JP7477865B2 - Game system, game control device, and program - Google Patents

Description

Patent Law Article 30, paragraph 2 applied December 18, 2014, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.konami.pawapuroapp, http://www.konami.jp/

Application of Article 30, Paragraph 2 of the Patent Act December 23, 2014, https://itunes. apple. com/jp/app/shi-kuangpawafurupuro-ye-qiu/id938506958? ls=1&mt=8, http://www. konami. jp/

Patent Law Article 30, paragraph 2 application December 26, 2014, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.konami.pawapuroapp, https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/shi-kuangpawafurupuro-ye-quiu/id938506958?ls=1&mt=8, http://www.konami.jp/

Application of Article 30, paragraph 2 of the Patent Act January 14, 2015, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.konami.pawapuroapp, https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/shi-kuangpawafurupuro-ye-quiu/id938506958?ls=1&mt=8, http://www.konami.jp/

Patent Law Article 30, paragraph 2 application February 10, 2015, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.konami.pawapuroapp, https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/shi-kuangpawafurupuro-ye-quiu/id938506958?ls=1&mt=8, http://www.konami.jp/

Application of Article 30, paragraph 2 of the Patent Act February 19, 2015, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.konami.pawapuroapp, https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/shi-kuangpawafurupuro-ye-quiu/id938506958?ls=1&mt=8, http://www.konami.jp/

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

Conventionally, games in which the aim is to bring the parameters of a game character or the like to a desired state are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that in a game in which a user trains a game character, if a game character different from the game character being trained is set in an event deck as an event generating character, an event corresponding to the event generating character occurs, providing an advantage in training.

JP 2014-233323 A

However, for example, in the game of Patent Document 1, the user may strategically use the trained game characters according to the game scene, or may switch game characters to be used if the trained characters are better. However, there is a possibility that the event generating character will be fixed to the event generating character with the highest training ability. If the event generating character is fixed, the user will not be able to feel the change in the effects occurring in the game, and the interest of the game cannot be improved satisfactorily.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a game system, game control device, and program that can prevent game objects, such as event generation characters, from becoming fixed.

In order to solve the above problem, a game system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means for executing a first game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means including a first effect generation means for generating an effect in the first game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means including a determination means for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game is one that has been changed or set in the first game executed with a specific second game object selected, and a second effect generation means for generating an effect advantageous or disadvantageous to the user in the second game based on a result of the determination by the determination means.

A game system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means for executing a first game in which a user aims to set a parameter of a first game object to a desired state, and a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means including a first effect generation means for generating an effect in the first game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the parameter to the desired state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means including a determination means for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game was set in the first game executed with a specific second game object selected, and a second effect generation means for generating an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on a result of the determination by the determination means.

A game control device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means for executing a first game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means including a first effect generation means for generating an effect in the first game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means including a determination means for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game is one that has been changed or set in the first game executed in a state in which a specific second game object has been selected, and a second effect generation means for generating an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on a result of the determination by the determination means.

A game control device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means for executing a first game in which a user aims to set a parameter of a first game object to a desired state, and a second game execution means for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means including a first effect generation means for generating an effect in the first game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the parameter to the desired state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means including a determination means for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game was set in the first game executed with a specific second game object selected, and a second effect generation means for generating an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on a result of the determination by the determination means.

1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen image of a baseball game. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the success part. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a main character registration screen image for registering basic information of a main character. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event deck setting screen image. A diagram showing the contents displayed in the event deck setting area. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event character screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a bonus details screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event character change screen image. A figure showing an example of an event deck setting area. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic setting menu screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a main command screen image in a success part. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a practice screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a practice result screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an ability change screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an ability change screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a section completion screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an upcoming episode preview screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event character menu screen image. A figure showing an example of an event deck editing screen image. A figure showing the content displayed in the event deck editing area. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a base character selection screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a reinforced screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a material character selection screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a reinforcement screen image when a material character is selected. FIG. 13 illustrates an enrichment result window. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a My Team menu screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a regular order editing screen image. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a time-limited order editing screen image. A figure showing an example of an event deck setting screen image during a limited-time event. A figure showing an example of the event deck setting area of the event deck setting screen image during a limited-time event. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing conditions for generating a score bonus. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a home screen image when a processing object is selected. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the flow of a regular match and a limited-time event match. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing functions related to the present invention among functions realized in the game system. FIG. FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a user table. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event character table. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an event deck table. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an original character table. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an order table. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing an example of a process executed in the game system.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding components in the drawings will be given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations may be omitted.

[1. Overall configuration of the game system]
Fig. 1 shows the overall configuration of a game system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, the game system 1 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of user terminals 10-1, 10-2, ..., 10-N and a server 30. Note that, in the following, content common to the user terminals 10-1, 10-2, and 10-N may be described as "user terminal 10."

The user terminal 10 and the server 30 are connected to a network N. This allows data communication between the user terminal 10 and the server 30.

The user terminal 10 is a terminal device (computer) used by a user. In this embodiment, the user terminal 10 is a computer used by a user to play a game. For example, the user terminal 10 is a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a portable game machine, a stationary game machine, an arcade game machine, or a multi-function television receiver (smart TV) with information processing functions. In the following, a case will be described in which the user terminal 10 is a mobile phone (smartphone) with a touch panel, and a program supplied from the server 30 is executed on the mobile phone (smartphone).

As shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, a memory unit 12, a communication unit 13, an input unit 14, and a display unit 15.

The control unit 11 includes, for example, at least one microprocessor, and executes processes according to an operating system and other programs. The memory unit 12 includes a main memory unit (for example, RAM) and an auxiliary memory unit (for example, non-volatile semiconductor memory), and is used to store programs and data. For example, if the user terminal 10 is a stationary game machine, an arcade game machine, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or the like, the memory unit 12 may include an auxiliary memory unit, for example, a hard disk drive or a solid state drive.

The communication unit 13 is for performing data communication via the network N. The input unit 14 includes, for example, a touch panel, buttons, etc., and is for the user to perform input operations such as game operations. The input unit 14 may be for the user to perform input operations by voice or gestures. When the user terminal 10 is a stationary game machine, a portable game machine, an arcade game machine, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, etc., the input unit 14 may include keys, a lever, a game controller (game pad), a mouse, a touch pad, a keyboard, etc. The display unit 15 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display, etc., and displays a screen according to instructions from the control unit 11. Note that the input unit 14 and the display unit 15 do not have to be built into the user terminal 10, and may be external devices connected to the user terminal 10.

The server 30 is realized, for example, by a server computer. As shown in FIG. 1, the server 30 includes a control unit 31, a memory unit 32, and a communication unit 33.

The control unit 31 and the communication unit 33 have the same functions as the control unit 11 and the communication unit 13 of the user terminal 10. The memory unit 32 includes a main memory unit (e.g., RAM) and an auxiliary memory unit (e.g., a hard disk drive or a solid state drive) and is used to store programs and data.

The programs and data described as being stored in the storage unit 12 or the storage unit 32 may be supplied to the user terminal 10 or the server 30 via the network N, for example. The user terminal 10 or the server 30 may also include components for reading programs or data stored in an information storage medium (e.g., an optical disk or a memory card). The programs and data may then be supplied to the user terminal 10 or the server 30 via the information storage medium.

[2. Game Overview]
In the game system 1, a game is executed by executing a program on the user terminal 10. Various games can be executed in the game system 1. For example, various games can be executed regardless of game format or genre, such as sports games (games based on baseball, soccer, tennis, American football, basketball, volleyball, etc.), adventure games, simulation games, role-playing games, and training games.

Below, as an example of a game executed by the game system 1, a first game in which a first parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and a second game in which the first game object is used will be described. Each of the first game and the second game may be a part of a certain game, or may be separate games. That is, each of the first game and the second game may be a part of a game executed by a certain game program, or the first game may be executed by the first game program and the second game may be executed by the second game program.

Before explaining the details of the first and second games having the above characteristics, we will now explain terms such as "game object" and "parameter."

A "game object" is, for example, an object that can be operated, instructed, used, or developed in a game. Also, a "game object" is, for example, something that is given to a user in a game. Specifically, for example, a game character, a game item, or a game card are examples of a "game object."

The "first game object" is a game object for which the user changes or sets a first parameter. For example, the "first game object" is a game object for which the user improves the ability (performance). For example, the "first game object" is a game character that the user is training.

The "first parameter" is, for example, a capability parameter related to the capability (performance) of the first game object. The "capability parameter" may be, for example, information indicating the magnitude or high level of capability, or information indicating the presence or absence of a specific capability. The "first parameter" may be a status parameter related to the state (condition) of the first game object. The "status parameter" is, for example, information indicating the goodness of the state. If the first game object is a game character, the "first parameter" may be information indicating the personality of the first game object. The "first parameter" is a level parameter related to the strength (level) of the first game object. The "level parameter" is, for example, information indicating the magnitude of the level. The "first parameter" may be information indicating the capability, etc., by a numerical value or a flag, or information indicating the capability, etc., by a symbol (including letters).

"Changing or setting the first parameter" means changing the value of the first parameter or determining (confirming) the value of the first parameter. For example, if the first parameter is a numeric value, increasing or decreasing the numeric value corresponds to "changing the first parameter", and determining the increased or decreased numeric value corresponds to "setting the first parameter". For example, if the first parameter is a flag, turning the flag on or off (enabled or disabled) corresponds to "changing the first parameter", and determining the changed value corresponds to "setting the first parameter". For example, if the first parameter is a symbol, changing the current symbol to another symbol corresponds to "changing the first parameter", and determining the other symbol corresponds to "setting the first parameter".

The "first game" is, for example, a game in which the main objective is to change or set the first parameter. The "first game" is not limited to a game in which the only objective is to change or set the first parameter, but may be a game in which changing or setting the first parameter is one of the objectives. For example, the "first game" is a breeding game in which a first game object is bred.

In other words, the "first game" is a game in which the user aims to bring the first parameter of the first game object to a desired state. The "desired state" is a state in which the first parameter is a predetermined value or more than a predetermined value. For example, the "desired state" is a state in which the ability is at its best or at or above a standard within the range that the ability parameter can take. For example, if the ability parameter varies between 0 and 99, the best state of ability is a state in which the ability parameter is at its highest value of 99. A state in which the ability is at or above a standard is a state in which the ability parameter is at or above a threshold value (e.g., 80). For another example, the "desired state" is a state in which the ability parameter indicates that the user has a specific ability. The "desired state" is a state in which the state parameter is at or above the best or standard within the range that the state parameter can take. For example, if the state parameter takes one of multiple stages (e.g., five stages: best, good, normal, bad, and worst), the best state is the best state among these multiple stages. A state at or above the standard is a state at or above the standard stage (e.g., good or above). For another example, the "desired state" is a state in which the state parameter indicates a specific state. Also, the "desired state" is the best state of the personality within the range that the personality parameter can take, or a state where the personality is above the standard. For example, if the personality parameter can take one of multiple stages of personality (e.g., five stages: best, good, normal, bad, and worst), the best personality is the best personality among these multiple stages of personality. Above the standard is a personality that is above the standard stage (e.g., good or above). Also, for example, the "desired state" is a state in which the personality parameter indicates a specific personality. Also, for example, the "desired state" is a state where the level parameter is at the highest level or above the standard level within the range that the level parameter can take. For example, if the level parameter varies between 0 and 99, the highest level is a state in which the level parameter is at its highest value of 99. A state where the standard level is above the standard level is a state in which the level parameter is at a threshold value (e.g., 80).

The "first game" may be a game in which the parameters of each of a plurality of first game objects are changed or set. In other words, there may be not only one but also a plurality of first game objects whose first parameters can be changed or set in the "first game." For example, the "first game" may be playable repeatedly by a user, and the first parameters of a new first game object may be changed or set each time the "first game" is played.

In this embodiment, the "first game" is a game in which a game effect related to changing or setting a first parameter occurs based on a second game object. In other words, the "first game" is a game in which an effect advantageous to bringing the first parameter to a desired state occurs based on a second game object.

The "second game object" is a game object different from the first game object. The "second game object" is, for example, an effect generating game object for generating a game effect related to a change or setting of the first parameter in the game. The "second game object" may be a game object of the same type as the first game object, or may be a game object of a different type. For example, if the "first game object" is a game character, the "second game object" may be a game item. The second game object is associated with a second parameter.

The "second parameter" is, for example, a level parameter related to the strength (level) of the second game object. For example, the level parameter is a numerical value or a symbol indicating the level. For example, the "second parameter" is a rarity parameter related to the rarity of the second game object. For example, the rarity parameter is a numerical value or a symbol indicating the rarity. For example, the "second parameter" is a capability parameter related to the capability (performance) of the second game object. The meaning of the capability parameter is the same as that described for the first parameter. The "second parameter" may be changeable or setable based on a user's operation, or may be restricted so that it cannot be changed. For example, the second parameter may be changed or set when a user performs an operation to strengthen the second game object.

An "effect in the first game related to changing or setting the first parameter" refers to, for example, generating an effect in the first game that is advantageous for changing or setting the first parameter. For example, it refers to generating an event that changes or sets the first parameter, or giving the user a game item that changes or sets the first parameter. For example, it may refer to generating an effect in the first game that makes it easier to change or set the first parameter. For example, it may refer to generating a game event that makes it easier to improve the first parameter, or giving the user a game object that makes it easier to improve the first parameter. Or it may refer to branching into a game story that makes it easier to change the first parameter.

Note that the "effect on the first game related to changing or setting the first parameter" includes both an effect for directly changing or setting the first parameter and an effect for indirectly changing or setting the first parameter. Changing or setting the first parameter directly means, for example, changing or setting the first parameter immediately when an event occurs. Changing or setting the first parameter indirectly means, for example, that the first parameter is not changed or set when an event occurs, but a parameter for changing or setting the first parameter (for example, experience points for changing or setting the ability parameter in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 described later) is increased, or a game object for changing or setting the first parameter (for example, a game item for changing or setting the ability parameter) is given to the user. For example, the user can change or set the first parameter, such as an ability parameter, by using experience points (FIG. 16, FIG. 17, etc.) or a game item. For example, a user may use these to change or set a first parameter, such as an ability parameter, immediately after gaining experience points or receiving a game item, or may use these to change or set a first parameter when the user plays or accesses a game after time has passed (e.g., after the date has changed).

An "effect that is advantageous for bringing the first parameter into a desired state" is an effect that makes it easier to bring the first parameter into a desired state. For example, changing the amount of change in the first parameter so that the first parameter approaches the desired state. For example, if the first parameter is a skill parameter, increasing the amount of increase in the skill parameter.

The "second game" is, for example, a game that is executed based on the first game object. For example, the "second game" is a game in which a given game task is accomplished based on the first game object. In other words, the "second game" is a game in which the user aims to accomplish a game task based on the first game object.

A "game task" is a task to be accomplished in a game. For example, a "game task" is to achieve a specified result in the second game. The "game task" varies depending on the content of the second game. For example, if the second game is a fighting game in which a first game object whose first parameter has changed in the first game is used, winning the battle may correspond to a "game task."

A "competitive game" is a game in which a user competes against an opponent. The opponent may be another user or a computer. For example, a "competitive game" is a game in which a match is played based on a first game object owned by the user and a first game object owned by the opponent. For example, a "competitive game" is a game in which a sports match is played.

The "second game" may be a game in which rewards are awarded according to the content or results of the game. In this case, obtaining more rewards corresponds to the "game task."

A "reward" is a game object (such as a game item) or parameter (such as points or in-game currency) that is given to a user. The content of the "reward" changes depending on the outcome or content of the game, and users play the game with the aim of obtaining better rewards. A good reward means that there are more rewards or that the rewards are rare.

Next, an overview of the first and second games will be explained using a baseball game as an example. The main terms explained above correspond to the terms in the baseball game explained below as follows: ・"First game": Success part ・"Second game": Stadium part ・"First game object": Main character or original character ・"Second game object": Event character ・"First parameter": Ability parameter of main character or original character ・"Second parameter": Level parameter of event character

Figure 2 shows an example of a home screen image for a baseball game. As shown in Figure 2, the upper area A110 of the home screen image G100 displays various parameters related to the user playing the baseball game. The upper area A110 includes areas A111 to A116 for displaying various parameters related to the user.

Area A111 shows the user's name. Area A112 shows the amount of coins the user owns. "Coins" are virtual currency used within the game and are used to strengthen event characters, which will be described later (see Figures 23 to 27). Area A113 shows the number of power stones the user owns. "Power stones" are game items required for participating in a lottery (gacha) to obtain event characters, or for exceptionally recovering parameters that are normally recovered over time all at once.

Area A114 shows the user's success points. Success points are points required to play the success part (see Figures 3 to 19) described below. As described below, the success part is a game part in which the user develops a game character (an example of a first game object) that is a baseball player to create an original character of their own. Success points are reduced (consumed) when the user starts playing the success mode, and increase (recover) over time. Area A114 may also display the time remaining until the success points are fully recovered.

Area A115 indicates the rank and overall strength of the user's team. In this baseball game, the user can organize his or her own team using original characters that the user has previously trained in the success part (see Figs. 29 and 30), and can also play against other users' teams (see Figs. 34 and 35). For example, in the example shown in Fig. 2, the alphabet (B) displayed in area A115 indicates the rank of the user's team. "B" is a lower rank than "A" and a higher rank than "C". The number (10200) displayed in area A115 indicates the overall strength of the user's team. For example, the higher the number, the higher the overall strength. The overall strength is calculated based on the abilities of the game characters belonging to the team.

Area A116 shows the number of match tickets owned by the user. A "match ticket" is a game item required to play against another user's team in the stadium part described below. A user can play a match against another user's team by using one match ticket. Note that the number of match tickets increases (recovers) over time. Area A116 may also display the time remaining until the number of match tickets increases.

In the lower area A120 of the home screen image G100, multiple processing objects P121 to P125 are displayed. A "processing object" is, for example, an image, symbol, or text with which a process is associated. Specifically, for example, a button, icon, or link is an example of a "processing object." When a processing object is selected, the process associated with that processing object is executed.

The processing object P121 is associated with a process for returning to the home screen image G100. When a screen image other than the home screen image G100 is displayed on the display unit 15 and the user selects the processing object P121 displayed on that screen image, the home screen image G100 is displayed on the display unit 15.

The processing object P122 is associated with a process for displaying a screen image for organizing a user's team. Details will be described later (see Figures 28 to 30). Furthermore, the processing object P123 is associated with a process for displaying a screen image for checking the event characters owned by the user, organizing a deck of event characters, and strengthening the event characters. Details will be described later (see Figures 20 to 27).

The processing object P124 is associated with a process for displaying a screen image for conducting a lottery (gacha) to obtain an event character. When the user selects the processing object P124, the screen image for conducting the lottery is displayed on the display unit 15.

The processing object P125 is associated with a process for displaying a screen image for purchasing power stones or recovering success points or match tickets in exchange for real-world currency (e.g., dollars or yen) or currency used outside the game (e.g., electronic money or points). When the user selects the processing object P125, a screen image for purchasing power stones or recovering success points or match tickets in exchange for real-world currency is displayed on the display unit 15.

The home screen image G100 also includes a processing object P130. The processing object P130 is associated with a process for displaying a menu screen image. When the user selects the processing object P130, a menu screen image is displayed on the display unit 15. Through this menu screen image, the user can establish relationships with other users (e.g., friendships or companionship) and check notifications from the game provider.

Furthermore, the home screen image G100 includes processing objects P140, P150, and P160. This baseball game has three parts: a success part, a stadium part, and a challenge part, and the processing objects P140, P150, and P160 are for the user to select one of these parts.

The processing object P140 is associated with the success part, and the user can play the success part by selecting the processing object P140. As mentioned above, the success part is the game part in which the game character is developed, and details of the success part will be described later (see Figures 3 to 19).

The processing object P150 is associated with the stadium part, and the user can play the stadium part by selecting the processing object P150. As mentioned above, the stadium part is the game part in which the user plays against the team of another user, and the details of the stadium part will be described later (see Figures 34 and 35).

The processing object P160 is associated with the challenge part, and the challenge part is executed when the user selects the processing object P160. In this baseball game, multiple game tasks are set in advance, such as "develop three player characters in the success part" and "achieve 100 wins in the stadium part." In the challenge part, the user can check the progress of each game task and receive rewards associated with the game tasks that he or she has completed. Note that such tasks may be set on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

As shown in FIG. 2, processing objects P140, P150, and P160 are displayed at positions corresponding to the three vertices of an erect triangle, and when the user selects one of processing objects P140, P150, and P160, the selected processing object is displayed at the position corresponding to the upper vertex.

The example shown in Figure 2 shows the state in which processing object P140 associated with the success part is selected. In this state, processing objects P141 to P143 related to the success part are displayed as shown in Figure 2.

In the success part, the user progresses through the scenario and trains the game character (hereafter referred to as the "protagonist character") by having the character practice, etc., to create their own original character. Note that the "scenario" here refers to the game story that unfolds as the game progresses.

As an example of the above scenario, a game story is provided in which the main character begins in the summer of his second year of high school and becomes a professional baseball player. For example, the main character joins the high school baseball team, practices with his teammates, wins a regular spot, and participates in baseball games (regional qualifying tournaments and national tournaments, etc.). If the main character's practice and games are evaluated by a scout from a professional baseball team and meets or exceeds a certain standard, the main character will be scouted as a professional baseball player in the fall of his third year of high school.

In this embodiment, multiple scenarios are provided as scenarios in the success part. For example, the high school to which the main character belongs differs between these multiple scenarios. Specifically, the multiple scenarios provided include a scenario in which the main character belongs to an ordinary high school, a scenario in which the main character belongs to a prestigious baseball high school, and a scenario in which the main character belongs to a high school in which there are a much greater number of male and female students than one of the two.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, scenario A (A High School), scenario B (B High School), and scenario C (C High School) are associated with processing objects P141, P142, and P143, respectively. When the user selects one of the processing objects P141 to P143, the selected processing object is displayed in the center of the home screen image G100.

The example shown in FIG. 2 shows a state in which processing object P142 associated with scenario B (B High School) is selected. If the user further selects processing object P142 in this state, the success part is executed. In this case, the scenario of the success part is scenario B.

Here, we will explain the flow of the success part. Figure 3 shows an example of the flow of the success part. As shown in Figure 3, in the success part, the pre-part is executed, and then the main part is executed. In the pre-part, the information required to execute the main part is registered and set.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the prepart, the basic information of the main character is first registered. FIG. 4 shows an example of a main character registration screen image for registering the main character's basic information. Note that the upper area A210, lower area A220, and processing object P130 in the main character registration screen image G200 shown in FIG. 4 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

As shown in FIG. 4, the main character registration screen image G200 includes a main character registration area A240. The main character registration area A240 is an area for registering basic information about the main character who is to be developed in the success part. For example, the basic information includes the name, voice, defensive position, dominant arm, and batting form (or pitching form). Note that "voice" refers to the pronunciation of the main character's name when it is output as voice. Also, if the "defensive position" is other than pitcher, the basic information includes "batting form," and if the "defensive position" is pitcher, the basic information includes "pitching form."

In this embodiment, the main character's basic information is automatically initialized and displayed in the main character registration area A240. In the main character registration area A240, processing objects P241 to P245 are displayed in association with each item, and the user can change the content of the item they wish to change by selecting the processing object associated with that item. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 4, processing object P241 is associated with "Name," so the user can change the main character's name to any name by selecting processing object P241.

The main character registration screen image G200 also includes processing objects P230 and P250. Processing object P230 is associated with a process for returning to the previously displayed screen image. Therefore, when the user selects processing object P230, the home screen image G100 is displayed on the display unit 15.

On the other hand, the processing object P250 is associated with a process for completing the setting of the main character's basic information. As shown in FIG. 3, when the registration of the main character's basic information is completed, the event deck is set up. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P250, an event deck setting screen image for setting up the event deck is displayed on the display unit 15. The details will be described later, but the event characters set in the event deck affect the development of the main character.

Figure 5 is an example of an event deck setting screen image. Note that the upper area A310, lower area A320, and processing object P130 in the event deck setting screen image G300 shown in Figure 5 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P330 in the event deck setting screen image G300, like the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200, is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the main character registration screen image G200).

As shown in FIG. 5, the event deck setting screen image G300 includes an event deck setting area A340. Note that the contents displayed in the event deck setting area A340 are omitted in FIG. 5, and the contents displayed in the event deck setting area A340 are shown in FIG. 6.

Now, let us explain the "event deck". As will be described later, various events occur during the main part (scenario) of the success part. For example, events that are advantageous for improving the abilities of the main character occur. In this regard, in this embodiment, the events that occur during the main part of the success part are not fixed, and various events occur according to one or more game characters that the user has incorporated into the event deck. Therefore, the user can select events that may occur in the main part by selecting the game characters to be incorporated into the event deck. Note that, hereinafter, game characters that can be incorporated into the event deck (in other words, game characters for generating events) are referred to as "event characters".

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the event deck setting area A340 includes an area A341 and a processing object P342. Area A341 indicates the name of the event deck. In addition, the processing object P342 is associated with a process for displaying a screen image for changing the name of the event deck. When the user selects the processing object P342, a screen image for changing the name of the event deck is displayed on the display unit 15, and the user can change the name of the event deck.

The event deck setting area A340 also has six setting frames A344-1, A344-2, A344-3, A344-4, A344-5, and A345 for setting event characters that will be members of the event deck.

In this embodiment, a predetermined number of event characters are given to the user when the user plays this baseball game for the first time. The user can also obtain event characters by lottery, as a reward in the game, or from other users. The event characters are given to the user in the form of game cards (digital cards), and the user can own the event characters in the form of game cards. In this regard, in this embodiment, the user can incorporate up to five event characters from among the event characters owned by the user into the event deck at will. The setting frames A344-1, A344-2, A344-3, A344-4, and A344-5 are frames for setting the event characters owned by the user as members of the event deck. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, an image showing the event characters set in the event deck by the user is displayed in the event deck setting area A340 together with the level and rarity of the event characters.

In addition, in this embodiment, one event character owned by another user can be incorporated into the event deck as a helper. Setting slot A345 is a slot for setting an event character owned by another user as a member of the event deck.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the upper limit of the number of event characters owned by the user that can be incorporated into the event deck is set to "5", and the upper limit of the number of event characters owned by other users that can be incorporated into the event deck is set to "1". For example, these upper limits may be changed by satisfying a certain condition. Specifically, for example, the upper limit may be increased when the game progress reaches a certain standard. Alternatively, the upper limit may be increased by paying (for example, by consuming a paid item). Alternatively, the upper limit may be increased by consuming a certain amount of in-game points, in-game currency, etc. In addition, the upper limit may be changed by satisfying various other conditions.

When the user performs a long press operation (touching continuously for a predetermined period of time or longer) on any of the setting frames, an event character screen image showing detailed information about the event character set in that setting frame is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 7 shows an example of an event character screen image. As shown in Figure 7, the event character screen image G400 includes a first area A410, a second area A420, and a third area A440.

The first area 410 displays the event character's name, image, rarity, level, experience points, event power, player ability, and favorite practice. Here, the event power, player ability, favorite practice, etc. differ for each event character. In particular, because the favorite practice differs for each event character, this provides options and strategy when the user incorporates the event character into the event deck.

"Rarity" indicates, for example, how difficult it is to obtain an event character. The higher the rarity of an event character, the more difficult it is to obtain that event character. Generally, the higher the rarity of an event character, the more useful that event character is (its abilities, effects, etc.), so "rarity" can also be said to indicate the usefulness of an event character.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, the "R" displayed to the left of the image of the event character indicates the rarity of the event character. In this embodiment, one of multiple levels of rarity, PSR (Powerful Super Rare), SR (Super Rare), PR (Powerful Rare), R (Rare), PN (Powerful Normal), and N (Normal), is associated with each event character. In addition, when these are arranged from highest to lowest, they are PSR, SR, PR, R, PN, and N. In other words, PSR indicates the highest rarity, and N indicates the lowest rarity. Note that the same event character can have six types of rarity, PSR, SR, PR, R, PN, and N. The same event character here means event characters with the same name and the same appearance (image). For example, if the event characters are people, being the same person corresponds to being the same event character.

"Level" indicates the level of the event character. In the example shown in Figure 7, "Lv. 8/22 (+2)" indicates the level of the event character. This indicates that the current level of the event character is "8" and the maximum level (upper limit) is "22."

In the example shown in FIG. 7, the gauge area A411 indicates the current experience value of the event character. As described below, in this embodiment, experience values are given to an event character by combining it with another event character (see FIGS. 23 to 27). When the experience value of an event character reaches a predetermined value, the event character's level increases by one. Note that the state in which the gauge in the gauge area A411 extends to the right end of the gauge area A411 corresponds to the state in which the experience value of the event character has reached the predetermined value.

The level of an event character is limited so that it does not exceed the maximum level. The maximum level varies depending on the rarity. The higher the rarity, the higher the maximum level. Additionally, if an event character is combined with another event character, the maximum level of the event character may increase. The notation "Lv. 8/22 (+2)" indicates that the maximum level of the event character has been increased by 2. In other words, the original maximum level of the event character was "20", and the event character has been strengthened, raising the maximum level to "22".

"Event power" indicates the potential of events associated with an event character (i.e. events that can occur depending on the event character in the main part). The higher the event power value, the easier it is to increase the main character's abilities. The higher the rarity, the higher the event power value.

"Player ability" indicates the ability of the event character as a player. In the main part, a match event occurs during the main part (scenario) of the success part, and a match is played between the high school the main character belongs to and another high school. In this match, the event characters built into the event deck participate as teammates of the main character. Player ability indicates the level of ability that the event character can demonstrate in such a match.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, letters and numbers indicating player ability are displayed. The higher the number, the higher the ability that the event character can demonstrate as a player in a match. Additionally, one of the letters S, A, B, C, D, E, or F is associated with the event character depending on the above number. "S" indicates very high player ability, and "F" indicates very low player ability.

The player abilities remain in a predefined state. In other words, even if an event character is combined with another event character, the player abilities of the event character do not change. The event character screen image G400 includes a processing object P430 associated with a process for displaying details of the player abilities of the event character. When the user selects the processing object P430, a screen image showing details of the player abilities of the event character is displayed on the display unit 15.

"Favourite Practice" refers to the practice that the event character is good at. As will be described later, in the main part (scenario) of the success part, the protagonist character's abilities can be improved by having the protagonist practice. Also, if the protagonist character practices the event character's favourite practice together with the event character, it is easier to improve the protagonist's abilities than usual.

The second area A420 shows the event list, event bonuses, and profile of the event character. As shown in FIG. 7, the second area A420 includes a first tab T421, a second tab T422, and a third tab T423.

The first tab T421 shows the event list for the event character. The "Event List" shows a list of events that can occur in the main part of the success part when the event character is incorporated into the event deck. The third tab T423 shows the profile of the event character. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 7, the second tab T422 is mainly displayed, but the user can select the first tab T421 or the third tab T423 to display the first tab T421 or the third tab T423 instead of the second tab T422.

