TW201935351A - Game system and storage medium storing computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

A game system that provides a game in which a plurality of players PLI to PL4 are enabled to participate and play in exchange for payment of a price PF, includes: a device permitting play of the game by the plurality of players PL1 to PL4 on condition that payment of a minimum unit price necessary for playing the game has been paid; a device setting a play range LF, which is a range in which each player PL1 to PL4 is enabled to play the game, of each player based on a paid price and a number of players so that the play range LF varies according to the paid price and the number of players; and a device making each player PL1 to PL4 to play the game in the set play range LF.

Description

Game system and memory medium storing computer program thereof

The present invention relates to a game system for playing a game based on payment of consideration.

In a game system of a type in which consideration is collected when playing a game, a game fee for each player is generally set. When a common game is played by a plurality of players, it is necessary to pay the game cost equivalent to the product of each player and the number of players. There is also known a game system that accepts registration of other players in response to the situation when the first player pays a fee (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).
[Prior technical literature]
[Patent Literature]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 3818775

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

In the situation where only one player pays for the game when the player acknowledges that the player is participating in the game, the financial burden of one player is relatively small, and a sense of inequality and unfairness is generated when compared with the situation of playing the game alone. In addition, in a so-called business game machine such as an arcade game, each player occupies at least a part of the game machine. Therefore, if it is set at a price of one person, a plurality of players can play the game. The profitability of the game machine Will decrease. On the other hand, if the payment of the game fee is required for the number of people participating in the game, the absolute value of the consideration becomes large, and this situation becomes the main reason for hesitating to participate in the game. As a result, even if a plurality of players can play at the same time, the game machine is configured Also, this structure cannot be fully utilized, and a problem that the operating rate of the gaming machine may decrease may occur. In addition, the game system of Patent Document 1 can vary the acceptance time for registration and participation only in accordance with the number of people participating in the game, and it is not clear how to set the fee for players after the second place. Moreover, in the game system of Patent Document 1, the number of participants is not the same, and the range of play provided to players is the same.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a game system and the like that can allow a plurality of players to play a game within a reasonable range while not reducing the burden burden of consideration when a plurality of players participate in a game, without compromising operation rate or profitability.

[Means to solve the problem]

The homogeneous game system of the present invention is a game system that provides a game in which multiple players can participate in the game at the price of payment of consideration. The game system is provided with a game permission control means to pay the consideration of the minimum unit required to play the aforementioned game. As a condition, play of the game caused by the aforementioned plurality of players is allowed; the means for setting the play range is a manner in which each player can play the aforementioned game, that is, the play range, which varies according to the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned plural players, The play range of each player is set according to the paid consideration and the number of players mentioned above; and the play control means is to let each player play the aforementioned game within the range set by the play range setting means.

The computer program for the homomorphic game system of the present invention is a computer provided with a game system that provides a plurality of players to participate in the game at the price of payment of consideration, and is configured to have the following functions: game permission control means, system The condition is to pay the consideration of the minimum unit required to play the aforementioned game as a condition to allow the play of the game caused by the aforementioned plural players. The method of changing the consideration and the number of the aforementioned plurality of players is to set the playing range of each player according to the aforementioned paid consideration and the number of the aforementioned players; and the game control means is to let the players within the range set by the aforementioned playing range setting means. Each player plays the aforementioned game.

An example of a game system including a gaming machine according to an aspect of the present invention will be described below. First, the overall structure of the game system will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The game system 1 includes a central server 2 as a server device, and a plurality of game machines 3 and a plurality of user terminal devices 4 as client devices that can be connected to the central server 2 through a predetermined network 5. In addition, the term of the user is a general term of a person who uses the game system 1. Hereinafter, a user who uses the game machine 3 is particularly referred to as a player. The central server 2 is constituted as a logical server device by combining server units 2A, 2B, ... serving as a plurality of computer devices. However, the central server 2 may be configured by a single server unit. Alternatively, the central server 2 may be logically configured using cloud computing.

The game machine 3 is a commercial (business) game machine configured to allow a user to play a game within a range corresponding to the game fee at the price of a predetermined game fee (an example of consideration). Such a game machine 3 may be called an arcade machine. The game machine 3 is installed in a predetermined facility such as a store 6 with the main purpose of repeatedly allowing a large number of users to play a game to increase revenue. The game machine 3 is configured such that a plurality of players can participate in a common game. The game provided by the game machine 3 may be appropriately selected. The gaming machine 3 of this embodiment provides, as an example, a game configured to selectively play a plurality of mini games. This point will be described later.

The user terminal device 4 is a computer device that can be connected to a network and is provided for the personal use of the user. For example, a fixed or notebook personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a PC) 4a, or a mobile terminal device 4b such as a mobile phone (including a smart phone) is used as the user terminal device 4. In addition, a fixed home game machine, a portable game machine, a portable tablet terminal device, and the like can be connected to the network, and various computer devices for the user's personal use can be used as the user terminal device 4. The user terminal device 4 allows the user to enjoy various services provided by the central server 2 by installing various computer software.

The network 5 may be appropriately configured as long as it can connect the game machine 3 and the user terminal device 4 to the central server 2 respectively. As an example, the network 5 is configured by using the TCP / IP protocol to implement network communication. Typically, it is constructed by an Internet 5A as a WAN, and LANs 5B and 5C connected to the Internet 5A of the central server 2 and the game machine 3 via a router 5D. The user terminal device 4 is also connected to the Internet 5A by an appropriate structure. In addition, an area server is provided between the game machine 3 and the router 5D of the store 6, and through this area server, the game machine 3 can be connected to the central server 2 in communication. The server units 2A, 2B, etc. of the central server 2 may be connected to each other by using WAN5A instead of LAN5C or by using WAN5A in addition to LAN5C.

