JPH11137849A - Computer game device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To supply a game program and the outside image to be synthesized with the COG images generated by the game program by independent methods. SOLUTION: An image receiver 20 to receive an image program sent from an outside information source such as broadcating station 24 is equipped in a computer game device provided with a central control unit 14 to integrate and control the whole equipment, a COG processor 26 to generate COG images based on the game program, an image output means such as display 27 to output game images, etc., a sound processing means such as speaker 32 to output sound effect, etc., of a game, and an operation input means such as game controller 12, etc., A game proceeds by synthesizing a COG image and an image received by the image receiver 20 with an image synthesizer 28, and displaying it on a display 27.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a computer game apparatus for playing a game while appropriately combining a reproduced image such as a video image with a CG image generated by a game program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Recent game software includes a CG image generated by a game program and a video such as a video image produced in a process different from that of the CG image to advance the game. There is something that I did. For example, in a simulation game for fishing, etc., the game is advanced while synthesizing a video image such as “seascape” as a background image with respect to a CG image such as “fishing rod” or “device” controlled by the game program. It has become.

[0003] By the way, such game software has a game program and a video recorded on a single CD-ROM or a single ROM cartridge or the like in consideration of the convenience of attachment and detachment to and from a game device. Often recorded together with the medium. Generally, a game device that executes such game software is configured to proceed with the game while appropriately reading out a game program and video data from the one recording medium as needed.

[0004]

However, since the maximum data size that can be recorded on one recording medium is limited, the game program and video data are recorded together on one recording medium as described above. In this case, the size of video data that can be recorded on the recording medium is limited by the data size of the already recorded game program. Also, in general, video data having a high resolution and a large amount of information has a large data size.
With such a supply method using a recording medium, it has been difficult to provide a more varied and realistic image.

[0005] In some game software, it is often desired to use the conventional video data as it is and to upgrade only the game program. In such a case, as described above, if the game is advanced while appropriately reading out the game program and the video data from one recording medium as necessary, the recording medium always stores the game program and the video data. Data and data must coexist on a single storage medium,
In particular, in the manufacturing process of the recording medium, it is necessary to record again the video data of the same content as before without any change in the recording medium together with the upgraded game program, which is wasteful in work. In addition, recently, there has been a demand for a more complete and higher quality game program, so that it is desirable that all areas of the recording medium be widely opened as recording areas for the game program.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and can use video data having a large data size. Further, the present invention promotes efficient production of a recording medium for game software. It is an object of the present invention to provide a computer game device capable of executing a substantial and high quality game program.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer game apparatus having the following requirements (1) to (3). You. (1) Central control means for managing the execution of a game program and controlling the entire apparatus, CG image generation means for generating a CG image based on the game program, and image output means such as a display for outputting an image of the game, etc. Sound output means such as a speaker for outputting a sound effect of the game,
Operation input means such as a game controller. (2) It has video receiving means for receiving a video program broadcast from an external information source. (3) There is a video synthesizing means for synthesizing the CG video generated by the CG video generating means and the video program received by the video receiving means, while displaying the synthesized video output from the video synthesizing means on the video output means. Advance the game. In this way, the video can be supplied without using the recording medium, and the data size of the game program is not reduced when the game program is distributed by the recording medium.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the computer game device according to the first aspect, wherein a medium reading means for reading a game program from a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a ROM cartridge. When,
A function of executing the game program read by the medium reading means by the central control means is provided.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the computer game device according to any one of the first and second aspects, wherein the video receiving means transmits a plurality of video data transmitted from the external information source. It is provided with a function of receiving a video program of a channel and a program selection function of selecting a video program to be combined with the CG video according to an instruction of the central control device.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the computer game apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the computer game apparatus communicates with a public communication network such as a public telephone network or an ISDN communication network. Means shall be provided.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the computer game device according to the fourth aspect, wherein the computer game device is connected to a host device operated by a business operator using the communication means. Has a function of transmitting information such as a game result.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the computer game apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the video receiving means is multiplexed with the video program. A function for restoring information is provided.

