then, when two or more acting characters are arranged in the line-of-sight direction, the notification control unit 119 executes display control to display a display object for the acting character close to the avatar.

On the other hand, during the performance of the acting character, the notification control unit 119 controls the notification control unit 119 so that each time a new game parameter is calculated by the parameter control unit 118, the notification control unit 119 changes the newly calculated game parameter to another parameter range outside the current parameter range. Determine whether it belongs to.

Then, when the newly calculated game parameter belongs to another parameter range, the notification control unit 119 reads out the change specification information stored in association with the other parameter range, and A display object is formed based on the specification information and change specification information, and display control is executed to display the formed display object in the vicinity of the target performance character according to the line of sight direction of the avatar.

For example, consider a case where the type of display object is "heart-shaped", the parameter range of the initial value is the second stage, and the parameter range of the newly calculated game parameter is included in the parameter range of the third stage. Suppose.

In this case, the notification control unit 119 reads the changed specification information of the third stage, and creates a heart-shaped display object having the shape of the third stage based on the basic specification information that has already been read and the changed specification information that has been read this time. Create an object and begin controlling its display.

For example, when the heart-shaped display object 30 having the shape of the third stage is larger than the shape of the second stage, the notification control unit 119 controls the display object 30 as shown in FIG. The change in the mode is controlled so that a heart-shaped display object 30 having a larger size than the display object 30 shown in FIG.

Note that the display object may have other shapes such as a round shape or a star shape (including a plurality of shapes), as illustrated in FIG. , Animation patterns that repeat large and small shapes, and animation patterns that change the facial expressions of acting characters (e.g., eyes gradually getting bigger, or flashy smiles (a smiling expression with just the mouth becomes a facial expression in which the eyes, mouth, and wrinkles are linked) etc.)).

In particular, in FIG. 9A, the acting character is performing a "wink" action as a special control, and as a result, the game parameters of the avatar 5 and the acting character 8 fluctuate (increase). ), this is an example of a case where the change control of the mode of the display object 30 to be displayed is executed using an animation pattern.

Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 9(B), as the game parameter increases, the display object not only becomes larger in shape, but also changes in color (for example, by changing brightness and chromaticity, it becomes glossy). The shape may change (for example, a portion becomes larger), or a combination thereof may occur.

Furthermore, the display object may be formed as a two-dimensional display, or may be formed as a three-dimensional object like other objects placed in the game space.

[4.4] Modification Next, a modification of the process of notifying whether or not the player is able to communicate with the acting character, or the display of the acting character or avatar in this embodiment will be described.

(Notification by sound or vibration)
In the display object mode control process, the notification control unit 119 controls the terminal device 20 according to the mode of the display object or a change in the mode, and provides the player with sounds or vibrations related to the display object. may be provided.

Specifically, the notification control unit 119 changes the volume, pitch, interval, or musical scale of the heart sound according to the mode of the display object or a change in the mode, and the higher the game parameter, the higher the volume, and the higher the pitch. Control is performed to speed up the sound, raise the pitch, or raise the scale.

For example, similar to the mode control of the display object, the notification control unit 119 sets the threshold of the game parameter in stages in advance, and increases the volume in stages as the threshold becomes higher (as the threshold becomes lower). (to make it smaller), to make the pitch faster (to make it slower) in steps, and to make the pitch or scale higher (lower) in steps to the terminal device 20.

Note that the notification control unit 119 may set the threshold value of the game parameter in advance in stages, and execute control to change the sound output from the terminal device 20 as the threshold value becomes higher.

For example, the notification control unit 119 sets the threshold value of the game parameter in stages, and increases (decreases) the tone color or changes it to a brighter tone (darker tone) as the threshold value becomes higher (lower). It's okay.

Further, the notification control unit 119 may perform control to vibrate the vibration unit 340 provided in the terminal device 20 in accordance with the mode of the display object or a change in the mode, instead of or in addition to the sound. .

In this case, the notification control unit 119 may, for example, set the threshold of the game parameter in stages, and as the threshold becomes higher (lower), the vibration becomes larger (reduced) or the vibration pattern becomes more intense. (quiet) switching control.

Furthermore, instead of sound or vibration, the notification control unit 119 may control a blower, an electric heater, or a humidifier (not shown) to provide wind, heat, or water vapor to the real space.