FIG. 2 shows an example of one gaming machine 3. The game machine 3 illustrated in the figure includes a housing 10. A monitor 11 is displayed on the housing 10 to display a portrait of the game, and a control panel 12 is provided in front of and below the monitor 11. The control panel 12 is provided with plural numbers, for example, four game stations ST1 to ST4. In addition, hereinafter, the game stations ST1 to ST4 are collectively referred to as the game station ST. Each game station ST is set as a place where one player plays a game. Therefore, up to 4 players can play the game at the same time in one game machine 3. Each game station ST is provided with an input device 13 that accepts a player's operation. The input device 13 includes, as an example, a pair of left and right key switches 14L and 14R, and a single rotary switch 15 disposed behind the key switches 14L and 14R. The key switches 14L and 14R output signals in response to a player's pressing operation. The rotary switch 15 outputs signals corresponding to the rotation operation and the pressing operation caused by the player, respectively. However, the structure of the input device 13 may be changed as appropriate. The number of settings of the game station ST may be changed as appropriate. On the control panel 12, a card reader 16 and a coin slot 17 are further provided. The card reader 16 is a device that reads information necessary for user authentication and payment of electronic money using a play fee from a recording medium such as a card held by the user. However, the card reader 16 may have a writing function for copying information on a recording medium held by a user. That is, the card reader 16 may have a function as a reader / writer. The slot 17 is provided as a slot for coins serving as circulation currency, or as tokens and chips for alternative currencies. Furthermore, speakers 18 are provided on the left and right of the monitor 11.

Next, features related to the steps of the game of the gaming machine 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5. FIG. 3 shows an example of game processing of the gaming machine 3. The game provided by the gaming machine 3 includes a stage of registration and participation, a stage of initial setting, a stage of playing at least one level, a stage of connecting, and a stage of continuing setting. Hereinafter, each stage will be described in order.

The registration and participation stage is a stage in which the registration and participation (participation) of the user's game is accepted, and is started by payment of a game fee. In FIG. 3, one player PL1 pays the play fee PF and starts the registration and acceptance process. Depending on the situation, three players PL2, PL3, and PL4 perform the operations required to register and participate, thereby totaling four players PL1. ~ PL4 (Hereinafter, there are situations where the player's PL is collectively registered). The player PL who pays the play fee PF may be two or more. However, as a result of the coin slot 17 being shared between the four gaming stations ST, even if a coin (or substitute) is put into the coin slot 17, the game machine 3 It is also impossible to specify which player PL caused the payment. Therefore, it is not a condition which player PL pays the game fee. In the payment using electronic money, there is a situation in which the subject who pays the fee can be discriminated, but even in this situation, which player PL pays the game fee is not a condition.

A unit is set for the play fee payable during the registration participation stage (that is, at the start of the game). For example, 100 yuan is set as one unit. In the gaming machine 3, the number of players PL who are registered to participate in the game is not allowed, and the game is allowed to be played by paying a unit play fee. In other words, the amount of the game fee per unit is equivalent to the minimum unit of the game that should be allowed to play. When the minimum unit play fee is paid, a plurality of players PL may be allowed to play the game at the same time in a range where the number of game stations ST is set as the upper limit. For example, if a unit is set to 100 yuan, a maximum of 4 players can play the game by paying a 100 yuan game fee. Of course, only one player PL can play the game. In addition, it is possible to pay a play fee of 2 units or more at the start of registration, but it may be set to pay a play fee of only 1 unit.

In the registration and participation phase, user authentication using the card reader 16 is also performed as needed. For example, the player PL inserts a card that records identification information for user authentication into the card reader 16 and causes the gaming machine 3 to read the identification information. Next, if the player PL performs a predetermined operation on the input device 13 of any gaming station ST , A correspondence relationship is set between the user's identification information and the gaming station ST. The registration phase is completed after a set time limit or a certain operation caused by the player's PL.

In the initial setting stage, a process is performed in which a player's PL team registered to participate in the game is split. For example, in FIG. 3, players PL1 and PL2 are assigned to team TM1, and players PL3 and PL4 are assigned to team TM2. A team is an example of a group that is a unit that should compete for the game play. That is, the game of the gaming machine 3 is performed by competing for points or the like between teams. The number of teams is not limited to two, and the number of player PLs in the same team may be changed as appropriate. For example, when three player PLs are registered to participate in the game, by assigning one player PL to one team, a total of three teams may be set. It is not necessary to set the number of players PL of each team to be equal to each other. For example, in a situation where four player PLs are registered to participate in the game, two players PL form one team, and the remaining player PLs may be assigned to different teams. Alternatively, one team may be formed by three player PLs, and another team may be formed by the remaining one player PL. Or, by assigning each player PL to a different team, a total of 4 teams may be set.

In the initial setting stage, life LF is set for each player PL. Life LF is an example of an index value that defines a range (play range) in which each player PL can play a game. The life LF is gradually reduced as the game is played. When the value of the life LF reaches a predetermined value, the game ends once. That is, if the life LF is used up, subsequent games will be restricted. For example, when the player PL's play meets a predetermined consumption condition, the life LF will be quantified by consumption. If the life LF reaches a predetermined lower limit (0 as an example), the game will end once. The management of life LF is performed according to the PL of each player. The player PL is allowed to continue playing the game by paying a predetermined Continue fee, which will be described later. The value of the life LF set in the initial setting stage is set based on the playing fee paid by the player PL and the number of player PLs who have registered to participate in the game. The value of the life LF is set so that each player PL is equal. For example, when the cost of play is the same, the larger the number of players PL, the smaller the initial life LF is set. On the other hand, when the number of players PL is the same, the more the game fee is, the larger the life LF initially set is set to be.

Fig. 4 is an example of the life set initially. In the example in FIG. 4, when a game fee equivalent to 100 yuan per unit is paid during the registration stage, the number of players is set to 5 lives for 1 person, 3 lives for 2 people, and 3 people for 3 people. Set to 2 lives. Set 4 to 1 life. That is, with the payment of the minimum unit of play cost, when the maximum number of players, that is, 4 players, plays the game, the life is set to a minimum of 1. As the number of player PLs decreases, the value of life given in the initial setting increases. When payment of a play fee of 2 units or more is allowed, the value of life is set by the number of units corresponding to the payment of the play fee, and may be increased by an integer multiple from the setting example in FIG. 4. In addition, FIG. 4 is an example, and the index value may be appropriately set according to the paid game fee and the number of players PL. In order to make fair the sense of burden related to the payment amount of the game fee per player, the value of the game fee paid is divided by the number of players PL (that is, the payment amount of the game fee per person) The larger the value of life is set, the more the range of play can be set to increase the life. The index value is not limited to the example expressed by the term "life". The index value may be expressed in appropriate terms such as physical strength and hit point. In addition, the number of other distinguishable units, such as a level and a dungeon representing a section of the game, may be used to indicate the index value. For example, as the index value, 5 levels and 3 levels can be set. The amount of the game fee paid may be an amount equivalent to the sum when a plurality of player PLs pay the game fee.