The second tab T422 shows the event bonuses of the event characters. In the main part of the success part, the event characters incorporated in the event deck generate advantageous effects (bonuses) that increase the abilities of the main character. "Event bonus" shows the effects that occur in the main part of the success part when an event character is incorporated in the event deck.

In the example shown in Figure 7, the event bonuses set for the event character are "Initial Rating 15", "Special Tag Bonus 20%", "Hands-on Event Bonus 20%", and "Increase in Favorite Training Rate 10%". Details of these event bonuses will be described later (see the explanations of Figures 13, 16, and 17).

The effect generated by the event character may differ depending on the combination of the event character and the scenario of the success part selected by the user. For example, the events and event bonuses generated by the event character may change depending on the scenario. In this case, the effect of each scenario may be made identifiable in the event character screen image G400. Also, in the success part, a match is held in which the main character participates, and the event character can also participate in this match. However, the event character cannot participate in the matches in the stadium part.

In this embodiment, as the level of the event character increases, the event bonus (the above-mentioned effect) also becomes stronger. As shown in FIG. 7, the second tab T422 includes a processing object P424 associated with a process for displaying the correspondence between the level of the event character and the event bonus. When the user selects the processing object P424, a bonus details screen image showing the correspondence between the level of the event character and the event bonus is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 8 shows an example of a bonus details screen image. As shown in Figure 8, the bonus details screen image G500 displays the correspondence between the level of the event character and the event bonus. In other words, the bonus details screen image G500 displays the bonus associated with the level of the event character. The event bonus associated with the level "n" of the event character indicates the event bonus that occurs in the main part of the success part when the level of the event character is level "n" or higher.

In addition, the bonus details screen image G500 displays event bonuses associated with levels below the current level of the event character, and event bonuses associated with levels higher than the current level of the event character.

Furthermore, in the bonus details screen image G500, the event bonus associated with a level below the current level of the event character and the event bonus associated with a level higher than the current level of the event character are displayed so that the user can distinguish between them. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the check object is displayed in association with a level below the current level of the event character. In the example shown in FIG. 8, since the current level of the event character is "8" (see FIG. 7), the check objects C510 and C520 are displayed in association with levels "1" and "5". This makes it easier for the user to understand "what kind of event bonus will occur in the main part of the success part by incorporating the event character in the current state into the event deck". Note that instead of the above check objects C510 and C520, the color or brightness of the area of the level below the current level of the event character (i.e., the area showing the effect occurring at the current level of the event character) may be changed in the bonus details screen image G500. Conversely, the color or brightness of the area showing the effect not occurring at the current level of the event character may be changed in the bonus details screen image G500.

The bonus detail screen image G500 also includes a processing object P530 that is associated with a process for closing the bonus detail screen image G500. When the user selects the processing object P530, the bonus detail screen image G500 disappears and the event character screen image G400 is displayed.

As shown in FIG. 7, the third area A440 of the event character screen image G400 includes processing objects P441, P442, and P443.

The processing object P441 is a processing object associated with a process for closing the event character screen image G400. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P441, the event character screen image G400 disappears and the event deck setting screen image G300 is displayed.

The processing object P442 is a processing object associated with a process for locking an event character. "Locking an event character" means putting the event character in a state where it cannot be sold or combined with another event character. When the user selects the processing object P442, the event character displayed in the event character screen image G400 becomes locked. Note that when the event character displayed in the event character screen image G400 is locked, the processing object P442 becomes a processing object associated with a process for unlocking the event character.

The processing object P443 is a processing object associated with a process for setting an event character as a leader. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P443, the event character displayed in the event character screen image G400 is set as the leader. The event character set by the user as a leader can be rented to other users as a helper. Conversely, the user can rent an event character set by another user as a leader to play the success part.

When an event character set by a user as a leader is rented as a helper, a reward is given to the user. For example, when an event character set by a user as a leader is rented as a helper, a notification to that effect and indicating that a reward will be given is displayed on the display unit 15 when the game is started. The reward may be given automatically, or may be given when the user performs an operation to receive the reward. The reward may be, for example, gacha points, coins, store medals, game items, etc., or the experience points or level of the event character owned by the user may be increased, or the ability parameters of the main character or original character may be increased. The content of the reward may also change depending on the results of the success part in which the event character was used as a helper.

In the event deck setting area A340 shown in FIG. 6, when the user taps (touches for a short period of time) on any of the setting frames A344-1, A344-2, A344-3, A344-4, and A344-5, the event character set in that setting frame is selected as the source of the change, and an event character change screen image for changing the event character selected as the source of the change to another event character is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 9 shows an example of an event character change screen image. Note that the upper area A610, lower area A620, and processing object P130 in the event character change screen image G600 shown in Figure 9 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P630 in the event character change screen image G600 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the event deck setting screen image G300), similar to the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

The event character change screen image G600 includes an event character list area A640. The event character list area A640 shows a list of event characters owned by the user. In the event character list area A640, event characters incorporated in the event deck and event characters not incorporated in the event deck are displayed so that the user can distinguish between them. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the text (or image) "In Use" is displayed in association with the event characters incorporated in the event deck, and the same event character cannot be selected so that it cannot be incorporated in the event deck more than once. The user selects one of the event characters not incorporated in the event deck as the change destination. When the user selects one of the event characters as the change destination, the event character selected as the change destination is incorporated into the event deck instead of the event character selected as the change source.

The event character list area A640 includes a processing object P641 that is associated with a process for removing the event character selected as the source of the change from the event deck. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P641, the event character selected as the source of the change is removed from the event deck.

The processing object P650 is associated with a process for sorting the display order of the event characters displayed in the event character list area A640. Here, multiple conditions can be specified, and for example, event characters can be sorted by "order of acquisition," "order of rarity," "order of level," "order of favorite training (described in detail later)," "order of event power," "order of player ability," "order of name," or "order of lock."

In addition, in the event deck setting area A340 shown in FIG. 6, when the user performs a tap operation (touching for a short period of time) on the setting frame A345, a screen image for selecting a helper from among the event characters owned by other users is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 10 shows an example of the event deck setting area A340 when the event character in setting frame A344-5 is changed to another event character and a helper is selected from among the event characters owned by other users.

As shown in Figures 6 and 10, the event deck setting area A340 includes a favorite practice area A346. The favorite practice area A346 shows the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck. As shown in Figures 6 and 10, the event deck setting area A340 displays the event characters shown in the setting frames A344-1 to A344-5, A345 and the favorite practice shown in the favorite practice area A346. In other words, the event character and the favorite practice corresponding to that event character are displayed on the same screen. This allows the user to easily visually recognize the favorite practice they desire and the event character that has it, and intuitively understand whether the event character incorporated in the event deck is ideal or not.

In this embodiment, one of ten types of practice - "batting," "muscle strength," "base running," "shoulder strength," "defense," "mentality," "pitch speed," "control," "stamina," and "curve ball" - is set as the event character's favorite practice. Of these, "defense" and "mentality" are practice items common to both fielders and pitchers. "batting," "muscle strength," "base running," and "shoulder strength" are practice items for fielders. "pitch speed," "control," "stamina," and "curve ball" are practice items for pitchers. These practices are performed by the main character in the success part described below.

As shown in Figures 6 and 10, the 10 types of practice are displayed in the favorite practice area A346, and among the 10 types of practice, the practice that is set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck and the practice that is not set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck are displayed so that the user can distinguish between them.

In the favorite practice area A346, the practice mainly for fielders (batting, strength, base running, shoulder strength, defense) is displayed on one side (left side), and the practice mainly for pitchers (ball speed, control, stamina, curveball) is displayed on the other side (right side). And the practice for both fielders and pitchers (mental) is displayed between them. With the display position of each practice arranged in this way, as described below, by making it possible to identify the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck, it is possible to intuitively grasp whether the event character ideal for training a fielder or pitcher is incorporated in the event deck. For example, if the main character that the user is trying to train is a pitcher, if the favorite practice is arranged mostly on the left side, it is intuitively understood that the event character incorporated in the event deck is not ideal for training a pitcher, so the user can easily make a decision to replace the event character. In this example, the practice for fielders and the practice for pitchers are arranged so as to be divided into left and right, but they may be arranged so as to be divided into top and bottom. Furthermore, for example, the display mode of the practice for fielders and the practice for pitchers may be made different. For example, fielder practice and pitcher practice may be color-coded, such as displaying fielder practice in green and pitcher practice in red. In this way, for example, if the main character the user is trying to train is a fielder, and there are many reds for the favorite practice, the user can intuitively understand that the event character included in the event deck is not ideal for training a fielder, and the user can easily make a decision to replace the event character, etc.

In addition, in the favorite practice area A346, the practice set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck and the practice not set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck are displayed in different display modes. In the example shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 10, a cross is displayed in association with the practice not set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck, thereby distinguishing the practice set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck from the practice not set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck. Note that the method of distinguishing is not limited to the cross. The display mode of the practice set as the favorite practice and the practice not set may be made different, for example, by changing the color tone or brightness of these. In this case, the practice set as the favorite practice may be displayed brightly, and the practice set as the favorite practice may be displayed darker than that. In this way, the favorite practice can be grasped by the brightness of the image, so that the favorite practice can be grasped more intuitively.

In the favorite practice area A346 shown in FIG. 10, a numerical value (2) is displayed in association with each of "muscle strength" and "shoulder strength". This numerical value indicates the number of event characters among the event characters incorporated in the event deck who have the practice set as their favorite practice. This number also includes helper event characters. The favorite practice area A346 shown in FIG. 10 indicates that two event characters among the event characters incorporated in the event deck have "muscle strength" set as their favorite practice. Similarly, the favorite practice area A346 shown in FIG. 10 indicates that two event characters among the event characters incorporated in the event deck have "shoulder strength" set as their favorite practice. Here, the number of event characters having the same favorite practice is displayed on the screen as a numerical value, but for example, images such as star marks or icons may be displayed in correspondence with the number of event characters at any position around the corresponding favorite practice or superimposed on the favorite practice. Also, instead of displaying an image on the screen that directly indicates the number of event characters that have the same favorite practice, the brightness of the favorite practice may be increased or the effects such as light and flashing may be strengthened as the number of event characters that have the same favorite practice increases.

The favorite practice area A346 may display only the practices that are set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck, and may not display practices that are not set as the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck. Also, if the event characters incorporated in the event deck include multiple event characters that have the same practice set as their favorite practice, the practice may be displayed multiple times in the favorite practice area A346.

In addition, in this embodiment, not only "player" event characters but also "manager" event characters can be incorporated into the event deck. Since "manager" event characters do not have a favorite practice set, even if they are incorporated into the event deck, the display in the favorite practice area A346 will not change. For example, if there are four "player" event characters and one "manager" event character in an event deck, the favorite practice area A346 will display the favorite practices of only the four characters.

As shown in Figures 6 and 10, the event deck setting area A340 includes a processing object P343 that is associated with a process for automatically setting up the event deck according to the user's requests.

When the user selects the processing object P343, an automatic setting menu screen image is displayed for selecting a training policy for the main character. FIG. 11 shows an example of an automatic setting menu screen image. In the automatic setting menu screen image G700 shown in FIG. 11, it is possible to select either a first training policy of "training the main character as a pitcher" or a second training policy of "training the main character as a fielder."

The automatic setting menu screen image G700 includes a processing object P710. The processing object P710 is associated with a process for selecting a first training policy. In other words, the processing object P710 is associated with a process for automatically setting an event deck suitable for training the main character as a pitcher. That is, when the processing object P710 is selected, for example, an event character associated with an event that is advantageous for improving pitching ability, or an event character associated with a practice item for pitchers as a preferred practice item, is set as a member of the event deck with priority over other event characters.

The automatic setting menu screen image G700 also includes a processing object P720. The processing object P720 is associated with a process for selecting a second training policy. In other words, the processing object P420 is associated with a process for automatically setting an event deck suitable for training the main character as a fielder. That is, when the processing object P720 is selected, for example, an event character associated with an event that is advantageous for improving fielder ability, or an event character associated with a fielder practice item as a good practice item, is set as a member of the event deck with priority over other event characters.

As described above, in this embodiment, the user selects a desired option from among multiple options (i.e., multiple options related to training policies) displayed in the automatic setting menu screen image G700, and an event deck that matches the desired training policy is automatically set. This allows the user to easily set up an event deck that matches the desired training policy.

When the "pitcher" training policy is selected, if there are few event characters whose favorite practice is set to "pitcher", an event character whose favorite practice is set to "fielder" may be set in the event deck. Conversely, when the "fielder" training policy is selected, if there are few event characters whose favorite practice is set to "fielder", an event character whose favorite practice is set to "pitcher" may be set in the event deck. In this case, event characters with high rarity may be preferentially incorporated into the event deck.

In the example shown in FIG. 11, the user can select one of two training policies for "pitcher" and "fielder", but the user may select one of multiple training policies for "pitcher" or one of multiple training policies for "fielder". For example, the user may be able to select the ability that he or she prioritizes from multiple abilities for "pitcher" or "fielder". For example, the user may be able to select one of "emphasis on pitch speed", "emphasis on control", and "emphasis on curveballs" as the training policy for "pitcher". Also, for example, the user may be able to select one of "emphasis on hitting", "emphasis on power", "emphasis on running", and "emphasis on defense" as the training policy for "fielder".

In addition, the automatic setting menu screen image G700 may present a plurality of questions to the user. Then, event characters that match the answers to the plurality of questions may be preferentially incorporated into the event deck. In this manner, the user's desired training policy may be determined from the answers to the plurality of questions, and event characters that suit the user's desired training policy may be preferentially incorporated into the event deck. Note that the plurality of questions may be presented as a plurality of questions related to a personality assessment of the user. In this manner, event characters that are suitable for training a main character to resemble the user's personality may be preferentially incorporated into the event deck.

The automatic setting menu screen image G700 also includes a processing object P730 that is associated with a process for closing the automatic setting menu screen image G700. When the user selects the processing object P730, the automatic setting menu screen image G700 disappears and the event deck setting screen image G300 is displayed.

Returning to FIG. 5, the event deck setting screen image G300 includes a processing object P350. The processing object P350 is associated with a process for completing the setting of the event deck. As shown in FIG. 3, when the setting of the event deck is completed, a game item is selected. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P350, a screen image for selecting a game item is displayed on the display unit 15.

In this embodiment, the user can obtain game items that are advantageous for increasing the abilities of the main character in the success part as rewards or from other users. In this screen image, the user selects game items to be used in the current success part (main part) from among the game items he or she owns. Note that there is an upper limit (e.g., two) on the number of game items that can be selected here. The user cannot select game items in excess of this upper limit.

When the selection of game items is complete, the pre-part is completed and the main part begins. In the main part, the scenario selected by the user in the home screen image G100 begins. For example, a scenario may begin in which the main character joins a high school baseball team, practices with his teammates, wins a regular spot, participates in games (regional qualifying tournaments and national tournaments), and aims to become a professional baseball player.

Event characters incorporated into the event deck appear in the scenario. For example, event characters incorporated into the event deck may appear as teammates of the main character or as managers of the baseball team to which the main character belongs. In this way, event characters owned by the user become characters in the scenario by being incorporated into the event deck. Note that game characters incorporated into the event deck may also appear in the game as players on a rival team, for example.

In addition, a scenario has predefined game characters (for example, one coach, one scout, one manager, and four to eight teammates) set as characters. These game characters will appear in the game even if they are not included in the event deck. For this reason, event characters included in the event deck can be said to be game characters that are added as characters.

As shown in Figure 3, the main part (scenario) includes multiple sections. In the example shown in Figure 3, the main part (scenario) is divided into four sections chronologically.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, the scenario branches. Specifically, sections 3A and 3B are provided as the third section. Therefore, after section 2 is completed, the user can select one of sections 3A and 3B. If the user selects section 3A, section 3A will start, and after section 3A is completed, section 4A will start. On the other hand, if the user selects section 3B, section 3B will start, and after section 3B is completed, section 4B will start. In other words, after the user selects section 3A, it is not possible to move on to section 4B, and conversely, after the user selects section 3B, it is not possible to move on to section 4A.

The scenario may branch only within a specific period. That is, the user may be allowed to advance to sections 3B and 4B only within a specific period, and may not be allowed to advance to sections 3B and 4B outside the specific period. In such a case, sections 3B and 4B may be configured such that a special event that would not normally occur unless a special event character (e.g., an event character with a high rarity) is incorporated into the event deck occurs even if the special event character is not incorporated into the event deck. By doing so, even for a user who does not own a special event character, a special event may occur by advancing to sections 3B and 4B only within a specific period. Furthermore, if the specific period ends while the user is advancing to sections 3B and 4B, the user may be allowed to advance to sections 3B and 4B for a predetermined period thereafter (e.g., one day). Also, the sections after sections 3A and 3B may be further branched into multiple sections. Furthermore, there may be multiple sections that can be advanced only within a specific period. Furthermore, when the scenario branches as described above, when the user selects a specific section, the main character may acquire an ability that is not possessed by the event character in the event deck set by the user when an event occurs. Also, when the user selects a specific section, the increase in ability parameters when an event occurs may be greater than the normal increase by the event character built into the event deck. For example, when the user selects a specific section, the user may acquire more coins, gacha points, etc. than usual. Note that in the above embodiment, the story branches from section 2 to sections 3B and 4B, and branching occurs in some of the four sections, but branching may always occur when one section ends. In other words, branching may occur in all sections.

As shown in FIG. 3, each section includes multiple turns. In the example shown in FIG. 3, each section is made up of 12 turns. The number of turns included in each section may vary from section to section.

For example, one turn corresponds to one week in the game. Each time a turn is completed, the virtual time in the game advances by one week, and the scenario progresses. Note that one turn may also correspond to one day or one month in the game.

When the scenario has progressed to the end, the main character's training will be complete. Once training is complete, the main character will be registered as an original character and can be used in the stadium part. After the main part is over, you can start the success part again from the beginning to train a different main character (i.e., generate a different original character).

In each turn of the main part, the user selects one of the options regarding the main character's actions as the action to be taken by the main character.

Figure 12 shows an example of a main command screen image in the success part. The main command screen image G800 shown in Figure 12 is a screen image for selecting an action to be performed by the main character.

As shown in FIG. 12, the upper area A810 of the main command screen image G800 displays the progress of the scenario. For example, the current section and the number of turns remaining until the end of the current section are displayed. The current time in the game is also displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 12, "2nd year, 2nd week of August" is displayed, which indicates that the main character is a second-year high school student and that it is currently the second week of August.

The upper area A810 also displays the motivation parameter of the main character. The motivation parameter is a parameter that indicates the motivation (condition) of the main character. For example, the higher the value of the motivation parameter, the more motivated the main character is. As described below, in this embodiment, experience points are granted to the main character as the main character practices in each turn (see FIG. 13). At this time, the more motivation the main character has, the more experience points are granted to the main character.

The upper area A810 also displays the number of treasure chests discovered in the current section. As described below, in each turn, a treasure chest discovery event in which the dog finds and brings back a treasure chest occurs based on predetermined probability information (see FIG. 14), and the number of treasure chests discovered in this way is displayed.

The upper area A810 also includes a gauge area A811 that indicates the main character's physical strength parameters. For example, when the main character practices, the value of the physical strength parameter decreases, and when the main character takes a break from practice, the value of the physical strength parameter increases (recovers). Note that as the value of the physical strength parameter decreases, the probability that the main character will be injured during practice increases (see FIG. 13).

Furthermore, the upper area A810 includes a processing object P812. The processing object P812 is associated with a process for displaying a menu screen image related to the success part, and when the user selects the processing object P812, the menu screen image is displayed on the display unit 15. In the menu screen image, for example, the success part can be interrupted.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12, processing objects P821, P822, P823, and P824 are displayed in the lower area A820 of the main command screen image G800.

Processing object P821 is associated with a process that displays the log of the success part (main part), and when the user selects processing object P821, the log is displayed.

The processing object P822 is associated with a process for turning the auto function on and off. The auto function is a function for automatically sending text displayed on the display unit 15. In the main part, text showing parameter changes and text showing conversations between the main character and other game characters are displayed on the display unit 15 (see Figures 14 and 15). Normally, the user needs to tap the display unit 15 to send such text, but when the auto function is set to on, the text is sent automatically without the user having to tap the display unit 15. The user can turn the auto function on and off by selecting the processing object P822.

The processing object P823 is associated with a process for turning the skip function on and off. The skip function is a function for automatically forwarding text displayed on the display unit 15 at a speed faster than the auto function. When the skip function is set to on, text is automatically forwarded at a speed faster than the auto function, even if the user does not tap the display unit 15. The user can turn the skip function on and off by selecting the processing object P823. However, it is not possible to turn on both the auto function and the skip function; only one of them can be turned on.

The processing object P824 is associated with a process for turning the shortcut function on and off. The shortcut function is a function for omitting part of the text related to an event. For example, in the main part, an event occurs in which the main character converses with another game character, and text indicating the conversation may be displayed, but if the shortcut function is set to on, part of the text is omitted. The user can turn the shortcut function on and off by selecting the processing object P824.

As shown in FIG. 12, the main command screen image G800 also includes a main character ability area A830. The main character ability area A830 displays the values of the main character's various basic ability parameters. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the values of the main character's trajectory parameter, hitting parameter, power parameter, running ability parameter, arm strength parameter, and defensive ability parameter are displayed.

The trajectory parameter indicates how high the ball hit by the main character will fly. The higher the trajectory parameter value, the higher the ball will fly. The contact parameter indicates the main character's contact ability (the ability to hit the ball thrown by the pitcher with the bat). The higher the contact parameter value, the higher the contact ability. The power parameter indicates the main character's power (the ability to hit the ball thrown by the pitcher with the bat and send it flying farther). The higher the power parameter value, the easier it is for the ball to fly farther when hit with the bat.

The running ability parameter indicates the speed of the main character's feet. The higher the value of the running ability parameter, the faster the feet. The shoulder strength parameter indicates the speed at which the main character can throw the ball. The higher the value of the shoulder strength parameter, the faster the ball can be thrown. The defensive ability parameter indicates the defensive skill of the main character. The higher the value of the defensive ability parameter, the better the defense.

In the example shown in FIG. 12, the main character is a fielder, so basic ability parameters related to fielder abilities are displayed in the main character ability area A830. If the main character is a pitcher, basic ability parameters related to pitcher abilities, such as ball speed parameters, control parameters, and stamina parameters, are displayed in the main character ability area A830.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12, the main command screen image G800 includes a command area A840. Processing objects P841, P842, P843, P844, P845, and P846 are displayed in the command area A840.

The processing object P841 is associated with a process for having the main character practice, and the user can have the main character practice by selecting the processing object P841. Details will be described later (see Figures 13 and 14).

The processing object P842 is associated with a process for resting the main character, and the user can rest the main character by selecting the processing object P842. When the main character rests, the main character's physical strength parameters increase (recover).

The processing object P843 is associated with a process for having the main character visit a hospital, and the user can have the main character visit a hospital by selecting the processing object P843. For example, if the main character becomes ill or has an injury, the illness or injury can be cured by having the main character visit a hospital.

The processing object P844 is associated with a process for letting the main character play, and the user can let the main character play by selecting the processing object P844. Letting the main character play increases the main character's motivation parameter.

The processing object P845 is associated with a process for having the main character go on a date, and the user can have the main character go on a date by selecting the processing object P845.

The processing object P846 is associated with a process for improving the abilities of the main character, and the user can improve the abilities of the main character by selecting the processing object P846. Details will be described later (see Figures 16 and 17).

Figure 13 shows an example of a practice screen image. The practice screen image G900 shown in Figure 13 is displayed on the display unit 15 when a processing object P841 of the main command screen image G800 is selected. Note that the upper area A910 of the practice screen image G900 is similar to the upper area A810 of the main command screen image G800, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

As shown in FIG. 13, the practice screen image G900 includes a command area A920. In the command area A920, a number of processing objects P921, P922, P923, P924, P925, and P926 corresponding to a number of practice items are displayed. These processing objects P921 to P926 are associated with processes for causing the main character to perform various exercises.

The processing object P921 is associated with a process of having the main character perform batting practice. The processing object P922 is associated with a process of having the main character perform strength training. The processing object P923 is associated with a process of having the main character perform base running practice. The processing object P924 is associated with a process of having the main character perform shoulder strength training. The processing object P925 is associated with a process of having the main character perform defensive practice. The processing object P926 is associated with a process of having the main character perform mental training.

For example, when the user wants the main character to practice base running, the user first selects the processing object P923. In this case, the processing object P923 is provisionally selected. In this state, the processing object P923 is displayed in a manner distinct from the other processing objects P921, P922, P924 to P926, and it is shown that the processing object P923 is provisionally selected. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the vertical position of the processing object P923 on the screen is different from the other processing objects P921, P922, P924 to P926, and a cursor object C927 is associated with the processing object P923. In this state, the probability of injury during base running practice is displayed in association with the processing object P923. This probability is determined based on the value of the physical strength parameter of the main character. The smaller the value of the physical strength parameter of the main character, the higher the probability of injury during practice.

The practice screen image G900 also includes an experience point area A930. The experience point area A930 displays the main character's experience points (i.e., the experience points currently held by the main character).

In this embodiment, five types of experience points are set: strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points. Figure 13 shows the case where the main character's strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points are 3 points, 5 points, 4 points, 0 points, and 0 points, respectively.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, "+4" and "+15" are displayed in association with the strength points and agility points, respectively. This indicates that if the provisionally selected practice item (baserunning practice) is performed, the main character's strength points will increase by 4 points and his agility points will increase by 15 points.

In this embodiment, for each practice item, the type and amount of experience points that are increased by performing that practice are determined. As described above, when baserunning practice is performed, strength points and agility points are increased. Also, for example, when batting practice is performed, strength points, technique points, and mental points are increased.

A level is set for each practice item. The level of a practice item increases when the practice is performed a predetermined number of times. The higher the level of the practice item, the greater the increase in experience points when that practice is performed.

The practice screen image G900 also includes a game character area A940. In this embodiment, a game character other than the main character (teammate, coach, manager) is assigned to each practice item, and the game characters other than the main character are also performed or watching over the practice. In this regard, the game character assigned to the provisionally selected practice item is displayed in the game character area A940. Note that the game character assigned to each practice item changes with each turn.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, base running practice has been provisionally selected, so the game character assigned to base running practice is displayed in game character area A940.

In game character area A940, a gauge area A941 is displayed in association with the game character. This gauge area A941 indicates the game character's evaluation of the main character. The longer the gauge in gauge area A941, the higher the game character's evaluation of the main character. As will be described later, when the main character performs a favorite practice assigned to the game character (i.e., when the main character performs the same practice as the game character), the game character's evaluation of the main character increases (see FIG. 14).

In the event character screen image G400 shown in FIG. 7, an "initial rating of 15" is set as the event bonus for the event character. This event bonus "initial rating of 15" indicates that at the start of the main part, the event character's rating of the main character is initially set to a value (15) higher than the normal value (0).

The example shown in FIG. 13 shows a case where an event character (Yabe) incorporated into the event deck is assigned to base running practice. In other words, it shows a case where an event character (Yabe) incorporated into the event deck is practicing base running together with the main character as a teammate.

The practice item (base running) displayed in association with an event character indicates the preferred practice of this event character. For this reason, the example shown in FIG. 13 shows a case where an event character is assigned to its preferred practice (base running practice). In other words, it shows a case where an event character is performing its preferred practice (base running practice).

In such a case, if the main character practices baserunning, the amount of experience points gained will be greater than in normal cases. In other words, if the main character practices the event character's favorite practice together with an event character, the amount of experience points gained will be greater than in normal cases. In other words, in a turn in which an event character with baserunning practice set as its favorite practice is assigned to baserunning practice, the amount of experience points gained from the main character practicing baserunning will be greater than in a turn in which an event character with baserunning practice set as its favorite practice is not assigned to baserunning practice.

In addition, in the above case, when the main character practices base running, if the event character's evaluation of the main character is higher than a predetermined standard, a special tag bonus event may occur. When a special tag bonus event occurs, the increase in experience points will be greater than if the special tag bonus event had not occurred. In this way, if the main character practices the event character's specialty together with an event character who highly evaluates the master character, the increase in experience points will be even greater.

In the event character screen image G400 shown in FIG. 7, a "Special Tag Bonus 20%" is set as the event bonus for the event character. This event bonus "Special Tag Bonus 20%" indicates that when a special tag bonus event occurs, the increase in experience points will be 20% more.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, the event character is assigned to the same practice item as the player's favorite practice, but the event character is not necessarily assigned to the same practice item as the player's favorite practice, and may be assigned to a practice item different from the player's favorite practice. The practice item to which the event character is assigned is determined for each turn based on predetermined probability information.

In this regard, in the event character screen image G400 shown in FIG. 7, the event character's event bonus is set to "Increase the rate of favorite practice by 10%." This event bonus "Increase the rate of favorite practice by 10%" indicates that the probability that the event character will be assigned to his/her favorite practice increases by 10%, making it easier for the event character to be assigned to his/her favorite practice.

When the user further selects processing object P923 while base running practice has been provisionally selected (i.e., cursor object C927 is pointing at processing object P923), base running practice is confirmed as the practice item to be performed by the main character, and the main character performs base running practice.

The practice screen image G900 also includes a processing object P950. The processing object P950 is associated with a process for returning to the previously displayed screen image. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P950, the main command screen image G800 is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 14 shows an example of a practice result screen image. When any practice item is confirmed as the practice item to be performed by the main character, the practice result screen image G1000 shown in Figure 14 is displayed on the display unit 15. Note that the upper area A1010 and lower area A1020 of the practice result screen image G1000 are similar to the upper area A810 and lower area A820 of the main command screen image G800, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

As shown in FIG. 14, the practice result screen image G1000 includes a text area A1030. Text indicating the practice results of the main character is displayed in the text area A1030. That is, text indicating the changes in various parameters as a result of the main character's practice is displayed in the text area A1030.

Figure 14 shows a practice result screen image G1000 that is displayed when baserunning practice is selected in the state shown in Figure 13 (i.e., processing object P923 is selected). Text area A1030 shown in Figure 14 indicates that, as a result of the main character performing baserunning practice, the strength points have increased by 4 points, the agility points have increased by 15 points, the physical strength parameters have decreased by 25 points, and the evaluation of the main character of the event character (Yabe) who was assigned to baserunning practice has increased by 7 points.

In this embodiment, when the main character practices, a treasure chest discovery event occurs based on predetermined probability information. As described above, the treasure chest discovery event is an event in which a dog finds a treasure chest and brings it over. When a treasure chest discovery event occurs, as shown in FIG. 14, the dog character C1040 that found the treasure chest is displayed in the practice result screen image G1000.