(acting character)
In the above embodiment, an acting character such as an idol who performs an action in a game space is used as the acting character, but the acting character confronts the player according to a preset scenario (RPG or mystery game). Any character, such as a character, that is watched by the player and that is controlled by a computer may be used.

In particular, acting characters include not only dynamic characters that move in the game space or physically (partially) move, but also static objects such as trees and rocks, and characters that simply appear in the game. There may be.

(Avatar display)
In the above embodiment, the avatar is an alter ego of the player in the game space. Good too.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the avatar is displayed as an image when the game space is visualized, such as by being displayed on a large display device installed in the game space, but it is not necessarily necessary to visualize the avatar. It may be hidden instead.

(player input)
Furthermore, player input may include player operations that are input or recognized according to the movement of the player's body such as the player's fingers, arms, head, line of sight, or eyelids, such as input to a controller, It may be an input (direction of sight or operation input) detected by a detection means such as image detection or vibration detection (gyro).

In particular, the player inputs may be input by a single player or by multiple players. Therefore, the number of players participating in the game may be one or more.

[5] Operation in this embodiment Next, the operation of the game processing in the performance of the acting character, including the mode control processing of the display object, executed by the server device 10 of the present embodiment, will be explained using FIGS. 10 and 11. do. Note that FIGS. 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the operation of the game processing in the performance of the acting character, including the state control processing of the display object, which is executed by the server device 10 of this embodiment.

In this operation, it is assumed that the settings for the audience seats and for the avatar to get ready have already been completed, and that each data indicating the settings has been stored in the player information 146.

In addition, in this operation, a parameter that is the sum of the game parameters of both the player (avatar) and the acting character (i.e., the total game parameter) is used as the game parameter for controlling the state of the displayed object and its changes. shall be taken as a thing.

Further, in this operation, a heart-shaped display object displayed near the acting character is used as the display object, and only the display object of the acting character in the line of sight direction of the avatar is displayed.

On the other hand, in this operation, while the acting character is acting, the object control unit 114 places, moves, or operates each object including the acting character in the game space according to the program, It is assumed that the game execution control unit 111 is executing various effects in the game space.

On the other hand, the information acquisition unit 104 acquires the line-of-sight information output from the terminal device 20 at predetermined timings (5 ms), and the avatar line-of-sight control unit 115 controls the avatar's game space every time it acquires the line-of-sight information. Determine the viewing direction within.

Then, the image generation unit 108 generates a game space image by creating an image of the game space as seen from the virtual camera placed in the bleachers based on the determined viewing direction, and transfers the data of the generated game space image to the terminal device. It is output to 20 at any time.

Furthermore, the terminal device 20 generates an image (parallax image) for displaying an image of a virtual three-dimensional space based on the image data output from the image generation unit 108 and displays it on the HMD unit 200. do.

First, when the game execution control unit 111 detects an instruction to start acting of a specific acting character (a group consisting of a plurality of acting characters), such as an instruction from a player or detection of a predetermined timing (step S101), While starting the character's performance, information on the avatar set from the player information 146 of the player (related to characteristics and emotions including appearance and items), information on the player's bleachers, billing information for the player, and each performance are collected. Each piece of information set for the character (information regarding characteristics and emotions) is acquired (step S102).

Next, the parameter control unit 118 calculates the game parameters of the player and each acting character at the start of the acting character's performance, adds up the calculated game parameters of the corresponding acting character and avatar for each acting character, and calculates the summed game. Initial values of parameters are calculated (step S103).

Next, the notification control unit 119 specifies, for each acting character, the initial mode of the display object to be initially displayed, including the color and size, based on the calculated initial value of the total game parameter (step S104).

Next, the game execution control unit 111 causes the parameter control unit 118 to start the performance of the performance character, and causes the notification control unit 119 to change the state of the display object set to the initial state near the corresponding performance character. Control execution is started (step S105).

Note that when the game execution control unit 111 instructs the object control unit 114 to start an acting performance on the stage for each acting character, the game execution control unit 111 instructs the object control unit 114 to continue controlling each acting character until the performance ends according to a preset program. control the acting performance of.

In addition, after each acting character starts acting, the notification control unit 119 appropriately determines whether or not the acting character is placed in the line of sight direction in the game space specified by the avatar line of sight control unit 115, and If it is determined that a performance character is placed in the area, display control is executed to display a display object set in the vicinity of the performance character.