Furthermore, when coins (or their substitutes) are put into the slot 17 to pay for the game fee, the playable game fee that can be paid is an integer multiple of the smallest unit, but it is caused by using electronic money to pay the game fee compared to coins. If you pay, you can pay for the game fee with more detailed units. For example, when the unit of payment using a coin is set to 100 yuan, in payment by electronic money, a piecemeal unit such as 10 yuan or 1 yuan can be used to pay the game fee. In this case, while setting the minimum unit to be the same as the minimum unit payment due to the coin, divide the amount of the actual paid game fee by the minimum unit to calculate the payment ratio. Increase the set value of life. For example, when the minimum unit is set to 100 yuan and there is a payment of 150 yuan, the payout ratio can be set to 1.5 times to calculate the set value of life. However, even if there is a payment using electronic money, it is set to be the same as a payment made by a coin, and the payment is limited to the minimum unit of the play fee, or only an integer multiple of the minimum unit can pay the play fee. Payment is also available.

Returning to FIG. 3 to continue the description. If the team and life settings are set in the initial setting stage, the process proceeds to the stage of the play level and the game is started. In each level, from a plurality of types of mini games prepared in advance, any mini game is provided in accordance with the choice of the player PL or the game machine 3, and each player PL operates the input device 13 to play the same mini game, respectively. The mini-game is based on, for example, pressing at least one of the key switches 14L and 14R of the input device 13 or continuously rotating or pressing the rotary switch 15 and so on. According to such operations, the score is gradually added up. It is relatively simple and easy to understand. The content can also be structured. Furthermore, mini-games and levels do not need to correspond in a 1: 1 manner. For example, one type of mini-game may include plural levels, and one level may provide plural types of mini-games.

The game results of the mini-games at each level are, for example, scores obtained in the mini-games, and are calculated separately (or independently) according to the PL of each player. In addition, the scores of each team are calculated based on the score of each player PL. The performance of each team is expressed, for example, by the number of counts of the evaluation of the count EG. The evaluation of the counting amount of the counting bar EG may be, for example, a cumulative value of points obtained by players PL in the same team. The greater the amount of counting, the better the team's performance. The game is played by assessing the value of the EG in a team competition. The life LF of each player PL is appropriately consumed (reduced) for each player PL in accordance with the game result of the mini-game. For example, for a player PL who meets a certain consumption condition in a mini-game, the value of the life LF is reduced by 1. Consumption conditions are, for example, established when players record the lowest score between PLs, or the scores of mini-games do not reach a predetermined level, such as when scores that should be the benchmark for mini-games pass. Or if the penalty is worse than the absolute benchmark. Consumption conditions can be set in such a way that at least one player PL is established at least once. In accordance with the performance of each player PL, a situation in which any player PL is not established, or a situation in which all player PLs are established. Mode setting is also available. Every time at least one player PL in the level establishes a consumption condition. For example, if one life is set for each player PL in the initial setting stage, at least one player PL runs out of play range in the first level and the game ends once. The consumption of life LF is not related to the size of the value of life LF given in the initial setting, and is controlled in accordance with the rules set in the mini-game. Therefore, the smaller the life LF given in the initial setting, the life LF is destroyed, and the chance that the opportunity to be connected will occur in the early stage is higher.

In the example in FIG. 3, if the first level 1 (the first level) to the plurality of levels are played in order, and the life LF of the player PL2 in level M is destroyed (that is, the life LF is reduced to 0), the game proceeds to A stage for accepting the level (continuation of the game) regarding the player PL2. In the stage of accepting the customs clearance, the player PL whose life LF is destroyed is the target, and payment of the customs clearance fee is required. When paying the predetermined clearance fee and performing a predetermined confirmation operation on the input device 13 of the game station ST of the player PL whose life LF is destroyed (hereinafter referred to as the status of the player PL to be continued), the game caused by the player PL is allowed Play continues. Regarding the player PL other than the player PL to be continued, it does not matter whether the player PL to be continued to play or not, as long as its own life LF is not destroyed, the game can continue to be played.

As an example, the connection fee can be set to the same amount as the minimum unit at the initial setting stage. However, in the situation of payment by electronic money, payment of a connection fee which is smaller than the minimum unit amount may be allowed. In addition, the payment of the clearance fee should be made by the player PL who is the target of the continuation of the life LF. However, as described above, even if a coin or the like is inserted into the slot 17, it is not possible to specify which player PL pays. Therefore, if there is a payment of the connection fee, the subject of the payment may not be asked. When using electronic money for payment, it may be set regardless of the subject of payment, and it may be set as payment that must be continued by the player PL, and alternative payment by other players PL may be allowed.

If the game's level (continuation of the game) is allowed, then proceed to the stage of continuing the setting. In the stage of continuing the setting, regarding the player PL to be continued, a new life LF corresponding to the paid connection fee is newly added, and the life PL of the player PL is restored. In addition, by paying the customs clearance fee, a concession is given to the player PL who continues to be targeted. Furthermore, a discount is also given to other player PLs belonging to the same team as the player PL to be continued. In the example of FIG. 3, a discount is given to the player PL2 who is allowed to continue the game play, and other players PL1 belonging to the same team TM1 as the player PL2. The preferential treatment for the player PL to be continued is to give an incentive to pay the customs fee, and it may be set to cause a favorable situation for the player PL during the continued play.

