JP7521774B2 - Game system, game control device, and program - Google Patents

Description

Application of Article 30, Paragraph 2 of the Patent Act June 8, 2017, https://itunes. apple. com, https://itunes. apple. com/jp/app/puro-ye-qiusupiritsua/id940320341? ls=1&mt=8, https://play. google. com, https://play.com. google. com/store/apps/details? id=jp. konami. prospia, https://www. konami. com

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

Conventionally, games are known in which, when an opponent object performs a first action, a user object is made to perform a second action that is more likely to succeed the sooner it is started. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a baseball game in which a controlled character is made to steal bases, which is more likely to succeed the sooner the pitcher character starts to pitch, and a game system is described in which, when a user performs an operation to start stealing, a runner character starts stealing, and the success or failure of the steal is determined based on the timing when the runner character touches the base and the timing when a fielder character who receives the thrown ball touches the controlled character. In this game system, if the operation to start stealing is performed earlier than a predetermined timing, the steal is guaranteed to fail.

JP 2007-181565 A

In the above-mentioned technologies, the fun part of the game is to perform the start operation at the right time while watching the movements of the opponent object. However, in the technology of Patent Document 1, if the start operation of a steal is performed earlier than the predetermined timing, the steal will definitely fail. Therefore, the user cannot feel the tension of stealing a base, for example, by stealing the pitcher's motion and getting started, and may feel unsatisfied.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a game system, a game control device, and a program that give the user a sense of tension.

In order to solve the above problem, a game system according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system that causes a user object to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, the game system including: a display control means for displaying the opponent object on a display means; a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for causing the user object to perform the second action based on a timing when the opponent object starts the first action; a start operation receiving means for receiving the start operation during the reception period; an action control means for causing the user object to perform the second action based on the start operation; a first determination means for determining whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means for determining whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a plurality of processes including a process in which the action control means causes the user object to perform the second action and a process in which the opponent object performs the first action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

A game system according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system that causes a user object to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, the game system including: a display control means for displaying the opponent object on a display means; a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for causing the user object to perform the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a start operation receiving means for receiving the start operation during the reception period; an action control means for causing the user object to perform the second action based on the start operation; a first determination means for determining whether the second action will be successful based on probability information if the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means for determining whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a process that causes the timing of the start operation to affect the success or failure of the second action if the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

A game control device according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device that makes a user object perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, and includes: a reference time setting means that sets a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for making the user object start the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a first determination means that determines whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means that determines whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a plurality of processes including a process in which the action control means makes the user object start the second action and a process in which the opponent object performs the first action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

A game control device according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device that causes a user object to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, and includes: a reference time setting means that sets a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for causing the user object to perform the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a first determination means that determines whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means that determines whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a process that causes the timing at which the start operation was performed to affect the success or failure of the second action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a game system. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a challenge is determined by lottery. FIG. 13 shows screen transitions when a challenge starts. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing how a stolen base success/failure bar changes. FIG. 13 shows a case where a runner character takes off immediately after the start of a pitching motion. FIG. 13 illustrates a case where a runner character makes a late start. FIG. 13 shows a case where a runner character starts immediately before the start of a pitching motion. FIG. 13 illustrates a case where a runner character starts too early. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a case where a pitcher character performs a pickoff move. 2 is a functional block diagram showing functions related to the present invention among functions realized in the game system. FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of how character data is stored; FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of how game situation data is stored. 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.

[1. Hardware configuration of the game system and the game control device]
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description may be omitted. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a game system. As shown in FIG. 1, a game system S according to this embodiment includes a game terminal 10 and a server 30. The game terminal 10 and the server 30 are connected to a network N such as the Internet. Therefore, data communication between the game terminal 10 and the server 30 is possible.

The game terminal 10 is a computer operated by a user. For example, the game terminal 10 is a mobile terminal (e.g., a mobile phone such as a smartphone or a tablet computer), a personal computer, a portable game machine, a stationary game machine, an arcade game machine, or a multi-function television receiver (smart TV) equipped with information processing functions.

As shown in FIG. 1, the game terminal 10 includes a control unit 11, a memory unit 12, a communication unit 13, an operation unit 14, and a display unit 15. The control unit 11 includes at least one microprocessor. For example, the control unit 11 may include multiple microprocessors. The control unit 11 executes processes according to an operating system and other programs. The memory unit 12 includes a main memory unit (e.g., RAM) and an auxiliary memory unit (e.g., non-volatile semiconductor memory). The memory unit 12 stores programs and data. For example, when the game terminal 10 is a personal computer, the memory unit 12 may include an auxiliary memory unit such as a hard disk drive or a solid state drive. The communication unit 13 includes a communication interface such as a communication module. The communication unit 13 performs data communication via the network N.

The operation unit 14 is an input device, and may include, for example, options, keys, levers, a game controller (game pad), a pointing device such as a mouse or a touch panel, or a keyboard. For example, the operation unit 14 may also include a microphone or a camera that allows the user to perform input operations by voice or gestures. The display unit 15 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display, and displays a screen according to instructions from the control unit 11. Note that the operation unit 14 and the display unit 15 do not have to be built into the game terminal 10, and may be external devices connected to the game terminal 10.

The server 30 is 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 hardware configurations of the control unit 31, the memory unit 32, and the communication unit 33 may be similar to those of the control unit 11, the memory unit 12, and the communication unit 13, respectively. For example, the server 30 stores a game program and distributes the game program in response to a request from the game terminal 10.

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

[2. Game Overview]
In the game system S, a game is executed in which a user object is made to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action. Before describing the specific content of the game, the meaning of each term such as object and first action will be described.

An object is, for example, an object that can be used in a game. For example, an object could be a game character.

The opponent object is, for example, an object different from the user object, and may be an object controlled by a computer (CPU) or an object operated by another user. For example, the opponent object is an object that the user object looks at to perform the second action. For example, the opponent object is an object that is an opponent of the user object. For example, the opponent object is an object that interferes with (blocks) the second action of the user object. For example, the opponent object is an object that cooperates with the user object. For example, the opponent object is an object that supports the second action of the user object.

A user object is, for example, an object that is different from a partner object and that operates based on a user's operation. For example, a user object is the object that is the target of a user's operation.

The first action is, for example, an action that is a reference for the timing to start the second action. For example, when a baseball game is being played and the second action is stealing a base, the first action is pitching the ball. For example, when a fighting game is being played and the second action is a counter attack, the first action is the attack that is the target of the counter (the attack that is the starting point of the counter). For example, when a soccer game is being played and the second action is a dribbling action to get past the opponent, the first action is the action that the opponent takes to steal the ball (sliding, charging, etc.). For example, when the second action is a action to seize the ball from the opponent, the first action is the opponent's dribbling action.

The second motion is, for example, a motion that is more likely to succeed (less likely to fail) the earlier the motion is started. In other words, the second motion is, for example, a motion that is more likely to succeed (more likely to fail) the later the motion is started. However, the second motion is not necessarily successful if started too early, and if the second motion is started before the first motion is started, the opponent object is more likely to perform the third or fifth motion described below. For example, the second motion is a motion (for example, stealing a base) of moving toward a target point (for example, a base to steal) in order to reach the target point before a predetermined event (for example, a throw to a target base) occurs due to the first motion (for example, pitching a ball). For another example, the second motion is a motion of moving to a predetermined point. For another example, the second motion is a motion of touching a predetermined object. For another example, the second motion is a motion of completing a combination of multiple motions.

The third action is, for example, an action to prevent the second action from being performed. For example, when a baseball game is being played and the second action is a steal, the third action is an action to throw a pickoff ball. For example, when a fighting game is being played and the second action is a counter attack, the third action is a feint action to invite a counter attack. For example, when a soccer game is being played and the second action is an action to dribble past an opponent, the third action is an action to move the body to invite a dribble.

The fourth action is, for example, an action that prevents the third action from succeeding. For example, when a baseball game is being played, if the third action is the action of throwing a pickoff ball, the fourth action is the action of returning to the base. For example, when a fighting game is being played, if the third action is a feint action to invite a counter attack, the fourth action is the action of stopping the attack without being invited to the feint. For example, when a soccer game is being played, if the third action is a body movement action to invite a dribble, the fourth action is the action of stopping the dribble without being invited to that action.

The fifth action is, for example, an action for blocking the second action of the user object. For example, when a baseball game is executed and the second action is stealing a base, the fifth action may be an action of throwing the ball to the base to be stolen, a pickoff action, or an action of chasing the runner while holding the ball. For example, when a fighting game is executed and the second action is a counter attack, the first action is an action for preventing the counter attack. For example, when a soccer game is executed and the second action is an action of dribbling past an opponent, the fifth action is an action of extending a leg or putting one's body in the direction of the dribble. Or, if the second action is an action of seizing the ball from an opponent, the fifth action is a feint action.

In this embodiment, a baseball game is taken as an example in which a runner character steals a base when a pitcher character pitches. The pitcher character not only pitches to home plate, but also picks off the runner character and throws to the base where the runner is stealing. A pitching action is throwing the ball to home plate or to the catcher character. A pickoff action is throwing the ball to a fielder character who is on the base where the runner character is. A throwing action is throwing the ball to a fielder character who is on the base where the runner character is stealing. The base where the runner character is stealing is the base one base ahead of the base where the runner character is (the base to which the runner character will advance). For example, if the runner character is on first base, this is second base, if the runner character is on second base, this is third base, and if the runner character is on third base, this is home plate. The runner character not only steals a base, but also returns to the base. A return to the base action is the runner character returning to his or her own base.

