Role management system, role management method, and role information providing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a character changing system and the like capable of eliminating character creation complexity and generating characters accurately reflecting user preferences. The server device (10) has a configuration for executing: a constituent element determination process for determining, on the basis of stored player-related information or player input information input by the player, a constituent element to be changed among constituent elements of a base character; and a changed character generation process for generating, on the basis of the determined constituent elements, a changed character in which the constituent elements have been changed from the base character. Furthermore, the server device (10) has a configuration that generates a character that can be used in a game or the like and that can accurately reflect user preferences while using the base character and eliminating the complexity of character creation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a role management system, a role management method, a role information providing method and the like. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in virtual spaces such as games, it has become increasingly common to generate users' favorite characters and have them appear in virtual spaces such as games to attract users.

[0003] Furthermore, recently, it has become common to generate a character that replaces the user as an avatar, and to operate the avatar to express intentions and act as the user's avatar not only in games but also in virtual spaces, and to communicate with other users.

[0004] On the other hand, recently, a system has emerged that considers the generation of characters such as avatars to be complicated, and automatically generates characters based on simple instructions from the user (for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-211820). Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical problem to be solved by the invention However, in the information processing system described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-211820, although it is automatically generated according to the user's instructions, it is sometimes difficult to generate a character that suits the user's preferences.

[0006] The present invention provides a character changing system that can eliminate the complexity of character production while generating a character that accurately reflects user preferences.

[0007] Solutions to technical problems (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, a character management system according to a first aspect of the present invention is a character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, and has a structure including the following devices: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; A component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; and A modified character generation processing device executes a modified character generation process for generating a modified character whose components are changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined components, the changed components, or the added components.

[0008] (2) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, a character management system according to a second aspect of the present invention is a character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, and has a structure including the following devices: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing device that performs a modified character generation process for generating a plurality of modified characters whose constituent elements are changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; and A presentation device presents the generated character change information to the player as character change information.

[0009] (3) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, a character management method according to a third aspect of the present invention is a character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, and the method comprises: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information, and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; Determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the constituent elements of the basic character, the constituent elements to be changed in the constituent elements, or the constituent elements to be added to the basic character; and A modified character generation process is executed for generating a modified character in which the component elements are changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined component elements, the changed component elements, or the added component elements.

[0010] (4) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, a character management method according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is a character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, and the method comprises: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquire user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; executing a modified character generation process of generating a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; and The generated information of changing the character is presented to the player as changing character information.

[0011] (5) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, a character information providing method according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is a character information providing method for providing information related to a character from a server device that executes a changed character registration generation process to a terminal device, wherein the changed character registration generation process performs a changed character registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, The server device comprises: A management device that manages information on a basic character that can be changed by a constituent element stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; A component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; and a modified character generation processing means for executing a modified character generation processing for generating a modified character having the component elements changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined component elements, the changed component elements or the added component elements; When the server device has the above-mentioned device, sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device.

[0012] (6) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, a character information providing method according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is a character information providing method for providing information related to a character from a server device that executes a change character registration generation process to a terminal device, wherein the change character registration generation process performs a change character registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, The server device comprises: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing means for executing a modified character generation process for generating a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; a presenting device that presents the generated character change information to the player as character change information, When the server device has the above-mentioned device, sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of a network diagram of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a server device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of a terminal device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a diagram for explaining the change character generation registration process executed by the server device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of player-related information stored in the player information storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of changed character information stored in the character information storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of basic character information stored in the player information storage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a diagram for explaining a role change process executed by the server device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Fig. 9This is a flowchart showing the operation of changing the character generation registration process executed by the server device according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] (1) One embodiment of the present invention is a character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, and has a structure including the following devices: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; A component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; and A modified character generation processing device executes a modified character generation process for generating a modified character whose components are changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined components, the changed components, or the added components.

[0023] With this structure, the present invention can generate a modified character with modified components of a basic character based on user information that is assumed to reflect the preferences of a user such as a player or information input by the user himself, and can generate the modified character based only on the already stored information or input information.