An example of the discount for the player PL to be continued is shown in FIG. 5. In the example shown in the figure, plural kinds of benefits A to D are prepared. As the benefit A, "reduction of penalty for next level" is set. The so-called penalty is the reduction of life, and the reduction of the penalty means the beneficial treatment of the reduction of life. For example, when the result of playing in a mini-game is that life should be reduced, the process of reducing the amount of life reduction or not reducing life is performed. However, such processing is limited to the "next level", that is, the level that is initially played after continuing. As Offer B, in addition to the reduction of penalties for the next level, set a "point increase" for the level after the continuation. The score improvement means, for example, that after the following levels, the player PL can obtain a higher score to change the operation rule of the score. However, the range in which the effect of the point boost is sustained is set to be limited. As a discount C, set "the penalty for 3 consecutive levels will be reduced." This is the process of reducing "penalties" in three consecutive levels. As the benefit D, in addition to "reduction in penalties for 3 consecutive levels," set "point increase". The individual values of the offers A to D, that is, the favorable influence given to the continued game play differs among the offers, and the value gradually increases in the order of the offers A, B, C, and D. You can choose which type of concession to pay based on the payment of the customs clearance fee by an appropriate method. For example, any one of the benefits A to D may be selected through lottery. Alternatively, in accordance with the payment of repeated customs clearance fees and giving higher value discounts, it can be related to the number of customs clearance fees paid, and it is also possible to choose a discount. Moreover, the benefits shown in FIG. 5 are only examples, and the content of the benefits is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to provide, as a discount, an item that can be used at any time during the game, or an item used at a given time. It is possible to use a form that provides benefits not related to play, such as the provision of digital content, the provision of items such as cards, etc., instead of the play-related offer, or in addition to the play-related offer.

On the other hand, the benefits that should be given to other players' PLs may be related to the game play, or may be unrelated to the game play. Furthermore, the benefits for other player PLs may be the same as the benefits for player PLs that are to be continued, or may be differentiated. For example, regarding other players PL, any of the benefits A to D of FIG. 5 may be applied to the next stage. Or, a certain amount of discounts can be given to other players' PL life recovery.

Regardless of whether or not the player PL is allowed to continue the game for the player to be continued, the game advances to the next level after passing through the stage and the stage of continuing the setting (however, it is limited to the execution of payment of the customs fee). After that, as long as the life LF of any player PL is not destroyed, or the life LF remains, the number of times of play is repeated until the predetermined number of times. When the player PL allowed to continue is allowed to continue, the mini-games of each level are played in a manner that includes the player PL. If the level is not paid, the player PL who is the target of the continuation exits from the game and plays the level after the rest of the players PL.

In the above example, a common game can be played by plural players PL by paying a minimum unit of the game fee required to play the game. In previous game consoles, it was customary that the minimum unit of play cost was set to the cost of play per person. When a multiple player PL plays a game, it is necessary to multiply the minimum unit of play cost by the number of players. . Compared with such a previous example, according to the foregoing example, it can provide an environment for reducing the financial burden of multiple players when playing a game, reducing obstacles related to registration and participation in the game, and allowing multiple players to easily enjoy the game. On the other hand, as the number of player PLs registered to participate in the game increases, the value of the life LF given in the initial setting is set to be smaller. Therefore, the larger the number of player PLs, the sooner the playing range is exhausted and there is an opportunity to pass. Therefore, even if the payment amount of the game fee per person at the time of registration is reduced, it is possible to suppress the decrease in the income amount per unit time of the gaming machine 3 by paying the customs clearance fee early. Therefore, the operating rate of the gaming machine 3 can be improved, or the profitability can be improved. It can also suppress or eliminate the risk of injustice and inequality related to the scope of play.

On the other hand, when the customs clearance fee is paid, a preferential treatment is given to the player PL who continues to be targeted. This discount is for the benefit of the next level of mini-game play, so for example, the player PL who lost in the mini-game and the life LF is destroyed will have the desire to play the next level in a favorable condition to get points. This gives incentives for payment of customs clearance fees. In addition, when paying the customs clearance fee, other players in the same team will also be given preferential treatment. Thereby, the player PL who is the target of continuation is made aware of the contribution of other player PLs, which can give a stronger motivation to pay the connection fee.

Next, the structure of the control system of the gaming machine 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 shows the structure of the main part of the control system of the gaming machine 3. The gaming machine 3 is provided with a control device 20 and a memory device (memory means) 21. The control device 20 is a computer configured as a combination of a microprocessor and peripheral devices such as an internal memory device (ROM and RAM) necessary for the operation of the microprocessor. The memory device 21 is a non-volatile memory device capable of retaining memory, such as a hard disk memory device and a flash memory. The memory device 21 is a game program PG to be executed by the memory control device 20 and game data DG to which the program PG should refer. The game program PG includes a mini game module Pm for providing a plurality of types of mini games, and the game data DG includes data Dm of each mini game to which each mini game module Pm should refer. Furthermore, the memory device 21 also records the play data DP. The play data DP is data that saves the player's play history, and is stored in the central server 2 in correspondence with the user's identification information. When the player performs user authentication with the gaming machine 3, the play data DP is provided from the central server 2 to the gaming machine 3 and recorded in the memory device 21. By referring to the game data DP by the game machine 3, the player can record the game history from the last subsequent game, or record the game history of the current game in the game data DP and save it on the central server 2.

As the input device of the control device 20, the input device 13, the card reader 16, and the slot machine 22 of each gaming station ST shown in FIG. 2 are connected. The coin acceptor 22 discriminates the type of the coin (or its substitute) input from the coin slot 17, and provides a signal indicating the type of the coin input and the number of coins input to the control device 20. In addition, as the output device of the control device 20, a monitor 11 and a speaker 18 shown in FIG. 2 are connected. In addition to the foregoing, the control device 20 is connected to input / output devices such as a network control device that controls communication with the central server 2 and the like, but these illustrations are omitted.