The pitcher character is an example of an opponent object. The runner character is an example of a user object. A pitching action is an example of a first action. A stealing action is an example of a second action. A pickoff action is an example of a third action. A return to base action is an example of a fourth action. A throwing action is an example of a fifth action. Therefore, in this embodiment, the descriptions of pitcher character, runner character, pitching action, stealing action, pickoff action, return to base action, and throwing action can be read as opponent object, user object, first action, second action, third action, fourth action, and fifth action, respectively.

For example, a user collects and trains baseball player characters to form his or her own team, and plays matches against other users or computer teams. At any time, such as after the end of a match, one of multiple challenges is determined by lottery, and the user plays the challenge determined by lottery.

A challenge is, for example, a mini-game in which the aim is to achieve a specific mission. A mission is a task set in a game, and is to achieve a specific result in the game. For example, missions include successfully stealing a base, hitting a home run or hitting a bunt, and striking out a batter character. When a user clears a mission, they are given a reward such as a game item or in-game currency.

For example, the user does not have to play a challenge immediately, but can play the challenge at any time within a specified playable period. The playable period is a period set for each challenge, and is, for example, a certain period from the time the challenge is determined by lottery. Note that as many challenges as the user likes may be saved, or it may be possible to save up to a specified maximum number (for example, five). Furthermore, once the maximum number of challenges has been saved, the challenge lottery may not be held.

For example, a user has challenge points for playing challenges, and can play challenges by consuming challenge points. Challenge points may be restored over time, or may be restored by using game items or by making a payment. For example, when challenge points are restored to the maximum value, all challenges accumulated up to the maximum number may be played by consuming all challenge points. Also, for example, when all challenge points that are restored over time are used up, even if a new challenge is acquired, it is not possible to challenge it by time restoration, so that the time required to restore challenge points required for one challenge may be the same as the playable period of the challenge, in order to encourage (utilize) the use of game items, etc.

Figure 2 is a diagram showing how a challenge is determined by lottery. As shown in Figure 2, after a user plays a game, a lottery result image G1 showing the result of the challenge lottery is displayed on the display unit 15. The lottery result image G1 displays the content of the challenge determined by lottery. The example in Figure 2 shows a case where a challenge regarding stealing a base is determined by lottery.

The challenge may be assigned a rank indicating the difficulty of the challenge, and the lottery result image G1 may also display the challenge rank. The challenge rank may be determined by the combination of the pitcher character and the catcher character, and for example, the higher the abilities of the pitcher character and the catcher character, the higher the difficulty rank. Furthermore, the higher the difficulty rank, the better the reward given to the user.

The lottery result image G1 displays a reserve button B10 for saving challenges without playing them immediately, and a challenge button B11 for playing challenges immediately. When the user selects the reserve button B10, challenges can be saved. In this case, a playable period is set for the saved challenges, and the challenge can be played within the playable period. On the other hand, when the user selects the challenge button B11, a challenge details image G2 showing details of the challenge is displayed on the display unit 15, as shown in FIG. 2. When the user selects the reserve button B10 to save challenges, the challenge details image G2 may be made to be able to be called up from any screen.

For example, the challenge details image G2 includes a display area A20 for displaying the current value of the challenge points. When the user selects the recovery button B21, the challenge points can be recovered by using a game item or by paying a fee. For example, the challenge details image G2 also includes a display area A22 for displaying the remaining play time, the rewards that can be obtained in the challenge, the conditions for clearing the challenge, etc.

In the challenge of this embodiment, a runner character to be used in the challenge is automatically selected from the user's team. The runner character may be selected in a predetermined manner, for example, randomly, or a character with high running ability may be selected. The challenge detail image G2 also includes a display area A23 for displaying the runner character to be used by the user in the challenge. For example, multiple runner characters may be available for use in a challenge, and these multiple runner characters may take turns attempting to steal bases. In this case, a runner character that has been used once may not be available for use in that challenge. Note that a runner character that has been used once may be available for use again after a certain period of time has passed, or may be available for use again by using a runner character other than the runner character once or multiple times.

If the user selects the Cancel button B24, he or she can give up the challenge without playing. On the other hand, if the user selects the Challenge button B25, the challenge begins.

Figure 3 is a diagram showing the screen transition when a challenge starts. As shown in Figure 3, when a challenge starts, a challenge image G3 indicating the status of the challenge being played is displayed on the display unit 15. Note that in this embodiment, the manner in which the display of the challenge image G3 changes is explained by adding an alphabet to the end of the "G3" symbol, such as "G3A", but when there is no particular need to distinguish between them, the symbol "G3" will simply be used for explanation.

For example, the challenge image G3 displays the state of the game space. The game space is a virtual space in which characters are placed, and may be three-dimensional or two-dimensional. For example, a fictitious field (e.g., a baseball field) is placed in the game space, on which a runner character, a pitcher character, a catcher character, a batter character, and fielder characters are placed. Also, for example, a virtual camera is set in the game space. For example, the virtual camera may be set in a position behind the runner character so that the runner character is included in its field of view.

In the challenge of this embodiment, the player can attempt to steal multiple times (for example, five times), and the challenge image G3 includes a display area A30 for displaying the remaining number of attempts. In the example of FIG. 3, the remaining number of attempts is indicated by the number of shoes. Also, for example, the challenge image G3 includes a display area A31 for displaying the conditions for clearing the challenge, and a display area A32 for displaying the status of achievement of the conditions.

For example, the user earns a score depending on whether or not they succeed in stealing bases or returning to the bases, and a clear condition is set such that the total score earned is equal to or greater than a threshold. For example, if the user earns a score equal to or greater than the threshold, a reward is given. The challenge may be forcibly ended when the clear condition is achieved, but in this embodiment, the user plays the challenge to the end even if the clear condition is achieved midway through. If the user earns a score equal to or greater than the threshold, a reward according to the earned score may be given.

For example, the challenge image G3 also displays icons I33 to I35 representing the pitcher character, catcher character, and runner character, respectively. For example, icons I33 to I35 may display the character's face, name, rank, ability information, etc.

For example, the challenge image G3 displays a return to base button B36 for instructing the player to return to the base, and a steal base button B37 for instructing the player to steal a base. When the user selects the return to base button B36, the runner character performs the return to base action. When the user selects the steal base button B37, the runner character performs the steal base action. In addition to the return to base button B36 and the steal base button B37, buttons for practicing the return to base action and the steal base action may be displayed. Practicing stealing bases does not count toward the number of stealing attempts in the challenge.

For example, as shown in challenge image G3A, immediately after the start of a challenge, details of the challenge are displayed in display area A38. For example, the number of steals that can be attempted in the challenge and the conditions for clearing the challenge are displayed in display area A38. For example, as shown in challenge image G3B, if the runner character has a special ability, the runner character's special ability is displayed in display area A39. For example, as shown in challenge image G3C, icons I33 to I35 may be erased after a certain amount of time has passed, making the pitcher character easier to see. In this case, the current count (ball count, strike count, and out count) may be displayed in display area A40.

Then, as shown in the challenge image G3D, the pitcher character takes a set position to pitch. The set position is a preparatory movement for pitching, and is the posture to be taken before pitching. In the set position, the pitcher character places his/her pivot foot in contact with the pitcher's plate, positions the other foot forward, holds the ball in front of his/her body with both hands, and stops moving completely. At any timing before or after the pitcher character takes the set position, a steal success/failure bar B41 is displayed to guide the user as to when to select the steal base button B37. When the steal success/failure bar B41 is displayed, the user aims to select the steal base button B37 at the right time to have the runner character succeed in stealing a base.

Generally, the earlier a runner starts, the sooner they can reach the target base and the more likely they are to succeed in stealing bases. However, if they start too early, the pitcher character may notice the steal before he starts pitching and throw the ball to the target base, resulting in an out. Under the rules of baseball, once a pitching motion has begun it cannot be interrupted, so a runner character is more likely to succeed in stealing bases if he starts his run immediately after the pitcher character starts pitching.

If a runner character starts before the pitcher character starts pitching, and the pitcher character does not notice the steal, the runner character can start earlier, making the steal much more likely to succeed. For example, if the pitcher character is about to pitch, the pitcher character may be concentrating on the batter character and not notice the steal, so the runner character may decide to take a risk and start earlier even before the pitcher character starts pitching.

As mentioned above, stealing bases is more likely to be successful if the runner character starts immediately after or just before the start of the pitching motion. For this reason, the user aims to select the steal button B37 at the right timing when the pitching motion starts. In this embodiment, the user is guided as to the start timing of the pitching motion by the change in the steal success/failure bar B41.

Figure 4 shows how the stolen base success/failure bar B41 changes. In Figure 4, the changes in the stolen base success/failure bar B41 are distinguished by adding an alphabet to the end of the code "B41", such as "B41A", but when there is no need to distinguish, the code "B41" will be used for explanation. In Figure 4, the state in which the stolen base success/failure bar B41 has just been displayed is shown with the code "B41A".

As shown in FIG. 4, the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is long in the horizontal direction, and has graduations at regular intervals. Also, for example, a timing cursor C410 is displayed to indicate the start timing of the pitching motion. The stolen base success/failure bar B41 has different colors in the area A411 to the left (first half) of the timing cursor C410 and the areas A412-A415 to the right (second half).