In addition, during each turn of the main part, events related to event characters also occur based on predetermined probability information. For example, events may occur in which the main character talks to an event character or engages in special training together with the event character.

Figure 15 shows an example of an event screen image. The event screen image G1100 shown in Figure 15 is displayed on the display unit 15 when an event related to an event character occurs. Note that the upper area A1110 and lower area A1120 of the event screen image G1100 are similar to the upper area A810 and lower area A820 of the main command screen image G800, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

The event screen image G1100 indicates that an event related to an event character has occurred. The event screen image G1100 includes an event information area A1130, in which information about the event that has occurred (such as the event name) is displayed. The event character C1140 that caused the event to occur is also displayed in the event screen image G1100.

The event screen image G1100 also includes a text area A1150. For example, text showing a conversation between the main character and the event character is displayed in the text area A1150. Then, as shown in FIG. 15, text showing changes in various parameters due to the occurrence of the event is displayed in the text area A1150. Specifically, the text area A1150 shows, for example, that the experience points for improving the ability parameters of the main character have increased due to the occurrence of the event, or that the main character has acquired the knack for acquiring a special ability. The amount of experience points and the knack for acquiring a special ability are influenced by the abilities and level of the event character. For example, the larger the value of the event bonus shown in the second tab T422 of the event character screen image G400 in FIG. 7, the larger the value, etc. shown in the text area A1150. Alternatively, the higher the rarity of each event character, the larger the value, etc. shown in the text area A1150 may be. Furthermore, if the practice selected by the user is the favorite practice of an event character that appears in the event, the numerical value etc. shown in text area A1150 may be made larger.

In the main part, in addition to events that occur based on probability information, events that are guaranteed to occur when a certain level of game progress is reached may be provided. For example, a specific event (such as a match event) may be guaranteed to occur when the scenario has progressed to 10, 20, or 30 turns.

Figures 16 and 17 show an example of an ability change screen image. The ability change screen image G1200 shown in Figures 16 and 17 is a screen image for improving the abilities of the main character, and is displayed on the display unit 15 when the processing object P846 of the main command screen image G800 is selected.

The ability change screen image G1200 includes a first area A1210 and a second area A1220. The first area A1210 includes a pitcher ability tab T1211 and a fielder ability tab T1212. The pitcher ability tab T1211 displays changes to basic ability parameters related to pitcher abilities, and the fielder ability tab T1212 displays changes to basic ability parameters related to fielder abilities.

As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the fielder ability tab T1212 displays the pre-change and post-change values for each of the basic ability parameters related to fielder ability, namely, trajectory parameter, contact parameter, power parameter, running ability parameter, arm strength parameter, defensive ability parameter, and catching parameter. The trajectory parameter, contact parameter, power parameter, running ability parameter, arm strength parameter, and defensive ability parameter are as described above (see Figure 12). The catching parameter indicates the main character's ability to catch the ball. The higher the value of the catching parameter, the better the catching ability (the less likely the character to make errors).

The second area A1220 includes a basic ability tab T1221 and a special ability tab T1222. As shown in FIG. 16, the basic ability tab T1221 displays the experience points (strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points) currently possessed by the main character. FIG. 16 shows that the strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points currently possessed by the main character are 27 points, 20 points, 24 points, 0 points, and 0 points, respectively.

In the basic ability tab T1221, the values of the main character's basic ability parameters (trajectory parameter, hitting parameter, power parameter, running ability parameter, arm strength parameter, defensive ability parameter, and catching parameter) can be increased in exchange for some or all of the experience points currently possessed by the main character.

The basic ability tab T1221 also displays, in association with each basic ability parameter, the ability value required to increase the value of that basic ability parameter by one point from its current value. The basic ability tab T1221 shown in FIG. 16 shows, for example, that 30 strength points, 30 technique points, and 30 mental points are required to increase the value of the trajectory parameter by one point from its current value. It also shows, for example, that 2 strength points, 2 agility points, and 2 technique points are required to increase the value of the shoulder strength parameter by one point from its current value.

Furthermore, in the basic ability tab T1221, processing objects P1223-1, P1223-2, P1223-3, P1223-4, P1223-5, P1223-6, and P1223-7 are displayed in association with each basic ability parameter.

For example, the processing object P1223-1 is associated with a trajectory parameter, and the processing object P1223-1 is associated with a process for increasing the trajectory parameter by one point in exchange for a predetermined experience point. By selecting the processing object P1223-1, the user can increase the trajectory parameter by one point from the current value in exchange for 30 strength points, 30 technique points, and 30 mental points. For example, if the main character has all of these experience points, when the user selects the processing object P1223-1, the trajectory parameter increases by one point and the experience points required for this are subtracted from the "current experience points" in the second area A1220. In other words, if the main character has sufficient experience points, each time the user selects the processing object P1223-1, the trajectory parameter gradually increases by one point and the experience points required for this are gradually subtracted from the "current experience points" in the second area A1220. However, it goes without saying that if the main character does not have all of these experience points, the trajectory parameters cannot be increased. For example, even if the main character has 40 strength points and 70 technique points, if he or she only has 10 mental points, the trajectory parameters cannot be increased. In this way, the user may be notified about parameters that cannot be increased due to insufficient experience points. For example, the brightness of the name of the relevant parameter or the entire line in the first area A1210 and the second area A1220 may be reduced.

If the user selects processing object P1223-1 and the value of the trajectory parameter increases by one point, this is displayed in the first area A1210.

Furthermore, like the processing object P1223-1, the other processing objects P1223-2 to P1223-7 are associated with a hitting parameter, power parameter, running ability parameter, arm strength parameter, defensive ability parameter, and ball catching parameter, respectively, and are associated with a process for increasing these parameters by one point in exchange for a certain amount of experience points.

When the user selects the special ability tab T1222 from the state shown in FIG. 16, the state switches to that shown in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17, the special ability tab T1222 also displays the experience points (strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points) currently possessed by the main character. As with FIG. 16, FIG. 17 shows that the strength points, agility points, technique points, curveball points, and mental points currently possessed by the main character are 27 points, 20 points, 24 points, 0 points, and 0 points, respectively.

The special ability tab T1222 allows the main character to acquire special abilities in exchange for some or all of the experience points currently held by the main character. In other words, the special ability tab T1222 allows the main character's special ability parameters to be changed in exchange for some or all of the experience points currently held by the main character. Here, the special ability parameters are parameters that indicate whether the main character has acquired various special abilities.

In the example shown in FIG. 16, the special abilities that the main character can acquire are displayed as "Chance ○", "Against Left-Handed Pitchers ○", "Stolen Bases ○", "Base Running ○", "Throwing ○", "Injury Resistance ◎", and "Average Hitter".

"Chance ○" is a special ability that makes the main character strong when opportunities arise. If the main character has acquired "Chance ○", the main character's basic abilities will be higher when opportunities arise. "Against Lefty Pitchers ○" is a special ability that makes the main character strong against lefty pitchers. If the main character has acquired "Against Lefty Pitchers ○", the main character's basic abilities will be higher when the opposing pitcher is a lefty. "Stealing Bases ○" is a special ability that makes the main character good at stealing bases. If the main character has acquired "Stealing Bases ○", the main character will be more likely to succeed in stealing bases.

"Throwing ○" is a special ability that makes it harder to throw the ball. If the main character has acquired "Throwing ○", the main character will have a harder time throwing the ball. "Injury resistance ◎" is a special ability that makes the main character rarely get injured. If the main character has acquired "Injury resistance ◎", the main character will rarely get injured. "Average hitter" is a special ability that makes it easier to hit the ball. If the main character has acquired "Average hitter", the main character will have a harder time hitting the ball.

The special ability tab T1222 also displays, in association with each special ability, the ability values required for the main character to acquire that special ability. The special ability tab T1222 shown in FIG. 17 shows, for example, that 15 agility points, 30 technique points, and 105 spirit points are required, respectively, for the main character to acquire "Chance ○". It also shows, for example, that 48 strength points, agility points, and technique points are required, respectively, for the main character to acquire "Throwing ○".

In addition, if the main character has already acquired a special ability, a message will appear indicating that the special ability has been acquired. In the special ability tab T1222 shown in FIG. 17, it is displayed that the main character has already acquired "Hard to get injured ◎."

Furthermore, in the special ability tab T1222, processing objects P1224-1, P1224-2, P1224-3, P1224-4, P1224-5, and P1224-6 are displayed in association with each special ability.

For example, the processing object P1224-1 is associated with "Chance ○", and the processing object P1224-1 is associated with a process for having the main character acquire "Chance ○" in exchange for a certain amount of experience points. By selecting the processing object P1224-1, the user can have the main character acquire "Chance ○" in exchange for 15 agility points, 30 technique points, and 105 spirit points. However, naturally, if the main character does not have these experience points, the main character cannot acquire "Chance ○".

Like the processing object P1224-1, the other processing objects P1224-2 to P1224-6 are associated with "against left-handed pitcher ○", "stealing bases ○", "base running ○", "throwing ○", and "average hitter", respectively, and are associated with processes for making the main character acquire these special abilities in exchange for a certain amount of experience points. Also, since the main character has already acquired the special ability of "injury resistance ◎", no processing object is associated with "injury resistance ◎".

In the example shown in FIG. 17, "Level 1" is displayed in association with "Baserunning ○." Here, "Level 1" indicates the skill level of "Baserunning ○."

The trick level indicates whether or not the main character has grasped the trick to mastering a special ability, and the degree to which the main character has grasped the trick. When the trick level is 1 or higher, it means that the main character has grasped the trick to mastering a special ability, and the higher the trick level, the greater the degree to which the main character has grasped the trick.

The higher the knack level, the less experience points are required for the main character to acquire a special ability. In the state shown in Figure 17, the experience points required for the main character to acquire "base running" are less than usual.

At the start of the main part, the tips level for each special ability is set to zero. For example, in the main part, an event (tips event) may occur in which an event character teaches the main character the tips for a special ability, and when such a tips event occurs, the tips level for that special ability increases (see Figure 15).

In the event character screen image G400 shown in FIG. 7, a "Tips event bonus of 20%" is set as the event bonus for the event character. When such a tips event occurs, the tips level of the special ability increases, and the main character's experience points related to that special ability increase. The event bonus "Tips event bonus of 20%" indicates that in such a case, the increase in experience points will be 20% more than usual.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the ability change screen image G1200 includes a processing object P1230. The processing object P1230 is associated with a process for returning to the previously displayed screen image. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P1230, the main command screen image G800 is displayed on the display unit 15.

The ability change screen image G1200 also includes a processing object P1240. The processing object P1240 is associated with a process for canceling the change to the main character's abilities and returning them to their pre-change state. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P1240, the main character's abilities are returned to their pre-change state.

The ability change screen image G1200 also includes a processing object P1250. The processing object P1250 is associated with a process for finalizing the change to the main character's abilities. Therefore, when the user selects the processing object P1250, the main character's abilities are finalized to their changed state.

When each section is completed, a section completion screen image is displayed on the display unit 15. Figure 18 shows an example of the section completion screen.

As shown in FIG. 18, the section completion screen image G1300 displays the ongoing scenario (e.g., High School A) and the completed section (e.g., Section 2). The section completion screen image G1300 also displays the experience points gained so far (total experience points) and the experience points gained in the completed section (section experience points). The section completion screen image G1300 also displays the rewards gained in the section (e.g., coins and game items).

In addition, after the section completion screen image G1300 is displayed, a next section preview screen image may be displayed before the next section starts. Figure 19 shows an example of the next section preview screen image.

In this embodiment, after the section completion screen image G1300 is displayed and before the next section starts, an event occurs based on predetermined probability information that makes the probability of finding a treasure chest in the next section higher than usual. When the above event occurs, a notice screen image G1400 as shown in FIG. 19 is displayed, and the user is notified that the above event has occurred.

When the four sections of the Success Part are completed in the above manner, the main character's training is complete and the character can be used as an original character in matches in the Stadium Part. For example, when the fourth section is completed, a screen image for confirming the ability parameters of the main character is displayed on the display unit 15, and the user can use the remaining experience points to increase the ability parameters of the main character or acquire special abilities. Furthermore, the appearance of the main character may be changed in this screen image. Then, when the user performs a predetermined confirmation operation, the ability parameters of the main character are confirmed and the character is registered as an original character owned by the user. Once registered as an original character, the user cannot change the ability parameters. After that, the user can check the ability parameters of the newly registered original character, add it to the order described below, and have it participate in matches.

As shown in FIG. 3, the main part is made up of four sections, each of which is made up of 12 turns, and if the user were to continuously play all of the turns, it would take a considerable amount of time and effort. For this reason, in this embodiment, by dividing the main part into four sections, it is possible to motivate the user to end the game or take a break when a section ends, and it is possible to reduce the difficulty for the user when playing the success part. Furthermore, by dividing the main part into multiple sections, it is possible to branch off to the next section when a section ends, which can also lead to more diverse gameplay.

The user will play through four sections to develop the main character, and as shown in FIG. 18, when a section is cleared, information such as experience points is notified to the user in the section completion screen image G1300, so that the user can play the game without getting bored or feeling bored, even in a game that includes a relatively large number of turns such as the success part. In other words, if the user is notified of information such as experience points until the success part is completed, the user will not be able to fully grasp the development status of the main character in the middle of the success part, and will feel bored or bored. However, if experience points, etc. are notified at the end of a section, the development status can be notified to the user frequently, preventing the user from getting bored or feeling bored.

Also, as shown in FIG. 19, the preview screen image G1400 can announce the next section, which can motivate the user to try the next section and prevent the user from abandoning the successful part midway.

Next, before explaining the stadium part, we will explain the process for checking the event characters owned by the user and the organization of the event deck.

When the user selects a processing object P123 in the home screen image G100 shown in FIG. 2, an event character menu screen image for performing various operations related to the event character is displayed on the display unit 15. FIG. 20 shows an example of an event character menu screen image. Note that the upper area A1510, lower area A1520, and processing object P130 in the event character menu screen image G1500 shown in FIG. 20 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P1530 in the event character menu screen image G1500 is for returning to the screen image that was displayed one time previously (i.e., the home screen image G100), similar to the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

The event character menu screen image G1500 shown in FIG. 20 includes processing objects P1540 to P1590. Processing object P1540 is associated with a process for organizing an event deck. When the user selects processing object P1540, an event deck editing screen image for editing the event deck is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 21 is an example of an event deck editing screen image. Note that the upper area A1610, lower area A1620, and processing object P130 in the event deck editing screen image G1600 shown in Figure 21 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P1630 in the event deck editing screen image G1600 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the event character menu screen image G1500), similar to the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

As shown in FIG. 21, the event deck editing screen image G1600 includes an event deck editing area A1640. Note that the content displayed in the event deck editing area A1640 is omitted in FIG. 21, and the content displayed in the event deck editing area A1640 is shown in FIG. 22.

As shown in FIG. 22, areas A1641, A1642, processing objects P1642, P1643, setting frames A1644-1 to A1644-5, and favorite practice area A1646 of the event deck editing screen image G1600 are similar to areas A341, A342, processing objects P342, P343, setting frames A344-1 to A344-5, and favorite practice area A346 of the event deck setting screen image G300, respectively, so a description will be omitted here. However, since the event deck editing screen image G1600 is not before the start of the success part, there is no corresponding setting frame A345 for incorporating a helper into the event deck.

In this embodiment, the user can own multiple (e.g., five) event decks. The number of event decks owned by the user may be fixed, or may be increased by consuming power stones. Also, the number of event decks may be increased by completing the development of the main character in the success part. For example, the user may increase the number of event decks by completing the development of a predetermined number of main characters (e.g., three), or may increase the number of event decks by completing the development of one main character. In this case, an upper limit (e.g., up to seven) may be set for the number of event decks. Also, the number of event decks given to the user at the start of the game may be set to, for example, one, and may be gradually increased by the above process. In the event deck editing screen image G1600, it is possible to edit each of these multiple event decks. For example, the user sets an event character whose favorite practice is fielding practice to an event deck for developing fielders, and sets an event character whose favorite practice is pitching practice to an event deck for developing pitchers. Furthermore, it is also possible to set only female event characters in the event deck, or only male event characters in the event deck, allowing for different usage depending on the main character's training policy and the type of scenario in the success part. For example, the user can set special effect characters (details of which will be described later) in the event deck to be used in a limited-time event.

Returning to FIG. 20, processing object P1560 is associated with a process for selling event characters. When the user selects processing object P1560, they can sell unwanted event characters and earn coins. Note that sold event characters are not sold to other users, but are simply deleted from the list owned by the user. In other words, "selling" here means giving up the event character in exchange for coins.

The processing object P1570 is associated with a process for checking a list of event characters owned by the user. When the user selects the processing object P1570, a list of event characters owned by the user is displayed on the display unit 15. For example, when the user selects a processing object of an event character displayed in the list of event characters, an event character screen image G400 can be displayed.

The processing object P1580 is associated with a process for checking the illustrated book of event characters. The illustrated book is a list of event characters that exist in the game. When the user selects the processing object P1580, the illustrated book is displayed on the display unit 15. In the illustrated book, it is possible to distinguish between event characters that the user has owned and event characters that the user has not yet owned. Note that information about event characters that the user has not yet owned (e.g., images and names) may be hidden in the illustrated book.

The processing object P1590 is associated with a process for expanding the list of event characters. In this embodiment, there is an upper limit on the number of event characters that a user can own. For example, a user can increase the upper limit on the number of event characters that the user can own by consuming power stones.

The processing object P1550 is associated with a process for strengthening an event character. Strengthening here means increasing the level of the event character, which is different from the development of the main character in the success part. The event character is strengthened in order to improve the effect that occurs in the success part when the event character is set in the event deck (i.e., to make the development of the main character more efficient). In this embodiment, so-called game character synthesis is performed. That is, the event character to be strengthened (hereinafter referred to as the base character) can be strengthened by consuming other event characters (hereinafter referred to as the material characters). When the user selects the processing object P1540, a base character selection screen image for selecting a base character is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 23 shows an example of a base character selection screen image. Note that the upper area A1710, lower area A1720, and processing object P130 in the base character selection screen image G1700 shown in Figure 23 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P1730 in the base character selection screen image G1700 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the event character menu screen image G1500), similar to the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

The base character selection screen image G1700 includes an event character list area A1740. The event character list area A1740 is similar to the event character list area A640 of the event character change screen image G600. When the user selects one of the event characters displayed in the event character list area A1740 as a base character, an enhancement screen image for enhancing the base character is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 24 shows an example of a strengthening screen image. Here, the strengthening screen image G1800 is shown when "Hayakawa" with a rarity of "R" is selected as the base character. Note that the upper area A1810, lower area A1820, and processing object P130 in the strengthening screen image G1800 shown in Figure 24 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P1830 in the strengthening screen image G1800 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the base character selection screen image G1700) like the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

In the example shown in FIG. 24, the base character area A1840 includes a gauge area A1841. The gauge area A1841 makes it possible to identify the base character's current experience points and the experience points required to obtain the next level.

The material character area A1850 has ten setting frames for setting material characters. When the user selects one of the setting frames in the material character area A1850, a material character selection screen image for selecting a material character is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 25 shows an example of a material character selection screen image. Note that the upper area A1910, lower area A1920, and processing object P130 in the material character selection screen image G1900 shown in Figure 25 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, the processing object P1930 in the material character selection screen image G1900 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the strengthening screen image G1800), similar to the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200.

In the example shown in FIG. 25, the material character selection screen image G1900 includes an event character list area A1940. The event character list area A1940 is similar to the event character list area A640 of the event character change screen image G600. However, as shown in FIG. 25, event characters owned by the user other than the base character are displayed in the event character list area A1940. In addition, event characters set in the event deck (event characters displayed as "in use" in FIG. 25) and locked event characters may be made unable to be selected as material characters.

In addition, in this embodiment, when an event character that is the same as the base character is set as a material character, the maximum level of the base character can be increased under a given probability. In the event character list area A1940, this probability is displayed superimposed on the event character. For example, when "Hayakawa" with a rarity of "R" is selected as a material character, the maximum level of the base character "Hayakawa" increases with a 100% probability, and when "Hayakawa" with a rarity of "PN" is selected as a material character, the maximum level of the base character "Hayakawa" increases with a 30% probability. In this embodiment, the probability of the maximum level increasing is determined based on the rarity of the base character and the rarity of the material character. In other words, the probability of the maximum level increasing is determined based on the relative rarity difference between the base character and the material character. For example, when a material character with a rarity equal to or higher than the rarity of the base character is selected, the probability is 100%, and when a material character with a rarity lower than the rarity of the base character is selected, the probability is less than 100%. For example, for a material character that is two or more levels lower in rarity than a base character, the probability of the maximum level increasing may be set to 0%, even if the material character has the same name as the base character. Also, for example, the probability may be set to be lower the higher the rarity of the base character. In this way, the probability of the maximum level increasing can be kept low for heavy users who own base characters with high rarity. Note that the probability may be set to be higher the higher the rarity of the material character. Furthermore, while the maximum level increases by one, the probability may be set to be higher the more the current maximum level has increased from the initial value. In other words, the more times the maximum level of the base character has increased, the higher the probability that the maximum level will increase in the future.

The user selects 10 or less of the event characters displayed in event character list area A1940 as material characters. Here, a case is described in which multiple material characters can be selected at once in event character list area A1940, but material characters may also be selected one at a time. Also, by selecting an event character that the user has already selected as a material character again, the selection as a material character can be cancelled.

The material character selection screen image G1900 includes an area A1950 for displaying the level that will be increased when the base character is strengthened with the currently selected material character, and the coins required for strengthening. The experience points that a base character can acquire vary depending on the material character. For example, the higher the rarity of the material character, the more experience points that can be acquired and the more coins required. The level and coins shown in area A1950 are calculated by calculating the experience points that can be acquired and the coins required for the currently selected material character. When the user selects or removes a material character from the event character list area A1940, the display in area A1950 is updated.

The material character selection screen image G1900 also includes processing objects P1960 and P1970. The processing object P1970 is associated with a process for canceling the selection of material characters. When the user selects the processing object P1970, all material character selections are cancelled, and the material character selection can be redone. On the other hand, the processing object P1960 is associated with a process for completing the selection of material characters. When the user selects the processing object P1960, the screen returns to the reinforcement screen image G1800.

26 shows the strengthening screen image G1800 when a material character is selected. As shown in FIG. 26, the material character area 1850 displays the material character selected in the event character list area A1940 of the material character selection screen image G1900. In the example of FIG. 26, the two "Hayakawa" and "Tsuruya", which are the same as the base characters, are selected as material characters. As shown in FIG. 26, the two "Hayakawa" material characters can be used to increase the maximum level of the base character "Hayakawa", so the probability is displayed superimposed on the material character "Hayakawa". On the other hand, "Tsuruya" is not the base character "Hayakawa", and even if it is used as a material character, the maximum level of "Hayakawa" cannot be increased, so the probability is not displayed. In this way, in the material character area 1850, before strengthening the base character, it is possible to distinguish between material characters whose maximum level can be increased and material characters whose maximum level cannot be increased, and further, the probability can be identified. When the user selects a material character, the level that will be increased if the base character is strengthened with the current material character and the coins required for strengthening are displayed in base character area A1840, just like area A1950.

The strengthening screen image G1800 also includes processing objects P1860 and P1870. The processing object P1870 is associated with a process for deselecting the material character. When the user selects the processing object P1870, the selection of the material character is deselected, and the material character can be selected again. On the other hand, the processing object P1860 is associated with a process for strengthening the base character. When the user selects the processing object P1860, a predetermined screen effect is executed, and then an strengthening result window for displaying the strengthening result of the base character is displayed on the display unit 15. Note that if the user has fewer coins than are required to strengthen the base character, strengthening is not executed even if the user selects the processing object P1860. In this case, the processing object P1860 may be grayed out or otherwise made unselectable.

Figure 27 shows the reinforcement result window. As shown in Figure 27, the reinforcement result window G2000 displays the experience points acquired by the base character, the change in the level of the base character, the change in the maximum level of the base character, etc. In the example shown in Figure 27, the base character is at the level shown in the base character area A1840. Furthermore, if there are multiple material characters that can increase the maximum level of the base character, it is determined whether or not it is possible to increase the maximum level for each of these multiple material characters based on a predetermined probability. Here, since "Hayakawa", who has a 100% probability of increasing the maximum level of the base character, and Hayakawa, who has a 30% probability of increasing the maximum level of the base character, were selected as material characters, the maximum level of the base character will definitely increase by 1, and will increase by another 1 with a 30% probability. In the example shown in Figure 27, the 30% probability of "Hayakawa" was also successful, and the maximum level of the base character has increased by two.

The processing object P2010 is associated with a process for returning to the reinforcement screen image G1800. When the user selects the processing object P2010, the screen may be returned to directly to the reinforcement screen image G1800, or when the processing object P441 is selected after the base character event character screen image G400 is displayed, the screen may be returned to the reinforcement screen image G1800.

Next, we will explain the stadium part. In the stadium part, users can play matches using the original characters they have developed in the success part. In the stadium part, there are matches that can be played at any time (hereafter referred to as normal matches), and matches that can be played for a limited time (hereafter referred to as limited-time event matches).

When playing a match in the stadium part, the user edits the order for the match. The order is a combination of original characters that the user owns and will participate in the match. Here, the order for a normal match and the order for a limited-time event match can be edited. When the user selects a processing object P122 in the home screen image G100 in FIG. 2 or the like, a My Team menu screen image for editing the order is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 28 shows a My Team menu screen image. Note that the upper area A2110, lower area A2120, and processing object P130 in the My Team menu screen image G2100 shown in Figure 28 are similar to the upper area A110, lower area A120, and processing object P130 in the home screen image G100, so a description thereof will be omitted here. Also, like the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200, the processing object P2130 in the My Team menu screen image G2100 is for returning to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the home screen image G100, etc.).

The my team menu screen image G2100 shown in FIG. 28 includes processing objects P2140 to P2170. Processing object P2140 is associated with a process for editing the order in a regular match. When the user selects processing object P2040, a regular order editing screen image for editing the order in a regular match is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 29 shows a normal order editing screen image. As shown in Figure 29, the normal order editing screen image G2200 includes a starting order area A2210 and a reserve player area A2220. The starting order area A2210 is for specifying original characters in the starting order who will play at the start of the match, among the original characters owned by the user. The reserve player area A2220 is for specifying original characters in the reserve who will not play at the start of the match but can play later on.

When the user taps on an original character displayed in the starting order area A2210 and the reserve player area A2220, an overview of the original character's abilities, etc. may be displayed. Furthermore, when the user presses and holds on an original character displayed in the starting order area A2210 and the reserve player area A2220, details of the original character's abilities, etc. may be displayed.

For example, when a user drags and drops an original character displayed in the starting order area A2210 into the reserve player area A2220, the original character is displayed in the reserve player area A2220, and the original character of the drop destination is displayed in the starting order area A2210. Conversely, when a user drags and drops an original character displayed in the reserve player area A2220 into the starting order area A2210, the original character is displayed in the starting order area A2210, and the original character of the drop destination is displayed in the reserve player area A2220. In this way, the user can swap the original character in the starting order with the original character on the reserve.

For example, when a user drags and drops an original character displayed in either the starting order area A2210 or the reserve player area A2220 into the drag area A2230, a screen image showing a list of original characters that are neither in the starting order nor on the reserves is displayed on the display unit 15. When the user selects an original character that he or she wants to include in the order from this screen image, the user can replace this original character with the original character dropped into the drag area A2230.

The processing object P2240 is associated with a process for automatically setting an order. When the user selects the processing object P2240, the order is automatically set to provide the optimal combination of original characters owned by the user. For example, the order is automatically set so that original characters with high ability parameters are given priority in the order. In addition, for example, the order is automatically set so that original characters are placed in the order of the greatest total experience points acquired in the success part.

The processing object P2250 is associated with a process for returning the order to its original state. The original state is the state before the order was changed in the normal order editing screen image G2200. When the user selects the processing object P2250, the order is returned to the state it was in when the normal order editing screen image G2200 was displayed.

The overall strength area A2260 shows the overall strength of the current order. The meaning of the overall strength is the same as that explained in area A115 of the home screen image G100. In other words, the overall strength is a value calculated from the ability parameters of the original characters included in the order, and the higher this value, the easier it is to win a match. If the order is changed, the value shown in the overall strength area A2260 also changes.

The processing object P2270 is associated with a process for setting the method of using a pitcher. When the user selects the processing object P2270, a screen image for setting the method of using a pitcher from among the original characters owned by the user is displayed on the display unit 15. In this screen image, it is possible to specify an original character that can participate in a match from among the original pitcher characters. Furthermore, it is possible to specify the method of using a pitcher (starter, reliever, or closer) from among the original characters that can participate in a match. Alternatively, if a predetermined number of games must be left between appearances in order for a pitcher to participate in a match, the next game in which the pitcher can participate is displayed.

The processing object P2280, like the processing object P230 in the main character registration screen image G200, is used to return to the previously displayed screen image (i.e., the My Team menu screen image G2100).

Returning to FIG. 28, the processing object P2150 is associated with a process for editing the order of matches in a limited-time event. When the user selects the processing object P2150, a limited-time order editing screen image for editing the order of matches in the limited-time event is displayed on the display unit 15.

Figure 30 shows a time-limited order editing screen image. The starting order area A2310, reserve player area A2320, drag area A2330, processing objects P2350, P2370, P2380, and overall power area A2360 of the time-limited order editing screen image G2300 shown in Figure 30 are similar to the starting order area A2210, reserve player area A2220, drag area A2230, processing objects P2250, P2270, P2280, and overall power area A2260 of the normal order editing screen image G2200, respectively. However, the time-limited order editing screen image G2300 differs from the normal order editing screen image G2200 in that a score bonus is displayed in the starting order area A2310.

Now, the score bonus will be explained. In a time-limited event, if you set a specific event character (hereafter referred to as a special effect character) in your event deck and then add the original character you have trained to your order and play a match, you will be given a score bonus that will increase the score you can earn after the match. A special effect character is an event character that has an effect that occurs during a specific period that does not occur during normal periods. In other words, a special effect character can be used during normal periods other than the specific period, but the effect that occurs during the specific period does not occur during normal periods. Whether or not an event character is a special effect character may be identified by the event deck setting screen image G300, the event character change screen image G600, etc.

Figure 31 shows an example of an event deck setting screen image G600 during a limited-time event. As shown in Figure 31, in the event character list area A640, information indicating the degree of effect is displayed for the event characters that are special effect characters. For example, it shows that if an original character trained by putting "Yamaguchi" in the event deck is used in a match, a score bonus of "5%" will be generated. Similarly, it shows that if an original character trained by putting "Tsuruya" with a rarity of "R" in the event deck is used in a match, a score bonus of "3%" will be generated, and if an original character trained by putting "Tsuruya" with a rarity of "N" in the event deck is used in a match, a score bonus of "2%" will be generated. In this way, the degree of the score bonus may vary depending on the rarity.