The control device 20 is provided with a game control unit 23 as a logic device implemented by a combination of its hardware resources and a game program PG as software. FIG. 7 shows a specific example of the game control unit 23. As a further logical device, the game control unit 23 includes a charge management unit 25, a registration management unit 26, a play range control unit 27, a game control unit 28, and a discount control unit 29. The charge management unit 25 executes the reference to the output of the coin slot 22, the card reader 16, and the input device 13 of each gaming station ST. deal with. The registration and management unit 26 refers to the output of the input device 13 and executes the processing of the registration and participation phase described in FIG. The play range control unit 27 manages, as an example, life that sets the index value of the play range of each player. That is, the play range control unit 27 executes processing such as setting the life at the start of the game, updating the life in response to each level of play, and restoring the life at the time of the level. The game control unit 28 executes processing related to selecting a mini game to be played in each level, and calculating the mini game of each level, such as the score of the mini game, while referring to the output of the input device 13. The play range control unit 27 and the play control unit 28 appropriately access the log data LG and read or update the log data LG. The log data LG is a history of the game, and records data of the processing contents of the play range control unit 27 or the play control unit 28, and is held in the internal memory device of the control device 20. The log data LG is recorded in the memory device 21 as needed. In addition, at least a part of the information of the log data LG may be recorded in the play data DP as needed. In addition, the history of the individual processing of the charge management unit 25 and the registration and participation management unit 26 may be recorded in the log data LG as needed.

Next, an example of a game control procedure by the game control unit 23 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. 8 shows an example of the steps of the game play start control process executed by the game control unit 23 to start the game play. The game play start control process in FIG. 8 is started when the player performs operations required to pay the game fee with the game machine 3. For example, the player may start the process of FIG. 8 when he inserts a coin into the slot 17 or performs an operation to start payment by electronic money. In the process of FIG. 8, first, the charge management unit 25 refers to the output signal of the slot machine 22 or the card reader 16 to determine whether the minimum unit of play fee has been paid (step S1). When the output signal from the coin slot 22 is used, it may be determined whether or not a coin or the like corresponding to the smallest unit has been inserted. When paying by electronic money, for example, based on the information read from the card reader 16, it can be determined whether the consumption of the game unit equivalent to the minimum unit is successful. Furthermore, the settlement by electronic money may be performed by using a known method as appropriate. For example, the balance information of money value is recorded on a memory medium such as a card held by the player, and when the playing fee is collected by consuming the balance, a writer function is set in the card reader 16 to record the user's The balance of cards, etc., may be levied for play fees. Alternatively, in correspondence with the identification information of the user recorded in the memory medium held by the player, and when the balance information of the monetary value is held by the central server 2, the identification information is read through the card reader 16, and the corresponding identification is recognized. Information balance Information consumption can be equivalent to the monetary value of the game fee. In addition, there is also a structure that can use electronic money for payment, and consumes electronic money equivalent to a payment amount caused by coins and the like, and outputs a signal equivalent to the coin slot 22 to the control device 20 to read. Examples of other payment terminal devices such as pick-up. Such an example may be adopted in the gaming machine 3 of this embodiment.

When it is determined in step S1 that the fee has not been paid, the game control unit 23 ends the process of FIG. 8. On the other hand, when it is determined that at least the game fee of the minimum unit amount has been paid, the gist will notify the registration management unit 26 from the charge management unit 25. Upon receiving this notification, the registration and participation management unit 26 performs user authentication related to the user who pays the game fee (step S2). The user authentication is to read the user's identification information from a memory medium such as a card held by the player and provide it to the central server 2 for obtaining the play data DP from the central server 2 and the Processing of saving the play data DP of the central server 2 is possible. Furthermore, in the user authentication, in order to specify in which gaming station ST the authenticated user is playing, in order to associate with the reading operation of the identification information, a predetermined selection operation is performed on the input device 13 of any gaming station ST. This gives instructions to the player. In response to the instruction, when the player performs a selection operation with any of the gaming stations ST, the gaming station ST is associated with the user's identification information and is recorded in the internal memory device of the gaming machine 3. User authentication is not necessary, and can be omitted when the player does not want it or when the player does not obtain identification information. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example in which only the first player performs user authentication in step S2 is disclosed.

When the user authentication process ends, the registration and participation management unit 26 starts counting the time limit set in the registration and participation process (step S3). Next, the registration management unit 26 accepts the registration of the players after the second position (step S4). For example, a player who wishes to register for participation accepts the registration by performing a predetermined participation operation on the input device 13 of the gaming station ST to which the player has not yet been assigned. At this time, by causing the card reader 16 to read the identification information, user authentication may be performed for the players after the second position. After the registration and participation acceptance is started, the registration and participation management unit 26 judges whether or not the predetermined time limit has elapsed based on the value of the time counting started in step S3 (step S5). When it has not passed, the registration management unit 26 determines whether or not another player has registered to participate (step S6), and if there is no registration, returns to the process of step S5. When it is judged in step S6 that there are registrations of other players, the registration management unit 26 determines whether or not any one of the players has performed a registration confirmation operation (step S7). When the confirmation operation has not been performed, the registration and participation management unit 26 returns to the processing of step S5.

When it is determined in step S5 that the time limit has elapsed, or when it is determined in step S7 that the confirmation operation has been performed, the registration and registration phase is completed. The registration and management unit 26 is a participant of the game, and selects players who have registered to date. . After that, the registration and participation management unit 26 divides the determined player team (step S8), and further provides the registration and participation result to the play range control unit 27. The play range control unit 27 sets life for each player based on the determined number of players and the play fee paid in step S1 (step S9). The setting may be performed as described with reference to FIG. 4 as an example. In addition, until the registration of participation is confirmed, additional payment of the game fee may be permitted, and such payment may be rejected. When additional payment is allowed, the life can be set in accordance with the game fee including the additional points.

When life is set, the play range control unit 27 supplies the registration participation result and the set value of the life to the play control unit 28, and instructs the start of play (step S10). Thereby, the initial setting of FIG. 3 is completed, and the processing of the game proceeds to the stage of each level after the sequential play. The selection of mini-games at each level and the calculation of scores in accordance with the player's operation are performed by the game control unit 28. When the start of the game is instructed in step S10, the processing of FIG. 8 ends.