[0024] Therefore, the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0025] In addition, the so-called "character management" means managing basic characters and changing characters by user, such as managing their use in virtual spaces such as games or metaverses.

[0026] Furthermore, the term "constituent elements" includes, for example, (A1) The appearance of the character (hair style, eyes, mouth, nose, hands, feet, body, skin color, etc.); (A2) Equipment (weapons, etc.) or accessories (glasses, hats, or jewelry, etc.) worn by the character; and (A3) Sound And other elements that form a character.

[0027] Furthermore, the so-called "basic role" refers to a role for each of the above-mentioned components set in advance by a user or a system administrator.

[0028] In addition to the above, "User-related information" includes: (B1) Information related to characters that have been used in the past in virtual spaces such as games or metaverses (hereinafter referred to as "user characters") or characters related to the user characters (characters that have been contacted or followed) and other characters that have been associated with the user characters in the past (hereinafter referred to as "character history information"); (B2) information related to the virtual space where the user character has been in the past (hereinafter referred to as "virtual space history information"); and (B3) Information on other users associated with the user, such as friends or opponents with whom the user is communicating in the virtual space, or information on characters possessed by the other users.

[0029] In particular, the information (B1) to (B3) includes image information related to the image of the character or the virtual space, such as the color, decoration, or sound of the elements constituting the character or the virtual space.

[0030] Furthermore, “user input information” includes information input by a user using an input device such as a keyboard, a tablet computer, or voice, and includes, for example, image information and voice information in addition to text information.

[0031] (2) In order to solve the above technical problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, having a structure including the following devices: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing device that performs a modified character generation process for generating a plurality of modified characters whose constituent elements are changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; and A presentation device presents the generated character change information to the player as character change information.

[0032] With this configuration, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character with components of a basic character modified based on user information that assumes preferences of a user such as a player are reflected, and can generate the modified character based only on already stored information.

[0033] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0034] (3) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has a configuration further comprising a selection device for allowing the user to select from the plurality of generated change characters.

[0035] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can more accurately obtain a changed role that suits the user's preference.

[0036] (4) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has the following structure: The user association information includes: Associated role history information associated with roles that the user has been associated with in the past or user roles possessed by other users associated with the user; or Information about virtual space history information related to the virtual space where the user character was located in the past.

[0037] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a changed character based on the character that the user has used in the past in a game (ie, the user character), the virtual space where the character existed, or information about other users who have been connected in the virtual space.

[0038] For example, one embodiment of the present invention can change the constituent elements of the user's basic character (i.e., color, shape, sound effects, etc.) based on the constituent elements of the character, such as the color, shape, or sound effects (including voice) of the characters, decorations, or items owned by the user that are associated with the user characters used by the user in the past.

[0039] Furthermore, for example, one embodiment of the present invention can change the constituent elements of the user's basic character (i.e., color, shape, or sound effects, etc.) based on the constituent elements of the characters of other users associated with the user, such as the characters of the user's friends or other users accessing the same virtual space in the same time period.

[0040] Furthermore, for example, one embodiment of the present invention may change the constituent elements of the user's base character (ie, color, shape, sound effects, etc.) based on information related to the virtual space where the user's character was located in the past.

[0041] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the preferences or interests of the user or a character that the user likes.

[0042] In addition, in the "character history information", for example, (C1) User roles used by users in the past; (C2) characters that the user character has come into contact with (e.g., characters that served as opponents in battles, as people with whom the user character has had conversations, or as partners in a given mission); (C3) characters that the user has watched while performing, singing, or other performances; (C4) other user characters of other users with a given relationship, such as friends in the user's virtual space; and (C5) Characters of other users who have visited the same virtual space at the same time as the player, etc., who are assumed to have the same tendency as the player or other components, or information about the characteristics of the components (color, shape or sound).

[0043] In addition, the "virtual space history information" includes, for example, information on the components of the virtual space, such as the spatial components (color, decoration or sound) of the virtual space where the user character or a character having a given relationship with the user has been in the past, or the characteristics of the components (color, shape or sound).