If an event deck contains multiple special effect characters, when an original character trained using this event deck is used in a match during a limited-time event, the score may be increased by the total score bonus of each of these multiple special effect characters, or only the score bonus of the multiple special effect characters with the highest score bonus may be reflected.

In addition, when a special effect character is incorporated into the event deck and the success part is played, an effect corresponding to the special effect character occurs, providing an advantage in developing the main character. Furthermore, the effect in the success part may also only occur for a specific period of time. In other words, the effect generated by the special effect character may occur in the success part, not just in the stadium part.

Figure 32 shows an example of the event deck setting area A340 of the event deck setting screen image G300 during a limited-time event. As shown in Figure 32, in the event character list area A640, setting frame A344-4 in which an event character that is a special effect character is incorporated displays information indicating the degree of effect. That is, since setting frame A344-4 incorporates the special effect character "Yamaguchi," the score bonus for "Yamaguchi" of "5%" is displayed. Note that if the event deck contains multiple special effect characters, the total score bonus generated by these multiple special effect characters may be displayed in the event deck setting area A340.

In a time-limited event, if the cumulative score obtained by a user exceeds a reference value, the user is given a reward. This reference value may be set to a number of different values in stages. The higher the reference value, the better the reward given when the reference value is exceeded. Furthermore, a ranking of users may be determined based on the cumulative score when the time-limited event ends, and a reward may be given to the user according to that ranking.

Figure 33 shows the conditions for generating a score bonus. In the example of Figure 33, the special effect characters are "E3" and "E8". As shown in Figure 33, the original character "P1" generates a score bonus when placed in the order for a match of a limited time event because "E3" is included in the event deck used in the success part. Similarly, the original character "P3" generates a score bonus when placed in the order for a match of a limited time event because "E3" and "E8" are included in the event deck used in the success part. On the other hand, the original character "P2" does not generate a score bonus when placed in the order for a match of a limited time event because the event deck used in the success part does not include a special effect character.

Returning to FIG. 30, the starting order area A2310 displays the score bonus value for each original character included in the order, and the total score bonus value that can be generated for the current order. Note that the score bonus may be generated only for original characters in the starting order, or may be generated for both original characters in the starting order and those on the reserves.

Processing object P2340 is similar to processing object P2240 in that it is used to automatically determine the order. However, when the user selects processing object P2340, the user can select whether to determine the order by prioritizing score bonus or ability. When determining the order by prioritizing score bonus, the order is automatically determined by prioritizing the magnitude of the score bonus value assigned to the original character. When ability is prioritized, the process is the same as when processing object P2240 is selected.

Returning to FIG. 28, processing object P2160 is associated with a process for displaying a list of original characters owned by the user. The user can check the list of original characters owned by the user before editing an order. Furthermore, processing object P2170 is associated with a process for editing original characters owned by the user. The user can edit the name and appearance of an original character. However, the ability parameters of an original character whose success part has been developed are fixed and cannot be edited.

The user will edit the order as described above and play the stadium part. For example, when the user selects the processing object P150 on the home screen image G100 shown in FIG. 2, the home screen image G100 will switch to displaying the stadium part.

Figure 34 shows the home screen image G100 when processing object P150 is selected. Processing object P151 shown in Figure 34 is associated with a process for playing a normal match, and processing object P152 is associated with a process for playing a match for a limited-time event. When the user selects either processing object P151 or P152, the selected processing object is displayed in the center of the home screen image G100.

In the example shown in FIG. 34, when processing object P151 is displayed in the center and the user selects processing object P151, a normal match is executed. On the other hand, when processing object P152 is displayed in the center and the user selects processing object P152, a time-limited event match is executed. As explained below, the flow of the normal match and the time-limited event match is the same.

Figure 35 shows the flow of a normal match and a limited-time event match. As shown in Figure 35, when the user selects processing objects P151 and P152, a screen image showing multiple opponent candidates is displayed on the display unit 15, and the user selects an opponent from among the multiple opponent candidates (S2). The opponent candidates are teams of other users. For example, teams of other users similar to the user's rank or overall team strength are selected as opponent candidates.

When an opponent is selected, a screen image for changing the order is displayed on the display unit 15, and the user can change the contents of the order for a normal match or a limited-time event match (S4). This screen image is the same as the normal order editing screen image G2200 or the limited-time order editing screen image G2300.

Once the order for the match is decided, the condition of the original characters included in the order is determined (S6). One of multiple condition levels (e.g., six levels) is randomly assigned to each original character in the order. The better the condition, the higher the ability parameters of the original character will be, and the more active the character will be in the match.

The user selects from among the game items he owns those to be used in the match (S8). The game items that can be selected here are those that give an advantage in the match or increase the score that can be obtained in the match.

When the user selects a game item, the match begins (S10). The match may proceed automatically from start to finish, or the user may be allowed to control an original character participating in the match only when a specific scene occurs. Furthermore, the user may be allowed to control all scenes of the match.

When the match ends, a screen image showing the result of the match is displayed on the display unit 15 (S12). The results of the match are displayed on the screen image including the outcome of the match, the points scored by each team, and the score obtained by the user. The score is determined based on the content and results of the match. However, a higher score is awarded when the user operates the game than when the game is progressed automatically. For example, the user is awarded a higher score when the original character hits a hit or a home run based on the user's operation than when the same original character hits a hit or a home run while the game is progressed automatically.

Once the match results are displayed, the user's latest ranking is displayed on the display unit 15 (S14). The ranking may be determined based on the cumulative score obtained in the match, or the maximum score obtained in the current or past matches. As described above, in the case of a match at a limited time event, if an original character with a score bonus is included in the order, the score calculated in the same manner as in a normal match will be increased by the amount of the score bonus. For example, if a limited time event match is played with the order shown in FIG. 30, the score will be increased by 14% compared to the same result in a normal match.

In this manner, the user aims to play the stadium part, acquire a score, and increase the ranking. The ranking is changed every predetermined period. The predetermined period may be one week, one day, or one month. The best score that each user has achieved in playing the stadium part during a predetermined period (for example, one week) may be confirmed on the display unit 15. When each user achieves the highest score within the predetermined period, the score displayed on the display unit 15 is overwritten. When the predetermined period ends, the score is cleared and the best score for the next predetermined period is newly displayed. In this embodiment, when the best score achieved by the user during this predetermined period is surpassed by a friend user, a challenge letter is automatically sent from the friend. The user is notified that a challenge letter has been received from a friend by being displayed as in the processing object P170 of FIG. 34. When a challenge letter is received from multiple friends, the number of challenge letters may also be notified on the same screen. The user terminal 10 of the friend is capable of confirming that a challenge letter has been sent to the user. That is, the friend's user terminal 10 notifies the friend that a challenge has been sent. The challenge is not limited to the score, but may be sent when some evaluation or evaluation value in the game, such as a ranking, is overtaken. Alternatively, the score values may be the same, or the rankings may be the same, i.e., the friend may be overtaken by the user. The challenge may be exchanged with all of a user's friends, or with only some of the friends. In this case, for example, only friends with the same or similar rank as the user may be targeted. Alternatively, the challenge may be sent only to friends with a certain level of intimacy or higher, based on the degree of intimacy between the user and the friend (for example, set based on the number of matches or chat history).

Figure 36 is an explanatory diagram of a challenge. The t axis in Figure 36 is the time axis. Here, it is assumed that user A and user B are friends. At a certain point in time t1, user A has earned a score of 150,000 points, and at a point in time t2, which is later than point in time t1, user B has earned a score of 120,000 points. When user B plays the stadium part and earns a score of 180,000 points, overtaking user A, a challenge is automatically sent from user B to user A.

When the challenge is sent, as shown in FIG. 34, a processing object P170 for playing against the friend who sent the challenge is displayed on the home screen image G100. The processing object P170 may display information (such as a user name) that allows the friend who sent the challenge to be recognized. Here, when multiple challenge letters have been received from multiple friends, the number of challenge letters may be displayed near or superimposed on the processing object P170. For example, when three challenge letters have been received, the number 3 is displayed. Note that the method of notifying the number of challenge letters is not limited to the method of displaying a number, and may be notified by the number of images. When the user selects the processing object P170, a match is played against the friend who sent the challenge. Note that this match is mainly performed to promote competition with friends, so match tickets may not be consumed, and medals, etc. may not be acquired.

Note that a restriction may be imposed so that a new challenge letter cannot be sent to the same friend until a certain time has passed. For example, a new challenge letter may not be sent until three hours or more have passed. Furthermore, a challenge letter may be set with an expiration date (for example, one day) until which it can be used. An expiration date is set for the challenge letter in order to prevent each user from receiving too many challenges. When the expiration date has passed, the processing object P170 in FIG. 34 is deleted. If there are multiple challenges, the number of challenges written along with the processing object P170 will be decreased in sequence each time the expiration date of each challenge letter passes. This makes it possible to prevent a large number of challenges from accumulating for a user.

In addition, in this embodiment, when a friend surpasses the user's score, a challenge letter is sent and the user is able to play against the friend, giving the user an opportunity to overtake the friend. However, the user may be given other benefits. The benefit may be anything that allows the user to achieve a good score in the stadium part. In other words, any benefit that affects the relationship (difference) between the user's score and the friend's score may be given. For example, the user may be given a match ticket and an opportunity to play a match, giving the user an opportunity to overtake the friend's score. Another example of the benefit may be a benefit that allows the user to advance the match to an advantage and achieve a good score. In this case, the game item may be a game item that reduces the ability parameters of the opponent or a game item that increases the ability parameters of the user's original character. By using these game items, the opponent becomes weaker and the user's original character becomes stronger, making it easier for the user to obtain a good score in the match. In other words, by giving these game items to the user, the user may be given an opportunity to overtake the friend's score.

As described above, the game system 1 has various technologies. For example, the game system 1 has a technology that allows the user to easily understand the correspondence between the level of an event character and the effects that occur in the success part by displaying a bonus detail screen image G500. Hereinafter, this technology will be referred to as the first technology.

The game system 1 also has a technology that provides an incentive to set various event characters in the event deck by awarding a score bonus when a player sets a special effect character in the event deck, develops an original character, and plays a match in a limited-time event, adding the original character to the order. Hereinafter, this technology will be referred to as the second technology.

The game system 1 also has a technology that allows the user to easily understand which practice to select in the success part of an event deck will give an advantage in training by displaying the favorite practice of the event character set in the event deck in the favorite practice areas A346 and A1646. Hereinafter, this technology will be referred to as the third technology.

The game system 1 also has a technology that prevents the original character from acquiring a super special ability unless a highly rare event character is set in the event deck when the user selects a normal scenario, and allows the original character to acquire a super special ability when the user selects a time-limited scenario, even if the event character is not set in the event deck. Hereinafter, this technology will be referred to as the fourth technology.

The game system 1 also has a technology that promotes competition between users by sending a challenge letter when a user's score is overtaken by a friend user. Hereinafter, this technology will be referred to as the fifth technology.

The following section will mainly explain the details of the first to fifth techniques.

[3. Functions Realized in Game System 1]
37 is a functional block diagram showing functions related to the present invention among the functions realized by the game system 1. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which main processing related to the game is executed by the user terminal 10, but as will be described in a modified example below, main processing related to the game may be executed by the server 30.

Among the functions realized in the server 30, the data storage unit 3000 is mainly realized by the storage unit 32, and the other functions are mainly realized by the control unit 31. Among the functions realized in the user terminal 10, the individual data storage unit 1000 is mainly realized by the storage unit 12, and the other functions are mainly realized by the control unit 11.

First, the functions common to the first to fifth technologies will be described, and then the functions related to each of the first to fifth technologies will be described. Here, the data storage unit 3000, processing unit 3010, individual data storage unit 1000, and request unit 1010 will be described as functions common to the first to fifth technologies.

The data storage unit 3000 stores data necessary for the game executed by the game system 1. Here, a user table TBL301, an event character table TBL302, an event deck table TBL303, an original character table TBL304, and an order table TBL305 will be described as examples of data stored in the data storage unit 3000.

Figure 38 shows an example of user table TBL301. As shown in Figure 38, user table TBL301 is a data table that shows information about each user. For example, user table TBL301 includes the fields described below.

The "User ID" field indicates identification information for identifying the user. The "Profile" field indicates the user's registration information, such as the user name and self-introduction.

The "Friend" field indicates identification information for identifying other users who are friends with the user. For example, each user can make a friend request to become friends with another user. For example, user A performs an operation to make a friend request to user B, who owns an event character that was set in the event deck as a helper in the success part, at the end of the success part. When user B performs an operation to approve the friend request, user A and user B become friends, and user B's user ID is stored in user A's "Friend" field, and user A's user ID is stored in user B's "Friend" field. The operation to approve the friend request can be performed, for example, from the screen image that is displayed when processing object P130 is selected.

The "user parameters" field indicates various parameters associated with the user. These parameters may be used in the success part or stadium part, or may be used to acquire game items. For example, the "user parameters" field indicates success points, match tickets, power stones, mini stones (game items that can be exchanged for power stones when a certain number of them are collected), coins, gacha points, and medals. Note that for parameters that recover after a certain time has passed, such as success points and match tickets, the remaining time until recovery may be stored. As another example, the "user parameters" field may store the rank of the current order and the overall strength of the order.

The "Item" field indicates game items owned by the user. The "Stadium" field indicates the results of matches in the stadium part (match record), the scores obtained by the user (cumulative score and highest score), and the user's current ranking. In this embodiment, there are regular matches and matches in limited-time events, so the results, scores, and rankings for each are stored. The "Challenge" field indicates the game tasks in the challenge part and the user's progress toward completing them.

The "Challenge" field indicates challenges that the user has received from friends. When a user receives a challenge from a friend, the friend's user ID is stored in the "Challenge" field. Time information related to the challenge may be stored in the "Challenge" field. This time information indicates, for example, the point in time when the friend overtakes the user's score, or the expiration date of the challenge. The user may be able to use the challenge to play against the friend within a time limit determined based on the time information. Challenges that have expired may be deleted from the "Challenge" field.

Figure 39 shows an example of the event character table TBL302. As shown in Figure 39, the event character table TBL302 is a data table that shows a list of event characters owned by each user. For example, the event character table TBL302 includes the fields described below.

The "User ID" field indicates identification information for identifying the user. The "Event Character ID" field indicates identification information for identifying an event character owned by the user. The "Name" field indicates the name of the event character. The "Lock" field indicates whether the event character is locked or not. The "Leader" field indicates identification information for identifying the event character that is set as the leader.

The "Rarity" field indicates the rarity of the event character. The meaning of rarity is the same as that of rarity. Note that "rarity" can also be expressed in ways other than those described in this embodiment, such as "1, 2, ...", "A, B, ...", "gold, silver, ...", etc.

The "attribute" field indicates the attribute (classification) of the event character. For example, one of multiple types of attributes is associated with each event character. Here, each event character has one of the attributes of "player", "manager", or "strengthening material". An event character with the attribute of "player" can participate in matches during the success part and contribute to victory. On the other hand, an event character with the attribute of "manager" or "strengthening material" does not participate in matches during the success part. For this reason, no data is stored in the "position" field or "specific practice" field of an event character with the attribute of "manager". Instead, the value of the "event power" field of an event character with the attribute of "manager" is higher than that of an event character with the attribute of "player", and when an event character with the attribute of "strengthening material" is used for strengthening, it is possible to obtain more experience points than an event character with the attribute of "player" or "manager".

The "Position" field indicates the baseball position that the event character is good at. The "Favourite Practice" field indicates the practice that the event character is good at. The "Gender" field indicates the gender of the event character. For example, in the success part, for a particular scenario, it may be arranged so that only male or female event characters can be set in the event deck.

The "Experience Points" field indicates the experience points of the event character. The "Level" field indicates the level of the event character. The "Max Level" field indicates the upper limit of the event character's level. The "Profile" field indicates the profile information of the event character.

The "event" field indicates event information related to an event associated with an event character. In other words, the "event" field indicates event information related to an event that may occur in the game when an event character is incorporated into an event deck. Event information is information indicating the name and content of an event. For example, event information includes information regarding the type and amount of experience points or ability parameters that will be granted to the main character when an event occurs. Note that information indicating the probability and conditions for an event to occur may also be stored in the "event" field.

The "Bonus" field indicates bonus information related to the bonus associated with the event character. In other words, the "Bonus" field indicates bonus information related to the bonus that occurs during the game when the event character is incorporated into the event deck. The bonus information is information that indicates the name and content of the bonus. For example, if the probability of a specific event occurring increases when an event character is incorporated into the event deck, the bonus information includes information that indicates the event and the degree to which the probability of occurrence has increased. For example, the "Bonus" field is associated with a level and an acquired bonus.

The "ability parameters" field shows the ability parameters of an event character. For example, if a match event occurs in the success part, the event character built into the event deck will participate in the match as a teammate of the main character. The ability parameters of the event character are referenced when such a match event is executed.

The "Event Power" field shows the event power, which is an indicator of the degree of advantage an event character will have when set in an event deck. The "Player Ability" field shows the player ability, which is an indicator of the level of the event character's ability as a player.

Figure 40 shows an example of the event deck table TBL303. As shown in Figure 40, the event deck table TBL303 is a data table that shows the status of each user's event deck. For example, the event deck table TBL303 includes the fields described below.

The "User ID" field indicates identification information for identifying the user. The "Name" field indicates the name of the event deck. In this embodiment, a user can own multiple event decks, and can set a name for each event deck.

The "First setting slot" field indicates the event character ID of the event character set in setting slot A344-1 of the event deck setting area A340. If no event character is set in setting slot A344-1, the "First setting slot" field is blank. Similarly, the "Second setting slot" field indicates the event character ID of the event character set in setting slot A344-2. The "Third setting slot" field indicates the event character ID of the event character set in setting slot A344-3. The "Fourth setting slot" field indicates the event character ID of the event character set in setting slot A344-4. The "Fifth setting slot" field indicates the event character ID of the event character set in setting slot A344-5.

Figure 41 shows an example of the original character table TBL304. As shown in Figure 41, the original character table TBL304 is a data table that shows a list of original characters that each user has developed or main character characters that are currently being developed. For example, the original character table TBL304 includes the fields described below.

The "User ID" field indicates identification information for identifying a user. The "Original Character ID" field indicates identification information for identifying an original character or a main character being developed. The "Name" field indicates the name of the original character or a main character being developed. The "Position" field indicates the baseball position that the original character or a main character being developed excels at.

The "ability parameter", "stamina parameter", "motivation parameter", "experience points", and "evaluation" fields indicate the ability parameter, stamina parameter, motivation parameter, experience points, and evaluation from other characters of the original character or the main character being trained. Note that for original characters, since training is complete, the "stamina parameter", "motivation parameter", "experience points", and "evaluation" fields may be blank. The "experience points" field may also store the total experience points acquired in the success part, along with the currently remaining experience points.

The "Event Deck" field shows the contents of the event deck used when developing an original character or a main character currently being developed. In the Success Part, other users' leader event characters can be added as helpers, so the "Event Deck" field stores the event character IDs of the event characters set in the event deck set by the user and the helper event characters.

The "Training Status" field indicates the current training status. That is, the "Training Status" field indicates whether training is complete or in progress. If training is in progress, the "Training Status" field may also indicate the current in-game time. Furthermore, the "Training Status" field may store the knack level of the main character.

The data stored in the original character table TBL304 is not limited to the above examples. For example, basic information about an original character or a main character being developed (such as an image showing the character's appearance or the high school the character attended) may be stored in the original character table TBL304. Other examples include the knack level that changes during the success part and the state of the main character, which may be stored in the original character table TBL304.

Figure 42 shows an example of the order table TBL305. As shown in Figure 42, the order table TBL305 is a data table that shows the contents of an order set by the user. The order table TBL305 includes the fields described below.

The "User ID" field indicates identification information for identifying the user. The "Order Type" field indicates the type of order. Here, information is stored indicating whether it is a regular order or an order for a limited-time event. The "Order" field stores the original character ID included in the order.

The data stored in the data storage unit 3000 is not limited to the above example. The data storage unit 3000 may store data necessary for the game. For example, the data storage unit 3000 may store master data of an event character. For example, the data storage unit 3000 may store various image data. For example, the data storage unit 3000 may store data indicating the relationship between each goal and a reward in the challenge part. For example, data indicating the content of each scenario may be stored. For example, data indicating the relationship between a special effect character and a score bonus may be stored. For example, the data storage unit 3000 may store user setting information in association with a user ID. This setting information is, for example, an auto flag indicating the selected content of the processing object P822 in the main command screen image G800, a skip flag indicating the selected content of the processing object P823, and a shortcut flag indicating the selected content of the processing object P824.

In response to a request from a user terminal 10, the processing unit 3010 acquires data related to the user of the user terminal 10 from the data stored in the data storage unit 3000, and transmits the data to the user terminal 10 or updates the data.

For example, the request from the user terminal 10 includes a user ID. When the above request is received by the server 30, the processing unit 3010 obtains data stored in association with the received user ID from the data storage unit 3000, and transmits the data to the user terminal 10. For example, the processing unit 3010 obtains event character data stored in association with the user ID from the event character table TBL302, and transmits the event character data to the user terminal 10. Similarly, the processing unit 3010 obtains event deck data and original character data stored in association with the user ID from the event deck table TBL303 and original character table TBL304, and transmits the event deck data and original character data to the user terminal 10.

When the above request is received by the server 30, the processing unit 3010 updates the data stored in the data storage unit 3000 (i.e., the data stored in association with the received user ID) to match the update content notified from the user terminal 10.

The individual data storage unit 1000 is for storing data relating to the user of the user terminal 10 among the data stored in the data storage unit 3000.

The request unit 1010 is for obtaining data relating to the user of the user terminal 10 from the data stored in the data storage unit 3000 and storing the data in the individual data storage unit 1000, and when the data stored in the individual data storage unit 1000 is updated, for updating the data stored in the data storage unit 3000 in the same manner.

The request unit 1010 transmits the user ID of the user of the user terminal 10 to the server 30 at a predetermined timing, thereby requesting the server 30 to return data stored in association with the user ID. Note that the "predetermined timing" may be, for example, the timing when the game program is started, the timing when the home screen image G100 is displayed, or the timing when the success part starts.

When the data returned from the server 30 is received by the user terminal 10, the request unit 1010 stores the data in the individual data storage unit 1000.

For example, the request unit 1010 stores the event character data returned from the server 30 in the event character table TBL302 included in the individual data storage unit 1000. The event character table TBL302 is a data table for storing only the event characters of the user of the user terminal 10, and is, for example, a data table that includes fields similar to those of the event character table TBL302 shown in FIG. 39 (the "user ID" field may be excluded).

The request unit 1010 also stores the event deck data returned from the server 30 in the event deck table TBL303 included in the individual data storage unit 1000. The event deck table TBL303 is a data table for storing only the event decks of the user of the user terminal 10, and is, for example, a data table that includes fields similar to those of the event deck table TBL303 shown in FIG. 39 (the "user ID" field may be excluded).

Furthermore, the request unit 1010 stores the original character data returned from the server 30 in the original character table TBL304 included in the individual data storage unit 1000. The original character table TBL304 is a data table for storing only the original characters of the user of the user terminal 10, and is, for example, a data table that includes fields similar to those of the original character table TBL304 shown in FIG. 41 (the "user ID" field may be excluded).

The data stored in the individual data storage unit 1000 is referenced and updated while the baseball game is being played. When the data stored in the individual data storage unit 1000 is updated, the request unit 1010 notifies the server 30 of the update content together with the user ID of the user of the user terminal 10 at a specified timing, thereby requesting that the data stored in the data storage unit 3000 be updated in the same way. Note that the "specified timing" refers to, for example, every specified time or when the user finishes playing.

[3-1. Regarding the first technique]
Next, functions related to the first technology will be described. For example, the first technology is realized by a first game execution unit 1020, a first effect generation unit 1021, a change target selection unit 1030, a level change unit 1040, a use target selection unit 1050, an effect display control unit 1060, a data acquisition unit 1070, a change target display control unit 1080, a material character selection unit 1090, an upper limit release determination unit 1100, a permission unit 1110, a condition display control unit 1120, an event power display control unit 1130, and a player ability display control unit 1140.

The first game execution unit 1020 executes the success part in which the ability parameters of the main character are changed or set based on the user's operation. The first game execution unit 1020 executes the game program of the baseball game and updates various data related to the success part (e.g., the original character table TBL304).

For example, the first game execution unit 1020 executes a success part that includes a game in which a game task is set based on the main character and the event character selected by the use target selection unit 1050.

Here, a "game task" is a task (mission) set in the game, for example, winning a match. A "game task" uses a main character and an event character set in the event deck. When the result of the game processing executed based on these is a predetermined result, the "game task" is achieved. For example, when the user earns more points in a match than the opponent, the "game task" is achieved. Winning a match held in the Success part is an example of a game task.

A "success part including a game with a game task set" means that part of the success part includes a game with a game task set. For example, if the game task corresponds to winning a match, the success part includes a match game as part of it. For example, when the progress of the success part reaches a specified state, the game with the game task set becomes playable.

For example, the first game execution unit 1020 excludes a specific event character from among a plurality of event characters from the achievement of a game task even if the event character is selected by the target selection unit 1050.

This "specific event character" may be one that is defined as not to be used in game tasks. In this embodiment, the value of the "attribute" field is "manager." "Not applicable for completing game tasks" means that it does not contribute to completing the game tasks. For example, it means that it is not used in the game in which the game task is set. In other words, even if a "manager" event character is set in the event deck, it will not participate in matches in the success part.

The change target selection unit 1030 selects one of a number of event characters as the change target based on the user's operation. The "change target" refers to the event character whose level parameter is to be changed. In this embodiment, the base character corresponds to the "change target."

For example, as shown in the base character selection screen image G1700 (FIG. 23), identification information identifying each of a plurality of event characters is displayed on the display unit 15, and the change target selection unit 1030 selects one or more from among them based on the user's operation. The "identification information" is, for example, an image representing the event character. In this embodiment, the processing object of each event character displayed in the event character list area A1740 corresponds to the "identification information."

In this embodiment, the user directly selects the base character, but the user may select only the selection conditions for selecting the base character, and the base character may be selected based on the selection conditions. The selection conditions may be, for example, the favorite practice of the event character. In this case, when the user selects a practice that the user considers important in the success part, one of the event characters for which the practice is set as the favorite practice may be selected as the base character. In this way, an event character that is effective for efficiently performing the practice that the user considers important is selected as the base character, so that the user does not need to search for the base character one by one. In such a case, a plurality of selection conditions for selecting one or more event characters are set, and the change target selection unit 1030 selects one or more from among them based on the selection conditions selected by the user. The selection conditions may be conditions related to the level of the event character or effects that occur in the game.

The level change unit 1040 changes the level parameters of the event character selected by the change target selection unit 1030. For example, the level change unit 1040 changes the level parameters of the event character selected by the change target selection unit 1030 based on other game objects.

The "other game object" refers to a game object that is neither a main character object nor an event character selected by the change target selection unit 1030. The "other game object" may be an object other than the event character selected by the change target selection unit 1030 from among a plurality of event characters, or may be a third game object that is neither a main character nor an event character. The third game object can also be said to be a game object for changing a level parameter. For example, the third game object can also be said to be a game object dedicated to strengthening an event character. For example, the other game object may be selected based on a user's operation, or may be selected automatically. In this embodiment, the material character corresponds to the "other game object".

For example, the level change unit 1040 changes the level parameter by increasing the experience value parameter of the base character using the material character. In this embodiment, when the experience value parameter or level parameter changes, the material character is consumed (destroyed). For example, the amount of change in the experience value parameter or level parameter varies depending on the material character. In this case, an association between the material character and the change in the experience value parameter or level parameter is stored in the storage unit. The experience value parameter or level parameter changes based on the change associated with the material character. For example, when the "attribute" field of the material character indicates "strengthening material", the increase in the level parameter may be increased by increasing the experience value parameter that can be acquired compared to when it indicates other attributes.

In this embodiment, the case where the level parameter of the base character is changed by using a material character is described, but the level change unit 1040 may change the level parameter of the base character based on a predetermined parameter. In this case, the level change unit 1040 changes the level parameter of the event character selected by the change target selection unit 1030 based on the parameter for changing the level. The parameter for changing the level may be, for example, something like a "power injection point" that the user can acquire in the game. In this case, the level change unit 1040 changes the level parameter of the base character by injecting the "power injection point" into the base character.

As mentioned above, each of the multiple event characters is restricted so that the level parameter of that event character does not fall within a specified range. "Restricting the level parameter so that it does not fall within a specified range" means that the level parameter is prohibited from falling within a specified range. In other words, the level parameter of each event character is restricted so that it does not become greater than the maximum level.

The use object selection unit 1050 selects at least one of the multiple event characters as the use object. A "use object" is a game object that is to be used in the game and that produces an effect in the game. In this embodiment, setting an object in the event deck corresponds to selecting it as the use object.

For example, the use target selection unit 1050 selects an event character based on the user's operation. In this case, as shown in the event character change screen image G600 (FIG. 9), identification information identifying each of a plurality of event characters is displayed on the display unit 15, and the use target selection unit 1050 selects one or more from among them based on the user's operation. The "identification information" is, for example, an image representing the event character. In this embodiment, the processing object of each event character displayed in the event character list area A640 corresponds to the "identification information."

For example, the use target selection unit 1050 may automatically select an event character based on predetermined conditions. For example, the use target selection unit 1050 selects an event character based on a level parameter. For example, if multiple types of effects occur in a game, the use target selection unit 1050 selects an event character that generates the effect selected by the user. As another example, the use target selection unit 1050 may automatically select an event character based on a level parameter or a rarity parameter of the event character.

The first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect in the success part related to changing or setting the ability parameters of the main character based on the level parameters of the event character selected by the usage target selection unit 1050. For example, the first effect generation unit 1021 changes the effect based on the level parameters of the event character selected by the usage target selection unit 1050. For example, the "bonus" field of the event character table TBL302 stores data that associates the level parameters with the contents of the effect, so the first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect whose contents are associated with the level parameters in the success part.

For example, the first effect generating unit 1021 generates an effect associated with a parameter range to which the value from the initial value to the current value of the level parameter of the event character selected by the use target selecting unit 1050 belongs among the multiple parameter ranges. The "parameter range to which the value from the initial value to the current value of the level parameter belongs" refers to a parameter range that includes at least one value (e.g., each numerical value from 1 to 50) of the level parameter from the initial value (e.g., 1) to the current value (e.g., 50), and includes both the parameter range to which the level parameter currently belongs and the parameter range to which the level parameter belonged in the past. For example, if an event character with a level parameter of 1 is strengthened and the level parameter becomes 50 all at once, the first effect generating unit 1021 does not generate only effects associated with the parameter range including 1 and the parameter range including 50, but generates an effect associated with a parameter range including at least one numerical value between 1 and 50. That is, in this case, the first effect generating unit 1021 generates all effects with a level parameter of 50 or less. Furthermore, if the level parameter is one in which a higher number indicates a higher level, then all effects below the current value will be generated, but if the level parameter is one in which a lower number indicates a higher level (such as when it indicates a rank, where 1 is the highest level), then all effects above the current value will be generated.