FIG. 9 shows the steps of a play range control process performed by the game control unit 23 to manage the value of life as an example of the play range. The processing of FIG. 9 is performed during game play, that is, each level is sequentially played by the game control unit 23 in FIG. 3. For example, the processing of FIG. 9 is performed at the time point when the play of each level ends. However, the process of FIG. 9 may be repeatedly executed even during level play. When the process of FIG. 9 is started, the play range control unit 27 first obtains the play status of each player at that point in time from the play control unit 28 (step S21). Next, the play range control unit 27 updates the life value of each player in accordance with the acquired play status (step S22). For example, for players who meet the predetermined consumption conditions, the value of life is updated by one at the end time of the level, and for players who meet the consumption conditions, the value of life is maintained at the same value.

Next, the play range control unit 27 determines whether or not the predetermined addition condition is satisfied based on the play status obtained in step S21 (step S23). The addition conditions will be described later. When the addition condition is not established, the play range control unit 27 determines whether there is a player whose life value has disappeared, that is, a player who has reached 0 (step S24). When there is a player whose life has been lost (player to be continued), the play range control unit 27 notifies the game control unit 28 of the main point, keeps the progress to the next level, and starts the pass processing (step S25). Along with the start of the customs processing, the play range control unit 27 starts the timing of the time limit assigned to the customs processing, and instructs the charge management unit 25 to charge a predetermined customs fee for the player who continues to be targeted. Next, the play range control unit 27 determines whether or not the limited time period started in step S25 has elapsed (step S26), and if not, determines whether the charge management unit 25 has accepted payment of the predetermined customs fee (step S27). When the customs clearance fee is not paid, the play range control unit 27 returns to the processing of step S26.

When it is determined in step S26 that the time limit has elapsed, or when it is determined in step S27 that the customs clearance fee has been paid, the play range control unit 27 adds the life corresponding to the customs clearance fee to the player who continues to target (step S28). Through the processing of step S28, the life of the player who continues to be restored is returned, so that the player can continue to play the level after the next time. At the end of the process of step S28, the play range control unit 27 is a gist of the continuation of the play caused by the player who continues to be notified by the discount control unit 29 that the clearance control fee has been paid. The benefit control unit 29 accepts the notification, and grants benefits to the player to be continued (step S29), and also grants benefits to other players belonging to the same team as the player (step S30). The content of the discount is as described with reference to FIG. 5 as an example, and can be appropriately set. The giving of benefits can be realized by notifying the content of the benefits to the game range control unit 27 or the game control unit 28 from the benefit control unit 29, and the game range control unit 27 or the game control unit 28 executes processing reflecting the notified benefits. For example, if the penalty is reduced, the game range control unit 27 may limit the reduction of life in the subsequent processing of step S22, and if the score is increased, the game control unit 28 may add the score of the player who continues to be the target.

When the processing of step S30 is completed, the processing associated with the clearance and continuation setting is completed, and the game control unit 28 advances the processing to the game of the next level in the reservation. In synchronization with this, the play range control unit 27 records the result of the current processing as the history of the connection and records it in the log data LG (step S31). Thereby, the process of FIG. 9 is completed. When it is determined in step S23 that the addition condition is satisfied, the play range control unit 27 adds up the lives of all players by a predetermined value (for example, 1) (step S32), and then proceeds to the processing of step S31. The addition condition is established, for example, when the total value of the scores of all players participating in the game exceeds a predetermined reference value, and may be set in such a manner that the game conditions of all players reach a special state. When the addition conditions are set in this way, for example, when the life of any player is near the stage of establishment, the player may be motivated to pay the connection fee by using the supplement of the addition conditions as an incentive. When it is determined in step S24 that the player whose life has disappeared does not exist, the play range control unit 27 skips the processes of steps S25 to S30 and proceeds to the process of step S31. When it is determined in step S36 that the time limit has elapsed, the game range control unit 27 determines that the player who continues to target has not selected the level, exits from the game, and notifies the game control unit 28 of the gist (step S33), and then proceeds to step Processing of S31. The game control unit 28 that receives the notification of step S33 removes the players who have quit, and allows the remaining players to play the next level.

The information of the gate history recorded in the log data LG in step S31 in FIG. 9 can be used as information to be used for grasping the level of the gate rate of each mini-game and the selection of the mini-game of each level. For example, at the point in time when each level ends, the game control unit 28 selects a mini-game of the next level and makes a preview, and the game range control unit 27 determines whether the player who continues to play has selected the level for the preview, and uses it as a link Off history is recorded in the log data LG. This record corresponds to the type of mini-game selected in the next level. The related history is provided from the game machine 3 to the central server 2 at an appropriate timing and accumulated in the database. With reference to this database, it is possible to judge the level of the level of each game. Therefore, for example, in the game machine 3, when a game is played by any player, a small game with a relatively high level of selection is selected as a small game of the next level, thereby increasing the possibility of the player selecting the level. The operating rate of the gaming machine 3 or the profit rate can be improved. In addition, when multiple types of mini-games are played continuously, you can also omit the mini-games provided by the next level. In the stage where it is speculated that the player's life will decrease and it will disappear soon, by choosing A small game with a relatively high pass rate improves the handling of the possibility of players choosing to pass the pass.

In the above aspect, the play range control unit 27 has a function of an example of a play permission control means by executing the process of step S10 of FIG. 8, and has an example of a play range setting means by executing the process of step S9 of FIG. 8. Functions. In addition, the game control unit 28 accepts the instruction of step S10 of FIG. 8 to start the game, and once the next level is retained corresponding to step S25 of FIG. 9, it has a function as an example of a game control means. Furthermore, the registration and participation management unit 26 has a function as an example of a participation reception means by executing the processes of steps S2 to S7 in FIG. 8.

The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and may be implemented by applying appropriate deformation or modification. For example, in the aforementioned form, the play range is set as life, and if the consumption conditions are met during game play, the life is reduced by 1 each time. However, the control of the play range is not limited to this form. It is also applicable to control that reduces the index value of the play range every time a certain range is performed in the game. The amount of change in life (for example, the consumption amount) is not limited to a certain value, and it can be changed dynamically. The change in the index value of the play range is not limited to a change in which the index value is decreased, and may be a change in the direction of increase.