For example, the area A411 to the left of the timing cursor C410 is a single color, and the areas A412 to A415 to the right of the timing cursor C410 are each color-coded. In FIG. 3, the color change of the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is represented diagrammatically by the density of the dots, and is divided into four colors as shown in the areas A412 to A415 to the right of the timing cursor C410. In this embodiment, the timing cursor C410 is divided into four colors, but the number of colors for the timing cursor C410 is not limited to four and may be any number.

For example, as shown in the stolen base success/failure bar B41A, the gauge G416 is not displayed at first, but as the pitcher character maintains his set position, the gauge G416 begins to extend from the left side of the stolen base success/failure bar B41. For example, as shown in the stolen base success/failure bars B41B-B41E, the gauge G416 gradually extends toward the right side of the stolen base success/failure bar B41. Here, the speed at which the gauge G416 extends is constant, but the speed at which the gauge G416 extends may change. Furthermore, a case will be described in which the gauge G416 continues to extend, but the gauge G416 may also shrink midway to confuse the user.

A gauge cursor C417 is displayed at the right end of the gauge G416. The gauge cursor C417 moves as the gauge G416 extends. In this embodiment, the gauge G416 reaches the position of the timing cursor C410 at the start timing of the pitching motion. In other words, the distance between the position of the right end of the gauge G416 (the position of the gauge cursor C417) and the position of the timing cursor C410 indicates the time until the start timing arrives. For this reason, the user selects the steal base button B37 at the timing when the gauge G416 reaches the timing cursor C410. When the user selects the steal base button B37, the extension of the gauge G416 stops.

For example, the stolen base success/failure bar B41B shows the state before the start of the pitching motion. When the user selects the stolen base button B37 in this state (i.e., stops the gauge G416 within area A411), as described above, if the pitcher character does not notice the steal, the steal is highly likely to be successful, but if the stolen base button is selected too early, the pitcher character will notice the steal and the steal will fail.

For example, the steal success/failure bar B41C indicates the time to start the pitching motion. The position of the right end of the gauge G416 (the position of the gauge cursor C417) is the position of the timing cursor C410. When the steal success/failure bar B41C is reached, the pitcher character begins pitching. When the user selects the steal button B37 in this state (i.e., stops the gauge G416 at the timing cursor C410), as mentioned above, they can start earlier, making the steal more likely to succeed.

Furthermore, the later the runner character's start, the more likely the steal will fail, so the further the position of the right end of the gauge G416 (the position of the gauge cursor C417) is from the timing cursor C410 (the longer the gauge G416 is), the more likely the steal will fail. In this embodiment, the color of the areas A412-A415 to the right of the timing cursor C410 indicates the likelihood of the steal succeeding.

For example, the color of area A412 indicates that among areas A412 to A415, the color of area A413 indicates that the probability of a successful steal is the highest, and the color of area A413 indicates that the probability of a successful steal is the second highest. For example, the color of area A414 indicates that the probability of a successful steal is the third highest, and the color of area A415 indicates that the probability of a successful steal is the lowest. For this reason, if the proportion of area A412 is high on the right side of the timing cursor C410, it will be easier to steal a base, and if the proportion of area A415 is high, it will be harder to steal a base.

The proportions of each of the areas A412 to A415 may be fixed or variable. If they are variable, the proportions of each of the areas A412 to A415 may change based on the abilities of the pitcher character, catcher character, and runner character. For example, the higher the ability of the pitcher character and catcher character, the smaller the proportion of area A412 and the larger the proportion of area A415, thereby increasing the probability of a failed steal. Also, for example, the higher the ability of the runner character, the larger the proportion of area A412 and the smaller the proportion of area A415, thereby increasing the probability of a successful steal.

For example, the steal success/failure bar B41D shows the state immediately after the start of the pitching motion. If the user selects the steal button B37 in this state (i.e., stops the gauge G416 in area A412), the start is relatively early, so there is a high probability of a successful steal. For example, the steal success/failure bar B41E shows the state a little time has passed since the start of the pitching motion. If the user selects the steal button B37 in this state (i.e., stops the gauge G416 in area A413), the start is not that early, so the probability of a successful steal is not that high. Similarly, the more time that passes from the start of the pitching motion, the later the start of the runner character when the user selects the steal button B37, and the more difficult it becomes to steal a base.

If the user does not select the base running button B37, the gauge G416 continues to extend, and when the gauge G416 reaches the right end of the steal success/failure bar B41 (i.e., the right end of the area A415), the runner character does not steal a base. In this case, the ball count, strike count, and out count are updated based on the pitcher character's pitch and the batter character's batting. If the batter character is not out due to a strikeout or the like, he or she can try to steal again at the next pitch. On the other hand, if the batter character is out, the steal is considered to have failed. If the gauge 416 reaches its maximum length, the runner character may steal a base at that time. In this case, the start is significantly delayed, so the steal will fail. There may be cases where the steal is successful with a low probability.

In addition, in this embodiment, a player can attempt to steal a base a predetermined number of times (e.g., five times) in one challenge, and the steal success/failure bar B41 may be displayed for all of the predetermined number of attempts, or the steal success/failure bar B41 may be displayed only the first few times (e.g., two times) and then not be displayed. While the steal success/failure bar B41 is displayed, the user will rely on the change in the gauge G416, which expands as shown in FIG. 4, to select the steal button B37 as if stealing the pitcher character's pitching motion.

Figure 5 shows a case where a runner character starts immediately after the start of a pitching motion. As shown in challenge image G3E, when the pitcher character maintains the set position, a gauge G416 in a steal success/failure bar B41 starts to extend. As shown in challenge image G3F, when the user selects the steal button B37 immediately after the pitching motion, an evaluation of the user's operation is displayed in display area A42 and the runner character starts. In this case, because the steal button B37 was selected immediately after the start of the pitching motion, a high evaluation of "GREAT!" is displayed as shown in display area A42. Note that after the user selects the steal button B37, the return to base button B36 may be grayed out and cannot be selected, or the steal button B37 may be selected but the selection may not be reflected in the game.

In the case of FIG. 5, when the user selects the steal base button B37, the pitcher character has already begun pitching, so the pitcher character pitches the ball toward home plate. When the catcher character catches the ball, he throws it toward the base where the runner character is attempting to steal. As shown in challenge image G3G, the fielder character at the base where the runner character is attempting to steal receives the ball thrown by the catcher character and touches the runner character.

If the runner character reaches the base he is attempting to steal from before the fielder character touches him, he is declared safe and the steal is successful, as shown in challenge image G3H. On the other hand, if the fielder character touches the runner character before the runner character reaches the base he is attempting to steal from, he is called out and the steal fails. The success or failure of a steal may be determined strictly by executing a hit detection between the fielder character and the runner character in the game space, or it may be determined simply by comparing the timing when the runner character reaches the base he is attempting to steal from with the timing when the fielder character receives the thrown ball.

As shown in the challenge image G3H, the display area A43 displays the result of the steal and the acquired score. For example, the acquired score is determined based on the success or failure of the steal and the timing of the selection of the steal button B37 (i.e., the evaluation of the user's operation). For example, if the steal is successful, the acquired score will be higher than if the steal is unsuccessful. Also, for example, the smaller the difference between the timing of the selection of the steal button B37 and the start of the pitching motion (the higher the evaluation of the user's operation), the higher the acquired score. For example, the difference between the timing of the selection of the steal button B37 and the start of the pitching motion determines the base score, and a bonus is added to the base score depending on the success or failure of the steal to determine the final acquired score.

Figure 6 shows a case where the runner character makes a late start. As shown in challenge image G3I, when the pitcher character maintains his set position, the gauge G416 in the stolen base success/failure bar B41 begins to extend. As shown in challenge image G3J, when the user selects the steal base button B37 a considerable amount of time has passed since the start of the pitching motion, an evaluation of the user's operation is displayed in display area A42 and the runner character starts. In this case, because the steal base button B37 was selected a considerable amount of time after the start of the pitching motion, a low evaluation of "NORMAL!" is displayed, as shown in display area A42.

As mentioned above, if the runner character starts late, the runner character will be delayed in reaching the base he is trying to steal from, making the steal more likely to fail. For this reason, as shown in challenge images G3K and G3L, a fielder character will often touch the runner character before the runner character reaches the base he is trying to steal from, resulting in a failed steal. For example, if a steal fails, the acquired score will be 0 points, as shown in display area A43 of challenge image G3L. Note that the acquired score does not have to be 0 points even if the steal fails. For example, the acquired score may be reduced by 50% from the score acquired up to that point.

Figure 7 shows a case where a runner character starts just before starting a pitching motion. As mentioned above, if the pitcher character starts pitching without noticing a base steal, the runner character will reach the base sooner, making the steal much more likely to succeed. For example, as shown in challenge images G3M to G3P in Figure 7, the runner character will reach the base before the fielder character who receives the ball from the catcher character touches the runner character, making the steal a success. Note that in this case, the steal is very likely to succeed, but the user's operation may be evaluated as low as "NORMAL!", as shown in display area A42 of challenge image G3N.