[0013] The invention according to claim 7 of the present invention is the computer game device according to claim 6, wherein identification information for distinguishing the content and type of the video program is included in the video program. It is included as the supplementary information, and has a function of giving this identification information as a parameter to the game program. Thereby, the game program can recognize the contents of the video program and change the algorithm to be executed.

Further, the invention according to claim 8 of the present invention is the computer game device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the function of storing the video program received by the video receiving means in a database. And a function of appropriately selecting a video program stored in the database and synthesizing it with the CG video. In this way, the user does not need to play the game in accordance with the broadcast schedule of the program, and can enjoy the game by calling the favorite video program from the database at any time.

[0015]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a video game device (hereinafter referred to as a game device) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

=== Block Configuration of Game Apparatus === FIG. 1 shows a block configuration of the game apparatus. The operation control device 10 receives an operation input signal generated by a user operating the game controller 12 and transmits the signal to the central control device 14. The central control unit 14 has a CPU R
It is a computer main body composed mainly of AM / ROM and the like. A CD-ROM in which game software is recorded is mounted on the CD-ROM device 18. The central control device 16 reads the game program from the mounted CD-ROM and executes it.

The image receiving device 20 includes a parabolic antenna 2
2 and a receiver main body, and receives a video program transmitted from a broadcasting station 24 of digital satellite communication described later. Further, the CG image processing device 26 generates a CG image required for the game according to the game program being executed. The video synthesizing device 28 synthesizes the video program received by the video receiving device 20 with the CG video generated by the CG video processing device 26 and displays the synthesized video on the display 27. The image synthesizing device 28 is controlled by the central control device 14. The sound processing device 30 is controlled by the central control device 14 and outputs game accompaniment music and the like from the speaker 32 as appropriate. Further, the game device includes a communication control device 34 for connecting to a public communication network such as a telephone network or an ISDN network.

=== Video Program Broadcast from Broadcasting Station ==
= The broadcast station 24 broadcasts a video program that provides a background video of the game according to a predetermined program schedule. FIG. 2 shows an example of the program schedule. In this example, from 09: 00 to 12:00, "summer seascape"
The video program of “Autumn Seascape” is broadcast from 12:00 to 15:00. Also,
Identification information is multiplexed on the broadcast video program.
Here, the identification information is information for the game software to specify the type and content of the video data, and the details will be described later.

=== “Fishing Game” === Hereinafter, a case where a CD-ROM storing a game program for executing the “fishing game” is set in the game device will be described as an example.

(1) Initial Settings at the Start of the Game FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of the "fishing game". When the CD-ROM in which the game program is recorded is set in the CD-ROM device 18, the central control device 14 reads out and executes the game program (110). The video receiving device 20 starts receiving the video program, and separates the identification information multiplexed in the video program from the video data containing the video itself. Then, the video receiving device 20 transmits the video data to the video synthesizing device 28 and transmits the identification information to the central control device 14. The central control device 14 gives the identification information received from the video receiving device 20 as a parameter to the game program being executed as appropriate (120). The central controller 14 controls the CG image processing device 18 according to the game program to generate a CG image for the start screen of the “fishing game”, and controls the image synthesizing device 28 to synthesize the CG image and image data. And outputs it to the display 27 (13). At this time, C
The method of synthesizing the G video and the video data (position to be synthesized, size of each video, etc.) is determined by an algorithm included in the game program. In the following description, CG
The process of synthesizing the video and the video data and displaying it on the display 27 is appropriately performed unless otherwise specified. Next, when the start button of the game controller 12 is depressed by the user (140), the central control unit 14 causes the device (fishing rod, reel, line, hook) to be used during the game by interactive processing with the user. , Bait, etc.) (150).

(2) Progress of the Game and Selection of Algorithm When the device is determined, the central control unit 14 allows the user to perform an operation corresponding to casting (operation of putting the device or the like into water) on the game controller 12. Wait for.
When an operation corresponding to casting is performed, the game device produces a state of performing the casting by using a CG image (160 to 170). By the way, this game program includes a function of referring to the above-described identification information as a parameter and selecting an algorithm to be executed according to the identification information. For example, video data of “Autumn seascape” is broadcasted. If so, an algorithm is executed that makes it easier to catch horse mackerel, sardines, etc., which are in the summer season (180). That is, the identification information is, as it were, synchronization information for ensuring consistency between the content of the broadcast video program (for example, season, time, location, etc.) and the game story developed by the algorithm to be executed. The game device generates “Atari” (a state in which a fish pokes the bait on the hook) in a timely manner according to the algorithm of the game program. The game device sequentially generates CG images and the like in which individual information (type, length, male and female, etc.) of the fish caught by the user is displayed on the display, and synthesizes a video program with the CG video by the video synthesizing device 28 as appropriate, and displays it on the display 27. indicate.