Note that, when two or more acting characters are arranged in the line-of-sight direction, the notification control unit 119 executes display control to display a display object for the acting character close to the avatar.

Next, the parameter control unit 118 determines whether a parameter change element such as a change in the appearance of the avatar, acquisition or switching of an item, or input of a twist is detected (step S106).

At this time, if the parameter control unit 118 determines that a parameter change element has been detected, the process proceeds to step S111, and if it determines that a parameter change element has not been detected, the game execution control unit 111 , it is determined whether or not the end of the performance has been detected (step S107).

Note that, for example, the game execution control unit 111 uses the timer unit 160 to determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the performance.

When the game execution control unit 111 determines that the end of the performance has been detected, the game execution control unit 111 executes termination processing related to the end of the performance, such as displaying a demo image, displaying the final game parameters, or producing based thereon. (Step S108) This operation is ended, and if it is determined that the end of the performance has not been detected, the process returns to step S106.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a parameter change element has been detected, the parameter control unit 118 changes the player's game parameters based on the detected parameter change element, and also changes the game parameters of the corresponding acting character. and the total value is changed (step S111).

Next, the parameter control unit 118 determines whether the changed total value satisfies a predetermined condition (step S112).

Note that, as a predetermined condition, it is determined whether the changed total value belongs to a parameter range in which a mode different from that of the currently set display object is set.

At this time, if it is determined that the changed total value does not meet the predetermined conditions, the parameter control unit 118 directly proceeds to the process of step S113, If it is determined that the display object is provided, the mode of the display object is changed (step S113), and then the process moves to step S114.

Next, the special control execution unit 117 determines whether the changed total value or the changed game parameter of the avatar satisfies the conditions that determine whether or not the special control can be executed (step S114).

At this time, if the special control execution unit 117 determines that the changed total value or the changed game parameter of the avatar satisfies the conditions that determine whether or not the special control can be executed, the special control execution unit 117 performs special control on the target acting character. is executed on the avatar (step S115), and the process moves to step S106.

Note that the special control execution unit 117 executes special control by the acting character based on the line-of-sight direction of the corresponding avatar in the game space specified by the avatar line-of-sight control unit 115.

On the other hand, if the special control execution unit 117 determines that the changed total value or the changed game parameter of the avatar does not meet the conditions for determining whether or not the special control can be executed, the special control execution unit 117 does not perform any action and steps The process moves directly to the process of S106.

[6] Others The present invention is not limited to what has been described in the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made. For example, terms cited as broad or synonymous terms in the description or drawings can be replaced with broad or synonymous terms in other descriptions in the specification or drawings.

Although the present embodiment is described as a simulation game in which the player gazes at the acting character, it can also be used in other simulation games such as love simulations, competitive games, or other games such as RPGs.

Further, in this embodiment, each game may be provided to the terminal device 20 by one server device 10, or a server system may be constructed by linking a plurality of server devices 10, and each game may be provided to the terminal device 20. You may.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, various game-related processes are executed by the server device 10, but the terminal control unit 300 of the terminal device 20 is caused to execute each function and game program of the server processing section 100, The above game may also be implemented as a standalone game. Moreover, when a plurality of players execute the game, one terminal device 20 may further function as the above-mentioned server.

The present invention includes configurations that are substantially the same as those described in the embodiments (for example, configurations that have the same functions, methods, and results, or configurations that have the same objectives and effects). Further, the present invention includes a configuration in which non-essential parts of the configuration described in the embodiments are replaced. Further, the present invention includes a configuration that has the same effects or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose as the configuration described in the embodiment. Further, the present invention includes a configuration in which known technology is added to the configuration described in the embodiment.

As mentioned above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, but those skilled in the art will easily understand that many modifications can be made without substantially departing from the novelty and effects of the present invention. . Therefore, all such modifications are included within the scope of the present invention.