When an operation is performed to select an object to be changed, the effect display control unit 1060 executes control to display, for each event character, correspondence information on the display unit 15 indicating the correspondence between the level parameter of the event character and the effect generated by the first effect generation unit 1021.

"When an operation to select an object to be changed is performed" refers to a specific timing before or after the user performs the operation. For example, it is the time until the selection of the base character is completed. For example, it is the time while the base character selection screen image G1700 for receiving the base character selection operation is being displayed.

"Correspondence information" is information that indicates the association between the range of level parameters and the effect that occurs when the level parameters fall within that range. Correspondence information includes information that indicates the content of the effect. In other words, it includes text information or image information that allows the user to understand the content of the effect. In addition, the correspondence information may include information that identifies the event character. This information is the name or appearance of the event character. In this embodiment, the bonus details screen image G500 corresponds to the "correspondence information". Note that, here, the correspondence information is displayed when the base character selection operation is performed, but the correspondence information itself may be displayed at any timing. For example, the correspondence information may be displayed from a list of event characters that is displayed when the processing object P1570 of the event character menu screen image G1500 is selected.

"Executing control to display on the display means" means, for example, generating an image and displaying the image on the display means. Also means, for example, generating data necessary for displaying an image and transmitting the data to the display means or a terminal connected to the display means, thereby displaying the image on the display means. "Data necessary for displaying an image" may be data showing the image itself, or data necessary for generating an image. The same meaning applies hereinafter when similar expressions are used.

The data acquisition unit 1070 acquires data stored in the individual data storage unit 1000, which stores data associating each of a plurality of parameter ranges divided into stages with the effects generated by the effect generation unit. This data can also be said to be data showing the correspondence between the parameter ranges and the effects. This data may be in a table format or in a mathematical formula format. In this embodiment, the "Bonus" field in the event character table TBL302 corresponds to the above data.

"Parameter range" refers to the range of values that a parameter can take, for example, when the parameter is a number. For example, it is from a first reference value to a second reference value that is greater than the first reference value. For example, when the parameter is a symbol, it is the range of the order when the symbols are arranged in symbol order. For example, it is from a first order to a second order that is after the first order. Note that the parameter range here includes not only multiple levels, but also a single level. In other words, the effects that occur in the success part may be determined for each individual level.

For example, the effect display control unit 1060 executes control to cause the display unit 15 to display correspondence information indicating the correspondence between each of the multiple parameter ranges and the effect generated by the first effect generation unit 1021. That is, the display control unit executes control to cause the display unit 15 to display correspondence information indicating the effect for each parameter range. In this embodiment, as shown in the bonus detail screen image G500 in FIG. 8, the effects that occur for each level range are shown.

For example, the effect display control unit 1060 also executes control to cause the display unit 15 to display, for each event character, correspondence relationship information that distinguishes between effects associated with a parameter range to which the value from the initial value to the current value of the level parameter of the event character belongs and effects associated with a parameter range to which the value from the initial value to the current value of the level parameter does not belong.

"A parameter range that does not include values from the initial value to the current value of a level parameter" refers to a parameter range that does not include any of the values (e.g., any of the numerical values from 1 to 50) from the initial value (e.g., 1) to the current value (e.g., 50) of a level parameter, and is, for example, a parameter range to which the level parameter has never belonged, either in the present or in the past.

"Distinguished correspondence information" refers to different display formats on the screen. For example, adding an image, or changing the color, brightness, pattern, or size. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the bonus detail screen image G500 to which check objects C510 and C520 have been added corresponds to the distinguished correspondence information.

The change target display control unit 1080 executes control to display a reception image on the display unit 15 for receiving an operation to select a change target.

The "reception image" is an image that is displayed when an operation is being accepted. An operation performed while the reception image is displayed corresponds to an operation for selecting an object to be changed. In this embodiment, the processing object of each event character in the event character list area A1740 of the base character selection screen image G1700 corresponds to the reception image.

For example, the effect display control unit 1060 may execute control to display the correspondence information on the display unit 15 after an operation to display the correspondence information is performed while the reception image is displayed.

"After the user performs a predetermined operation to display the correspondence information while the reception image is displayed" means after a predetermined operation is performed while the reception image is displayed. For example, it means both in response to a predetermined operation, and in response to an operation performed while the image displayed in response to the predetermined operation is displayed.

In this embodiment, the effect display control unit 1060 executes control to display the bonus details screen image G500 on the display unit 15 when the processing object of each event character in the event character list area A1740 of the base character selection screen image G1700 is pressed and held.

The effect display control unit 1060 may execute control to display the correspondence information on the display unit 15 while the reception image is displayed. In this case, the effect display control unit 1060 causes the reception image and the correspondence information to be displayed on the same screen.

The material character selection unit 1090 selects at least one of the multiple game objects as a material character based on the user's operation.

The "multiple game objects" here refer to game objects excluding the base character, original character, and main character. In this embodiment, the event characters (i.e., material character candidates) that can be selected in the event character list area A1940 of the material character selection screen image G1900 correspond to the multiple game objects.

The upper limit release determination unit 1100 determines whether a given condition associated with the base character selected by the change target selection unit 1030 is satisfied based on the material character selected by the material character selection unit 1090.

"Given conditions associated with a base character" are conditions determined by the base character, and may be different conditions for each base character. For example, selecting a game object of the same type as the base character.

For example, the given condition is a condition that can be satisfied when the material character selected by the material character selection unit 1090 is a specific event character. The specific event character is an event character associated with the base character selected by the change target selection unit 1030, for example, an event character that is the same as the event character. In other words, the predetermined condition is a condition that cannot be satisfied unless a specific event character is selected, and is a condition that is satisfied with a specified probability when a specific event character is selected.

For example, the given condition is a condition that is satisfied with a probability determined based on the material character selected by the material character selection unit 1090. It is a condition that is satisfied with a probability associated with the material character. This probability is determined, for example, by the parameters of the material character. For example, the higher (larger) the rarity parameter or level parameter of the material character is, the higher the probability may be.

When the upper limit release determination unit 1100 determines that a given condition is met, the permission unit 1110 permits the level parameter of the base character selected by the change target selection unit 1030 to be within a predetermined range or a part of the predetermined range. As the permission unit 1110 does not, in principle, permit the level parameter of an event character to exceed the maximum level, the permission unit 1110 permits the level parameter of the event character to exceed the maximum level only when it determines that a given condition is met.

The "predetermined range" may be any predetermined parameter range. For example, if the parameter is a numerical value, it means that it is equal to or greater than a reference value, and if the parameter is a symbol, it means that it is a symbol that comes after a predetermined sequence. In this embodiment, a range that is higher (larger) than the maximum level corresponds to the predetermined range.

The condition display control unit 1120 performs control to display condition information regarding a given condition on the display unit 15 when an operation is performed to select a material character. "Condition information" is an image or text that indicates the content of the given condition.

For example, the condition display control unit 1120 controls the display unit 15 to display, for each event character, condition information regarding whether or not the event character is a specific event character. In this embodiment, as shown in the material character selection screen image G1900 in FIG. 25, the processing object of each event character in the event character list area A1940 is displayed as "100% Open" or "30% Open," indicating whether or not the highest level can be opened.

For example, the condition display control unit 1120 also controls the display unit 15 to display, for each event character, condition information relating to the probability of the event character being selected by the material character selection unit 1090. In this embodiment, as shown in the material character selection screen image G1900 in FIG. 25, the processing object of each event character in the event character list area A1940 is displayed with "100% unlocked" or "30% unlocked", which indicates the highest level of unlocking probability.

The event power display control unit 1130 controls the display unit 15 to display, for each event character, information indicating the degree of the effect generated by the first effect generation unit 1021 when the event character is selected by the use target selection unit 1050.

"Information indicating the degree of effect" is a numerical value or symbol indicating the magnitude (high or low) of the effect. In this embodiment, the event power displayed in the event character screen image G400 corresponds to the information indicating the degree of effect. The event power display control unit 1130 obtains the value of the "event power" field in the event character table TBL302 and displays it on the display unit 15.

The player ability display control unit 1140 controls the display unit 15 to further display, for each event character, information indicating the degree to which the event character will be advantageous in completing the game task if selected by the use target selection unit 1050.

"Information indicating the degree of advantage" refers to a numerical value or symbol indicating the degree to which the game task will be easier to accomplish. In this embodiment, the game task here is to win a match in the success part, so the player ability displayed in the event character screen image G400 corresponds to the information indicating the degree of effect. The event power display control unit 1130 obtains the value of the "player ability" field in the event character table TBL302 and displays it on the display unit 15.

[3-2. Regarding the second technology]
In order to realize the second technology, in this embodiment, the game system 1 includes a first game execution unit 1020, a first effect generation unit 1021, an effect display control unit 1060, a distinction display control unit 1150, a helper selection unit 1160, a second game execution unit 1170, a special effect determination unit 1171, and a second effect generation unit 1172.

The first game execution unit 1020 executes the same process as described in the first technology, so a detailed description will be omitted here.

The first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect on the success part related to changing or setting the ability parameters of the main character based on at least one selected from a plurality of event characters (for example, an event character set in the event deck). The first effect generation unit 1021 may also execute a process similar to that described in the first technique, but since the second technique is mainly a technique related to special effect characters, when a special effect character is selected, the first effect generation unit 1021 will change the effect based on the level parameters of the special effect character. The method of changing the effect based on the level parameters is similar to the method described in the first technique.

In the first technique, the first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect based on a level parameter, but in the second technique, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate an effect based on an event character, and does not necessarily have to be based on a level parameter. For example, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate an effect based on an ability parameter or rarity, or may generate an effect based on an event list.

When an operation is performed to select at least one of a plurality of event characters (e.g., an event character to be set in an event deck), the distinguishable display control unit 1150 executes control to distinguish and display information about special effect characters and information about other event characters on the display unit 15. The meaning of the above operation and the meaning of "display distinguished" are the same as those explained in the first technique.

"When an operation is performed" refers to a specific timing before or after the user performs an operation. For example, it is the time until the selection of an event character is completed. For example, it is the time while the event deck setting screen image G300, event character change screen image G600, or event deck editing screen image G1600 for accepting the event character selection operation is displayed.

"Information about a character" is information that identifies an event character or a parameter of the event character. In this embodiment, the processing object that identifies an event character corresponds to information about a character. For example, as shown in FIG. 31 and FIG. 32, the display distinction control unit 1150 makes the display manner of the processing object of the special effect character different from that of other event characters in the event character list area A640 or the setting frame. Note that the display of the information about the special effect character and the information about the other event characters is not limited to when performing an operation to select an event character to be incorporated into the event deck. These may be displayed at any timing. For example, the special effect character and the other event characters may be displayed in a list of event characters that is displayed when the processing object P1570 of the event character menu screen image G1500 is selected. For example, when an event character is granted by a gacha that is executed after the user selects the processing object P124, the event character menu screen image G1500 may be displayed, and when the processing object P1570 is selected, the display of the special effect character may be displayed. In this case, the display of the event character menu screen image G1500 may be omitted and only the display of the special effect character may be displayed.

The effect display control unit 1060 executes control to display on the display unit 15 correspondence relationship information indicating the correspondence between the special effect character and the effect generated by the second effect generation unit 1172. For example, the effect display control unit 1060 displays the special effect character in association with the effect generated in the stadium part. The correspondence relationship information includes information indicating the content of the effect. In other words, it includes text information or image information that allows the user to understand the content of the effect. In addition, the correspondence relationship information includes information that identifies the special effect character. This information is the name and appearance of the special effect character. For example, as shown in FIG. 31 and FIG. 32, the effect display control unit 1060 displays the score bonus of the special effect character in the event character list area A640 or the setting frame.

The effect display control unit 1060 executes control to display the correspondence information on the display unit 15 when an operation is performed to select at least one of the multiple event characters (e.g., an event character to be set in the event deck). The above operation and the meaning of "when an operation is performed" are as described above.

The helper selection unit 1160 selects an event character owned by another user associated with the user. "Another user associated with the user" is, for example, a user who is a friend. Not only event characters owned by the user playing the game, but also event characters owned by other users can be selected.

The second game execution unit 1170 executes the stadium part in which an original character is used. For example, the second game execution unit 1170 executes the stadium part based on the ability parameters of the original character. The second game execution unit 1170 executes the game program of a baseball game and updates various data related to the stadium part (for example, the user table TBL301).

The second game execution unit 1170 may execute the match in the stadium part based on a user operation, or may execute the match in the stadium part automatically without based on a user operation. The user may be able to specify whether the match in the stadium part is executed based on a user operation or automatically.

The special effect determination unit 1171 determines whether the ability parameters of the original character used in the stadium part have been changed or set in the success part executed with the special effect character selected. For example, the special effect determination unit 1171 determines whether the special effect character has been used when the ability parameters of the original character have been changed or set. Here, the contents of the event deck when the ability parameters of the original character have been changed or set are stored in the original character table TBL304, so the special effect determination unit 1171 makes a determination based on the contents of the original character table TBL304.

The second effect generation unit 1172 generates an effect in the stadium part that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on the result of the determination by the special effect determination unit 1171.

An "effect that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user" is an effect that makes it easier or harder to obtain a desired result in the stadium part. For example, in a game such as the stadium part where the aim is to obtain a reward (such as points or in-game currency), it is an effect that increases or decreases the reward. For example, in a fighting game such as the stadium part, it may be an effect that makes it easier or harder to progress in the fight.

For example, if the second effect generation unit 1172 determines that the ability parameters of the original character used in the stadium part have been changed or set in a success part executed with a special effect character selected, the second effect generation unit 1172 generates an effect that is advantageous to the user in the stadium part. Also, for example, if the second effect generation unit 1172 determines that the level parameters of the original character used in the stadium part have not been changed or set in a success part executed with a special effect character selected, the second effect generation unit 1172 may generate an effect that is disadvantageous to the user in the stadium part.

In this embodiment, the stadium part aims to obtain a reward using an original character whose ability parameters have been changed in the success part, so the second effect generation unit 1172 generates an effect in the stadium part that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user in obtaining a reward.

"An effect that is favorable or unfavorable to obtaining a reward" is an effect that makes it easier or harder to obtain a reward. In other words, an effect that makes the reward obtained better or worse.

The second effect generating unit 1172 may change the effect based on the parameters of the special effect character. The second effect generating unit 1172 changes the content of the effect based on the parameters of the special effect character. For example, the association between the parameters and the effects is stored in the data storage unit 3000. The second effect generating unit 1172 generates an effect associated with the parameters. This parameter may be a rarity parameter or a level parameter. The second effect generating unit 1172 increases the score bonus as the rarity or level of the special effect character increases.

For example, the second effect generating unit 1172 may change the effect based on the number of original characters whose ability parameters have been changed or set in the success part based on the special effect character. In this case, an association between the number of original characters trained by the special effect character and the effect is stored in the data storage unit 3000, and the second effect generating unit 1172 generates an effect associated with the number of original characters trained by the special effect character. For example, the second effect generating unit 1172 generates an effect that is more advantageous or disadvantageous the greater the number of original characters trained by the special effect character. In other words, the second effect generating unit 1172 may strengthen the effect in the stadium part the greater the number of original characters trained by the special effect character.

[3-3. Regarding the third technology]
In order to realize the third technique, in this embodiment, the game system 1 includes a parameter change unit 1022 , a usage object selection unit 1050 , a practice selection unit 1180 , and a practice display control unit 1190 .

As explained above, in the success part, each of the multiple ability parameters of the main character is changed or set. Furthermore, in the success part, one of multiple roles is set for the main character. A role is a role assigned in the game, and in this embodiment, it is a position.

The practice selection unit 1180 selects one of a plurality of options, each of which is associated with at least one of a plurality of ability parameters, based on a first selection operation by the user. The "first selection operation" is an operation in which the user selects an option, for example, an operation in which the user selects one of the multiple options displayed on the display unit 15. In this embodiment, each of the processing objects P921 to P926 corresponds to an option, and the operation of selecting one of these processing objects P921 to P926 corresponds to the first selection operation.

Each of the multiple options is associated with at least one of multiple roles. In this embodiment, the option indicating fielder practice is associated with the fielder role, and the processing object indicating pitcher practice is associated with the pitcher role. The option associated with the role of the main character is selectable by the first selection operation. That is, if the role of the main character is a fielder, the processing object associated with the fielder can be selected, and if the role of the main character is a pitcher, the processing object associated with the pitcher can be selected.

The target selection unit 1050 selects at least one of the multiple event characters to which at least one of the multiple options is associated, based on the user's second selection operation. In this embodiment, associating a favorite practice with an event character corresponds to at least one of the options being associated with the event character.

The parameter change unit 1022 changes the parameter associated with the option selected by the practice selection unit 1180 from among the multiple ability parameters. As described above, each option has a determined ability parameter that increases when the processing object is selected. Therefore, the parameter change unit 1022 increases the ability parameter associated with the selected option.

When the option selected by the practice selection unit 1180 is an option associated with the event character selected by the use target selection unit 1050, the parameter change unit 1022 changes the parameters associated with the option selected by the consecutive selection unit so that the user has an advantage in the game compared to when the option selected by the practice selection unit 1180 is not an option associated with the event character selected by the use target selection unit 1050. For example, when a favorite practice associated with an event character set in the event deck is selected, the parameter change unit 1022 increases the amount of change in the ability parameters of the main character.

The practice display control unit 1190 executes control to display option information on the display unit 15 regarding the options associated with the event character selected by the use target selection unit 1050. The option information is an image, text, or the like that displays the options on the display unit 15. In this embodiment, the process objects P921 to P926 and each practice included in the favorite practice area A346 correspond to option information.

When multiple of the multiple event characters are selected by the use target selection unit 1050 and the options associated with each of the multiple event characters selected by the use target selection unit 1050 are the same, the practice display control unit 1190 executes control to display information indicating the number of the same options on the display unit 15 in association with the option information.

"Information indicating the number of options" is an image or text indicating a numerical value. In this embodiment, a numerical value such as "x2" displayed in the favorite practice area A346 corresponds to "information indicating the number of options."

"Displaying information indicating the number of options in association with option information" means, for example, displaying the information indicating the number of options and the option information so that they partially overlap, displaying the information indicating the number of options and the option information so that the distance between them is within a specified distance, and connecting the information indicating the number of options and the option information with an image such as a line. In this embodiment, a number such as "x2" is displayed to indicate the favorite practice displayed in the favorite practice area A346.

For example, the practice display control unit 1190 executes control to cause the display unit 15 to display, in a differentiated manner, option information regarding the option associated with the event character selected by the target selection unit 1050 and option information regarding options other than the selected option, the meaning of "displaying in a differentiated manner" being as described above.

For example, the practice display control unit 1190 executes control to display on the display unit 15 option information relating to each of a plurality of options arranged in an order determined based on the role associated with the option, and to distinguish between option information relating to the option associated with the event character selected by the target selection unit 1050 and option information relating to options other than the selected option.

"Order determined based on role" refers to an order in which the roles can be identified, and options associated with the first role are displayed side by side on the first side, and options associated with the second role are displayed side by side on the second side. Here, the practice display control unit 1190 displays the fielder's practices side by side on the left side in the favorite practice area A346, and the pitcher's practices side by side on the right side.

[3-4. Regarding the fourth technology]
In order to realize the fourth technique, in this embodiment, the game system 1 includes a first effect generation unit 1021, a scenario selection unit 1200, and a scenario change unit 1210.

The scenario selection unit 1200 selects one of a number of options regarding the content of the game scenario based on the user's operation. "Options regarding the content of the scenario" are options for determining the content of the scenario, and in this embodiment, are options for the user to select the next section at the end of each section.

The scenario change unit 1210 changes the content of the game scenario based on the option selected by the scenario selection unit 1200. The scenario change unit 1210 advances the scenario selected by the user's operation from among multiple types of scenarios in the success part.

The first effect generation unit 1021 may be similar to the content described in the first and second techniques. However, in the third technique, when a specific event character is selected from among a plurality of event characters, the first effect generation unit 1021 generates a specific effect in the game corresponding to the specific event character. The specific event character here is an event character with which a specific effect is associated, and is an event character of a predetermined rarity. The specific effect may be any effect that is determined in advance, such as an effect that allows the main character to acquire a super special ability.

When a specific option is selected from among multiple options by the scenario selection unit 1200, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate a specific effect in the game corresponding to a specific event character even if a specific event character is not selected. A "specific option" is an option for proceeding to a specified scenario, for example, an option for proceeding to a time-limited scenario. When an option for proceeding to a time-limited scenario is selected, the first effect generation unit 1021 enables the main character to acquire a super special ability even if a specific event character is not incorporated into the event deck.

For example, the first effect generation unit 1021 may restrict the occurrence of the specific effect outside of the specific period, and may cause the specific effect to occur within the specific period. Also, for example, the first effect generation unit 1021 may restrict the selection of a specific option from among multiple options by the scenario selection unit 1200 outside of the specific period, and may allow the selection of a specific option from among multiple options by the scenario selection unit 1200 within the specific period. In other words, a scenario that makes it possible to acquire a super special ability cannot be selected outside of the specific period.

[3-5. Regarding the fifth technology]
In order to realize the fifth technology, in this embodiment, the game system 1 includes a first update unit 3020, a second update unit 3030, an achievement determination unit 3040, a game providing unit 3050, and a challenge display control unit 3060. Note that this technology relates to processing performed between a user terminal 10 of a certain user and a user terminal 10 of the friend of the user, and is premised on a configuration in which a plurality of user terminals 10 can access the server 30.

As described above, the second game execution unit 1170 executes the stadium part based on an original character associated with a user ID and other game objects. The other game objects may be original characters associated with other user IDs, or may be other game objects. The other game objects are, for example, game characters prepared by the administrator of the game system 1.

The first update unit 3020 updates the first achievement information stored in the data storage unit 3000, which stores first achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the stadium part by a first user identified by a first user ID, based on the game play of the first user. The second update unit 3030 updates the second achievement information stored in the data storage unit 3000, which stores second achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the stadium part by a second user identified by a second user ID, based on the game play of the second user.

The results are information indicating the quality of the game content or results, and may be the progress status or record of the game. In this embodiment, the results correspond to the score obtained in the match in the stadium part. When the first update unit 3020 and the second update unit 3030 receive the score obtained by the user in the match in the stadium part from the user terminal 10, they each store the content in the user table TBL301.

The achievement determination unit 3040 determines whether or not the achievements of the second user have changed from a first state in which the achievements of the second user are lower than those of the first user to a second state in which the achievements of the second user are higher than those of the first user, based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information. When it is determined that the state has changed from the first state to the second state, the game providing unit 3050 executes control to provide the first user with a game that is executed based on an original character associated with the first user ID and an original character associated with the second user ID. This game may be executed by game objects owned by each user, and may be, for example, a competitive game.

For example, the game providing unit 3050 provides the first user with a game that is executed based on an original character associated with the first user ID and an original character associated with the second user ID, based on an operation performed by the first user while the notification is displayed.

"Providing a game to a user" means transmitting a game program to the user terminal 10 and permitting execution of the game. It may also be, for example, a process for encouraging users to play against each other.

When it is determined that the state has changed from the first state to the second state, the challenge display control unit 3060 executes control to cause a notification indicating that a game will be provided by the game providing unit 3050 to be displayed on the display unit 15 corresponding to the first user. This notification may be performed in a predetermined format, for example, by displaying a processing object P160 on the display unit 15.

4. Processing Executed in Game System 1
Figures 43 to 66 are flow diagrams showing an example of processing executed in the game system 1. The processing shown in Figures 43 to 66 is executed by the control unit 11 operating according to a program stored in the storage unit 12, and the control unit 31 operating according to a program stored in the storage unit 32. In the embodiment, the functional blocks shown in Figure 37 are realized by executing the processing described below. Note that the processing described below ends when a predetermined operation for ending the game is input from the input unit 14.

As shown in FIG. 43, in the user terminal 10, when the control unit 11 starts a program stored in the memory unit 12, it requests the latest program and data from the server 30 (S1001). For example, the version of the game program is stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 11 transmits that version.

When communication is made from the user terminal 10 to the server 30, the user ID, IP address, or unique identification information of the user terminal 10 is transmitted to the server 30, and the server 30 can identify which user terminal 10 is communicating. When the server 30 receives a user ID from the user terminal 10, the control unit 31 identifies the user ID from the content of the communication. When the server 30 receives an IP address or unique identification information from the user terminal 10, an association between the IP address or unique identification information and the user ID is stored in advance in the storage unit 32, and the control unit 31 identifies the user ID based on the content of the communication and this association.

In the server 30, when a request is received, if the program in the user terminal 10 is not the latest, the control unit 31 transmits the latest data stored in the memory unit 32 to the user terminal 10 along with the latest program (S3001). The latest data here is, for example, data indicating a notice from the game provider to the user or data in each table corresponding to the user ID. In S3001, the control unit 31 compares the version received from the user terminal 10 with the latest program version stored in the memory unit 32. If the program in the user terminal 10 is the latest version, the control unit 31 does not transmit the program to the user terminal 10. Also in S3001, the control unit 31 refers to the memory unit 32 and transmits various data associated with the user ID to the user terminal 10.

In the user terminal 10, when the control unit 11 receives the latest program and data, it stores them in the storage unit 12 (S1003). When the latest program is received, the control unit 11 temporarily ends this process and restarts the game based on the latest program.

Based on the data received from the server 30, the control unit 11 displays a predetermined notification screen image (S1005), and refers to the user table TBL301 to determine whether or not a challenge has been received from a friend (S1007). In S1007, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a user ID is stored in the "challenge" field of the user table TBL301. If the friend's user ID is stored, the control unit 11 determines that a challenge has been received from a friend.

Based on the determination result of S1007, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the home screen image G100 (FIGS. 2 and 34) (S1009). In S1009, if a challenge has arrived from a friend, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the home screen image G100 (FIG. 34) including the processing object P170. Note that image data of each image displayed on the display unit 15 is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage unit 12. This point will be the same hereafter.

The control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected on the home screen image G100 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1011). In S1011, the display position of each processing object is stored in the storage unit 12, and the control unit 11 determines which processing object corresponds to the position on the screen indicated by the input unit 14. This point also applies to the subsequent processes for determining the selection of a processing object, etc.

When the user selects processing object P140 (S1011; P140), the process moves to FIG. 44, where the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display processing objects P141 to P143 (S1013). The control unit 11 determines, based on input from the input unit 14, which of the processing objects P141 to P143 has been selected (S1015).

When the user selects one of the processing objects P141 to P143 (S1015; Y), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the main character registration screen image G200 (FIG. 4) (S1017). Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the main character registration screen image G200 (S1019).

When the user selects one of the processing objects P241 to P245 (S1019; P241 to P245), the control unit 11 executes a process to change the registration information of the main character based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1021). In S1021, the control unit 11 reflects the content input from the input unit 14 in the main character registration area A240. Note that this input content is temporarily stored in the memory unit 12.

On the other hand, if the user selects processing object P250 (S1019; P250), the control unit 11 stores the registration details of the main character in the original character table TBL304 (S1023) and displays the event deck setting screen image G300 (Figures 5 and 6) on the display unit 15 (S1025). In S1025, the control unit 11 creates a new record in the original character table TBL304 stored in the memory unit 12, issues an original character ID, and stores the details displayed in the main character registration area A240 in that record. The original character ID should be issued so that it does not overlap with those already stored in the original character table TBL304.

In addition, in S1025, when the control unit 11 updates the original character table TBL304 in the storage unit 12, it transmits the updated data to the server 30. The control unit 31 of the server 30 stores the received data in the original character table TBL304 in the storage unit 32. Similarly, thereafter, when the control unit 11 updates each table stored in the storage unit 12, it transmits the updated data to the server 30, and the control unit 31 updates the table in the storage unit 32. In this way, data consistency is maintained between the user terminal 10 and the server 30. Note that the timing for ensuring data consistency is not limited to when the table is updated, and data consistency may be ensured periodically, or in response to a user operation.

Moving on to FIG. 45, the control unit 11 determines which processing object or setting frame has been selected in the event deck setting screen image G300 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1027).

When the user selects processing object P342 (S1027; P342), the control unit 11 changes the event deck name based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1029). In S1029, the control unit 11 reflects the content input from the input unit 14 in area A341. Note that this input content is temporarily stored in the memory unit 12.

When the user selects processing object P343 (S1027; P343), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the automatic setting menu screen image G700 (FIG. 11) (S1031). Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines whether any processing object has been selected in the automatic setting menu screen image G700 (S1033).

When the user selects processing object P710 (S1033; P710), the control unit 11 automatically organizes an event deck for a pitcher and stores it in the event character table TBL302 (S1035). For example, automatic organization conditions for pitchers are stored in the memory unit 12, and in S1035, the control unit 11 selects a predetermined number of event characters (here, five) based on the automatic organization conditions for pitchers and the data of each event character stored in the event character table TBL302. The control unit 11 stores the selected event character ID in the record in which the event deck name displayed in area A341 of the event character table TBL302 is stored.

The automatic formation conditions are, for example, a conditional formula or a formula for calculating an evaluation value indicating the priority of incorporation into the event deck for each event character. For example, this formula may be determined so that the higher the rarity or level, the higher the evaluation value, or so that the evaluation value is higher when pitcher practice is a favorite practice or when a player has a specified bonus. In S1035, the control unit 11 selects a specified number of event characters in descending order of evaluation value.

When the user selects the processing object P720 (S1033; P720), the control unit 11 automatically organizes an event deck for fielders and stores it in the event character table TBL302 (S1037). The organization method in S1037 is the same as S1035, except that the automatic organization conditions are for fielders. Note that when the user selects the processing object P730 (S1033; P730), the process returns to S1025.

On the other hand, in S1027, if the user presses and holds any of the setting frames A344-1 to A344-5 (S1027; long press operation), the process moves to FIG. 46, and the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and the event deck table TBL303, and causes the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400 (FIG. 7) (S1039). In S1039, the control unit 11 refers to the event deck table TBL303 to identify the event character ID indicated by the setting frame A344-1 to A344-5 that was pressed and held. The control unit 11 then refers to the event character table TBL302, and causes the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400 based on the record in which the identified event character ID is stored.

The control unit 11 determines which processing object or tab has been selected in the event character screen image G400 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1041). If the user selects the processing object P424 (S1041; P424), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the bonus details screen image G500 (Figure 8) (S1043).