[0044] In particular, the constituent elements include, for example, the appearance of a character (such as clothing or equipment), color information of a virtual space, or a theme set in the virtual space.

[0045] (5) In one embodiment of the present invention, the user input information includes information related to the appearance or the personality of the character to be changed.

[0046] With this configuration, one embodiment of the present invention can acquire information on a character desired by a user and generate a modified character based on the information, thereby generating a character that accurately reflects the user's preference.

[0047] In addition, “information related to appearance” and “information related to personality” include information of text, image, and sound that specifies appearance or personality, for example.

[0048] (6) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has the following structure: A model generating device is provided for executing a model data generating process for generating a changed role model as model data by using input user-related information or user input information and a role model corresponding to the user-related information or user input information as training data (teacher data), The changed character generation processing means performs a changed character generation process in which the changed character is generated based on the input user-related information or the user input information using the generated model data.

[0049] With this configuration, one embodiment of the present invention can automatically generate a more suitable modified character while storing the input user-related information or user input information and the character model as training data.

[0050] (7) In one embodiment of the present invention, the modified character generation processing means determines components to be changed in the basic character based on a given instruction, and changes the determined components.

[0051] With this configuration, since one embodiment of the present invention can accurately change the constituent elements of a basic character, it is possible to generate a modified character that better suits the user's preferences.

[0052] In addition, "given instructions" include instructions from users and instructions from systems such as programs.

[0053] (8) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention is configured to further include: an event detection device that detects whether a given event has occurred; and The configuration control device configures the changed role instead of the role being used based on the registered changed role information when the occurrence of the event is detected.

[0054] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can use a character dedicated to the battle when a battle event of a game is detected, thereby increasing the user's interest in the character.

[0055] In addition, the "given event" includes various events related to the game, events related to the presentation being viewed when viewing content, and events such as contact with other users in the metaverse.

[0056] (9) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has a structure further including: A condition detection device, which detects whether a given condition is met; The configuration control device configures the changed role instead of the role currently being used based on the registered changed role information when the condition is detected.

[0057] With this structure, an embodiment of the present invention can use characters that meet given conditions, such as completing a mission in the game or completing a given stay time in the metaverse, thereby increasing the user's interest in the characters.

[0058] In addition, "given conditions" include the completion of tasks in the game, the fulfillment of conditions based on payment records, or the completion of a given stay time in the metaverse.

[0059] (10) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has the following structure: The device further comprises a user status detection device, which detects the payment record of the user or the game status of the game played by the user as the user status, The character generation processing means determines the configurable components based on the detected user status. Based on the determined components, the changed character is generated.

[0060] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can set and change the character according to the payment amount of the user or the depth of the game, thereby increasing the user's motivation to pay or play the game.

[0061] In addition, the “payment record” includes, for example, the date and time when the user made payment, the payment amount, and the content of the payment (the item paid).

[0062] Furthermore, "game status" includes the number of sound sources, the number or positions of player characters or enemy characters, the terrain or geographical environment in which the player characters are located, the game scores of individuals or teams, the game levels that have been completed or are being challenged, the types of weapons and other equipment possessed by the player characters, the levels of the player characters or enemy characters, the abilities possessed by the player characters or enemy characters or the levels of such abilities, the status of task completion, and the status of game events.

[0063] (11) In one embodiment of the present invention, the constituent elements include at least one of an item equipped on the character, a parameter set for the character, and a sound related to the character.

[0064] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can change the props and abilities used by the character, or the character's voice or sound effects when appearing, etc. according to the user's preferences, thereby increasing the user's liking for the character.

[0065] In addition, "equipment props" include, for example: weapons, armor, magic, farm tools, tools or daily necessities used by the character, means of transportation such as weapons or means of movement, decorations such as clothing, accessories, and cosmetics, other characters such as pets or robots, and gifts provided, etc.

[0066] Furthermore, "parameters" include, for example, various ability parameters used in games, life or energy parameters, parameters related to benefits in the virtual space (number of challenges to a draw, etc.), and points of users who own characters or the amount of currency held in the virtual space.