Figure 8 shows a case where the runner character starts too early. As mentioned above, if the runner character starts too early, the pitcher character will notice the steal, and the pitcher character will throw the ball to the base where the runner is trying to steal, resulting in an out. For example, as shown in challenge images G3Q to G3T in Figure 8, before the runner character reaches the base where the runner character is trying to steal, the fielder character who receives the ball from the pitcher character touches the runner character, resulting in a failed steal. As shown in the display area A42 of challenge image G3R, the user's operation is evaluated as "NORMAL!", which is a low evaluation. Note that if the runner character starts too early, the pitcher character is made to throw the ball to the base where the runner is trying to steal with a certain probability, and if the pitcher character does not throw the ball to the base where the runner is trying to steal (i.e., if the pitcher character pitches the ball toward home plate), the evaluation remains "NORMAL!", but the runner character's start timing is early, so the success rate of the steal may be increased. In this case, even if the steal is successful, the evaluation is "NORMAL!", so the resulting score will be lower than if the evaluation was "GREAT!" (Figure 5).

As described with reference to Figures 5 to 8, the likelihood of a successful steal depends on the relationship between the runner character's start timing (the timing when the steal button B37 is selected) and the timing when the pitching motion begins (the timing indicated by the timing cursor C410). In this embodiment, the method of determining whether a steal is successful differs depending on whether the steal button B37 is selected before or after the timing when the pitching motion begins (i.e., whether the gauge G416 is stopped before or after the timing cursor C410).

For example, if the steal button B37 is selected after the start of the pitching motion (i.e., if the gauge G416 is stopped after the timing cursor C410), the success or failure of the steal is determined based on the timing when the runner character reaches the base to be stolen and the timing when the fielder character touches the runner character (in a simplified determination, the timing when the fielder character receives the ball). In this case, the type and speed of the ball thrown by the pitcher character also affect how quickly the catcher character throws the ball and how easily the throw works. For example, a fastball makes it difficult to steal a base, while a curveball with a slow speed makes it easier to steal a base. For example, the faster the runner character runs, the more likely he or she is to steal a base, so the ease of stealing also depends on the ability information of the runner character.

On the other hand, if the steal button B37 is selected before the start of the pitching motion (i.e., if the gauge G416 is stopped before the timing cursor C410), the success or failure of the steal is determined based on probability. For example, the earlier the steal button B37 is selected, the easier it is for the pitcher character to notice the steal, so the lower the probability of the steal being successful, and the closer the steal button B37 is selected to the start of the pitching motion, the harder it is for the pitcher character to notice the steal, so the higher the probability of the steal being successful. For example, it is determined based on probability whether the pitcher character will pitch to home plate or throw to the base of the stolen base. If it is determined to pitch, the success or failure of the steal is determined based on the timing when the runner character reaches the base of the stolen base and the timing when the fielder character touches the runner character (in a simplified determination, the timing when the fielder character receives the ball). If it is determined to throw, it may be determined to be out with certainty (100% probability).

The pitcher character may, with a certain probability, perform a pickoff move on a runner character. When the pitcher character performs a pickoff move, the user selects the return to base button B36 to cause the runner character to perform the return to base move.

For example, if the runner character returns to the base before the fielder character who caught the ball thrown by the pitcher character touches the runner character, the return is successful and the runner is safe. On the other hand, if the fielder character touches the runner character before the runner character returns to the base, the return is unsuccessful and the runner is out. As with the success or failure of a steal, the success or failure of a return to the base may be determined strictly by executing a hit determination between the fielder character and the runner character in the game space, or it may be determined simply by comparing the timing when the runner character returns to the base and the timing when the fielder character receives the thrown ball. As with the steal, the success or failure of the return to the base action may be determined taking into account the ability information of the runner character, but in this embodiment, the ability information does not particularly affect the success or failure of the return to the base action.

Figure 9 is a diagram showing a case where the pitcher character performs a pickoff movement. As shown in challenge images G3U and G3V in Figure 9, for example, the pitcher character performs a pickoff movement before the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is displayed. For example, as shown in challenge image G3V, after the user selects the return to base button B36, the steal base button B37 may be grayed out and cannot be selected, or the steal base button B37 may be selectable but the selection may not be reflected in the game.

For example, as shown in challenge image G3W, if the runner character returns to the base before being touched by the fielder character, the return action is successful. In this embodiment, a score is awarded even if the return action is successful, and as shown in challenge image G3X, the result of the return action and the acquired score are displayed in display area A43. On the other hand, if the return action is unsuccessful, the challenge is unsuccessful and no score is awarded.

As described above, the game system S of this embodiment is mainly configured so that when the steal button B37 is selected before the pitcher character starts pitching, the success or failure of the steal is determined based on probability information, allowing the player to feel the tension of stealing a base by stealing the pitcher character's motion and getting started. Details of this configuration will be explained below.

[3. Functions Realized in the Game System]
10 is a functional block diagram showing functions related to the present invention among functions realized by the game system S. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the main functions in the game are realized by the game terminal 10. Therefore, in the game terminal 10, a data storage unit 100, a display control unit 101, a reference time setting unit 102, a start operation receiving unit 103, an operation control unit 104, a first determination unit 105, a second determination unit 106, an effect generation operation receiving unit 107, an effect generation unit 108, an operation instruction operation receiving unit 109, and a determination unit 110 are realized.

[3-1. Data storage unit]
The data storage unit 100 is realized mainly by the storage unit 12. The data storage unit 100 stores data necessary for executing a game. Here, character data DT1 and game situation data DT2 will be described as examples of data stored in the data storage unit 100.

Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of data storage of character data DT1. As shown in Figure 11, character data DT1 is data related to a character, and for example, name, position, rank, and ability information are stored. Note that character data DT1 may also store other information related to the character, such as rarity within the game, or an image of the character.

The rank is information indicating the overall level of ability. The ability information is information indicating the quality of a character's abilities, and for example, abilities are set according to the position. For example, for a pitcher character, ability information relating to the type of ball, ball speed, and pickoff skill is stored. For a runner character, ability information relating to running ability is stored. For a catcher character, ability information relating to catching and throwing is stored. Note that if a character has a special ability, information identifying that special ability may be stored as ability information.

Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of data storage of game situation data DT2. As shown in Figure 12, game situation data DT2 is data related to the game situation, and for example, the situation of the game space and the challenge situation are stored.

The status of the game space includes the character's position, direction, posture, and movement speed in the game space. The position within the game space is indicated by the coordinate values of the coordinate axes set in the game space. The status of the game space may include the ball's position and movement speed, or the virtual camera's position and line of sight. The status of a challenge includes the ball count, strike count, out count, remaining number of challenges, acquired score, and the clearing conditions set for the challenge (here, the score quota).

The data stored in the data storage unit 100 is not limited to the above example. The data storage unit 100 may store any data necessary for the game. For example, the data storage unit 100 may store data related to the challenges saved by the user. This data stores the content of the reserved challenges and the playable period. For example, the data storage unit 100 may store motion data for each action, such as a pitching action, a stealing action, a pickoff action, a return to the base action, and a throwing action. The motion data is data that defines the movement of the character (changes in the vertex coordinates of the 3D model), and the character moves in the game space by playing the motion data. For another example, the data storage unit 100 may store image data for each image to be displayed on the display unit 15.

[3-2. Display control unit]
The display control unit 101 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The display control unit 101 causes a pitcher character to be displayed on the display unit 15. For example, since the pitcher character is placed in the game space, the display control unit 101 causes a view of the game space from a virtual camera to be displayed in the challenge image G3. The process of generating an image showing the view of the game space from the virtual camera may be performed by a known coordinate conversion process.

In this embodiment, the display control unit 101 causes the display unit 15 to display a stolen base success/failure bar B41 to guide the start timing of the pitching motion. The start timing of the pitching motion is an example of a reference time, and the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is an example of a guide image. Therefore, in this embodiment, the places described as the start timing of the pitching motion and the stolen base success/failure bar B41 can be read as the reference time and the guide image, respectively.

The reference time may be, for example, the exact timing at which the pitching motion is started, or may be a timing a specified time before or after the timing. For example, the reference time is a time that is set as the most suitable timing for starting a stealing motion. In other words, the reference time is the timing at which the start operation should be performed.

The start operation is, for example, a predetermined operation for starting a stealing action. For example, the start operation is an operation of selecting a specific image displayed on the screen by tapping, etc. As another example, the start operation is an operation of flicking or sliding in a certain direction on the screen. As another example, the start operation is an operation on an operation member assigned to the stealing action among multiple operation members (buttons, levers, etc.) included in the operation unit 14. Selecting the stealing button B37 is an example of a start operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, the description of selecting the stealing button B37 can be read as a start operation.

The guide image is, for example, an image that is displayed to allow the user to understand the reference time. The guide image may not only inform the user of the reference time, but also of the reception period. The reception period is, for example, a period during which a start operation is accepted, and may start a predetermined time before the timing at which the pitching motion is started, or may start from the timing at which the pitching motion is started. In this embodiment, the reception period is the period from when the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is displayed until the gauge G416 reaches the right end.

In this embodiment, the stolen base success/failure bar B41 includes a gauge G416 whose state changes over time, and the display control unit 101 changes the state of the gauge G416 so that the state of the gauge G416 becomes a predetermined state when the timing for starting the pitching motion arrives. The gauge G416 is an example of a changing image. Therefore, in this embodiment, the description of the gauge G416 can be read as a changing image.