In the aforementioned form, the game is performed by each level and the small players are played in each level. However, a game common to a plurality of players is not limited to the example performed in this way. For example, a game may be structured in such a way that a plurality of levels are played in sequence and one type of game is played. In the foregoing form, when life is lost, the player is not allowed to continue playing without paying the connection fee, limiting the subsequent play of players who have exhausted the playing range. However, the limitation is not limited to the example once the play is ended. Even if the game itself can be performed, but the acquisition of points is limited, for game play, some restrictions may be imposed compared to before the end of the game range. Further, in the aforementioned form, the players are divided into teams in the initial state, but the processing of the teams is not necessary, and the game may be started by omitting them. A common game in which a plurality of players participate is not limited to a game in which a player competes with each other, and may be a game including elements in which players cooperate with each other. The game system may be a form in which players simultaneously play in parallel or play together, or a form including elements of a so-called turn-based system in which each player plays in sequence.

In the aforementioned form, the value of life is updated every time the level ends, however, the change of the play range may be performed at an appropriate timing between playing games. While some players have exhausted their playing range and executed the processing, other players may continue to play the game to control the progress of the game.

In the aforementioned form, the minimum unit of the game fee is set as the minimum amount required for one player to play the game. However, the consideration of the minimum unit is not necessarily set to the minimum value of the consideration when one player is targeted. Yes. For example, in the case of a game constituted on the premise that at least two players participate in the game, the initial cost of the two players in order to play the game may be set as the minimum unit of consideration. That is, the minimum unit consideration represents the absolute minimum value of the consideration required to play the game provided by the game system, and does not change according to the number of players.

In the aforementioned form, the range of play is expressed by the value of life, but the concept of range of play should be the value provided to the player at the price of consideration. For example, the length of playable time, the number of playable levels, and the like are used as the scale of value, but the concept of the scope of play is not limited to this scale. For example, in the case of preparing a plurality of types of mini-games, even if the range of mini-games that the player can select increases or decreases, the value provided at the price of consideration will not change, and this aspect is also included in Concept of play scope. Set the range of items that players can use in the game, etc., and appropriate items of the play range as the standard instead of mini games, or in addition to mini games, set the range of items that players can use in games, etc. can.

In the foregoing form, a case where a fixed type game machine is used to allow a plurality of players to play a game at the same time will be described as an example. However, a plurality of players each use a plurality of game terminals connected through a network, as an example shown in FIG. 1 The present invention is also applicable to a user terminal device 4 for playing a common game. It is also possible to use a plurality of stationary game machines connected via a network to play a game, or to connect one or more stationary game machines and one or more user terminal devices 4 to play a game through a network. The invention is applicable.

The following describes various aspects of the present invention that are individually derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications. In the following description, in order to facilitate understanding of various aspects of the present invention, corresponding components shown in the drawings are enclosed in parentheses. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated forms.

The homogeneous game system of the present invention is a game system (1) that provides a plurality of players (as an example, PL1 to PL4 in FIG. 3) to participate in a game at the price of payment of consideration, and includes: game permission control means ( 27, S10), which is based on the consideration of the minimum unit required to play the aforementioned game as a condition, allowing play of the game caused by the aforementioned plurality of players; the play range setting means (27, S9) is used as a means by which each player can play The range of the aforementioned game, that is, the play range (as an example, the life LF in FIG. 3), is set in a manner that changes according to the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned plurality of players, and sets each player's A play range; and a play control means (28), which allows each player to play the aforementioned game within the range set by the play range setting means.

The computer program for the homogeneous game system of the present invention is a game system (1, which is provided at a price of consideration, and which provides a plurality of players (for example, PL1 to PL4 in FIG. 3) that can participate in the game. ) Computer (20), which has the functions of: play allowance control means (27, S10), based on payment of the minimum unit consideration required to play the aforementioned game as a condition, allowing the aforementioned plural players to play the game ; Play range setting means (27, S9), which is the range in which each player can play the aforementioned game, that is, the play range (as an example, the life LF in FIG. 3), which varies according to the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned plural players. The method is to set the playing range of each player according to the paid consideration and the number of players; and the play control means (28), which allows each player to play the game within the range set by the play range setting means.

According to the foregoing aspect, the payment of the minimum unit consideration required for game play allows the game to be played by multiple players. Therefore, compared to the condition that allows for play, setting a situation in which the payment of the consideration by increasing the minimum unit according to the number of players can reduce the burden of consideration. On the other hand, according to the consideration paid and the number of players, the range of play can be changed, so that multiple players can play the game in a reasonable range without jeopardizing the operating rate or profitability of the game system. Suppress or eliminate the player's sense of injustice and inequality about the burden of consideration to enhance the player's sense of identity, which can also enhance the fun of the game.

Furthermore, the computer program in the same state of the present invention may be provided in a state of being stored in a storage medium. When the memory medium is used, for example, the computer program of the present invention is installed on a computer and executed, and the computer can be used to implement the game system of the present invention. A recording medium storing a computer program may be used as a non-transitory storage medium such as a CD-ROM.

In the foregoing aspect, the means for setting the play range is to set the play range in such a manner that the value of the consideration paid divided by the number of players is larger, and the play range is expanded. According to this, the scope of play is expanded and reduced in accordance with the payment amount of each player's consideration, so that the game can be played in a more reasonable range, and the injustice and inequality of players regarding the burden of consideration can be eliminated more effectively.

In the foregoing aspect, the means for setting the play range is to set the play value by adding or subtracting an index value (as an example, the value of life) for setting the play range according to the consideration paid and the number of players. Range, and in accordance with each player's play, the aforementioned index value is changed correspondingly to each player. For players whose aforementioned index value reaches a predetermined value, subsequent play may be restricted. Accordingly, by controlling whether or not a play restriction on the play range is generated for each player, the player's play content or play result can be reflected in the play range restriction. Therefore, for example, a player who obtains a good score in a game can perform differentiation without limitation for a longer time than a player with a poor score, thereby enhancing the fun of the game.