1: Game system 2: Player 4: Stage 5: Avatar 6: Spectator seat 8: Acting character (idol character)
10: Server device 20: Terminal device 30: Display object 100: Server processing section 101: Communication control section 102: User management section 104: Information acquisition section 105: Billing management section 106: Virtual camera control section 107: Sound generation section 108 : Image generation section 110 : Game control section 111 : Game execution control section 112 : Spectator seat setting section 113 : Avatar setting section 114 : Object control section 115 : Avatar gaze control section 116 : Eye contact detection section 117 : Special control execution section 118 : Parameter control unit 119 : Notification control unit 120 : Input unit 130 : Display unit 140 : Storage unit 142 : Main storage unit 144 : Game information 146 : Player information 148 : Display object information 149 : Table data 150 : Vibration generation unit 160 : Timer part 180 : Information storage medium 196 : Communication part 200 : HMD unit 210 : Imaging part 211 : Imaging camera 212 : Image generation part 220 : Motion sensor 230 : Interface 240 : Sound output part 250 : Switch 260 : Input part 261 : Right eye display panel 262: Left eye display panel 270: Storage section 271: Main storage section 272: Image buffer 280: Information storage medium 290: Display section 296: Communication section 300: Terminal control unit 310: Terminal processing section 311: Communication control Section 312: Game processing section 320: Drawing section 330: Sound processing section 340: Vibration section 341: Vibration body

Claims (13)