(3) When the video data sent from the broadcast station is switched (190 to 200) When the video program is changed during the game, an algorithm executed according to the new identification information after the change Changes.
For example, if the video program of "Summer Seascape" is switched to the program of "Autumn Seascape", the algorithm that can only catch the horse mackerel and sardine that was executed in "Summer Seascape" Changes, so that flounders and fish can be caught. In the case of this example, the game is made more interesting by devising that the user can appropriately change the device during the game by performing a predetermined operation on the game controller 12 as appropriate. can do.

(4) Termination of Game The game is terminated when the user performs a predetermined operation on the game controller 12 or a predetermined time limit elapses (210). The game device calculates a game score in consideration of the type and size of the fish caught by the user during the game, bait, devices, and the like. Therefore, when you catch a big or unusual fish, you can get a good score by itself. Good scores are also obtained. The game device arranges the calculated game scores and displays the result on the display 27 (220). Further, the game device transmits the calculated game score to the host device 36 operated by the business operator by the communication control device 34 (230).

(5) Game Result Information The host device 36 operated by the business operator creates an overall ranking table in which the scores sent from each game device are arranged.
At this time, if the number of participants is large, for example, a total ranking table of only the top prize winners may be created. The business operator converts this comprehensive ranking table into an appropriate data format, and multiplexes it into a video program to be broadcast by digital satellite broadcasting before broadcasting.

(6) Display of Overall Ranking Table Although not shown in the flowchart of FIG. 3, the overall ranking table multiplexed with the broadcast video information can be used to receive the video in the same manner as the identification information described above. They are separated and taken out by the device 20 and transmitted to the central control unit 14. When a user performs a predetermined operation on the game controller 12, the central control device 14 appropriately displays an overall ranking table on the display 27.

If the additional service such as the comprehensive ranking table is provided to the user without limitation, it is not possible to prevent the line congestion on the host device 36 side and the heavy load on the host device 36. Therefore, in order to reduce the number of users who should provide the additional service, the additional service may be provided for a fee. In this way, the service needs to be provided only to the user who requests the supplementary service, so that the line congestion can be reduced.
The load on the host device 36 can be reduced. Also, in this case, for example, a real user of the same kind as the fish caught by the user during game play is presented to a user who has excellent results, or a tour trip to the production area of the caught fish is presented. A premium service may be provided. In this way, new enjoyment can be given to the user, and the number and number of users who desire the additional service can be controlled to some extent by adjusting the quality and amount of the premium service.

=== Other Applications === In the above-described embodiment, digital satellite broadcasting is used as a broadcasting means for distributing video information. However, instead of digital satellite broadcasting, digital terrestrial broadcasting or analog terrestrial broadcasting is used. Broadcasting and other wireless broadcasting, cable TV (CA
A cable broadcast such as a TV (TV) broadcast may be used. Naturally, when other broadcasting means is used, the above-mentioned video receiving apparatus uses a communication method suitable for the communication method of each broadcasting means.

Also, a video receiving apparatus 20 capable of receiving a video program of a plurality of channels is adopted, and video programs having different contents are broadcast on each channel, and a user selects a favorite video program. You may do so. Alternatively, a channel may be assigned for each type of game software, and the channel may be switched in accordance with the game software so that other types of game software can be enjoyed at any time.

Also, an appropriate external storage device 40 is provided in the game apparatus, a database is introduced into the external storage device 40, and the database stores video programs received by the receiving device, and stores it in the database as necessary. The video program may be used as a video program to be synthesized with the CG video. In this way, the user does not need to play the game in accordance with the broadcast schedule of the program, and can enjoy the game at any time by calling the favorite video program from the database at any time.