In S1043, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the bonus details screen image G500 based on the record in the event character table TBL302 in which the event character ID whose setting frame was long-pressed in S1027 is stored. For example, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the bonus details screen image G500 based on the level stored in the "level" field and the content of the bonus stored in the "bonus" field. That is, the control unit 11 causes the check objects C510 and C520 to be displayed in the area showing the bonus (already acquired bonus) associated with the level stored in the "level" field or lower among the bonuses stored in the "bonus" field. In addition, the control unit 11 generates the bonus details screen image G500 so that the area showing the bonus associated with the level stored in the "level" field or lower is brighter than the area showing the bonus associated with the level higher than the level (bonus that can be acquired by raising the level).

The control unit 11 determines whether the processing object P530 has been selected based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1045). If the user has selected the processing object P530 (S1045; Y), the process returns to S1039.

On the other hand, if the user selects processing object P430 in S1041 (S1041; P430), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing the abilities of the event character (S1047). In S1047, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image based on the contents of the "ability parameters" field of the record in the event character table TBL302 in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored.

When the user selects processing object P441 (S1041; P441), the process returns to S1025. When the user selects processing object P442 (S; P442), the control unit 11 updates the event character table TBL302 so as to set or release the lock on the event character (S1049). In S1049, the control unit 11 updates the value of the "lock" field of the record in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored.

When the user selects the processing object P443 (S1041; P443), the control unit 11 updates the event character table TBL302 so as to set the event character as the leader (S1051). In S1051, the control unit 11 updates the value of the "Leader" field of the record in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored.

When the user selects the first tab T421 (S1041; T421), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display an event list for the event character (S1053). In S1053, the control unit 11 identifies the event indicated by the "Event" field of the record in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored, and displays it in the second area A420.

When the user selects the second tab T422 (S1041; T422), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the event bonus of the event character (S1055). In S1055, the control unit 11 identifies the bonus acquired at the current level based on the level stored in the "Level" field of the record in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored and the contents of the bonus stored in the "Bonus" field of that record, and displays the identified bonus in the second area A420.

When the user selects the third tab T423 (S1041; T423), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the profile of the event character (S1057). In S1057, the control unit 11 identifies the profile indicated by the "Profile" field of the record in which the event character ID indicated by the event character screen image G400 is stored, and causes the profile to be displayed in the second area A420.

On the other hand, returning to FIG. 45, if the user taps on any of the setting frames A344-1 to A344-5 in S1027 (S1027; tap operation), the process moves to FIG. 47, and the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the event character change screen image G600 (FIGS. 9 and 31) (S1059).

In S1059, the control unit 11 refers to the event deck table TBL303 to identify the event characters currently incorporated in the event deck, and displays the identified event characters as "in use" in the event character list area A640. Furthermore, if a limited-time event is being held, the control unit 11 superimposes a score bonus on the special effect character in the event character list area A640 if the event character ID of the special effect character is stored in the event deck table TBL303. Furthermore, the control unit 11 refers to the event deck table TBL303 to identify event characters other than those mentioned above, and displays the identified event characters in the event character list area A640.

The control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the event character change screen image G600 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1061). When the user selects processing object P641 (S1061; P641), the control unit 11 updates the event deck table TBL303 so as to remove the event character tapped in S1027 from the event deck (S1063). In S1063, the control unit 11 deletes the event character ID of the event character tapped in S1027 from the event deck table TBL303.

When the user selects a processing object corresponding to an event character in the event character list area A640 (S1061; event character), the control unit 11 updates the event deck table TBL303 to incorporate the event character into the event deck (S1065). In S1065, the control unit 11 deletes the event character ID of the event character tapped in S1027 from the event deck table TBL303, and stores the event character ID of the event character indicated by the processing object selected by the user in the event deck table TBL303.

When the user selects a processing object P650 (S1061; P650), the control unit 11 rearranges the event characters in the event character list area A640 based on input from the input unit 14 (S1067). In S1067, the user selects the display order conditions from the input unit 14. The control unit 11 then refers to the event character table TBL302 and rearranges the event characters in the event character list area A640 based on the conditions selected by the user.

Returning to FIG. 45, if the user selects setting frame A345 in S1027 (S1027; A345), the process moves to FIG. 48, where the control unit 11 queries the server 30 for helper candidates (S1069). Helper candidates are event characters that have been set as leaders of other users.

In the server 30, when the inquiry is received, the control unit 31 refers to the event character table TBL302 and transmits data on the event characters set as the leaders of other users to the user terminal 10 (S3003). In S3003, the control unit 31 transmits a predetermined number of data from the records in which user IDs other than the user ID that transmitted the inquiry are stored to the user terminal 10. The control unit 31 may randomly select a predetermined number of data, or may select a combination of the favorite practices of the event characters to be a predetermined combination. In other words, the control unit 31 may select the favorite practices of the event characters that are candidates for helpers so that they are not all the same. The control unit 31 may also preferentially select the leader of the user's friend as a candidate for helper. Furthermore, when the user selects the leader of a friend as a helper, a predetermined effect may occur in the success part. The effect may be, for example, an increase in the amount of experience points increased when the favorite practice of the friend's leader is selected, an increase in the initial value of the leader's evaluation, an increase in the probability of an event related to the leader occurring, and the like. In other words, if a user selects a friend's leader as a helper, an effect may be generated that gives the user an advantage in the success part compared to when the user selects a leader who is not a friend as a helper.

When the user terminal 10 receives the data, the control unit 11 displays a list of candidate helpers on the display unit 15 based on the received data (S1071), and sets the helper selected by the user in the setting frame A345 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1073). In this case, the event deck setting area A340 looks like FIG. 10. In S1073, the control unit 11 stores the event character ID of the helper selected by the user in the "event deck" field of the original character table TBL304.

Returning to FIG. 45, if the user selects processing object P350 in S1027 (S1027; P350), the process moves to FIG. 49, where the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the opening video of the success part, etc. (S1075), and then causes the display unit 15 to display the main command screen image G800 (FIG. 12) (S1077). The control unit 11 stores the initial values of the main character's ability parameters, stamina parameters, motivation parameters, experience points, and evaluations from other characters in the original character table TBL304. These values may be fixed values, or may vary randomly.

The control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the main command screen image G800 (FIG. 12) based on input from the input unit 14 (S1079). If the user selects processing object P841 (S1079; P841), the process moves to FIG. 50, and the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the practice screen image G900 (FIG. 13) (S1081). In S1081, the control unit 11 randomly determines which practice represented by each of the processing objects P921 to P926 the event character and other characters incorporated in the event deck will participate in, and stores the result of the determination in the memory unit 12.

The control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the practice screen image G900 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1083). When the user selects one of the processing objects P921 to P926 (S1083; P921 to P926), the control unit 11 displays a cursor object C927 pointing to the selected processing object (S1085), and updates the display of the experience point area A930 and the game character area A940 (S1087).

In S1087, the control unit 11 calculates the experience points that will increase when the practice of the processing object selected by the user is performed based on a formula described in the game program, and displays the calculated experience points in the experience point area A930. In this formula, the relationship between each practice and the type and increase of the experience points that will increase is defined. Note that this relationship may be stored in the storage unit 12 as a table rather than a formula. For example, the control unit 11 acquires the type and increase of the experience points associated with the practice of the processing object selected by the user. Then, the control unit 11 refers to the determination result in S1081 to determine whether the event character that is good at the practice of the processing object selected by the user will participate in the practice, and if so, increases the acquired increase value. This increase may be a fixed value or a variable value. For example, the control unit 11 may randomly determine the increase, or may increase the increase as the rarity or level parameter of the event character increases. The control unit 11 displays the increase value calculated as described above in the experience point area A930, and displays the result of the determination made in S1081 in the game character area A940.

Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines whether the processing object selected in S1083 has been selected again (S1089). If the user has selected again (S1089; Y), the control unit 11 updates the original character table TBL304 so that the ability parameters of the main character increase by the increase value determined in S and the evaluations of the event character and other characters who participated in the practice increase by a predetermined value (S1091), and causes the display unit 15 to display the practice result screen image G1000 (FIG. 14) and the event screen image G1100 (FIG. 15) (S1093).

In S1093, the control unit 11 displays the message area A1030 to indicate the increase in the ability parameter of the main character and the increase in the evaluation parameter of the event character and other characters who participated in the practice together. The increase in the evaluation parameter may be a fixed value or may vary randomly. The control unit 11 also displays the dog character C1040 in the practice result screen image G1000 with a given probability, and grants the user a randomly determined game item. As described above, this probability may be determined in advance in the storage unit 12, but if the notice screen image G1400 is displayed at the start of the section, the control unit 11 increases this probability. The control unit 11 may also update the user table TBL301 so that the game item is granted at the time of S1093, or may update the user table TBL301 so that the game item is granted at the end of the section.

In S1093, the control unit 11 determines whether or not to generate a game event of the event character who participated in the practice with a given probability. For example, the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 to identify a game event of the event character who participated in the practice with the player, and determines whether or not to generate the identified game event with the above probability. The probability of occurrence may be different or the same for each game event. When the control unit 11 determines to generate a game event, it displays the event screen image G1100 on the display unit 15, and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the parameters of the main character change (increase or decrease). The relationship between the game event and the type of parameter (at least one of ability parameter, stamina parameter, motivation parameter, experience point point, and evaluation parameter) and the change amount may be stored in advance in the storage unit 12. The control unit 11 updates the original character table TBL304 so that the parameter of the type associated with the generated game event changes by the change amount.

Furthermore, in S1093, if a time-limited scenario is in progress, the control unit 11 determines, based on a given probability, whether or not to generate a game event for the main character to acquire a super special ability. The control unit 11 may also generate this game event randomly. If the control unit 11 determines to generate a game event, it causes the display unit 15 to display an event screen image G1100, and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the main character acquires the super special ability.

In S1089, the control unit 11 may, with a given probability, cause the practice to fail and the main character to become injured. In this case, the processes of S1091 and S1093 are not executed. For example, the control unit 11 determines the probability that the main character will become injured based on the main character's physical strength parameters. If the main character is injured, the control unit 11 may cause the display unit 15 to display a screen image indicating that the main character is injured, and update the original character table TBL304 so that the main character's ability parameters decrease by a predetermined value.

In S1083, if the user selects processing object P950 (S1083; P950), the process returns to S1077. On the other hand, if the user selects processing object P812 (S1083; P812), the control unit 11 causes a given menu screen image to be displayed on the display unit 15, and executes interruption or cancellation of the success part and various setting processes based on input from the input unit 14 (S1095).

Returning to FIG. 49, when the user selects processing object P842 in S1079 (S1079; P842), the control unit 11 generates a game event in which the main character rests (S1097), and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the main character's vitality parameter recovers by a predetermined value (S1099). Note that generating a game event here means that the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a predetermined screen image indicating the game event. This also applies to the following explanations. In S1099, the control unit 11 may randomly change the recovery value of the vitality parameter, or may change the main character's state with a given probability (for example, causing the main character to suffer from insomnia).

When the user selects the processing object P846 (S1079; P846), the process moves to FIG. 51, where the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 and causes the display unit 15 to display the ability change screen image G1200 (FIG. 16) (S1101). In S1101, the control unit 11 displays the first area G1210 based on the data stored in the "ability parameter" field of the main character, and displays the second area G1220 based on the data stored in the "experience point points" field. Note that data showing the relationship between each ability parameter and the experience points consumed is stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 11 displays the relationship between each of the processing objects P1223-1 to P1223-7 and the experience points consumed in the second area G1220 based on this data.

Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object or tab has been selected in the ability change screen image G1200 (S1103).

When the user selects the pitcher ability tab T1211 or the fielder ability tab T1212 (S1103; T1211, T1212), the control unit 11 updates the display of the entire ability change screen image G1200 based on the selected pitcher ability tab T1211 or fielder ability tab T1212 (S1105). In S1105, the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304, and if the user selects the pitcher ability tab T1211, displays the ability parameters related to the pitcher from the "ability parameters" field of the main character in the first area G1210, and if the user selects the fielder ability tab T1212, displays the ability parameters related to the fielder from the "ability parameters" field of the main character in the first area G1210.

When the user selects the basic ability tab T1221 or the special ability tab T1222 (S1103; T1221, T1222), the control unit 11 updates the display in the second area G1220 (FIGS. 16 and 17) based on the selected basic ability tab T1221 or special ability tab T1222 (S1107). In S1107, the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304, and when the user selects the basic ability tab T1221, causes the second area G1220 to display the ability parameters related to the basic abilities from the "ability parameters" field of the main character, and when the user selects the special ability tab T1222, causes the second area G1220 to display the ability parameters related to the special abilities from the "ability parameters" field of the main character.

When the user selects one of the processing objects P1223-1 to P1223-6 (S1103; P1223-1 to P1223-6), the control unit 11 consumes the experience points of the main character to improve the ability parameters associated with the selected processing object (S1109). In S1109, the control unit 11 temporarily stores the amount of change in the ability parameters and experience points of the main character in the memory unit 12.

If the user selects processing object P1230 (S1103; P1230), the process returns to S1077. If the user selects processing object P1240 (S1103; P1240), the control unit 11 returns the ability parameters and experience points of the main character to their pre-change state (S1111). In S1111, the control unit 11 resets the amount of change in the ability parameters and experience points stored in the memory unit 12. By executing the process of S1111, the control unit 11 returns the ability change screen image G1200 to the state before the ability parameters and experience points of the main character were changed.

When the user selects processing object P1250 (S1103; P1250), the control unit 11 updates the original character table TBL304 so that the ability parameters and experience points of the main character indicate the changed values (S1113), and returns to S1077. In S1113, the control unit 11 refers to the amount of change in the ability parameters and experience points stored in the memory unit 12, and increases or decreases the values stored in the "ability parameters" field and "experience points" field by this amount of change.

Returning to FIG. 49, when the user selects processing object P843 in S1079 (S1079; P843), the control unit 11 generates a game event in which the main character visits a hospital (S1115), and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the main character's status parameters change (S1117). In S1117, the control unit 11 determines, based on a given probability, whether or not to restore the main character's status parameters, and if it is determined that the main character should be restored, it updates the original character table TBL304. For example, if the status parameters indicate that the main character is injured or ill, the control unit 11 determines, based on the above probability, whether or not to treat the injury or illness, and if it is determined that the main character should be treated, it changes the status parameters so that the main character shows a healthy state.

When the user selects a processing object P844 (S1079; P844), the control unit 11 generates a game event for the main character to play (S1119), and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the main character's parameters change (S1121). For example, multiple types of game events are prepared for play, and the control unit 11 determines which game event will occur based on the user's operation or randomly. In addition, data indicating the relationship between the game event and the type and amount of change of the parameter is stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 11 changes the main character's parameters so that the parameter type associated with the game event that occurred changes by that amount.

When the user selects the processing object P845 (S1079; P845), the control unit 11 generates a game event in which the main character goes on a date (S1123), and updates the original character table TBL304 so that the main character's parameters change (S1125). For example, multiple types of dating game events are prepared, and the control unit 11 determines which game event will occur based on the user's operation or randomly. In addition, data indicating the relationship between the game event and the type and amount of change of the parameter is stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 11 changes the main character's parameters so that the parameter type associated with the game event that occurred changes by that amount.

When the user selects processing object P821 (S1079; P821), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the log of events that occurred in the success part (S1127). For example, the control unit 11 records in the memory unit 12 the conversation history of each character in the event that occurred in the success part, and in S1127, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the event log based on this content.

When the user selects processing object P822 (S1079; P822), the control unit 11 updates the auto flag stored in the user table TBL301 (S1129). When the user selects processing object P823 (S1079; P823), the control unit 11 updates the skip flag stored in the user table TBL301 (S1131). When the user selects processing object P824 (S1079; P824), the control unit 11 updates the shortcut flag stored in the user table TBL301 (S1133).

When the user selects processing object P812 (S1079; P812), the control unit 11 causes a given menu screen image to be displayed on the display unit 15, and based on the input from the input unit 14, interrupts or stops the success part and executes various setting processes (S1135).

When processing such as S1099 is executed, the process moves to FIG. 52, where the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 to determine whether the current section has ended (S1137). In S1137, the control unit 11 determines whether the current number of turns stored in the original character table TBL304 is the last turn.

If it is determined that the current section has not ended (S1137; N), the control unit 11 executes processing to proceed to the next turn (S1139). In S1139, the control unit 11 increments the number of turns stored in the original character table TBL304.

If it is determined that the current section has ended (S1139; Y), the control unit 11 determines whether or not the current section was the last section (S1141). In S1141, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the current section stored in the original character table TBL304 is the last section.

If it is determined that this is not the last section (S1141; N), the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 and causes the display unit 15 to display the section completion screen image G1300 (S1143). The control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the section completion screen image G1300 indicating the experience points stored in the "experience point points" field of the original character table TBL304.

The control unit 11 determines whether or not to increase the probability of finding a treasure chest based on a predetermined method (S1145). In S1145, the control unit 11 may randomly determine whether or not to increase the probability of finding a treasure chest, or may determine this based on whether or not the experience points in the section are equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

If it is decided to increase the probability of finding a treasure chest (S1145; Y), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the preview screen image G1400 (S1147). The control unit 11 executes a process to proceed to the next section based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1149). In S1149, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display options for the next section, and proceeds to the next section based on the section indicated by the option selected by the user. The control unit 11 stores information identifying the next section in the "development status" field of the original character table TBL304.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S1141 that this was the last section (S1141; Y), the control unit 11 executes processing to end the success part (S1151) and returns to S1009. In S1151, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image indicating that the success part has ended. Then, based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 updates the original character table TBL304 so that the ability parameters of the main character are determined. The control unit 11 registers the main character whose ability parameters have been determined as an original character in the original character table TBL304, and updates the "development status" field to "development completed."

Returning to FIG. 43, if the user selects processing object P150 in S1011 (S1011; P150), the process moves to FIG. 53, where the control unit 11 refers to the user table TBL301 and causes the display unit 15 to display processing objects P151 and P152 (FIG. 34) (S1153). Note that if the time-limited event is not being held, processing object P152 is not displayed. Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the home screen image G100 (S1155).

When the user selects the processing object P151 (S1155; P151), the control unit 11 refers to the order table TBL305 and starts a regular match based on the regular order. After that, the regular match is played according to the flow of S2 to S14 described above, but a more detailed explanation will be given here.

The control unit 11 refers to the user table TBL301 and causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing information such as the user's league and ranking (S1157), and when the user performs a specified operation, requests information on potential opponents from the server 30 (S1159).

When the server 30 receives the request, the control unit 31 refers to the user table TBL301 to select a predetermined number of opponent candidates (S3005) and transmits information on the selected opponent candidates to the user terminal 10 (S3007). In S3007, the control unit 31 selects a predetermined number (e.g., five) of other users who are about the same strength as the user based on the user's rank, league, ranking, etc. The other users selected here may be users who are not friends. The control unit 31 refers to the user table TBL301 and event character table TBL302, and transmits information on the selected opponent candidates, such as their user names, ranks, and the event characters set as leaders, to the user terminal 10.

When the user terminal 10 receives information about the opponent candidates, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing the opponent candidates (S1161). In this screen image, multiple opponent candidates are displayed so that they can be selected. The control unit 11 determines the opponent based on the user's operation (S1163) and requests an order for that opponent (S1165). This request includes the user ID determined as the opponent.

When the server 30 receives an order request, the control unit 31 refers to the order table TBL305, obtains the order information of the user selected as the opponent, and transmits it to the user terminal 10 (S3009).

When the user terminal 10 receives the order information, the control unit 11 refers to the order table TBL305 and causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing the user's starting order and the opponent's starting order (S1167). This screen image displays the batting order, name, position, and rank of the original characters in the starting order along with the team name.

The control unit 11 identifies the user's operation based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1169). For example, the user is capable of performing an operation to change the order and an operation to confirm the order and determine the condition.

When the user performs an operation to change the order (S1169; Change order), the control unit 11 displays the normal order editing screen image G2200 on the display unit 15, executes the order editing process based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1171), and returns to S1167. The process of S1171 is the same as S1283 to S1293 described below, so a description thereof will be omitted here.

When the user performs an operation to confirm the order and determine the condition (S1169; Order Confirmed), the process moves to FIG. 54, where the control unit 11 determines the condition of the starting order of the user and the opponent (S1173). In S1173, the control unit 11 randomly determines one of multiple stages of condition for each original character in the starting order, and stores the result in the memory unit 12.

The control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the result of the condition determination in S1173 (S1175), and causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image for selecting game items to be used in the match by referring to the user table TBL301 (S1177). In S1177, the control unit 11 causes the game items stored in the "item" field of the user table TBL301 to be displayed in a selectable manner.

The control unit 11 identifies the user's operation based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1179). For example, the user is capable of performing an operation to select a game item, an operation to specify the method of proceeding with the match, and an operation to start the match. As the method of proceeding with the match, it is possible to specify either that the match proceeds completely automatically, or that the user control an original character at a predetermined scene.

When the user performs an operation to select a game item (S1179; game item), the control unit 11 stores the game item selected by the user in the memory unit 12 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1181). When the user performs an operation to specify the method of proceeding with the match (S1179; method of proceeding), the control unit 11 stores information indicating the method of proceeding specified by the user in the memory unit 12 (S1183).

When the user performs an operation to start the match (S1179; start of match), the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 so as to consume one match ticket (S1185) and starts the match (S1187). In S1187, the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 so as to consume the game item selected by the user. Then, the control unit 11 progresses the match based on the progress method specified by the user. When the match is to be progressed completely automatically, the control unit 11 automatically progresses the match from start to finish without the user's operation. On the other hand, when the user operates an original character in a predetermined scene, the control unit 11 automatically progresses the match and allows the user to operate the original character when the match reaches a predetermined scene. The scenes in which the user can operate may be predetermined. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the score obtained is higher when the user operates, the scenes in which the user can operate may be limited to a predetermined number of times. The method of progressing the match itself may be applicable to various known sports game progress methods.

The control unit 11 calculates the score the user has obtained in the match based on the results of the match (S1189), and transmits the calculated score to the server 30 (S1119). For example, data indicating the relationship between the content and result of the match and the increase or decrease in score is stored in the storage unit 12, and in S1189, the control unit 11 calculates the score the user has obtained in the match based on the increase or decrease in score associated with the content and result of the match. This relationship is defined as, for example, +1000 points for a win in the match, -200 points for a loss in the match, +2000 points for a hit by an original character operated by the user, and +100 points for a hit by an original character not operated by the user.

When the server 30 receives the score, the control unit 31 refers to the user table TBL301 to determine the ranking of the user (S3011) and determines whether the user has overtaken the friend's score (S3013). In S3013, the control unit 31 may determine the ranking among all users, or may determine the ranking within the league to which the user belongs. Note that if the user does not update the best score, the processing of S3011 to S3017 may be omitted.

If it is determined that the friend has been overtaken (S3013; Y), the control unit 31 executes a process for sending a challenge to the friend (S3015). In S3015, the control unit 31 stores the user ID in the "challenge" field of the record corresponding to the friend in the user table TBL301.

The control unit 31 transmits the user's latest ranking to the user terminal 10 (S3017). If the user overtakes the friend's score, information indicating that a challenge letter has been sent is also transmitted to the user terminal 10, and the display unit 15 of the user terminal 10 displays this information.

When the user terminal 10 receives the ranking, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing the result of the match (S1193), and if the ranking has increased, causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing the ranking (S1195). The control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 to update the user's ranking, etc. (S1197). In S1195, the control unit 11 causes the screen image to display the points of both teams, the win or loss, the score obtained in the match, the breakdown of the score, the user's best score, the number of medals obtained, the gacha points obtained, etc.

On the other hand, if the user selects the processing object P152 in S1155 (S1155; P152), the control unit 11 refers to the order table TBL305 and executes processing to start the match for the limited time event based on the order for the limited time event (S1199 to S1239). The processing of S1199 to S1239 is similar to S1157 to S1197, respectively. However, in S1231, the control unit 11 determines whether or not there is an original character to which a score bonus has been granted in the user's order based on the order table TBL305, and if it is determined that there is, the control unit 11 increases the score by the score bonus granted to that original character. If there are multiple original characters to which a score bonus has been granted, the control unit 11 increases the score by the total of the score bonuses of these multiple original characters. In this respect, S1231 and S1189 differ.

Returning to FIG. 43, when the user selects processing object P160 in S1011 (S1011; P160), the control unit 11 executes processing related to the challenge part (S1241). For example, data indicating the relationship between each goal to be achieved by the user, the reward, and the user's achievement status is stored in the storage unit 12, and in S1241, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image indicating the goals that the user has achieved and the goals that he or she has not yet achieved based on this data. When the user achieves a new goal, the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 so that the reward (game item, coins, etc.) associated with the achieved goal is given to the user.

When the user selects processing object P170 (S1011; P170), the process moves to FIG. 57, where the control unit 11 refers to the user table TBL301, causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing a list of friends who have sent a challenge letter (S1243), and determines an opponent from among the friends who have sent a challenge letter based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1245). The subsequent steps S1247 to S1277 are the same as S1165 to S1197. However, as mentioned above, match tickets are not consumed in a match against a friend using a challenge letter, so S1185 is not executed.

On the other hand, if the user selects processing objects P121 to P125, P130, etc. in S1011, etc., the common routine shown in FIG. 59 is executed. If the user selects processing object P121 (FIG. 59: P121), the process returns to S1009, and the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the home screen image G100.

When the user selects processing object P122 (Fig. 59: P122), the process moves to Fig. 60, where the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the My Team menu screen image G2100 (S1279). Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the My Team menu screen image G2100 (Fig. 28) (S1281).

When the user selects the processing object P2140 (S1281; P2140), the control unit 11 refers to the order table TBL305 and causes the display unit 15 to display the regular order editing screen image G2200 (FIG. 29) (S1283). The control unit 11 identifies the user's operation based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1285).

When the user performs an operation to switch orders (S1285; Switch Operation), the control unit 11 updates the order table TBL305 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1287). In S1287, the control unit 11 switches the two original characters based on the input from the input unit 14. The operation to switch orders is as described above.

When the user selects the processing object P2240 (S1285; P2240), the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 and automatically determines the order (S1289). In S1289, the control unit 11 determines that the order will include original characters with high ability parameters or original characters with a large total experience points acquired in the success part.

When the user selects the processing object P2250 (S1285; P2250), the control unit 11 reverts the order to its original state (S1291). For example, the order at the time when the regular order editing screen image G2200 is displayed is stored in the memory unit 12, and the control unit 11 reverts the contents of the order table TBL305 to this order.

When the user selects the processing object P2270 (S1285; P2270), the control unit 11 determines the pitcher's usage method based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1293). In S1293, the control unit 11 updates the order table TBL305 so that the usage method is the one specified from the input unit 14. When the user selects the processing object P2280 (S1285; P2280), the process returns to S1279.

On the other hand, if the user selects the processing object P2150 in S1281 (S1281; P2150), the process moves to FIG. 61, where the control unit 11 refers to the order table TBL305 and causes the display unit 15 to display the time-limited order editing screen image G2300 (FIG. 30) (S1295). Thereafter, the processes of S1297 to S1305 are the same as those of S1285 to S1293. In addition, in S1295, if there is an event character with an associated score bonus, the control unit 11 causes the total value of the score bonus of the event character and the score bonus in the current order to be displayed. Specifically, the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 and determines whether the event character ID of the special effect character is stored in the "event deck" field of the original character included in the order. Then, if it is determined that the event character ID of the special effect character is stored, the control unit 11 obtains the score bonus of the special effect character and causes it to be displayed on the time-limited order editing screen image G2300. It should be noted that information indicating the score bonus for each special effect character is stored in the memory unit 12.

In S1281, when the user selects processing object P2160 (S1281; P2160), the control unit 11 refers to the original character table TBL304 and causes the display unit 15 to display a screen image showing a list of original characters (S1307).

When the user selects the processing object P2170 (S1281; P2170), the control unit 11 executes an editing process for the original character based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1309). In the editing process for the original character, for example, the name, appearance, striking form, etc. of the original character can be changed in response to the input from the input unit 14.

Returning to FIG. 59, if the user selects processing object P123 in S1011 or the like (FIG. 59; P123), the process moves to FIG. 62, where the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the event character menu screen image G1500 (FIG. 20) (S1311). Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the event character menu screen image G1500 (S1313).

When the user selects the processing object P1540 (S1313; P1540), the control unit 11 refers to the event deck table TBL303 and causes the display unit 15 to display the event deck editing screen image G1600 (Figures 21 and 22) (S1315). Thereafter, the processing of S1317 to S1327 is the same as S1027 to S1037.

In S1313, if the user selects a processing object P1550 (S1313; P1550), the process moves to FIG. 64, where the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the base character selection screen image G1700 (FIG. 23) (S1329). Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the base character selection screen image G1700 (S1331).

When the user selects a processing object P1750 (S1331; P1750), the control unit 11 rearranges the event characters in the event character list area A1740 based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1333). The processing of S1333 is the same as S1067.

When the user selects a processing object of any of the event characters in the event character list area A1740 (S1331; event character), the process proceeds to FIG. 65, and the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display the reinforcement screen image G1800 (FIG. 24) in which the event character is set as the base character (S1335). The event character ID of the base character selected by the user is temporarily stored in the storage unit 12. Also, when the user performs a long press operation on any of the event characters in the event character list area A1740, the control unit 11 may proceed to S1039 and cause the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400. Similarly, when the user performs a long press operation on any of the material characters in the material character area A1850, the control unit 11 may proceed to S1039 and cause the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400.

Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines whether any processing object has been selected in the reinforcement screen image G1800 (S1337). If the user selects the material character area A1850 (S1337; A1850), the process moves to FIG. 66, where the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display the material character selection screen image G1900 (S1339). Note that even if the user performs a long press on any material character in the event character list area A1940, the control unit 11 may also move to S1039 and cause the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400.

In S1339, the control unit 11 compares the base character stored in the storage unit 12 with each event character stored in the event character table TBL302 to determine whether the user owns an event character that is the same as the base character. If it is determined that the user owns an event character that is the same as the base character, the control unit 11 calculates the probability of increasing the maximum level of the base character based on the rarity of the base character and the rarity of the event character. As for this calculation method, as described above, the control unit 11 sets the probability to 100% if the event character that is the same as the base character has a rarity equal to or higher than the rarity of the base character, sets the probability to a value less than 100% (e.g., 30%) if the rarity is one level lower than the base character, and sets the probability to 0% if the rarity is two levels lower than the base character. Furthermore, the control unit 11 may calculate so that the probability is higher the greater the current increase in the maximum level of the base character (i.e., how much it has increased from the initial value of the maximum level), or so that the probability is lower the higher the rarity of the base character. Furthermore, the control unit 11 may refer to the "event deck" field of the original character table TBL304 to determine the number of original characters raised with the base character incorporated in the event deck, and calculate so that the greater this number, the higher the probability. The control unit 11 then displays the calculated probability for each event character that is the same as the base character in the material character selection screen image G1900. Note that, since an event character that is different from the base character cannot increase the maximum level of the base character even if it is used as a material character, the control unit 11 does not calculate the probability for event characters that are different from the base character, and does not display the probability in the material character selection screen image G1900.