[0067] Furthermore, “sounds related to characters” include, for example, not only voices uttered by characters, but also entrance songs and sound effects when characters appear in events, etc., and action sounds when characters attack in games, etc.

[0068] (12) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has the following structure: The device further comprises a providing device for providing the determined component element information to other users as component element information for other users to change their roles; The modified character generation processing means generates a modified character by changing the constituent elements of the basic character of the own user based on constituent element information for modified characters of other users as the modified character generation processing.

[0069] With this configuration, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character based on the user's own basic character using constituent elements of other users, thereby being able to incorporate the style preferred by other users into the user's own basic character.

[0070] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate various characters, for example, characters beyond the imagination of each user, and thus can increase interest in character generation.

[0071] (13) Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention has the following structure: There is also a change intensity setting device, which sets the change intensity of the component based on a given instruction, The modified character generation processing means generates a modified character in which the constituent elements are changed from the basic character based on the set modification strength.

[0072] With this configuration, an embodiment of the present invention can change the setting of the changed character according to different change strengths even when the same component elements are changed for the same basic character.

[0073] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention allows the user himself or the system administrator to change the change intensity, so various change roles can be generated.

[0074] (14) In order to solve the above technical problems, one embodiment of the present invention is a character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, comprising: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information, and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; Determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the constituent elements of the basic character, the constituent elements to be changed in the constituent elements, or the constituent elements to be added to the basic character; and A modified character generation process is executed for generating a modified character in which the component elements are changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined component elements, the changed component elements, or the added component elements.

[0075] With this configuration, an embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character whose constituent elements of a basic character are changed based on user information assumed to reflect the preferences of a user such as a player or information input by the user himself, and can generate the modified character based only on already stored information or input information.

[0076] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0077] (15) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, one embodiment of the present invention is a character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, which comprises: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquire user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; executing a modified character generation process of generating a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; and The generated information of changing the character is presented to the player as changing character information.

[0078] With this configuration, an embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character whose constituent elements of a basic character are changed based on user information assumed to reflect the preferences of a user such as a player or information input by the user himself, and can generate the modified character based only on already stored information or input information.

[0079] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0080] (16) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, one embodiment of the present invention is a character information providing method for providing information related to a character from a server device that executes a change character registration generation process to a terminal device, wherein the change character registration generation process is a method for performing a change character registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, The server device comprises: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; A component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; and a modified character generation processing means for executing a modified character generation processing for generating a modified character having the components changed from the basic character based on the content of the determined components, the changed components or the added components; When the server device has the above-mentioned device, sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device.

[0081] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character with the components of the basic character changed based on user information that is assumed to reflect the preferences of users such as players or information input by the user himself, and can generate the modified character only based on already stored information or input information.

[0082] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0083] (17) In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, one embodiment of the present invention is a character information providing method for providing information related to a character to a terminal device from a server device that executes a changed character registration generation process, wherein the changed character registration generation process performs a changed character registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, The server device comprises: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing means for executing a modified character generation process for generating a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character based on the acquired user-related information; a presenting device that presents the generated character change information to the player as character change information; When the server device has the above-mentioned device, sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device.

[0084] With this structure, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a modified character with the components of the basic character changed based on user information that is assumed to reflect the preferences of users such as players or information input by the user himself, and can generate the modified character only based on already stored information or input information.

[0085] Therefore, one embodiment of the present invention can generate a character that accurately reflects the user's preferences while eliminating the complexity of character creation.

[0086] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. In addition, the embodiment described below does not unduly limit the content of the present invention described in the claims. Furthermore, the structures described in this embodiment are not necessarily all essential components of the present invention.

[0087] In the following embodiments, the characters used by the user in the virtual space are described using, in principle, player characters used by players in the game space. However, when referring to characters used outside the game, this is not limited to this.

[0088] [1] Game system First, use Figure 1 The overview and schematic structure of the game system S of this embodiment are described. Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration of a game system S according to the present embodiment.