The state is, for example, the display mode or display position of the image, and may be, for example, the length, size, color, brightness, etc. of the image. The display control unit 101 changes the state of the gauge G416 so that the gauge G416 approaches a predetermined state as the timing to start the pitching motion approaches. In other words, the display control unit 101 changes the state of the gauge G416 so that the difference between the timing to start the pitching motion and the current time corresponds to the difference between the predetermined state and the current state of the gauge G416. Note that the time may be specified by a processing frame, or may be specified by the date and time indicated by a real-time clock.

In this embodiment, the length of the gauge G416 indicates the start timing of the pitching motion, so the display control unit 101 changes the length of the gauge G416 so that the gauge G416 becomes a predetermined length (e.g., the length indicated by the timing cursor C410) when the start timing of the pitching motion arrives. For example, the display control unit 101 changes the length of the gauge G416 so that the gauge G416 approaches the predetermined length as the start timing of the pitching motion approaches. In other words, the display control unit 101 changes the length of the gauge G416 so that the difference between the start timing of the pitching motion and the current time corresponds to the difference between the predetermined length and the current length of the gauge G416.

For example, the display control unit 101 may start displaying the gauge G416 when the reception period starts. The reception period may start when the reception period starts, or when a predetermined time has elapsed since the reception period starts. The display control unit 101 does not display the gauge G416 until the reception period starts, and displays the gauge G416 when the reception period starts. In the example of FIG. 3, the state of the challenge image G3C is before the reception period starts, and the steal success/failure bar B41 and the gauge G416 are not displayed. In this state, the return to base button B36 and the steal button B37 may be made unresponsive. The state of the challenge image G3D is during the reception period, the steal success/failure bar B41 is displayed, and the gauge G416 is displayed to extend from left to right as described in FIG. 4. In this state, the return to base button B36 and the steal button B37 become responsive.

[3-3. Reference time setting unit]
The reference time setting unit 102 is mainly realized by the control unit 11. The reference time setting unit 102 sets a reference time within a reception period during which a start operation for causing a runner character to start a stealing motion is received, based on the timing at which the pitcher character starts a pitching motion. The reference time setting unit 102 may set the reference time at any point between the start and end of the reception period. For example, the reference time setting unit 102 sets the reference time to a point a predetermined time after the start of the reception period.

This predetermined time may be a fixed value or a variable value. If it is a variable value, it may be determined based on the ability information of at least one of the pitcher character, the runner character, and the catcher character, or it may be determined randomly. For example, the reference time setting unit 102 may allow the user to take their time selecting the steal base button B37 by lengthening the time from the start of the reception period to the reference time the higher the ability of the runner character. Also, for example, the reference time setting unit 102 may allow the user to take their time selecting the steal base button B37 by shortening the time from the start of the reception period to the reference time the higher the ability of the pitcher character or the catcher character.

[3-4. Start operation reception unit]
The start operation acceptance unit 103 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The start operation acceptance unit 103 accepts the selection operation of the steal base button B37 during the acceptance period. The start operation acceptance unit 103 may determine whether or not the selection operation of the steal base button B37 has been performed based on a detection signal from the operation unit 14. In this embodiment, since the steal base success/failure bar B41 is displayed on the display unit 15, the start operation acceptance unit 103 accepts the selection operation of the steal base button B37 with the steal base success/failure bar B41 displayed. In other words, the start operation acceptance unit 103 accepts the selection operation of the steal base button B37 after the display of the steal base success/failure bar B41 has started.

[3-5. Operation control section]
The motion control unit 104 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The motion control unit 104 causes the runner character to start stealing a base based on the selection operation of the steal base button B37. That is, the motion control unit 104 causes the runner character to start stealing a base on the condition that the steal base button B37 is selected. The motion control unit 104 causes the runner character to steal a base by reproducing the motion data of the stealing motion, and updates the position of the runner character stored in the game situation data DT2.

For example, the motion control unit 104 may cause the runner character to perform a stealing motion based on the ability information of the runner character. The motion control unit 104 moves the runner character faster the higher the ability information is, and moves the runner character slower the lower the ability information is. As another example, if the runner character has a special ability related to stealing bases, the motion control unit 104 moves the runner character faster than if the runner character does not have that special ability.

The motion control unit 104 may also control the motion of other characters, such as a pitcher character, a catcher character, and a fielder character. In this case, as with the runner character, the motion control unit 104 may play back the motion data of each motion and update the character's position stored in the game situation data DT2. For example, when it is time to start the pitching motion, the motion control unit 104 can instruct the pitcher character to pitch by playing back the motion data of the pitching motion.

[3-6. 1st decision section]
The first determination unit 105 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. When the stealing button B37 is selected before the start timing of the pitching motion has elapsed, the first determination unit 105 determines whether or not the stealing button B37 is selected based on probability information. Whether or not the stealing action is successful may be determined by the first determination unit 105 or by the second determination unit 106 described later. The determination may be made by the determining unit 106 or by another functional block.

Before the reference time has elapsed refers to, for example, the period from the start of the acceptance period to the start of the pitching motion. The period before the reference time has elapsed can also be called the early acceptance period, since it is a period during which the selection operation of the steal button B37 is accepted early.

The probability information is, for example, a probability that is set so that the probability of determining that the stealing action will fail is higher than the probability of determining that the stealing action will succeed. For example, the probability information may differ depending on the timing at which the stealing button B37 is selected. The probability information may be a fixed value or a variable value. If it is a variable value, the first determination unit 105 may determine the probability information based on the difference between the start timing of the pitching action and the timing at which the stealing button B37 is selected. For example, the closer the timing at which the stealing button B37 is selected is to the start timing of the pitching action, the higher the probability of the stealing action being successful, and the further the timing at which the start operation is performed is from the start timing of the pitching action, the lower the probability of the stealing action being successful. For example, if it is determined that the start operation is performed before the start timing of the pitching action has elapsed and it is determined that the pitcher character is to perform the throwing action, the stealing action will fail. For example, if it is determined that the start operation has been performed before the start timing of the pitching motion has elapsed and it is decided not to have the pitcher character throw the ball, the success or failure of the stealing motion is determined based on the ability information of the runner character and the user's operation (repeated hits, etc.). For example, if the start operation has been performed after the start timing of the pitching motion has elapsed, the success or failure of the stealing motion is determined based on the ability information of the runner character and the user's operation.

For example, the first determination unit 105 may determine, based on the probability information, whether to have the pitcher character perform a throwing motion to cause a stealing motion to fail, instead of a pitching motion. Instead of a pitching motion may mean, for example, having the pitcher character perform a throwing motion without starting a pitching motion. Note that, under the rules of baseball, the stopping of a pitching motion, which is an example of the first motion, is prohibited; however, if the present invention is applied to a game other than baseball and the stopping of the first motion is not prohibited, stopping the first motion midway and having the pitcher character perform a fifth motion may mean replacing the first motion.

[3-7. Second decision section]
The second determination unit 106 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The second determination unit 106 is realized when the motion control unit 104 determines that the runner has stolen a base when the selection operation of the stealing button B37 is performed after the start timing of the pitching motion has elapsed. The success or failure of the stealing action is determined based on the results of execution of a plurality of processes including a process for causing the character to start a stealing action and a process for causing the pitcher character to pitch a ball.

The multiple processes may include, for example, at least a process of having a runner character start a stealing motion and a process of having a pitcher character perform a pitching motion, and may also include other processes. "After the start timing of the pitching motion has passed" refers, for example, to the period from the start timing of the pitching motion to the end of the reception period. In other words, it refers to the period of the reception period excluding the early reception period up to the start timing of the pitching motion.

For example, the multiple processes may include a process of having a runner character steal a base based on the ability information of the runner character. As described above, the ability information is the quality of the runner character's ability, and is the ability related to the stealing action.

For example, the second determination unit 106 determines whether the stealing action is successful based on the timing when the runner character reaches the base to be stolen and the timing when the fielder character receives the ball and touches the runner character. For example, the second determination unit 106 determines whether the stealing action is successful based on the timing when the runner character reaches the base to be stolen and the timing when the fielder character receives the ball.

[3-8. Effect generation operation reception section]
The effect generating operation receiving unit 107 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The effect generating operation receiving unit 107 receives an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes it easier to succeed in stealing a base after the stealing button B37 is selected. The effect generating operation receiving unit 107 may determine whether or not an effect generating operation has been performed based on a detection signal from the operation unit 14.

An effect is, for example, an effect that increases the probability of a successful steal action. Another example is an effect that increases the ability of a runner character. An effect generating operation is, for example, an operation different from the operation of selecting the steal button B37, and is an operation that is determined in advance to generate an effect. For example, it is an operation of selecting a specific image displayed on the screen. Another example is an operation on an operation member that is assigned to generate an effect out of multiple operation members (such as buttons or levers) included in the operation unit. For example, tapping the screen while stealing a base is an example of an effect generating operation.

[3-9. Effect Generation Section]
The effect generating unit 108 is mainly realized by the control unit 11. The effect generating unit 108 generates an effect based on an effect generating operation. By generating an effect in the game, the effect generating unit 108 may, for example, increase the probability of a successful stealing action, increase the ability of a runner character, or increase the moving speed and accuracy of the action of the runner character. For example, when an effect generating operation is repeatedly performed, the effect generating unit 108 may make the effect stronger the more times the effect generating operation is performed. The strength of the effect may, for example, be a higher probability of a successful stealing action or a higher ability of a runner character.

For example, if the runner character has a predetermined ability, the effect generation unit 108 may generate an effect even if an effect generation operation is not performed. In this case, the effect generation unit 108 will generate an effect unconditionally, regardless of whether or not an effect generation operation is performed.