Based on the input from the input unit 14, the control unit 11 determines which processing object has been selected in the material character selection screen image G1900 (S1341). When the user selects an event character processing object in the event character list area A1940 (S1341; event character), the control unit 11 stores the selected event character in the storage unit 12 as a material character (S1343). In S1343, the control unit 11 calculates the experience value acquired by the base character by the material character selected by the user, the level to be increased, and the coins required for strengthening, and displays them in the area A1950. The experience value that can be acquired by each event character and the coins required are stored in the storage unit 12 in advance. Note that, when the user performs a long press operation on any of the event characters in the event character list area A1940, the control unit 11 may proceed to S1039 and display the event character screen image G400 on the display unit 15.

When the user selects a processing object P1960 (S1341; P1960), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a strengthening screen image G1800 in which the material character is set in material character area A1850 (S1345). In S1345, if a material character that is the same as the base character is selected, the control unit 11 causes the probability of increasing the maximum level of the base character to be displayed in the strengthening screen image G1800 for each material character that is the same as the base character, as in S1339. Also, as described above, material characters that are different from the base character cannot increase the maximum level of the base character, so the probability is not displayed in the strengthening screen image G1800.

When the user selects the processing object P1970 (S1341; P1970), the control unit 11 cancels the selection of the material character that was previously selected (S1347). In this case, the control unit 11 clears the material character stored in the memory unit 12.

Returning to FIG. 65, when the user selects a processing object P1860 in S1337 (S1337; P1860), the control unit 11 strengthens the base character based on the material character selected by the user (S1349), and causes the display unit 15 to display the strengthening result window G2000 (S1351).

In S1349, the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 to consume the coins calculated in S1343, and updates the event character table TBL302 to increase the experience points and level calculated in S1343. In addition, if one or more material characters identical to the base character are selected, the control unit 11 will determine for each material character whether or not to increase the maximum level of the base character corresponding to that material character, based on the probability of increasing the maximum level of the base character. Thereafter, the control unit 11 accepts an operation to select a processing object P2010 based on an input from the input unit 14, and returns to S1311.

In S1337, when the user selects processing object P1870 (S1337; P1870), control unit 11 cancels the selection of the material character selected in material character area A1850 (S1353). In this case, control unit 11 clears the material character stored in memory unit 12.

Returning to FIG. 62, when the user selects processing object P1560 in S1313 (S1313; P1560), the control unit 11 executes a process for selling the event character based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1355). In S1355, the control unit 11 identifies the event character designated by the user as the object for sale based on the input from the input unit 14. The control unit 11 then deletes the record of the sold event character from the event character table TBL302, and updates the user table TBL301 so that the number of coins owned by the user increases by a predetermined number. Note that data indicating the relationship between the event character and the coins at the time of sale is assumed to be stored in advance in the storage unit 12.

When the user selects the processing object P1570 (S1313; P1570), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the display unit 15 to display a list of event characters (S1357). Note that when the user performs a long press on any event character in the event character list, the control unit 11 may transition to S1039 and cause the display unit 15 to display an event character screen image G400.

When the user selects the processing object P1580 (S1313; P1580), the control unit 11 refers to the event character table TBL302 and causes the picture book to be displayed on the display unit 15 (S1359). Note that when the user performs a long press on any event character in the event character picture book, the control unit 11 may transition to S1039 and cause the display unit 15 to display the event character screen image G400.

When the user selects processing object P1590 (S1313; P1590), the control unit 11 executes the process of expanding the list of event characters based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1361). Information indicating the number of event characters that the user can own in the event character list may be stored in the user table TBL301 or the like. In S1361, the control unit 11 executes the process of expanding the list by consuming power stones.

Returning to FIG. 59, when the user selects the processing object P124 in S1011 or the like (FIG. 59; P124), the control unit 11 displays a screen image for the user to play gacha on the display unit 15, and executes gacha processing based on the input from the input unit 14 (S1363). In S1363, the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 so as to consume the user's gacha points. Then, the control unit 11 determines an event character to be given to the user from among multiple event characters under a given probability. Note that the gacha processing itself can be performed using various known methods. For example, the process of drawing a lottery for an event character to be given to the user may be performed by the server 30. In this case, in the server 30, the control unit 31 updates the user table TBL301 so as to consume the user's gacha points, and determines an event character to be given to the user from among multiple event characters under a given probability. The control unit 31 transmits data indicating the selected event character to the user terminal 10, and a screen image indicating the event character is displayed on the display unit 15.

When the user selects processing object P125 in S1011 or the like (FIG. 59; P125), the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a shop screen image, and executes a game item purchase process based on input from the input unit 14 (S1365). In S1365, the control unit 11 updates the user table TBL301 so that the user consumes medals to purchase a game item. Note that various known methods can be applied to the game item purchase process itself.

When the user selects processing object P130 (FIG. 59; P130) in S1011, etc., the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a menu screen image, and executes various menu processes based on input from the input unit 14 (S1367). Also, when the user selects processing object P230, etc. (FIG. 59; P230, etc.) in S1019, etc., the control unit 11 executes a process to return to the screen image that was displayed just before the current screen image (S1369).

[Summary of the first technique]
According to the game system 1 described above, since the correspondence between the level parameter of the event character and the effect occurring in the success part can be seen in the bonus detail screen image G500, the effect of the change in the level parameter of the event character on the change in the ability parameter of the main character can be easily understood. For example, by seeing this correspondence before the user selects a base character, the user can select and strengthen the base character after carefully considering the effect that occurs when the level parameter of the base character is changed. In other words, it is easy to understand to what extent the level parameter of the base character needs to be changed in order to obtain the desired effect.

In addition, in the case where effects are defined for each of a number of level parameter ranges divided into stages, as in this embodiment, the relationship between each range and the effect can be easily understood by displaying the bonus details screen image G500. In other words, it can be easily understood to what extent the event character's level parameter needs to be changed in order to obtain the desired effect. Furthermore, by dividing the level parameter ranges into stages, the user can strengthen the event character with the aim of reaching the next stage in order to obtain more advantageous effects, making it easier for the user to set goals.

In addition, because effects occur that are associated with the level parameter range to which the event character's level parameter values fall from their initial value to their current value, these can be easily understood by distinguishing between effects that are currently occurring and effects that are not currently occurring (effects that may occur if the level parameter is increased in the future) in the bonus details screen image G500. In addition, by displaying the bonus details screen image G500 that distinguishes between effects that are currently occurring and effects that are not currently occurring, it becomes easy to understand the range to which the current value of the event character's level parameter falls out of the multiple level parameter ranges that are divided into stages.

Also, as in this embodiment, by displaying the bonus detail screen image G500 when a specified operation is performed from the event character screen image G400, the correspondence between the event character's level parameters and effects can be displayed when the user wants to check. Note that, in cases where the correspondence information is displayed while an image for accepting an operation to select a base character is displayed, the relationship between the base character's level parameters and effects can be checked on the same screen when selecting a base character. As a result, the user can check the relationship between the base character's level parameters and effects without having to perform operations such as switching screens to select a base character.

In addition, in the material character selection screen image G1900, the user can view condition information regarding the conditions for allowing the level parameter of an event character to reach or exceed the maximum level, so the user can select a material character after understanding the conditions. This makes it easier for the user to determine whether the selected base character and material character are a valid combination. Also, for example, the user can develop a main character with a particular tendency by increasing the maximum level of an event character with a particular favorite training skill.

In addition, when selecting a material character in the material character selection screen image G1900, the user can see whether it is possible to satisfy the conditions for increasing the maximum level of the base character (whether it is the same character), so the user can select a material character after understanding whether the maximum level is likely to increase. In addition, since the user can easily understand whether the material character satisfies the conditions for increasing the maximum level, it becomes easier to prevent erroneous selection such as selecting a material character when the maximum level cannot be increased. For example, when selecting a material character in the material character selection screen image G1900, the user can see the probability for increasing the maximum level of the base character, so the user can select a material character after understanding this probability. This allows the user to strategically select material characters by taking into account the probability for increasing the maximum level of the base character.

In addition, by displaying the event power in the event character screen image G400, it is possible to easily understand before starting the success part how much effect incorporating an event character into the event deck will have on the development of the main character in the success part.

In addition, by displaying the player's abilities in the event character screen image G400, it is easy to understand before the start of the success part how advantageous the selection of an event character will be in winning the match during the success part.

In addition, the strategic nature of the game can be enhanced by making the player consider whether to select an event character that will be used in the match during the success part, or an event character that will not be used in the match during the success part.

[Summary of the second technique]
In addition, when the success part is advantageous in the stadium part when the special effect character is selected, such as during a limited-time event, the player can be motivated to select the special effect character instead of the event character currently incorporated in the event deck, so that the event character incorporated in the event deck is prevented from being fixed. In addition, for example, by training using a special effect character in a limited-time event, a score bonus is given to the original character, so that training can be done with a sense of tension by training in a limited time. In addition, by limiting the period during which the score bonus is given, such as during a limited-time event, it is possible to suppress unlimited training of original characters, so that it is easy to keep the balance of strength and weakness between users within a certain range. In other words, if the period during which the score bonus is given is not limited, a user who owns a special effect character will continue to have an advantage in terms of score, but by limiting the period, such a state can be prevented. In addition, since it is the special effect character, not the original character itself used in the match, that can give a score bonus to the original character in a limited-time event, the effect on the game is indirect, so to speak, and a game with depth and timelessness can be realized.

In addition, in the event deck setting screen image G300, the event character change screen image G600, and the like, information about special effect characters and information about other event characters are distinguished, so the user can easily determine which are the special effect characters when selecting event characters to incorporate into the event deck. This makes it easier for the user to consider the best event deck that includes special effect characters and other event characters.

In addition, the score bonus granted to the original character of the order and the total value are displayed in the time-limited order editing screen image G2300 in FIG. 30, so the user can easily understand how much score bonus they can earn by fighting in a match of the time-limited event with the current order. Furthermore, the user can easily consider whether to prioritize score bonuses or ability parameters when creating an order.

Also, as shown in the event character change screen image G600 in FIG. 31, when the user selects an event character to include in the event deck, the score bonus to the main character from the special effect character is displayed, so the user can easily understand what effect will occur in the stadium part if they include which event character in the event deck.

The effect occurring in the success part may be changed based on the ability parameters and level parameters of the special effect character. In this case, the effect occurring in the success part can be changed, and the interest of the success part can be improved. For example, if the effect occurring in the success part is higher as the ability parameters of the special effect character are higher, the user can be made to consider whether to incorporate a special effect character with a low score bonus but high ability parameters into the event deck, or a special effect character with a high score bonus but low ability parameters into the event deck, and the interest of the success part can be improved. Furthermore, for example, if the effect occurring in the success part is higher as the level parameter of the special effect character is higher, the user can be made to consider whether to focus on strengthening the special effect character during the limited-time event and then incorporate it into the event deck, or to not strengthen the special effect character and strengthen other event characters and incorporate them into the event deck, and the interest of the success part can be improved. In addition, the user can be motivated to change the parameters of the special effect character.

Furthermore, as in this embodiment, if an effect that is favorable for obtaining rewards occurs in the stadium part, the user will select a special effect character in order to obtain more rewards, and this will further strengthen the motivation to select a special effect character.

In addition, because the effects in the stadium part change based on the parameters of the special effect character, it is possible to vary the effects that occur in the stadium part, making the stadium part more interesting. It is also possible to motivate the user to change the parameters of the special effect character.

Also, if the effect is changed based on the number of main characters whose ability parameters are set based on the special effect character, it will be possible to provide motivation to change the ability parameters of more main characters in the success part (to develop more main characters in the success part).

Also, by allowing the user to select an event character owned by another user (friend) associated with the user, the ability parameters of the main character can be changed in the success part based on the event characters owned by the other user. As a result, for example, even if the user does not own a special effect character, if the other user owns a special effect character, an advantageous effect can be obtained in the stadium part, which can serve as an opportunity to build a cooperative relationship between users. Also, a user who owns a special effect character can be given an opportunity to show off to other users that he or she owns a special effect character. Also, by making the stadium part a competitive game, the development of the main character using the special effect character can have a large impact on the outcome of the competitive game, so the special effect character can create a stronger competitive spirit between users. .

[Summary of the third technique]
Furthermore, according to game system 1, the favorite practice areas A346 and A1646 display favorite practices associated with the event characters incorporated into the event deck, allowing the user to select an event character while understanding which practice to select to give an advantage (the user can select an event character while understanding which practice the current event deck will give an advantage to). Also, in order to develop the main character to have the abilities the user desires, the user can easily understand what event characters should be incorporated into the event deck.

In addition, according to game system 1, when the favorite practices associated with multiple event characters incorporated in the event deck are the same, information indicating the number of favorite practices is displayed in favorite practice areas A346, A1646, making it easier to visually confirm information related to the favorite practice of the event deck without significantly changing the display format. Also, when the favorite practice associated with multiple event characters incorporated in the event deck is the same, if the user selects that favorite practice, the ability parameters of the main character will increase significantly, making it easy to understand the degree of effect occurring with the current event deck.

In addition, according to game system 1, in the favorite practice areas A346 and A1646, favorite practices associated with the event character incorporated into the event deck are displayed separately from other favorite practices. This makes it easy to visually see what kind of main character can be developed with the current event deck.

Furthermore, according to game system 1, in the favorite practice areas A346 and A1646, practices in which the main character is a fielder are displayed on the left side, and practices in which the main character is a pitcher are displayed on the right side, and the practices are displayed in an order determined based on the role of the main character being developed. This allows the user to easily visually see what role the main character can have when developed with the current event deck.

[Summary of the fourth technology]
Furthermore, according to game system 1, when the content of the scenario changes based on the choices, if a specific choice is selected, a specific effect occurs even if a specific event character is not selected, so that a specific effect can be caused even if the specific event character is not possessed.

In addition, according to game system 1, certain choices only occur during certain time periods, so the user can enjoy the same scenario multiple times. In other words, even if the user has played through each section of the scenario, certain choices occur during certain time periods, allowing the user to play new content.

[Summary of the fifth technology]
Furthermore, according to the game system 1, when a user's achievement exceeds that of another user, a challenge letter is sent, and a game in which users compete against each other is provided, thereby promoting competition between users. For example, by sending a challenge letter, communication with friends can be activated. Furthermore, since a user does not compete against a completely unknown opponent, but against a user with whom the user has a friendship, the psychological burden can be reduced. For example, when a challenge letter arrives while a user is playing a game, it is possible to have a battle in near real time, which can improve the interest of the game. Furthermore, by sending a challenge letter when a user's achievement exceeds that of another user, the challenge letter is sent from a user with a relatively similar achievement, which can easily create a competitive spirit between users with similar abilities.

In addition, according to game system 1, a user who receives a challenge can battle using an original character owned by that user and an original character owned by the user who sent the challenge. This provides an incentive for each user to use their own original character to give them an advantage in the battle (for example, by developing the original character or editing the order).

In addition, according to the game system 1, the number of times a challenge letter can be sent within a certain period of time can be limited. This reduces the processing load on the server 30 caused by sending a large number of challenge letters. Furthermore, by limiting the notification of a challenge letter to a certain period of time, it is possible to avoid confusion for users who have received a challenge letter, caused by receiving a large number of challenge letters.

In addition, according to game system 1, the reward in the competitive game played by receiving a challenge letter is a reward that can be advantageous to the user's performance. Therefore, the user who sent the challenge letter by using the reward can be given an opportunity to compete further.

5. Modifications
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[5-1. Modifications of the first technique]
For example, in the embodiment, the condition for increasing the maximum level of the base character is synthesis with the same material character, but a dedicated game item may be used to increase the maximum level of the event character. Furthermore, the dedicated game item may be one, or a combination of multiple game items. In the case of a combination of multiple game items, for example, when a user owns three game items A and two game items B, the maximum level of the base character may be increased by consuming a total of five game items. In this case, the probability of increasing the maximum level may differ depending on the game item. For example, the probability may be increased as the number of game items increases, or the probability may be increased as the rarity of the game item increases.

For example, in order to increase the maximum level of a base character, the number of original characters trained in the success part after setting this base character in the event deck may be set as a condition. For example, if the number of original characters trained reaches three or more, the maximum level may be increased by one, and if the number reaches five or more, the maximum level may be increased by two. In other words, the more original characters trained in the success part after setting the base character in the event deck, the greater the increase in the maximum level.

For example, the amount of increase in the maximum level of the base character may change based on the rarity of the base character and material character, rather than the probability of the base character's maximum level increasing. In this case, for example, if an "R" material character is used for an "R" base character, the maximum level may increase by "2", and if an "SR" material character is used for an "R" base character, the maximum level may increase by "5". In other words, the higher the rarity of the material character, the greater the amount of increase in the base character's maximum level.

In addition, for example, when a base character is strengthened using multiple material characters with the same name, a determination as to whether or not to increase the maximum level is made once for each material character. For example, when strengthening using two material characters with a 30% probability of increasing the maximum level, a determination is made twice as to whether or not to increase the maximum level by 1 with a 30% probability, but in this case, it is also possible to sum up 30% and 30% to determine only once whether or not to increase the maximum level by 1 with a 60% probability.

[5-2. Modifications of the second technique]
For example, the special effect character may be incorporated into the event deck to not only provide a score bonus in the stadium part, but also to have an effect on the training process of the main character in the success part, or to have an effect on the training result of the main character in the success part. For example, by incorporating the special effect character into the event deck, an effect that does not occur except for a specific period may occur during the success part, or a bonus to ability parameters may be given to the main character at the end of the success part.

For example, the period during which a specific effect occurs in the success part when a special effect character is incorporated into the event deck and the period during which a score bonus is given to an original character trained using the special effect character may be the same or may be different periods.

In addition, for example, a case has been described in which a score bonus is given at the end of a match in a limited-time event by developing an original character using a special effect character, but the effect may also be during the match in the limited-time event. For example, the ability parameters of an original character included in the order may increase, or the team's score may increase.

In addition, for example, a case has been described in which the score bonus generated by using a special effect character is displayed in the event deck setting area A340 (Fig. 32) of the event deck setting screen image G300 (Fig. 5), but the screen displaying the effect generated by the special effect character is not limited to this, and may be displayed on any screen related to the event character corresponding to the special effect character. For example, the score bonus from a special effect character may be displayed in the event character screen image G400 (Fig. 7) of the special effect character. Similarly, the score bonus granted to an original character may be displayed in a list of original characters.

In addition, for example, a score bonus has been given when a main character is trained with a special effect character incorporated into the event deck during the period of a limited-time event, but a score bonus may also be given if the main character is trained with a special effect character incorporated into the event deck prior to the limited-time event, i.e., even if the main character has already been trained. In other words, it is sufficient to train the main character with a special effect character incorporated into the event deck, and the training may be done prior to the period of the limited-time event.

[5-3. Modifications of the third technique]
For example, any one of the multiple favorite practices displayed in the favorite practice areas A346, A1646 (FIGS. 6, 10, 22, 32) may be made selectable, and the event character having the favorite practice selected by the user may be displayed on the display unit 15. In this way, the user can easily create an event deck for efficiently strengthening the desired ability parameters. In this case, the practice display control unit 1190 identifies the practice selected by the user from among the multiple practices based on the input from the input unit 14. Then, the practice display control unit 1190 refers to the event character table TBL302 and selects an event character having the identified practice as its favorite practice. The practice display control unit 1190 may display only the identified event character among the event characters owned by the user on the display unit 15. For another example, the practice display control unit 1190 may display the event character having the practice selected by the user as its favorite practice and other event characters in a distinguished manner.

For example, any of the multiple favorite practices displayed in the favorite practice area A346, A1646 (Figs. 6, 10, 22, 32) may be made selectable, and the event characters having the favorite practice selected by the user among the event characters indicated by the setting frames A344-1 to A344-5, A345 (Figs. 6, 10, 22, 32) (i.e., the event characters currently incorporated in the event deck) may be identifiably displayed on the display unit 15. In this way, for example, the user can easily specify the event character having the favorite ability that he or she wishes to replace, and can easily set the desired event deck. In this case, the practice display control unit 1190 specifies the practice selected by the user from among the multiple practices based on the input from the input unit 14. Then, the practice display control unit 1190 refers to the event character table TBL302 and the event deck table TBL303 to specify the favorite practice of the event character currently incorporated in the event deck. Note that the practice display control unit 1190 may obtain the favorite practice of the helper from the server 30. The practice display control unit 1190 compares the practice selected by the user with the favorite practice of the event character incorporated in the event deck, and displays the comparison result on the display unit 15. For example, the practice display control unit 1190 distinguishes between the event character whose favorite practice is the practice selected by the user and the event character whose favorite practice is not the practice selected by the user. The practice display control unit 1190 may simply display the event character whose favorite practice is the practice selected by the user differently from the event character whose favorite practice is not the practice selected by the user, and may distinguish between the event characters by changing the color tone or brightness of the event characters. In this case, the event character whose favorite practice is the practice selected by the user may be displayed brightly, and the event character whose favorite practice is the practice selected by the user may be displayed darker than that.

[5-4. Modifications of the fourth technique]
Also, for example, a time limit may be set for the main character that can be trained in the success part. In this case, time information regarding the success part is stored in the "training status" field of the original character table TBL304. This time is the start time of the success part, a specified time after the start time, or the deadline for playing the success part. The first game executing unit 1020 determines whether the current time has passed the deadline determined based on the time information, and if it determines that the deadline has passed, it may interrupt the training of the main character and have the player start over.

For example, the sections that the user can select may differ depending on the event characters incorporated in the event deck. In this case, the individual data storage unit 1000 or the like stores information indicating the relationship between each section and the event characters that can be incorporated in the event deck. The first game execution unit 1020 refers to the event deck table TBL303, identifies the sections that can be selected by the event characters incorporated in the event deck, and executes the identified sections in the success part. In this way, specific options arise depending on the specific event characters, which can motivate the user to collect many types of event characters.

Furthermore, a specific option may be provided when selecting the next section depending on the combination of a specific event character and scenario. In this case, if a specific combination of a specific event character and scenario is found, a specific option will be provided when selecting the next section. In this way, a specific option will be provided depending on the combination of a specific event character and scenario, providing the user with the opportunity to use many event characters.

Furthermore, there may be a branch that occurs on the condition that there is a specific combination of event characters in the event deck. That is, there may be a section that the user can select when there is a specific combination of event characters in the event deck. In this case, the individual data storage unit 1000 or the like stores information indicating the relationship between a specific combination of event characters and information regarding the branch. The information regarding the branch is information indicating a section that the user can select. The first game execution unit 1020 refers to the event deck table TBL303 and determines whether the combination of event characters incorporated in the event deck is a specific combination indicated by the above information. Then, when the first game execution unit 1020 determines that it is a specific combination, it generates a branch associated with the combination. In other words, the first game execution unit 1020 generates a branch that occurs only when it is a specific combination, and progresses the section selected by the user based on the input from the input unit 14. Note that here, a section may be automatically selected without the user's selection. In this way, a specific option occurs depending on a combination of multiple specific event characters, so that the user can be motivated to collect many types of event characters. Note that there may be a branch that occurs when one specific event character is incorporated into the event deck, rather than a combination of specific event characters. Furthermore, there may be multiple specific event characters prepared. In other words, if "A", "B", and "C" are prepared as specific event characters, a specific branch may occur if only one of these is incorporated into the event deck.

For example, a predetermined effect may occur in the success part based on a combination of a section selected by the user and an event character incorporated in the event deck. In this case, the individual data storage unit 1000 or the like stores information indicating the relationship between each section, event character, and effect. The first effect generation unit 1021 refers to the event deck table TBL303 and determines whether or not an event character associated with the section being executed is incorporated in the event deck. If the first effect generation unit 1021 determines that it is incorporated, it generates an effect associated with the section and event character in the success part.

For example, an effect may be generated in the success part based on a combination of sections currently or previously selected by the user. In this case, it is assumed that information indicating the relationship between the combination of sections and the effect is stored in the individual data storage unit 1000, etc. Also, it is assumed that information indicating the section selected by the user is stored in the individual data storage unit 1000. The first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect associated with a combination of a section currently selected by the user and a past section, or a combination of multiple sections previously selected by the user, in the success part. In other words, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate a predetermined effect in the success part based on a combination of branches previously selected by the user when multiple branches occur in the success part. For example, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate a predetermined effect in the third section of the success part based on a combination of the first section and the second section selected by the user. In other words, the first effect generation unit 1021 may generate an effect in the success part that is generated only when the user selects a branch of a predetermined combination. For example, the first effect generating unit 1021 may generate an effect in the third section of the success part that occurs only when the combination of the first section and the second section selected by the user is a predetermined combination.

For example, the sections that can be selected in the future may change based on the combination of sections that the user has currently or previously selected. In this case, the individual data storage unit 1000 or the like stores information indicating the relationship between the combination of sections and the selectable sections. Also, information indicating the sections selected by the user is stored in the data storage unit 100. The second game execution unit allows selection of only those sections that exist in the success part and are associated with the combination of sections selected by the user. In this way, specific options arise depending on the combination of options, providing the user with an opportunity to try out combinations of options. This makes it possible to provide the user with a scenario that can be enjoyed multiple times.

[5-5. Modifications of the fifth technique]
In addition, for example, in the embodiment, a challenge letter is sent when a friend surpasses the user's score, but a predetermined benefit may be given to the user whose score has been surpassed. The benefit may be a benefit that makes it easier for the user to surpass the friend whose score has been surpassed. For example, a special character, a game item, or the like may be given to the user whose score has been surpassed by a friend, making it easier for the user to surpass the friend.

In addition, for example, a challenge letter may be sent when a friend overtakes a user's score, but the challenge letter may be sent based on whether the friend's score meets a preset condition. For example, a challenge letter may be sent when the difference in scores between the user and the friend is within a predetermined value, or when the friend's score is higher than the user's score by a predetermined value or more. Similarly, a challenge letter may be sent when the difference in ranking between the user and the friend is within a predetermined value, or when the friend's ranking is higher than the user's score by a predetermined value or more.

In addition, for example, although the case where each user's score is reset at every predetermined period has been described, the score does not have to be reset. Furthermore, the score does not have to be reset when a predetermined period has elapsed. For example, the score may be reset when the user achieves a given goal.

In addition, for example, although the above describes a case where users compete for their high scores over a specified period of time, it would also be possible to have users compete for their cumulative scores. In this case, the cumulative score could be for a specified period of time, or for the entire past period of time.

Also, for example, not all of the user's friends may be the target of the challenge. For example, only friends designated by the user may be the target of the challenge. Also, for example, if multiple users play in a team, only users on the same team may be the target of the challenge. Furthermore, only users who have previously challenged a match or users who have previously been challenged to a match may be the target of the challenge.

For example, although a case has been described in which a challenge letter is sent automatically, the challenge letter may be sent when the user performs a specified operation. In other words, instead of sending the challenge letter to the user immediately when a friend overtakes the user's score, the challenge letter may be delayed until the friend or the user performs a specified operation.

Also, for example, the number of challenges a user can send may be limited. For example, the number of times a user can send a challenge may be limited to three times per day.

For example, the reward for a match in which a challenge letter is used may be different from the reward for a normal match. In this case, a match in which a challenge letter is used may be set to have a better reward than a normal match. For example, if a configuration is provided in which a player can play against a friend without consuming match tickets or the like (here, referred to as a practice match), rewards such as medals or tickets may not be obtained in the practice match, but rewards may be obtained in matches in which a challenge letter is used. If rewards can also be obtained in practice matches, a match in which a challenge letter is used may be set to have a better reward than the practice match. Conversely, no reward may be obtained in matches in which a challenge letter is used. The difference in rewards may be a difference in whether the reward is large or small, or a difference in the type of reward.

Also, for example, a challenge may be sent based on something other than score or ranking. For example, in the case of a game in which a user progresses through multiple stages, a challenge may be sent when a friend overtakes the stage in which the user is currently progressing.

[5-6. Other Modifications]
Also, for example, as described with reference to FIG. 3, when a user plays the success part, the user sets the event deck in the pre-part and starts the main part, but thereafter, the contents of the event deck may not be changed during the main part (the event characters incorporated in the event deck cannot be changed or replaced). In this way, the user can start the main part after carefully considering the development policy of the main character and the contents of the event deck, which can create more tension in the game. Conversely, the contents of the event deck may be made changeable in the main part. In this case, if the development of the main character in the main part does not go as expected, the contents of the event deck can be reviewed midway and the development of the main character can be corrected.

In the above example, the user selects one of multiple event characters to be incorporated into the event deck, but there may be only one event character. In this case, the level change unit 1040 changes the level parameter of the single event character. The first effect generation unit 1021 generates an effect on the success part related to the change or setting of the ability parameter of the main character based on the level parameter of the single event character. Furthermore, the effect display control unit 1060 executes control to display on the display unit 15 correspondence information (e.g., the bonus detail screen image G500 in FIG. 8) showing the correspondence between the level parameter of the single event character and the effect generated by the first effect generation unit 1021. Except for the fact that there is only one event character, these processes are the same as those described in the embodiment.

For example, although a case has been described in which the main processing related to the game is executed by the user terminal 10, the main processing related to the game may be executed by the server 30. In this case, the functions described as being realized by the user terminal 10 are mainly realized by the control unit 31. Conversely, the functions described as being realized by the server 30 may be implemented by the user terminal 10. In this case, the functions described as being realized by the server 30 are mainly realized by the control unit 11. Furthermore, the processing may be shared between the user terminal 10 and the server 30.

For example, the first game execution unit 1020, the first effect generation unit 1021, and the parameter change unit 1022 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the first game execution unit 1020, the first effect generation unit 1021, and the parameter change unit 1022 each transmit the execution result of the success part to the user terminal 10. When the user terminal 10 receives the execution result of the success part from the server 30, it stores it in the individual data storage unit 1000.

For example, the change target selection unit 1030 and the level change unit 1040 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the change target selection unit 1030 and the level change unit 1040 will each transmit the base character strengthening results to the user terminal 10. When the user terminal 10 receives the base character strengthening results from the server 30, it stores them in the individual data storage unit 1000.

For example, the use target selection unit 1050 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the use target selection unit 1050 acquires information indicating the event character selected by the user from the user terminal 10.

For example, the effect display control unit 1060 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the effect display control unit 1060 generates display data for the bonus details screen image G500 (Figure 8) and transmits it to the user terminal 10.

For example, the second game execution unit 1170, the special effect determination unit 1171, and the second effect generation unit 1172 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the second game execution unit 1170, the special effect determination unit 1171, and the second effect generation unit 1172 each transmit the execution result of the stadium part to the user terminal 10. When the user terminal 10 receives the execution result of the stadium part from the server 30, it stores it in the individual data storage unit 1000.

For example, the distinction display control unit 1150 may be realized by the server 30. In this case, the distinction display control unit 1150 generates display data for the event deck setting area A340 (FIGS. 6, 10, 22, 32) and transmits it to the user terminal 10.