The image synthesizing device 28 is connected to the printer device 4.
2 may be provided so that, for example, the fish crawling of the caught fish can be printed out. In this case, it is advisable to collect a usage fee for fish development as needed. It is also conceivable to use this fish cultivation as the premium service described above.

It is naturally anticipated that a video program provider may need to supply the video program for a fee. However, the present game device is provided by a public telephone network / ISDN.
Since it has communication means with a public communication network such as a communication network,
For example, a quick and convenient billing process can be realized by adopting a method similar to PPV (pay per view) that has already been put to practical use in digital satellite broadcasting.

[0032]

According to the computer game apparatus of the present invention, the video data to be synthesized with the CG video generated by the game program is supplied by broadcasting such as digital satellite broadcasting. In addition, since a game software manufacturer does not need to create video data using CG images, it is possible to concentrate labor and cost on the production of a game program, and the content is high quality and high quality. A game program can be implemented. Further, since the size of the video data is not limited by the data size of the game program, it is possible to supply video data having a high resolution and a large amount of information and a large data size. In addition, there is no need to record video data having the same content as before together with the upgraded game program on the recording medium again, so that there is little waste in work in the manufacturing process of the recording medium, and the recording medium of the game software can be efficiently used. Can be manufactured. Further, an area for recording no video data is opened on the recording medium as a recording area for the game program. Furthermore, since data distribution by broadcasting is much faster than recording media,
External images can be promptly provided to the user.

Further, by connecting to a host device operated by a business operator through a public communication network and transmitting information such as a game result to the host device, a total ranking table of each user can be displayed on the host device. Etc. can be easily created, and by providing this statistical information, the user can be more enjoyed.

Also, if a video program is multiplexed with identification information for discriminating the content and type of the video and broadcast, and the algorithm of the game is changed according to the identification information, it can be synthesized with the CG video. It is possible to minimize a sense of incongruity due to a deviation from the external image.

Furthermore, if the received video program is stored in a database, and the video program stored in the database is appropriately selected and combined with the CG video, the user can enjoy the game at any time. Can be.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a block configuration of a game device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schedule table of video programs broadcast from a broadcasting station in the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing of a “fishing game” executed in the game device in the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 14 Central control device 20 Video receiving device 24 Broadcasting station 26 CG video processing device 27 Display 28 Video synthesizing device 32 Speaker

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A computer game device having the following requirements (1) to (3). (1) Central control means for managing the execution of a game program and controlling the entire apparatus, CG image generation means for generating a CG image based on the game program, and image output means such as a display for outputting an image of the game, etc. Sound output means such as a speaker for outputting a sound effect of the game,
Operation input means such as a game controller. (2) It has video receiving means for receiving a video program broadcast from an external information source. (3) There is a video synthesizing means for synthesizing the CG video generated by the CG video generating means and the video program received by the video receiving means, while displaying the synthesized video output from the video synthesizing means on the video output means. Advance the game. 2. A medium reading means for reading a game program from a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a ROM cartridge, and a function of executing the game program read by the medium reading means by the central control means. The computer game device according to claim 1. 3. A function of the video receiving means for receiving a video program of a plurality of channels transmitted from the external information source, and a program selecting function of selecting a video program to be synthesized with the CG video according to an instruction of the central control device. The computer game device according to claim 1, further comprising: 4. The communication system according to claim 1, further comprising communication means for communicating with a public communication network such as a public telephone network or an ISDN communication network.
3. The computer game device according to any one of 3. 5. The system according to claim 4, further comprising a function of connecting to a host device operated by a business operator using the communication means, and transmitting information such as a game result to the host device. Computer game device. 6. The computer game device according to claim 1, wherein said video receiving means has a function of restoring supplementary information multiplexed on said video program. 7. The video program includes identification information for distinguishing the content, type, and the like of the video program as the supplementary information, and has a function of giving the identification information to the game program as a parameter. Claim 6
A computer game device according to claim 1. 8. A function of storing a video program received by the video receiving means in a database, and a function of appropriately selecting a video program stored in the database and synthesizing the video program with the CG video. The computer game device according to claim 1.