[3-10. Operation instruction operation reception unit]
The action instruction operation receiving unit 109 is mainly realized by the control unit 11. In this embodiment, the pitcher character performs a pick-off action to pick-off a stealing action, so the action instruction operation receiving unit 109 receives a selection operation of the Return to Base button B36 to cause the runner character to perform a return to base action to counter the pick-off action instead of the stealing action. The action instruction operation receiving unit 109 may determine whether or not a selection operation of the Return to Base button B36 has been performed based on a detection signal from the operation unit 14. Selecting the Return to Base button B36 is an example of an action instruction operation. Therefore, in this embodiment, the description of the selection operation of the Return to Base button B36 can be read as an action instruction operation.

The action instruction operation is, for example, an operation different from the selection operation of the stealing base button B37, and is a predetermined operation for starting the return to base action. For example, the action instruction operation is an operation for selecting a specific image displayed on the screen. Also, for example, the action instruction operation is an operation for an operation member assigned to the return to base action out of multiple operation members (such as buttons and levers) included in the operation unit.

[3-11. Judgment section]
The determination unit 110 is realized mainly by the control unit 11. The determination unit 110 determines whether or not a return to base action is successful. The determination unit 110 determines whether or not a return to base action is successful when the pitcher character has performed a pitching action or when the game has reached a predetermined progress state. When the game has progressed to the above, even if a motion instruction operation is performed, the success or failure of the return to base motion is not determined. The predetermined progress state is, for example, that the game has progressed to a certain state. On the other hand, when the pitcher character performs a pickoff action and the return to base button B36 is selected, the determination unit 110 determines whether or not the inning is over. The success or failure of the return to base action is determined.

For example, the determination unit 110 determines whether the return to base action is successful based on the timing when the runner character returns to the base (the timing when the runner character touches the base he or she is on) and the timing when the fielder character receives the ball and touches the runner character. Also, for example, the determination unit 110 determines whether the return to base action is successful based on the timing when the runner character returns to the base and the timing when the fielder character receives the ball.

4. Processing Executed in the Game System
13 to 15 are flow diagrams showing an example of processing executed in the game system S. The processing shown in Fig. 13 to 15 is executed by the control unit 11 operating in accordance with a program stored in the storage unit 12. The processing shown in Fig. 13 to 15 is an example of processing executed by a functional block. Note that, here, the processing when a challenge image G3 is displayed will be described.

As shown in FIG. 13, first, the control unit 11 causes the display unit 15 to display a challenge image G3 based on the character data DT1 and the game situation data DT2 (S1). In S1, the control unit 11 generates an image showing the game space as seen from a virtual camera, and determines the display content of the display area A38 to show the content of the challenge determined by lottery. The control unit 11 also determines the display content of icons I33 to I35 based on the ability information of the pitcher character, catcher character, and runner character used in the challenge. When the processing of S1 is executed, the state of the challenge image G3A in FIG. 3 is achieved.

The control unit 11 displays the special abilities possessed by the runner character in the display area A39 based on the character data DT1 (S3). When the process of S3 is executed, the state becomes that of the challenge image G3B in FIG. 3. Note that if the runner character does not have a special ability, the process of S3 is not executed.

The control unit 11 erases icons I33 to I35 from the challenge image G3 (S5). The control unit 11 may also display the ball count, strike count, and out count in the display area A40 at this time. When the process of S5 is executed, the state of the challenge image G3C in FIG. 3 is achieved.

The control unit 11 causes the pitcher character to take the set position (S7). Motion data showing the movement of the set position is stored in the storage unit 12, and in S7, the control unit 11 causes the pitcher character to take the set position by playing back the motion data. Note that the game situation data DT2 is updated according to the movement of the pitcher character.

The control unit 11 determines the action of the pitcher character (S9). In S9, the control unit 11 determines whether to have the pitcher character pitch or pick off the ball based on a predetermined probability. This probability may be a fixed value or a variable value. If it is a variable value, the probability may change based on a random number, or the probability may change based on the ability information of the pitcher character, catcher character, and runner character.

When it is decided to have the pitcher character perform a pitching motion (S9; pitching motion), the control unit 11 sets the start timing of the pitching motion within the reception period (S11). In S11, the control unit 11 sets a reception period of a predetermined length after the current time, and sets the start timing of the pitching motion within the reception period. For example, the control unit 11 sets the start timing of the pitching motion to a predetermined time after the start of the reception period. Thereafter, the control unit 11 determines whether the start timing of the pitching motion set in S11 has arrived, and when the start timing of the pitching motion has arrived, the control unit 11 causes the pitcher character to begin the pitching motion.

The control unit 11 displays a stolen base success/failure bar B41 (S13). In S13, the control unit 11 displays a timing cursor C410 to indicate the start timing of the pitching motion set in S11. For example, the control unit 11 displays the timing cursor C410 at a position a predetermined distance from the left end of the stolen base success/failure bar B41 (for example, the distance obtained by multiplying the time from the start of the reception period to the start timing of the pitching motion by the extension speed of the gauge G416). When the process of S13 is executed, the state becomes that of the challenge image G3D in FIG. 3. Thereafter, the control unit 11 accepts selection of the return to base button B36 and the stolen base button B37.

The control unit 11 changes the length of the gauge G416 so as to guide the start timing of the pitching motion (S15). In S15, the control unit 11 gradually changes the length of the gauge G416 so that the difference between the start timing of the pitching motion and the current time corresponds to the difference between the distance between the left end of the stolen base success/failure bar B41 and the timing cursor C410 and the length of the gauge G416.

The control unit 11 determines whether the steal base button B37 has been selected based on the detection signal from the operation unit 14 (S17). If it is determined that the steal base button B37 has been selected (S17; Y), the process moves to FIG. 14, where the control unit 11 causes the runner character to start stealing a base (S19). Motion data showing the running motion of the runner character is stored in the storage unit 12, and in S19, the control unit 11 causes the runner character to steal a base based on the motion data. The game situation data DT2 is updated according to the stealing motion of the runner character. The control unit 11 also determines the movement speed of the runner character based on the ability information of the runner character, and updates the position of the runner character.

The control unit 11 determines whether the timing when the steal base button B37 is selected occurs before the start of the pitching motion (S21). In S21, the control unit 11 determines whether the frame in which the steal base button B37 selection operation is detected occurs before the frame in which the pitching motion starts. In other words, in S21, the control unit 11 determines whether the gauge G416 is stopped within the area A411 to the left of the timing cursor C410.

If it is determined that the timing is before the start of the pitching motion (S21; Y), the control unit 11 performs a lottery based on predetermined probability information to determine whether or not the pitcher character will notice the stolen base (S23). In S23, the control unit 11 sets the probability information based on the timing when the steal button B37 is selected and the start of the pitching motion. For example, the control unit 11 sets the probability information so that the smaller the difference between these timings, the higher the probability of the steal being successful, and the larger the difference, the lower the probability of the steal being successful. The relationship between the timing difference and the probability information may be stored in the storage unit 12 as data in a table format or a mathematical formula format, or may be written as part of the program code. The control unit 11 sets the probability information associated with the timing difference. Then, the control unit 11 executes a lottery process based on the probability information to determine whether the pitcher character has been selected to notice the stolen base or has been selected to not notice the stolen base. The lottery process itself may utilize a known lottery algorithm.

If the pitcher character notices a stolen base (S23; notices stolen base), the control unit 11 sets the pitcher character to throw the ball directly to the base where the stolen base is located (S25). Motion data showing the motion of the pitcher character throwing the ball to the base where the stolen base is located is stored in the storage unit 12, and when the process of S25 is executed, the control unit 11 causes the pitcher character to perform the throwing motion based on the motion data. That is, in S25, a route is set for the pitcher character to throw the ball directly, rather than throwing via the catcher character.

On the other hand, if the pitcher character does not notice the stolen base (S23; not aware of the stolen base), the control unit 11 sets the catcher character to throw the ball to the base where the stolen base is located (S27). Motion data showing the motion of the pitcher character pitching the ball to home plate and motion data showing the motion of the catcher character throwing the ball to the base where the stolen base is located are stored in the storage unit 12, and when the processing of S27 is executed, the control unit 11 causes the pitcher character to make a pitching motion to home plate based on the motion data, and when the catcher character catches the ball, causes the catcher character to make a throwing motion to the base where the stolen base is located. That is, in S27, the route for throwing the ball via the catcher character is set.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S21 that the start of the pitching motion is occurring or that the start of the pitching motion is occurring after the start of the pitching motion (S21; N), the process proceeds to S27, and the control unit 11 sets the pitcher character to throw the ball directly to the target base for the stolen base. In other words, a route is set for the ball to be thrown to the target base via the catcher character.

The control unit 11 determines the user's evaluation (S29). In S29, if the steal base button B37 is selected before the start of the pitching motion, the evaluation is low, and the control unit 11 displays the evaluation result "NORMAL!" in the display area A42 (challenge image G3N in FIG. 7 or challenge image G3R in FIG. 8). On the other hand, if the steal base button B37 is selected after the start of the pitching motion, the control unit 11 determines the user's evaluation based on the start of the pitching motion and the timing when the steal base button B37 was selected. The control unit 11 determines the user's evaluation so that the smaller the difference between these timings is, the higher the evaluation. The control unit 11 then displays the evaluation result in the display area A42 (challenge image G3F in FIG. 5 or challenge image G3J in FIG. 6).