For example, the achievement determination unit 3040 and the game providing unit 3050 may be realized in the user terminal 10. In this case, the achievement determination unit 3040 and the game providing unit 3050 obtain the achievements of the friend from the server 30, compare them with the achievements of the user, and allow the user to play against the friend if the friend has overtaken the user.

For example, the challenge display control unit 3060 may be realized in the user terminal 10. In this case, the challenge display control unit 3060 transmits data indicating the challenge to the server 30 or the friend's user terminal 10.

For example, in the embodiment, a case where a baseball game is executed has been described, but the present invention may also be applied to other games. It may be applied to a game in which the parameters of a game object are changed or set based on the user's operation, and may be applied, for example, to the training part and romance part in a romance simulation game. Also, for example, it may be applied to the training part and battle part in a role-playing game.

[6. Summary of the invention]
From the above description, the present invention can be understood, for example, as follows.

[6-1. Invention relating to the first technology]
1-1) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which a first parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and is characterized in that it includes: a change object selection means (1030) that selects one of a plurality of second game objects as a change object based on the user's operation; a parameter change means (1040) that changes a second parameter of the second game object selected by the change object selection means (1030); a use object selection means (1050) that selects at least one of the plurality of second game objects as a use object; an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect on the game related to the change or setting of the first parameter based on the second parameter of the second game object selected by the use object selection means (1050); and a display control means (1060) that executes control to cause a display means (15) to display, for each of the second game objects, correspondence information indicating a correspondence between the second parameter of the second game object and an effect generated by the effect generation means (1021) when the operation for selecting the change object is performed.

1-11) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which a first parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and is characterized in that it includes a parameter change means (1040) that changes a second parameter of a second game object, an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect in the game related to the change or setting of the first parameter based on the second parameter, and a display control means (1060) that executes control to display on a display means (15) correspondence information that indicates the correspondence between the second parameter and the effect generated by the effect generation means (1021).

1-12) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which the aim is to set a first parameter of a first game object to a desired state based on a user's operation, and includes a change object selection means (1030) that selects one of a plurality of second game objects as a change object based on the user's operation, a parameter change means (1040) that changes a second parameter of the second game object selected by the change object selection means (1030), and a use object selection means (1040) that selects at least one of the plurality of second game objects as a use object. 1050), an effect generating means (1021) that generates an effect in the game that is advantageous or disadvantageous for changing the first parameter to the desired state based on the second parameter of the second game object selected by the use target selection means (1050), and a display control means (1060) that executes control to display, for each of the second game objects, correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the second parameter of the second game object and the effect generated by the effect generating means (1021) when the operation for selecting the change target is performed, on the display means (15).

1-13) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device (10, 30) for executing a game in which a first parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and includes a change object selection means (1030) for selecting one of a plurality of second game objects as a change object based on the user's operation, a parameter change means (1040) for changing a second parameter of the second game object selected by the change object selection means (1030), and a use control means (1040) for selecting at least one of the plurality of second game objects as a use object. The game device includes a target selection means (1050), an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect in the game related to a change or setting of the first parameter based on the second parameter of the second game object selected by the use target selection means (1050), and a display control means (1060) that executes control to display, on the display means (15), correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the second parameter of the second game object and the effect generated by the effect generation means (1021) for each of the second game objects when the operation for selecting the change target is performed.

1-14) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device (10, 30) that executes a game in which a first parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and is characterized in that it includes a parameter change means (1040) that changes a second parameter of a second game object, an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect in the game related to the change or setting of the first parameter based on the second parameter, and a display control means (1060) that executes control to display on a display means (15) correspondence information that indicates the correspondence between the second parameter and the effect generated by the effect generation means (1021).

1-15) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device (10, 30) that executes a game in which the aim is to set a first parameter of a first game object to a desired state based on a user's operation, and includes a change object selection means (1030) that selects one of a plurality of second game objects as a change object based on the user's operation, a parameter change means (1040) that changes a second parameter of the second game object selected by the change object selection means (1030), and a use object selection means (1050) that selects at least one of the plurality of second game objects as a use object. The game device includes a selection means (1050), an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect in the game that is advantageous or disadvantageous for changing the first parameter to the desired state based on the second parameter of the second game object selected by the use target selection means (1050), and a display control means (1060) that executes control to display, for each of the second game objects, correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the second parameter of the second game object and the effect generated by the effect generation means (1021) on the display means (15) when the operation for selecting the change target is performed.

1-16) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as any of the game systems (1) described above or below, or any of the game control devices (10, 30) described above.

1-17) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the above program recorded thereon.

According to the present invention, since it is possible to see the correspondence between the second parameter of the second game object and the effect that occurs in the game, it is possible to easily grasp the effect that a change in the second parameter of the second game object has on a change in the first parameter of the first game object. For example, by viewing this correspondence before the user selects the second game object, the user can carefully consider the effect that will occur when the second parameter is changed, and then select the second game object and change the second parameter. In other words, it is possible to easily grasp to what extent the second parameter of the second game object needs to be changed in order to obtain the desired effect.

1-2) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a means (1070) for acquiring data stored in a means (1000, 3000) for storing data associating each of a plurality of parameter ranges divided into stages with an effect generated by the effect generating means (1021), the effect generating means (1021) generates an effect associated with a parameter range that has a history to which the second parameter of the second game object selected by the use target selecting means (1050) belongs, out of the plurality of parameter ranges, and the display control means (1060) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display the correspondence information indicating the correspondence between each of the plurality of parameter ranges and the effect generated by the effect generating means (1021).

According to aspects 1-2), when effects are defined for multiple parameter ranges divided into stages, the relationship between each parameter range and the effect can be easily understood. In other words, it is easy to understand to what extent the second parameter needs to be changed in order to obtain the desired effect.

1-3) In one aspect of the present invention, the display control means (1060) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display, for each of the second game objects, the correspondence information that distinguishes between an effect associated with a parameter range to which the value of the second parameter of the second game object from the initial value to the current value belongs and an effect associated with a parameter range to which the value of the second parameter of the second game object from the initial value to the current value does not belong.

According to aspects 1-3), an effect occurs that is associated with the parameter range to which the second parameter's initial value and current value belong, so by distinguishing between effects that currently occur and effects that do not currently occur (effects that may occur if the level is increased in the future), these can be easily understood.

1-4) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a means (1080) for executing control to cause the display means (15) to display a reception image for receiving the operation for selecting the change target, and the display control means (1060) includes at least one of a means (1060) for executing control to cause the display means (15) to display the correspondence information while the reception image is displayed, and a means (1060) for executing control to cause the display means (15) to display the correspondence information after an operation for displaying the correspondence information while the reception image is displayed is performed.

According to aspects 1-4), by displaying the correspondence information while the reception image for receiving an operation to select an object to be changed is displayed, the contents of these can be confirmed on the same screen. In addition, by displaying the correspondence information when a predetermined operation is performed, the correspondence information can be displayed when the user wants to check it when performing a selection operation on the reception image.

1-5) In one aspect of the present invention, the parameter changing means (1040) changes the second parameter of the second game object selected by the change target selection means (1030) based on the other game object, and the game system (1) includes other game object selection means (1090) for selecting at least one of a plurality of game objects as the other game object based on the user's operation, and a second game object selection means (1090) for selecting the second game object selected by the change target selection means (1030) based on the other game object selected by the other game object selection means (1090). The game object selection device further includes a determination means (1100) for determining whether a given condition associated with the second game object is satisfied, a permission means (1110) for permitting the second parameter of the second game object selected by the change target selection means (1030) to be within a given range or a part of the given range when the determination means (1100) determines that the given condition is satisfied, and a condition display control means (1120) for controlling the display means (15) to display condition information related to the given condition when the operation for selecting the other game object is performed.

According to aspects 1-5), the user can view condition information regarding the given conditions for allowing the second parameter to be within a predetermined range, etc., and can select another game object after understanding the given conditions.

1-6) In one aspect of the present invention, the given condition is a condition that can be satisfied when the other game object selected by the other game object selection means (1090) is a specific game object, and the condition display control means (1120) performs control to cause the display means (15) to display, for each of the game objects, the condition information regarding whether or not the game object is the specific game object.

According to aspects 1-6), when selecting another game object, the user can see whether the game object is capable of satisfying a given condition, so that the user can select another game object after understanding whether the game object has the potential to satisfy the given condition.

1-7) In one aspect of the present invention, the given condition is a condition that is satisfied with a probability determined based on other game objects selected by the other game object selection means (1090), and the condition display control means (1120) performs control to cause the display means (15) to display, for each game object, the condition information relating to the probability when the game object is selected by the other game object selection means (1090).

According to aspects 1-7), when selecting another game object, the user can see the probability of the given condition being satisfied, so that the user can select another game object after understanding the probability of the given condition being satisfied.

1-8) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a control means (1130) for causing the display means (15) to display information indicating the degree of the effect generated by the effect generating means (1021) when the second game object is selected by the use target selecting means (1050) for each of the second game objects.

According to aspects 1-8), by selecting a second game object, it is easy to understand the extent of the effect that will occur.

1-9) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a game execution means for executing the game, including a game in which a game task is set, based on the first game object and a second game object selected by the use object selection means (1050), and the game system (1) further includes a control means (1140) for causing the display means (15) to further display, for each of the second game objects, information indicating the degree to which the second game object will be advantageous in achieving the game task if selected by the use object selection means (1050).

According to aspects 1-9), by selecting the second game object, it is possible to easily grasp how advantageous it will be in completing the game task.

1-10) In one aspect of the present invention, the game execution means (1020) is characterized in that, even if a specific game object among the plurality of second game objects is selected by the use object selection means (1050), it is not considered in achieving the game task.

According to aspects 1-10), the strategic nature of the game can be enhanced by having the player consider whether to select a game object that is used in the game task or a game object that is not used in the game task.

[6-2. Invention relating to the second technology]
2-1) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game executing means (1020) for executing a first game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and a second game executing means (1170) for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game executing means (1020) including a first effect generating means (1021) for generating an effect in the first game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game executing means (1170) including a determination means (1171) for determining whether a parameter of the first game object used in the second game is one that has been changed or set in the first game executed in a state in which a specific second game object has been selected, and a second effect generating means (1172) for generating an effect advantageous or disadvantageous to the user in the second game based on a result of the determination by the determination means (1171).

2-2) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means (1020) for executing a first game in which a user aims to set a parameter of a first game object to a desired state, and a second game execution means (1170) for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means (1020) includes a first effect generation means (1021) for generating an effect in the first game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the parameter to be in the desired state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means (1170) includes a determination means (1171) for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game was set in the first game executed in a state in which a specific second game object was selected, and a second effect generation means (1172) for generating an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on a result of the determination by the determination means (1171).

2-12) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means (1020) for executing a first game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and a second game execution means (1170) for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means (1020) includes a first effect generation means (1021) for generating an effect in the first game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means (1170) includes a determination means (1171) for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game is one that has been changed or set in the first game executed in a state in which a specific second game object has been selected, and a second effect generation means (1172) for generating an effect advantageous or disadvantageous to the user in the second game based on a result of the determination by the determination means (1171).

2-13) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first game execution means (1020) for executing a first game in which a user aims to set a parameter of a first game object to a desired state, and a second game execution means (1170) for executing a second game in which the first game object is used, the first game execution means (1020) includes a first effect generation means (1021) for generating an effect in the first game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the parameter to the desired state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, the second game execution means (1170) includes a determination means (1171) for determining whether the parameter of the first game object used in the second game was set in the first game executed in a state in which a specific second game object was selected, and a second effect generation means (1172) for generating an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user based on a result of the determination by the determination means (1171).

2-14) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as any of the game systems (1) described above or below, or any of the game control devices (10, 30) described above.

2-15) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the above program recorded thereon.

According to the present invention, for example, if playing the first game with a specific second game object selected would provide an advantage in the second game, it is possible to provide an incentive to select the specific second game object instead of the currently selected second game object, thereby preventing the second game object selected in the first game from becoming fixed.

2-2) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a distinguishable display control means (1050) that executes control to distinguish and display information about the specific second game object and information about other second game objects on the display means (15) when an operation is performed to select at least one of the plurality of second game objects.

According to aspect 2-2), information about a specific second game object is distinguished from information about other second game objects, so that the user can easily determine which second game object is the specific second game object when selecting the second game object.

2-3) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes an effect display control means (1060) that executes control to display, on the display means (15), correspondence information indicating the correspondence between the specific second game object and the effect generated by the second effect generating means (1172).

According to aspect 2-3), when a specific second game object is selected and the parameters of a first game object are changed and used in the second game, it becomes easy to understand what effect will occur in the second game.

2-4) In one aspect of the present invention, the effect display control means (1060) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display the correspondence information when an operation is performed to select at least one of the plurality of second game objects.

According to aspect 2-4), when the user selects a second game object, the user can easily understand what effect will occur in the second game if the user selects a second game object.

2-5) In one aspect of the present invention, the first effect generating means (1021) is characterized in that, when the specific second game object is selected, the effect is changed based on the parameters of the specific second game object.

According to aspect 2-5), the effect changes based on the parameters of a specific second game object, so that it is possible to vary the effect occurring in the first game, thereby making the first game more interesting.

2-6) In one aspect of the present invention, the second game is a game in which a reward is awarded according to the content or result of the second game, and the second effect generating means (1172) generates an effect in the second game that is advantageous or disadvantageous to the user in obtaining the reward.

According to aspect 2-6), for example, if an effect that is advantageous for obtaining a reward in the second game occurs, the user will select a specific second game object in an attempt to obtain a larger reward, and thus the motivation to select a specific second game object can be further strengthened.

2-7) In one aspect of the present invention, the second effect generating means (1172) is characterized in that it changes the effect based on parameters of the specific second game object.

According to aspect 2-7), the effect changes based on the parameters of a specific second game object, so that it is possible to vary the effects occurring in the second game, thereby making the second game more entertaining.

2-8) In one aspect of the present invention, the first game is a game in which parameters of each of a plurality of first game objects are changed or set, and the second effect generating means (1172) changes the effect based on the number of first game objects whose parameters have been changed or set in the first game based on the specific second game object.

According to aspect 2-8), the effect changes based on the number of first game objects whose parameters are set based on a specific second game object, providing an incentive to change the parameters of more first game objects in the first game.

2-9) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a means (1160) for selecting a second game object owned by another user associated with the user.

According to aspect 2-9), by making it possible to select a second game object owned by another user associated with the user, it is possible to change the parameters of the first game object in the first game based on the second game object owned by the other user. As a result, for example, even if the user does not own a specific second game object, an advantageous effect can be obtained in the second game if the other user owns a specific second game object.

2-10) In one aspect of the present invention, the second game is a competitive game in which the first game object is used.

According to aspect 2-10), it is possible to prevent the second game object selected in the first game from being fixed.

[6-3. Invention relating to the third technology]
3-1) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) for executing a game in which each of a plurality of parameters of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, comprising: a first selection means (1180) for selecting one of a plurality of options, each of which is associated with at least one of the plurality of parameters, based on a first selection operation of the user; a second selection means (1050) for selecting at least one of a plurality of second game objects, each of which is associated with at least one of the plurality of options, based on a second selection operation of the user; and a means (1022) for changing a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) among the plurality of parameters, The system further includes a parameter change means (1040) for changing a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) in a case where the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) so that the user has an advantage in the game compared to a case where the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is not an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), and a display control means (1190) for executing control to cause the display means (15) to display option information regarding the option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050).

3-5) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which the aim is to bring each of a plurality of parameters of a first game object to a desired state based on a user's operation, and includes a first selection means (1180) that selects one of a plurality of options each associated with at least one of the plurality of parameters based on a first selection operation of the user, a second selection means (1050) that selects at least one of a plurality of second game objects each associated with at least one of the plurality of options based on a second selection operation of the user, and a means for changing a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) among the plurality of parameters, When the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), the system includes a parameter change means (1040) that changes a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) so as to be more advantageous for achieving the desired state than when the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is not an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), and a display control means (1190) that executes control to display option information related to the option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) on the display means (15).

3-6) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) for executing a game in which each of a plurality of parameters of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, comprising: a first selection means (1180) for selecting one of a plurality of options each associated with at least one of the plurality of parameters based on a first selection operation of the user; a second selection means (1050) for selecting at least one of a plurality of second game objects each associated with at least one of the plurality of options based on a second selection operation of the user; and a means for changing a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) among the plurality of parameters, the first selection means selecting at least one of the plurality of options based on a second selection operation of the user. The system includes a parameter change means (1040) that changes a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) in the case where the option selected by the selection means (1180) is an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) so that the user has an advantage in the game compared to a case where the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is not an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), and a display control means (1190) that executes control to display option information related to the option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) on the display means (15).

3-7) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) for executing a game in which the aim is to bring each of a plurality of parameters of a first game object to a desired state based on a user's operation, comprising: a first selection means (1180) for selecting one of a plurality of options each associated with at least one of the plurality of parameters based on a first selection operation of the user; a second selection means (1050) for selecting at least one of a plurality of second game objects each associated with at least one of the plurality of options based on a second selection operation of the user; and a means for changing a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) among the plurality of parameters, the means including: The system includes a parameter change means (1040) that changes a parameter associated with the option selected by the first selection means (1180) in a manner that is more advantageous for achieving the desired state when the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), compared to when the option selected by the first selection means (1180) is not an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050), and a display control means (1190) that executes control to display option information related to the option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) on the display means (15).

3-8) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as any one of the game systems (1) described above or below, or any one of the game control devices (10, 30) described above.

3-9) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the above program recorded thereon.

According to the present invention, information regarding options associated with a selected second game object is displayed, allowing the player to select a second game object while understanding which option will provide an advantage.

3-2) In one aspect of the present invention, the display control means (1190) is characterized in that, when multiple of the multiple second game objects are selected by the second selection means (1050) and the options associated with each of the multiple second game objects selected by the second selection means (1050) are the same, the display control means (1190) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display information indicating the number of the same options in association with the option information.

According to aspect 3-2), it becomes easier to grasp the number of identical options.

3-3) In one aspect of the present invention, the display control means (1190) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display, in a distinguished manner, the option information relating to an option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) and option information relating to options other than the selected option.

According to aspect 3-3), it is possible to make it easier to understand the options associated with the second game object.

3-4) In one aspect of the present invention, in the game, one of a plurality of roles is set for the first game object, each of the plurality of options is associated with at least one of the plurality of roles, and an option associated with the role of the first game object can be selected by the first selection operation, and the display control means (1190) executes control to cause the display means (15) to display, in a state where option information for each of the plurality of options is arranged and displayed in an order determined based on the role associated with the option, the option information for the option associated with the second game object selected by the second selection means (1050) and option information for options other than the option in a distinguished manner.

According to aspect 3-4), the option information is displayed in an order determined based on the role associated with the option, making it easier to intuitively grasp the option associated with the second game object.

[6-4. Invention relating to the fourth technology]
4-1) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and includes: an effect generating means (1021) that generates an effect on the game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects; a selection means (1200) that selects one of a plurality of options related to the content of a scenario of the game based on the user's operation; and a change means (1210) that changes the content of the scenario of the game based on the option selected by the selection means (1200). The effect generating means (1021) includes: a first means (1021) that generates a specific effect on the game corresponding to a specific second game object when a specific option is selected from the plurality of second game objects; and a second means (1021) that generates the specific effect on the game corresponding to the specific second game object when a specific option is selected from the plurality of options by the selection means (1200), even if the specific second game object is not selected.

4-4) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which the aim is to bring a parameter of a first game object to a given state based on a user's operation, and includes an effect generating means (1021) that generates an effect in the game that is advantageous or disadvantageous for bringing the parameter to the given state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, a selection means (1200) that selects one of a plurality of options regarding the content of the scenario of the game based on the user's operation, and a selection means (1200) that selects one of a plurality of options regarding the content of the scenario of the game based on the option selected by the selection means (1200). and a change means (1210) for changing the content of the scenario of the game, the effect generating means (1021) including a first means (1021) for generating a specific effect in the game corresponding to a specific second game object when the specific second game object is selected from the plurality of second game objects, and a second means (1021) for generating the specific effect in the game corresponding to the specific second game object when a specific option is selected from the plurality of options by the selection means (1200), even if the specific second game object is not selected.

4-5) A game control device (10, 30) according to one embodiment of the present invention is a game system (1) for executing a game in which a parameter of a first game object is changed or set based on a user's operation, and includes an effect generating means (1021) for generating an effect in the game related to the change or setting of the parameter based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, a selection means (1200) for selecting one of a plurality of options related to the content of the scenario of the game based on the user's operation, and a selection means (1200) for selecting one of a plurality of options related to the content of the scenario of the game based on the option selected by the selection means (1200). and a change means (1210) for changing the content of the second game object, the effect generating means (1021) including a first means (1021) for generating a specific effect in the game corresponding to a specific second game object when the specific second game object is selected from the plurality of second game objects, and a second means (1021) for generating the specific effect in the game corresponding to the specific second game object when a specific option is selected from the plurality of options by the selection means (1200), even if the specific second game object is not selected.

4-6) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game in which the aim is to bring a parameter of a first game object to a given state based on a user's operation, and includes an effect generation means (1021) that generates an effect in the game that is advantageous or disadvantageous for bringing the parameter to the given state based on at least one selected from a plurality of second game objects, a selection means (1200) that selects one of a plurality of options regarding the content of the scenario of the game based on the user's operation, and a selection means (1200) that selects one of a plurality of options regarding the content of the scenario of the game based on the option selected by the selection means (1200). and a change means (1210) for changing the content of the game scenario, the effect generating means (1021) including a first means (1021) for generating a specific effect in the game corresponding to a specific second game object when the specific second game object is selected from the plurality of second game objects, and a second means (1021) for generating the specific effect in the game corresponding to the specific second game object when a specific option is selected from the plurality of options by the selection means (1200), even if the specific second game object is not selected.

4-8) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as any of the game systems (1) described above or below, or any of the game control devices (10, 30) described above.

4-9) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the above program recorded thereon.

According to the present invention, when the content of a scenario changes based on a choice, if a specific choice is selected, a specific effect occurs even if a specific second game object is not selected, so that a specific effect can be generated even if the specific second game object is not possessed.

4-2) In one aspect of the present invention, the effect generating means (1021) restricts the second means (1021) from generating the specific effect outside of a specific period, and causes the second means (1021) to generate the specific effect within the specific period.

According to aspect 4-2), the occurrence of a particular effect can be limited to a particular period of time.

4-3) In one aspect of the present invention, the effect generating means (1021) restricts the selection of the specific option from among the multiple options by the selection means (1200) outside of a specific period, and allows the selection of the specific option from among the multiple options by the selection means (1200) within the specific period.

According to aspect 4-3, the occurrence of a particular effect can be limited to a particular period of time.

[6-5. Invention relating to the fifth technology]
5-1) A game system (1) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game based on a game object associated with user identification information and other game objects, and includes a means (3000) for storing first achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the game by a first user identified by first user identification information, the first achievement information stored in the means (3000) being updated based on game play of the first user, and a means (3020) for updating the second achievement information stored in the means (3000) being updated based on game play of the second user, the second achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the game by a second user identified by second user identification information being updated based on game play of the second user. the first user identification information and the second user identification information; a determination means (3040) for determining whether or not the second user's achievement has changed from a first state in which the second user's achievement is lower than the first user's achievement to a second state in which the second user's achievement is higher than the first user's achievement, based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information; and a game providing means (3050) for executing control to provide the first user with the game that is executed based on a game object associated with the first user identification information and a game object associated with the second user identification information when it is determined that the state has changed from the first state to the second state.

5-3) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (1) that executes a game based on a game object associated with user identification information and other game objects, and includes a means (3020) for updating the first achievement information stored in a means (3000) for storing first achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the game by a first user identified by first user identification information, based on the game play of the first user, and a means (3020) for updating the second achievement information stored in a means (3000) for storing second achievement information indicating achievements achieved in the game by a second user identified by second user identification information, based on the game play of the second user. The system includes: an updating means (3030) for updating the game based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information; a determining means (3040) for determining whether the achievement of the second user has changed from a first state in which the achievement of the second user is lower than that of the first user to a second state in which the achievement of the second user is higher than that of the first user based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information; and a game providing means (3050) for performing control to provide the game to the first user, which is executed based on the game object associated with the first user identification information and the game object associated with the second user identification information, when it is determined that the state has changed from the first state to the second state.

5-4) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as any one of the game systems (1) described above or below or the game control device (10, 30) described above.

5-5) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the above program recorded thereon.

The present invention can promote competition among users by offering a game when one user's performance exceeds that of another user.

5-2) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (1) further includes a display control means (3060) that executes control to cause a display means (15) corresponding to the first user to display a notification indicating that a game will be provided by the game providing means (3050) when it is determined that the first state has changed to the second state, and the game providing means (3050) provides the first user with the game that is executed based on a game object associated with the first user identification information and a game object associated with the second user identification information based on an operation performed by the first user in a state in which the notification is displayed.

5-2) makes it possible to more reliably inform users that a game will be provided.

1 Game system, 10 User terminal, 30 Server, 11, 31 Control unit, 12, 32 Memory unit, 13, 33 Communication unit, 14 Input unit, 15 Display unit, G100 Home screen image, A110, A210, A310, A610, A810, A910, A1010, A1110, A1510, A1610, A1710, A1810, A1910, A2110 Upper area, A111 to A116, A341, A1641, A1642, A1950 Area, A120, A220, A320, A620, A820, A1020, A1120, A1520, A1620, A1720, A1820, A1920, A2120 Lower area, P121 to P125, P130, P140, P150, P160, P230, P241 to P245, P250, P330, P342, P530, P630, P710, P720, P730, P812, P821, P822, P823, P824, P841, P842, P843, P844, P845, P921, P922, P923, P924, P925, P926, P950, P1223-1, P1223-2, P1223-3, P12 23-4, P1223-5, P1223-6, P1223-7, P1224-1, P1224-2, P1224-3, P1224-4, P1224-5, P1224-6, P1230, P1240, P1250, P1530, P1540-P1590, P1630, P1642, P1643, P1730, P1830, P1930, P1960, P1970, P2010, P2140-P2170, P2240, P2250, P2270, P2280
Processing object, G200 Main character registration screen image, A240 Main character registration area, G300 Event deck setting screen image, A340 Event deck setting area, A344-1, A344-2, A344-3, A344-4, A344-5, A345 Setting frame, A346 Specialty practice area, G400 Event character screen image, A410 First area, A420 Second area, A440 Third area, T421 First tab, T422 Second tab, T423 Third tab, G500 Bonus details screen image, C510, C520 Check object, G600 Event character change screen image, A640 Event character list area, G700 Automatic setting menu screen image, G800 Main command screen image, A811 Gauge area, A830 Main character ability area, A840 Command area, G900 Practice screen image, C927 Cursor object, A930 Experience points area, A940 Game character area, G1000 Practice result screen image, A1030 Message area, C1040 Dog character, G1100 Event screen image, A1130 Event information area, C1140 Event character, A1150 Text area, G1200 Ability change screen image, G1210 First area, G1220 Second area, T1211 Pitcher ability tab, T1212 Fielder ability tab, T1221 Basic ability tab, T1222 Special ability tab, G1300 Section completion screen, G1400 Preview screen image, G1500 Event character menu screen image, G1600 Event deck editing screen image, A1640 Event deck editing area, A1644-1 to A1644-5 Setting frame, A1646 Favorite practice area, G1700 Base character selection screen image, A1740 Event character list area, G1800 Strengthening screen image, A1840 Base character area, A1841 Gauge area, A1850 Material character area, G1900 Material character selection screen image, A1940 Event character list area, G2000 Strengthening result window, G2100 My team menu screen image, G2200 Normal order editing screen image, A2210 Starting order area, A2220 Reserve player area, A2230 Drag area, A2260 Overall strength area, TBL301 User table, TBL302 Event character table, TBL303 Event deck table, TBL304 Original character table, TBL305 Order table, 3000 Data storage unit, 3010 Processing unit, 3020 First update unit, 3030 Second update unit, 3040 Achievement determination unit, 3050 Game providing unit, 3060 Challenge display control unit, 1000 Individual data storage unit, 1010 Request unit, 1020 First game execution unit, 1021 First effect generation unit, 1022 Parameter change unit, 1030 Change target selection unit, 1040 Level change unit, 1050 Use target selection unit, 1060 Effect display control unit, 1070 Data acquisition unit, 1080 Change target display control unit, 1090 Material character selection unit, 1100 Upper limit release determination unit, 1110 Permission unit, 1120 Condition display control unit, 1130 Event power display control unit, 1140 Player ability display control unit, 1150 Distinction display control unit, 1160 Helper selection unit, 1170 Second game execution unit, 1171 Special effect determination unit, 1172 Second effect generation unit, 1180 Practice selection unit, 1190 Practice display control unit, 1200 Scenario selection section, 1210 Scenario change section.

Claims (6)

means for updating first achievement information indicating achievements achieved by the first user in the single-player game;
means for updating second achievement information indicating achievements achieved in a single-player game by a second user having a predetermined relationship with the first user;
a determination means for determining whether or not the achievement of the second user has changed from a first state in which the achievement of the second user is lower than that of the first user to a second state in which the achievement of the second user is higher than that of the first user, based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information;
a notification means for providing a predetermined notification to the first user when it is determined that the first state has changed to the second state;
a game providing means for performing control for providing, when the first user selects the notification, to the first user, a game that is executed based on a game object associated with the first user and a game object associated with the second user, or a competitive game in which the first user and the second user compete against each other ;
Including,
When the achievement of the second user is higher than the achievement of the first user, the notification is not made if the second user achieves an achievement higher than the achievement of the first user.
Game system. The predetermined relationship is a friendship relationship.
The game system according to claim 1 . The single-player game played by the first user and the single-player game played by the second user are executed using the same server.
3. The game system according to claim 1 or 2 . the single-player game played by the first user and the single-player game played by the second user are provided by the same game provider;
The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . means for updating first achievement information indicating achievements achieved by the first user in the single-player game;
means for updating second achievement information indicating achievements achieved in a single-player game by a second user having a predetermined relationship with the first user;
a determination means for determining whether or not the achievement of the second user has changed from a first state in which the achievement of the second user is lower than that of the first user to a second state in which the achievement of the second user is higher than that of the first user, based on the first achievement information and the second achievement information;
a notification means for providing a predetermined notification to the first user when it is determined that the first state has changed to the second state;
a game providing means for performing control for providing, when the first user selects the notification, to the first user, a game that is executed based on a game object associated with the first user and a game object associated with the second user, or a competitive game in which the first user and the second user compete against each other ;
Including,
When the achievement of the second user is higher than the achievement of the first user, the notification is not made when the second user achieves an achievement higher than the achievement of the first user.
Game control device. A program for causing a computer to function as the game system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 or the game control device according to claim 5 .

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