[0089] like Figure 1 As shown, the game system S of the present embodiment is configured such that a server device 10 and terminal devices 20 (eg, terminal devices 20A, 20B, and 20C) that provide game services can be connected to the Internet (an example of a network).

[0090] The user can play a game transmitted from the server device 10 via the Internet by accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20. Furthermore, the user can communicate with other users by accessing the server device 10 from the terminal device 20.

[0091] The server device 10 is an information processing device that can provide a service for allowing users to play games using a terminal device 20 connected via Internet communication. In addition, the server device 10 can also function as an SNS server that provides a communication service. Here, the SNS server can also be an information processing device that provides a service that can provide communication between multiple users.

[0092] Furthermore, when the server device 10 functions as an SNS server, for example, it can provide a game called a social game that is executed using an operating environment (API (Application Programming Interface), platform, etc.) of the provided SNS.

[0093] In particular, the server device 10 is capable of providing games that are provided on the web browser of the terminal device 20, such as browser games made in various languages ​​such as HTML, FLASH (registered trademark), CGI, PHP, shockwave, Java (registered trademark) applets, JavaScript (registered trademark), etc. (games that are launched simply by opening a set site in a web browser).

[0094] In addition, social games are different from existing online games and include games that do not require dedicated client software and can be used only through a web browser and an SNS account. In addition, the server device 10 has a structure that can provide online games that can be connected to other users' terminals (smartphones, personal computers, game consoles, etc.) via the network and share the same game progress online at the same time.

[0095] On the other hand, the server device 10 may be composed of one (device, processor) or a plurality of (devices, processors).

[0096] Furthermore, payment information, game information, and the like stored in the storage area (the storage unit 140 mentioned later) of the server device 10 may be stored in a database (a storage device or memory in a broad sense) connected via a network (an intranet or the Internet), or, when functioning as an SNS server, information such as the player information storage unit 146 stored in the storage area may be stored in a database (a storage device or memory in a broad sense) connected via a network (an intranet or the Internet).

[0097] Specifically, the server device 10 of the present embodiment receives input information based on the operation of the user of the terminal device 20 (i.e., the player who executes the game), and performs game processing based on the received input information. Then, the server device 10 sends the game processing result to the terminal device 20, and the terminal device 20 performs various processes to provide the game processing result received from the server device 10 to the terminal device 20 in a manner that the user can read.

[0098] The terminal device 20 is an information processing device such as a smartphone, mobile phone, computer, game device, PDA, tablet computer, portable game console or other image generating device, and is a device that can be connected to the server device 10 via a network such as the Internet (WAN) or LAN. In addition, the communication line between the terminal device 20 and the server device 10 may be either wired or wireless.

[0099] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 has a web browser capable of browsing the web (data in HTML format). That is, the terminal device 20 has: a communication control function for communicating with the server device 10; a web browser function for performing display control using data (web data, data produced in HTML format, etc.) received from the server device 10, and sending data operated by the user to the server device 10; and performing various processes for providing the game screen to the user, so that the user can execute the game. However, the terminal device 20 can also obtain game control information provided by the server device 10, execute a given game process, and execute a game based on the game process.

[0100] Specifically, when the terminal device 20 makes a request to the server device 10 to play a given game, it connects to the game site of the server device 10 and starts the game. In particular, the terminal device 20 has a structure that allows the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, to perform a given process or obtains the player information storage unit 146 managed by the server device 10, which functions as an SNS server, by using the API as needed to execute the game.

[0101] [2] Server device Next, use Figure 2 The server device 10 of this embodiment is described. Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the server device 10 according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 The structure of a part of the constituent elements (parts).

[0102] The server device 10 includes: an input unit 120 for input from a system administrator or others; a display unit 130 for performing a given display; an information storage medium 180 storing given information; a communication unit 196 for communicating with a terminal device 20 or others; a processing unit 100 that mainly performs processing related to the provided game; and a storage unit 140 that mainly stores various data used in the game.