A program for progressing a game while visualizing a game space in which a character to be watched by a player who performs a performance action is arranged on a computer as a virtual three-dimensional space, the program comprising:
The computer,
object control means for controlling each object including controlling the acting motion of the watching character in the game space;
a receiving unit that executes processing for receiving information on the detected player's line-of-sight direction from a detection device that detects the player's line-of-sight direction ;
A position in the game space where a player character, who is an operation target of the player and who views the watching character in the game space, is placed in the game space is set as the position of a virtual camera, and the virtual camera is set as the viewpoint of the player character. an image generating unit that generates an image of a three-dimensional space that is the game space that is visible from the player's line of sight and includes the gazing character ;
Display control means for performing display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player ;
function as
The display control means,
performing a determination process for determining whether or not the watching character is present in the line of sight during the performance movement of the watching character;
If the result of the determination process is that there is a gazing character in the line-of-sight direction, at least one of the gazing character, the player character, and the player is displayed, along with the gazing character who is performing an action. A program characterized in that the display control regarding the relationship corresponding to each player is performed based on a given parameter. A program for progressing a game while visualizing a game space in which a character to be watched by a player who performs a performance action is arranged on a computer as a virtual three-dimensional space, the program comprising:
The computer,
object control means for controlling each object including controlling the acting motion of the watching character in the game space;
reception means that executes processing to receive input from the player ;
A position of a virtual camera is set based on a position in the game space of a player character that is an operation target of the player and is viewing the watching character in the game space, and the virtual camera is viewed as a viewpoint. an image generating means for generating an image that is visible as an image and includes the gazed character , and
Display control means for performing display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player ;
function as
The display control means,
performing a determination process to determine whether or not the gazing character exists in a direction visible from the virtual camera during a performance movement of the gazing character;
According to the result of the determination process, if the gazing character exists in the direction visible from the virtual camera, at least one of the gazing character, the player character, and the player, as well as the gazing character in the acting motion, A program characterized in that the display control regarding the relationship corresponding to each of the players is performed based on a given parameter related to the game. The program according to claim 1 or 2 ,
The display control means,
A program that performs display control of a display object related to a given parameter related to the game in the vicinity of the watching character as display control related to the given parameter related to the game. The program according to claim 1 or 2,
The display control means,
A program that performs display control of a display object that constitutes a facial expression of the character being watched as a display object related to a given parameter related to the game. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The display control means,
A program that adds up given parameters related to a game for both the watching character and the player character, and performs display control regarding the parameters of the added value. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
The given parameter regarding the game is a parameter for changing and reflecting game situation information related to the watching character or the player character. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
The given parameter regarding the game is a parameter that reflects the game situation of the player. The program according to claim 3 or 4 ,
further causing the computer to function as a control processing means for executing a control process for controlling a providing means for providing sound or vibration related to the display-controlled object ;
The control processing means
changing the sound or vibration provided by the providing means according to the display control ;
program. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
The image generating means,
Displaying the generated image of the game space on a display means constituted by a wearable image display device having a structure that covers the field of view of the player and allowing the image of the virtual three-dimensional space to be viewed;
The reception means is
A program that receives a line of sight direction of the player as an input from the player. A game system in which a game space in which a character to be watched by a player who performs a performance action is placed is visualized as a virtual three-dimensional space while the game progresses,
object control means for controlling each object, including controlling the acting motion of the character being watched in the game space;
a receiving unit that executes a process of receiving information on the detected player's line-of-sight direction from a detection device that detects the player's line-of-sight direction ;
A position in the game space where a player character, who is an operation target of the player and who views the watching character in the game space, is placed in the game space is set as the position of a virtual camera, and the virtual camera is set as the viewpoint of the player character. image generation means for generating an image of a three-dimensional space that is the game space that is visible from the player's line of sight and includes the gazed character ;
A display control means for performing display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player ,
The display control means,
performing a determination process for determining whether or not the watching character is present in the line of sight during the performance movement of the watching character ;
If the result of the determination process is that there is a gazing character in the direction of the line of sight, at least one of the gazing character, the player character, and the player, as well as the gazing character during the acting movement, is displayed. A game system characterized in that the display control regarding the relationship is performed for each player based on a given parameter. A game system in which a game space in which a character to be watched by a player who performs a performance action is placed is visualized as a virtual three-dimensional space while the game progresses,
object control means for controlling each object, including controlling the acting motion of the character being watched in the game space;
a reception means that executes a process of accepting input from the player ;
A position of a virtual camera is set based on a position in the game space of a player character that is an operation target of the player and is viewing the watching character in the game space, and the virtual camera is viewed as a viewpoint. an image generating means for generating an image that is visible as an image and includes the gazed character ;
A display control means for performing display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player ,
The display control means,
performing a determination process to determine whether or not the gazing character exists in a direction visible from the virtual camera during the performance movement of the gazing character ;
According to the result of the determination process, if the gazing character exists in the direction visible from the virtual camera, the gazing character, the play
The game system is characterized in that the display control regarding the relationship corresponding to each of the players is performed based on a given parameter related to at least one of the game from among the player character and the player . connected via a network to a server device that progresses the game while converting into a virtual three-dimensional space a game space in which a character that is being watched by a player and is performing a performance movement is arranged; A game providing method for providing information regarding a game to a terminal device operated by a player, the method comprising:
The server device includes:
object control means for controlling each object, including controlling the acting motion of the character being watched in the game space;
a receiving unit that executes a process of receiving information on the detected player's line-of-sight direction from a detection device that detects the player's line-of-sight direction ;
A position in the game space where a player character, who is an operation target of the player and who views the watching character in the game space, is placed in the game space is set as the position of a virtual camera, and the virtual camera is set as the viewpoint of the player character. image generating means for generating an image of a three-dimensional space that is the game space that is visible from the player's line of sight and includes the gazed character;
Display control means that executes display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player ;
Equipped with
The display control means,
performing a determination process for determining whether or not the watching character is present in the line of sight during the performance movement of the watching character ;
If the result of the determination process is that there is a gazing character in the direction of the line of sight, at least one of the gazing character, the player character, and the player, as well as the gazing character who is performing an action , is displayed. In the case where the display control regarding the relationship corresponding to each player is performed based on a given parameter,
transmitting information regarding the player's operation accepted by the terminal device to a server device;
A game providing method, wherein the terminal device receives information regarding the game from a server device that executes processing regarding the game. connected via a network to a server device that progresses the game while converting into a virtual three-dimensional space a game space in which a character that is being watched by a player and is performing a performance movement is arranged; A game providing method for providing information regarding a game to a terminal device operated by a player, the method comprising:
The server device includes:
object control means for controlling each object, including controlling the acting motion of the character being watched in the game space;
a reception means that executes a process of accepting input from the player ;
A position of a virtual camera is set based on a position in the game space of a player character that is an operation target of the player and is viewing the watching character in the game space, and the virtual camera is viewed as a viewpoint. an image generating unit that generates an image that is visible as an image that includes the gazing character ; a display control unit that executes display control regarding the gazing character placed in the game space and the relationship between the gazing character and each player; and,
Equipped with
The display control means,
performing a determination process to determine whether or not the gazing character exists in a direction visible from the virtual camera during a performance movement of the gazing character ;
According to the result of the determination process , if there is a gazing character in the direction visible from the virtual camera , at least one of the gazing character, the player character, and the player, as well as the gazing character who is performing an action, In the case where the display control regarding the relationship corresponding to each player is performed based on a given parameter regarding the game,
transmitting information regarding the player's operation accepted by the terminal device to a server device;
A game providing method, wherein the terminal device receives information regarding the game from a server device that executes processing regarding the game.

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