In the foregoing aspect, it further includes: participation acceptance means (26, S2 to S7), corresponding to the payment of the consideration, and accepting the participation of the aforementioned game; and the aforementioned play permission control means, for the player accepting the aforementioned participation, allowing the aforementioned play Yes. According to this, the payment of the smallest unit of consideration as an opportunity can generate opportunities for multiple players to participate in the game. Paying the minimum unit consideration is a condition that allows play, so there is no need to pay a new consideration due to players wishing to participate. Therefore, each player can easily participate in the game without feeling resistance to the burden of consideration. Therefore, the frequency of plural players participating in the game is increased, and with this situation, the operating rate of the game machine can be improved.

In the foregoing aspect, it is assumed that the payment of the consideration exceeding the minimum unit can be made; the means for setting the play range is based on the larger the difference between the consideration paid and the consideration of the minimum unit, the larger the range of play It is also possible to set the aforementioned play range. At this time, payment exceeding the consideration of the minimum unit is allowed, and when there is such a payment, the play range is set to be larger or more extensive due to the difference from the consideration of the minimum unit. Thereby, flexibility is given to the choice of the player regarding the payment of the consideration, and the game can be played in a range according to the player's request.

In the aforementioned aspect, it may be assumed that the aforementioned consideration payment can be made by electronic money. Compared with the physical payment caused by the coin or its substitute, the payment caused by the electronic money can ease the physical regulation related to the payment unit of the consideration. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the burden when starting the game by setting the minimum unit to be smaller, or to allow flexibility in the difference when payment exceeding the minimum unit is allowed, while setting the response to the consideration more finely or softly. Set play range. Thereby, it is possible to provide a game system that softly changes the range of play for a player's request.

1‧‧‧Game System

2‧‧‧ Central Server

2A‧‧‧Server Unit

2B‧‧‧Server Unit

3‧‧‧Game console

4‧‧‧user terminal device

4a‧‧‧PC

4b‧‧‧mobile terminal device

5‧‧‧ internet

5A‧‧‧Internet

5B‧‧‧LAN

5C‧‧‧LAN

5D‧‧‧Router

6‧‧‧ Store

10‧‧‧Frame

11‧‧‧Monitor

12‧‧‧Control Panel

13‧‧‧ input device

14R‧‧‧Key Switch

14L‧‧‧Key Switch

15‧‧‧Rotary switch

16‧‧‧Card Reader

17‧‧‧Coin slot

18‧‧‧Speaker

20‧‧‧Control device (computer)

21‧‧‧Memory device

22‧‧‧Coin acceptor

23‧‧‧Game Control Department

25‧‧‧Charge Management Department

26‧‧‧Registration Participation Management Department (Participation Acceptance Means)

27‧‧‧Play range control unit (play allowance control means, play range setting means)

28‧‧‧play control department (play control means)

29‧‧‧Offer Control Department

DG‧‧‧Game Information

DP‧‧‧play information

EG‧‧‧Evaluation

LF‧‧‧Life

LG‧‧‧Logbook

M‧‧‧Level

PF‧‧‧Play fees

PG‧‧‧Game Program

PL, PL1 ～ PL4‧‧‧ Players

Pm‧‧‧Mini Game Module

ST 、 ST1 ～ ST4‧‧‧Game Station

TM, TM1 ～ TM2‧‧‧ team

[Fig. 1] A diagram showing the overall structure of a game system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Fig. 2] A perspective view of a game machine included in the game system of Fig. 1. [Fig.

[Fig. 3] A diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of a game provided by the game machine of Fig. 2. [Fig.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of setting of life.

[Fig. 5] A diagram showing an example of the benefits.

6 is a functional block diagram showing an example of a structure of a control system of a gaming machine.

[Fig. 7] A functional block diagram showing an example of a specific structure of the game control unit in Fig. 6. [Fig.

8 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a play start control process executed by a game control unit.

9 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a play range control process executed by a game control unit.

Claims (7)

A game system is a game system that provides a plurality of players to participate in the game at the price of payment of the consideration, which is characterized by: The game permission control means is based on paying the consideration of the minimum unit required to play the aforementioned game as a condition to allow the aforementioned games to be played by multiple players; The means for setting the play range is a range in which each player can play the aforementioned game, that is, the play range, in a manner that varies depending on the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned plurality of players, and sets each of them according to the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned players. The playing area of the player; and The game control means allows each player to play the game in a range set by the game range setting means. The game system described in item 1 of the scope of patent application, wherein: The means for setting the play range is to set the play range in such a manner that the larger the value of the consideration paid divided by the number of players is, the more the play range is expanded. The game system described in item 1 or item 2 of the scope of patent application, wherein: The aforementioned play range setting means is to set the aforementioned play range by adding or subtracting an index value for setting the aforementioned play range in accordance with the consideration paid and the number of players, and to make the aforementioned index values correspond to each player's play Each player is differentiated and changed, and for players whose aforementioned index value reaches a predetermined value, subsequent play is restricted. The game system described in item 1 or item 2 of the scope of patent application, wherein: More equipped: participation acceptance means, corresponding to the payment of the aforementioned consideration, accept the participation of the aforementioned game; The aforementioned play permission control means is to allow the aforementioned players to accept the aforementioned participants. The game system described in item 1 or item 2 of the scope of patent application, wherein: Set aside for payment of consideration in excess of the aforementioned minimum unit; The play range setting means is to set the play range in such a manner that the larger the difference between the paid consideration and the minimum unit consideration, the more the play range is expanded. The game system described in item 1 or item 2 of the scope of patent application, wherein: It is assumed that the aforementioned consideration payment can be made by electronic money. A memory medium is characterized by a computer program for a memory game system. The computer program for the game system is a computer provided with a game system that provides a plurality of players to participate in the game at the price of payment of the consideration. Has the following functions: The game permission control means is based on paying the consideration of the minimum unit required to play the aforementioned game as a condition to allow the aforementioned games to be played by multiple players; The means for setting the play range is a range in which each player can play the aforementioned game, that is, the play range, in a manner that varies depending on the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned plurality of players, and sets each of them according to the consideration paid and the number of the aforementioned players. The playing area of the player; and The game control means allows each player to play the game in a range set by the game range setting means.