For example, when the difference in timing is less than the first threshold (i.e., when the gauge G416 is stopped in area A412), the control unit 11 displays the highest evaluation result of "GREAT!" in the display area A42. Also, for example, when the difference in timing is equal to or greater than the first threshold and less than the second threshold (second threshold > first threshold) (i.e., when the gauge G416 is stopped in area A413), the control unit 11 displays the second evaluation result of "GOOD!" in the display area A42. Also, for example, when the difference in timing is equal to or greater than the second threshold and less than the third threshold (third threshold > second threshold) (i.e., when the gauge G416 is stopped in area A414), the control unit 11 displays the third evaluation result of "NICE!" in the display area A42. Also, for example, if the timing difference is equal to or greater than the third threshold (i.e., if the gauge G416 is stopped within area A415), the control unit 11 displays the evaluation result "NORMAL!", which is a low evaluation, in the display area A42.

The control unit 11 determines whether the user has performed an effect generating operation based on the detection signal of the operation unit 14 (S31). Here, it is determined whether the user has tapped while the runner character is stealing a base. If it is determined that the user has performed an effect generating operation (S31; Y), the control unit 11 increases the movement speed of the runner character (S33). In S33, the control unit 11 may increase the movement speed of the runner character based on the number of times the user has performed the effect generating operation (number of taps). Note that, as described above, if the runner character has a special ability related to stealing bases, the processing of S33 may be executed even if the effect generating operation is not performed. Also, if the pitcher character notices the stealing in S23, the processing of S31 and S33 may be omitted.

The control unit 11 determines whether the stealing action is successful (S35). In S35, if the setting of S25 (setting the route for the pitcher character to throw the ball directly) has been performed, the control unit 11 determines that the stealing action has failed. On the other hand, if the setting of S27 (setting the route for throwing the ball via the catcher character) has been performed, the control unit 11 determines whether the stealing action is successful or not based on the runner character's stealing action, the pitching action of the pitcher character, and the throwing action of the catcher character, the timing when the runner character reaches the base to be stolen, and the timing when the fielder character touches the runner character.

The control unit 11 determines the acquired score based on the success or failure of the stolen base determined in S35 (S37). In S37, the control unit 11 displays the success or failure of the stolen base and the acquired score in the display area A43. Note that, in the case of the start of the pitching motion or after the start of the pitching motion, the control unit 11 may set the acquired score to be higher the higher the user's evaluation. In S37, the control unit 11 displays the acquired score in the display area 43 of the challenge image G3. Note that, in this case, the control unit 11 decreases the remaining number of challenges stored in the game situation data DT2.

On the other hand, in S17, if it is not determined that the steal button has been selected even though the gauge G416 has reached the end of the steal success/failure bar B41 (S17; N), the process moves to FIG. 14, where the control unit 11 determines whether the batter character has been called out based on the game situation data DT2 (S39). In S39, the control unit 11 references the strike count indicated by the game situation data DT2 and determines whether there are three strikes. The ball count, strike count, and out count may be updated based on the pitcher character's pitching results and the batter character's batting results.

If it is not determined that the batter character is out (S39; N), the process returns to S7. In this case, the batter character can repeatedly attempt to steal bases until he is out. On the other hand, if it is determined that the batter character is out (S39; Y), the control unit 11 considers the steal to have failed and moves to S37.

On the other hand, if it is decided in S9 that the pitcher character will perform a pickoff action (S9; pickoff action), the flow shifts to FIG. 15, where the control unit 11 determines whether the Return to Base button B36 has been selected based on the detection signal from the operation unit 14 (S41). If it is determined that the Return to Base button B36 has been selected (S41; Y), the control unit 11 causes the runner character to perform a return to base action (S43). Motion data indicating the runner character's return to base action and motion data indicating the pitcher character's pickoff action are stored in the storage unit 12, and in S43, the control unit 11 causes the runner character to perform a return to base action and the pitcher character to perform a pickoff action based on these motion data. The game situation data DT2 is updated according to the runner character's return to base action and the pitcher character's pickoff action.

The control unit 11 determines whether the return to base action is successful (S45). In S45, the control unit 11 determines whether the return to base action is successful based on the timing when the runner character returns to the base and the timing when the fielder character touches the runner character. The control unit 11 determines the acquired score based on the success or failure of the return to base (S47). In S47, the control unit 11 displays the success or failure of the steal and the acquired score in the display area A43. In this case, the control unit 11 reduces the remaining number of challenges stored in the game situation data DT2.

The control unit 11 determines whether the remaining number of attempts in the challenge has run out based on the game status data DT2 (S49). If it is determined that the remaining number of attempts has not run out (S49; N), the process returns to S7. On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining number of attempts has run out (S49; Y), the process ends. In this case, if the acquired score is equal to or exceeds the clearing condition, a reward will be given to the user.

According to the game system S described above, if the steal base button B37 is selected before the start of the pitching motion, the success or failure of the stealing motion is determined based on probability information, and even if the steal base button B37 is selected before the start of the pitching motion, the stealing motion may be successful, so the user can feel a sense of tension, for example, of stealing the pitcher character's pitching motion and starting the stealing motion.

In addition, since the selection operation of the steal button B37 is accepted while the stolen base success/failure bar B41 is displayed, the user can select the steal button B37 while understanding the start timing of the pitching motion.

In addition, the timing to start the pitching motion is indicated by the change in the state of the gauge G416, so the user can intuitively grasp the timing to start the pitching motion.

The user can also tell that the acceptance period has begun when the stolen base success/failure bar B41 starts to be displayed.

In addition, not only the timing at which the steal button B37 is selected, but also the ability information of the runner character affects the success or failure of the steal action, which can add variety to the game and effectively increase the interest of the game.

In addition, even if the return to base button B36 is selected to perform a return to base action to counter a pickoff attempt by the pitcher character, if the pitcher character does not perform a pickoff attempt, the success or failure of the return to base action is not determined, thereby preventing unnecessary processing from being executed.

In addition, by generating an effect that makes it easier to succeed in stealing bases based on the selection operation of the return to base button B36, it is possible to vary the ease with which stealing bases can be successful, thereby effectively increasing the entertainment value of the game.

In addition, if a runner character has a certain ability, an effect can be generated that makes it easier to steal bases without the player having to perform an effect generation operation, which can add variety to the game and effectively increase the interest of the game.

In addition, when determining whether a steal attempt will succeed or fail based on probability information, the pitcher character can throw the ball to make it appear as if the steal attempt has failed, providing a more natural feel to the game.

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.

For example, when the steal button B37 is selected after the start of the pitching motion has elapsed, the second decision unit 106 may determine whether the steal action is successful based on the results of a process that causes the timing at which the steal button B37 is selected to affect the success or failure of the steal action.

The process of influencing the success or failure of a stealing motion is, for example, a process that makes the stealing motion more likely to succeed or fail. For example, it is a process that changes the probability of the success or failure of the stealing motion. Another example is a process that changes the accuracy or speed of the motion of the pitcher character to block the stealing motion. For example, it is a process that changes the type of pitch, control, or speed of the ball so that the stealing motion is more likely to succeed or fail. For example, a pitch with little curve (such as a straight ball) makes the stealing motion more likely to succeed, and a pitch with a large curve (such as a forkball) makes the stealing motion more likely to fail. For example, the worse the control, the more likely the stealing motion is to succeed, and the better the control, the more likely the stealing motion is to succeed. For example, the slower the ball speed, the more likely the stealing motion is to succeed, and the faster the ball speed, the more likely the stealing motion is to fail.

Furthermore, for example, each function realized in the game terminal 10 may be realized in the server 30. For example, the main processing of the game may be executed in the server 30. In this case, the server 30 corresponds to the game control device according to the present invention. For example, when the display control unit 101, the reference time setting unit 102, the start operation receiving unit 103, the operation control unit 104, the first decision unit 105, the second decision unit 106, the effect generation operation receiving unit 107, the effect generation unit 108, the operation instruction operation receiving unit 109, and the judgment unit 110 are realized in the server 30, these are realized mainly by the control unit 31.

In this case, the game terminal 10 receives image data from the server 30 and displays each image on the display unit 15. The game terminal 10 also transmits data indicating the instruction received by the operation unit 14 to the server 30. By receiving the data, the server 30 identifies the user's instruction and executes the game. For example, each function may be shared between the game terminal 10 and the server 30. For example, among the functions described in the embodiment and the above modified example, functions other than the reference time setting unit 102, the first determination unit 105, and the second determination unit 106 may be omitted. For example, the reference time setting unit 102, the first determination unit 105, and the second determination unit 106 may be realized in the server 30, and the other functions may be realized in the game terminal 10. In this case, the processing results of each functional block may be transmitted and received between the game terminal 10 and the server 30.

For example, if the reference time setting unit 102 is implemented in the server 30, the reference time set by the server 30 is transmitted to the game terminal 10. For another example, if the operation control unit 104 is implemented in the server 30, the game situation data DT2 updated by the server 30 is transmitted to the game terminal 10. For another example, if the first determination unit 105 is implemented in the server 30, the result of the success or failure of the stealing operation determined by the server 30 is transmitted to the game terminal 10. For another example, if the second determination unit 106 is implemented in the server 30, the result of the success or failure of the stealing operation determined by the server 30 is transmitted to the game terminal 10.

Although the above describes a case where a baseball game is executed, the processing according to the present invention may be applied to other games. For example, the processing according to the present invention may be applied to sports games other than baseball games (for example, games based on soccer, tennis, American football, basketball, volleyball, etc.). For example, the processing according to the present invention may be applied to various games other than sports games, regardless of game format or genre, such as action games, role-playing games, fighting games, etc.

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

1) A game system (S) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game system (S) for making a user object perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, the game system (S) comprising: a display control means (101) for displaying the opponent object on a display means (15); a reference time setting means (102) for setting a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for making the user object start the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a start operation receiving means (103) for receiving the start operation during the reception period; The system includes an action control means (104) for causing the user object to start the second action based on a start operation, a first decision means (105) for determining whether the second action will be successful based on probability information if the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed, and a second decision means (106) for determining whether the second action will be successful based on the results of execution of multiple processes including a process in which the action control means (104) causes the user object to start the second action and a process in which the other object performs the first action if the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

10) A game system (S) according to one aspect of the present invention, in which a user object is made to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, includes a display control means (101) for displaying the opponent object on a display means (15), a reference time setting means (102) for setting a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for making the user object start the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action, a start operation receiving means (103) for receiving the start operation during the reception period, an action control means (104) for making the user object start the second action based on the start operation, a first determination means (105) for determining whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed, and a second determination means (106) for determining whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a process in which the timing at which the start operation was performed affects the success or failure of the second action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

11) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device that makes a user object perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, and includes: a reference time setting means (102) that sets a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for making the user object start the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a first determination means (105) that determines whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means (106) that determines whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a plurality of processes including a process in which the action control means (104) makes the user object start the second action and a process in which the opponent object performs the first action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

12) A game control device (10, 30) according to one aspect of the present invention is a game control device that causes a user object to perform a second action when an opponent object performs a first action, and includes: a reference time setting means (102) that sets a reference time within a reception period for receiving a start operation for causing the user object to perform the second action based on a timing at which the opponent object starts the first action; a first determination means (105) that determines whether the second action will be successful based on probability information when the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed; and a second determination means (106) that determines whether the second action will be successful based on a result of execution of a process that causes the timing at which the start operation was performed to affect the success or failure of the second action when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed.

13) A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as a game system (S) described in any one of 1) to 10) or a game control device (10, 30) described in 11) or 12).

14) An information storage medium according to one aspect of the present invention is a computer-readable information storage medium having the program of 13) recorded thereon.

According to the inventions relating to 1) or 10) to 14), if the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed, the success or failure of the second action is determined based on the probability information, and even if the start operation is performed before the reference time has elapsed, the second action may be successful, so that the user can feel a sense of urgency, for example, of stealing the first action performed by the opponent object to start the second action.

2) In one aspect of the present invention, the display control means (101) causes the display means (15) to display a guide image for informing the user of the reference time, and the start operation receiving means (103) receives the start operation while the guide image is displayed. According to aspect 2), since the start operation is received while the guide image is displayed, the user can perform the start operation while knowing the reference time.

3) In one aspect of the present invention, the guidance image includes a changing image whose state changes with the passage of time, and the display control means (101) changes the state of the changing image so that the state of the changing image becomes a predetermined state when the reference time arrives. According to aspect 3), the reference time is guided by the change in the state of the changing image, so that the user can intuitively grasp the reference time.

4) In one aspect of the present invention, the display control means (101) starts displaying the guidance image when the reception period starts. According to aspect 4), the user can know that the reception period has started by the start of displaying the guidance image.

5) In one aspect of the present invention, the plurality of processes includes a process of making the user object perform the second action based on ability information of the user object. According to aspect 5), not only the timing of the start operation but also the ability information of the user object affects the success or failure of the second action, so that it is possible to add variety to the game and effectively increase the interest of the game.

6) In one aspect of the present invention, the opponent object performs a third action to check the second action, and the game system (S) further includes an action instruction operation receiving means (109) that receives an action instruction operation to have the user object perform a fourth action to counter the third action instead of the second action, and a judgment means (110) that judges whether the fourth action is successful or not, and the judgment means (110) does not judge whether the fourth action is successful or not when the opponent object performs the first action or when the game has progressed to a predetermined progress state, even if the action instruction operation is performed, but judges whether the fourth action is successful or not when the opponent object performs the third action and the action instruction operation is performed. According to the aspect of 6), even if an action instruction operation is performed to perform a fourth action countering the third action of the opponent object, if the opponent object does not perform the third action, the success or failure of the fourth action is not judged, thereby preventing unnecessary processing from being executed.

7) In one aspect of the present invention, the game system (S) further includes an effect generating operation receiving means (107) that receives an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to succeed after the start operation is performed, and an effect generating means (108) that generates the effect based on the effect generating operation. According to aspect 7), by generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to succeed based on the effect generating operation, it is possible to vary the ease with which the second action will succeed, thereby effectively increasing the interest of the game.

8) In one aspect of the present invention, the effect generating means (108) generates the effect when the user object has a predetermined ability, even if the effect generating operation is not performed. According to aspect 8), by generating an effect that makes it easier to succeed in the second action without performing an effect generating operation when the user object has a predetermined ability, it is possible to add variety to the game and effectively increase the interest of the game.

9) In one aspect of the present invention, the first determination means (105) determines, based on the probability information, whether or not to have the other object perform a fifth action to cause the second action to fail, instead of the first action. According to aspect 9), when determining whether the second action will succeed or fail based on probability information, the other object can be made to perform the fifth action to create the illusion of the second action failing, thereby providing a more natural game.

S Game system, N Network, 10 Game terminal, 30 Server, 11, 31 Control unit, 12, 32 Memory unit, 13, 33 Communication unit, 14 Operation unit, 15 Display unit, G1 Lottery result image, G2 Challenge detail image, G3 Challenge image, A20, A22, A23, A30, A31, A32, A38, A39, A40, A42, A43 Display area, B10 Hold button, B11 Challenge button, B21 Recovery button, B24 Cancel button, B25 Challenge button, I33, I34, I35 Icon, B36 Return to base button, B37 Steal base button, DT1 Character data, DT2 Game status data, B41 Steal base success/failure bar, C410 Timing cursor, A411, A412, A413, A414, A415 Area, G416 gauge, C417 gauge cursor, 100 data storage unit, 101 display control unit, 102 reference time setting unit, 103 start operation reception unit, 104 operation control unit, 105 first decision unit, 106 second decision unit, 107 effect generation operation reception unit, 108 effect generation unit, 109 operation instruction operation reception unit, 110 determination unit.

Claims (5)

1. A game system for making a second object perform a second action when a first object performs a first action, comprising:
a display control means for causing a display means to display the first object;
a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within an acceptance period for accepting a start operation for causing the second object to start the second action, based on a timing at which the first object starts the first action;
a start operation receiving means for receiving the start operation during the reception period;
an action control means for causing the second object to start the second action based on the start operation;
a determination means for determining whether the second action has been successful based on execution results of a plurality of processes including a process of causing the second object to start the second action by the action control means and a process of causing the first object to perform the first action by the action control means;
an effect generating operation receiving means for receiving an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to be successful when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed;
an effect generating means for generating the effect based on the effect generating operation;
Including,
the effect generating means generates the effect when the second object has a predetermined ability, even if the effect generating operation is not performed.
Game system. 1. A game system for making a second object perform a second action when a first object performs a first action, comprising:
a display control means for causing a display means to display the first object;
a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within an acceptance period for accepting a start operation for causing the second object to start the second action, based on a timing at which the first object starts the first action;
a start operation receiving means for receiving the start operation during the reception period;
an action control means for causing the second object to start the second action based on the start operation;
a determination means for executing a process in which a timing at which the start operation is performed affects a success or failure of the second action, and determining the success or failure of the second action based on a result of the execution of the process ;
an effect generating operation receiving means for receiving an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to be successful when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed;
an effect generating means for generating the effect based on the effect generating operation;
Including,
the effect generating means generates the effect when the second object has a predetermined ability, even if the effect generating operation is not performed.
Game system. A game control device that causes a second object to perform a second action when a first object performs a first action,
a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within an acceptance period for accepting a start operation for causing the second object to start the second action, based on a timing at which the first object starts the first action;
a determination means for determining whether the second action has been successful based on results of execution of a plurality of processes including a process of causing the second object to start the second action and a process of causing the first object to perform the first action;
an effect generating operation receiving means for receiving an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to be successful when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed;
an effect generating means for generating the effect based on the effect generating operation;
Including,
the effect generating means generates the effect when the second object has a predetermined ability, even if the effect generating operation is not performed.
Game control device. A game control device that causes a second object to perform a second action when a first object performs a first action,
a reference time setting means for setting a reference time within an acceptance period for accepting a start operation for causing the second object to start the second action, based on a timing at which the first object starts the first action;
a determination means for executing a process in which a timing at which the start operation is performed affects a success or failure of the second action, and determining the success or failure of the second action based on a result of the execution of the process ;
an effect generating operation receiving means for receiving an effect generating operation for generating an effect that makes the second action more likely to be successful when the start operation is performed after the reference time has elapsed;
an effect generating means for generating the effect based on the effect generating operation;
Including,
the effect generating means generates the effect when the second object has a predetermined ability, even if the effect generating operation is not performed.
Game control device. A program for causing a computer to function as the game system described in claim 1 or 2, or the game control device described in claim 3 or 4.

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