[0103] The input unit 120 is used by a system administrator or the like to perform game-related settings, other necessary settings, and input data. For example, the input unit 120 of this embodiment is composed of a mouse, a keyboard, and the like.

[0104] The display unit 130 displays an operation screen for the system administrator. For example, the display unit 130 of this embodiment is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like.

[0105] The information storage medium 180 (a computer-readable medium) stores programs and data, and its functions are constituted by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM).

[0106] The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communication with the outside (eg, a terminal, another server, or another network system), and its functions are constituted by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like.

[0107] The storage unit 140 is a work area for the processing unit 100 , the communication unit 196 , etc., and its functions are constituted by a RAM (VRAM), etc. In addition, the information stored in the storage unit 140 may be managed by a database.

[0108] Furthermore, the storage unit 140 of this embodiment has, in addition to the main storage unit 142, the following: (A1) a game data storage unit 144 that stores game information showing information related to the game; (A2) a player information storage unit 146 that stores information related to player information (hereinafter referred to as “player-related information”) showing information related to each player; and (A3) The character information storage unit 148 stores information on each player's basic character (hereinafter referred to as "basic character information"), information on modified characters modified from the basic character (hereinafter referred to as "modified character information"), and information on components constituting the character (hereinafter referred to as "component element information").

[0109] In addition, the game data storage unit 144 stores information on the game field where the game is implemented, condition information used for various judgments, information on each object on the game field, information for changing each object, various table information, information related to the player character of each player, and information related to each prop used in the game.

[0110] The processing unit 100 performs various processes using the main storage unit 142 in the storage unit 140 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 100 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.) and ASIC (gate array, etc.) or programs.

[0111] The processing unit 100 performs various processes of this embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores a program for causing the computer to function as each unit of this embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute the process of each unit).

[0112] For example, the processing unit 100 (processor) controls the entire server device 10 based on a program stored in an information storage medium, performs various processes such as controlling the transfer of data between various units, and performs processes for providing various services in response to requests from the terminal device 20 .

[0113] Specifically, the processing unit 100 of this embodiment has at least a communication control unit 101, a Web processing unit 102, a game management unit 103, a player management unit 104, an input information receiving processing unit 105, a character generation management unit 106, a timer management unit 110 and an information providing unit 111.

[0114] The communication control unit 101 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data to and from the terminal device 20 via the network. That is, the server device 10 performs various processes based on information received by the communication control unit 101 from the terminal device 20 and the like.

[0115] In particular, the communication control unit 101 of the present embodiment performs processing for transmitting the game screen to the terminal device 20 of the player based on a request from the terminal device 20 of the player.

[0116] Furthermore, the communication control unit 101 executes various processes for receiving instructions from the player input to the terminal device 20 .

[0117] The web processing unit 102 functions as a web server. For example, the web processing unit 102 performs a process of sending data in response to a request from a web browser 211 installed in the terminal device 20 and a process of receiving data sent by the web browser 211 of the terminal device 20 using a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol).

[0118] In addition, in this embodiment, the server device 10 is described as an example in which the server device 10 also has the function of an SNS server, but the server device 10 can also be formed as a game server and an SNS server respectively. In addition, the processing of the game in this embodiment can be performed partially or entirely by the server device 10, and can also be performed partially by the terminal device 20.

[0119] The game management unit 103 works in conjunction with the terminal device 20 to construct a game space as a virtual space, and based on the player's operations input through the terminal device 20, performs various game processes related to various fighting games such as battle games, action games, RPGs, sound games, or sports games in which multiple players fight or combat.

[0120] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 executes various game processes based on player instructions transmitted from the terminal device 20 .

[0121] In particular, the game management unit 103 controls the movement of the player character, which is the operation target of each player, in the game space and various actions for the game based on the player's operation input input to the terminal device 20, while executing the actions of other related characters and objects and various game processes.

[0122] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 generates a new player character (hereinafter referred to as a "changed character") according to the player changing the player character specified as the basic character (hereinafter referred to as the "basic character"), instructs execution of the changed character generation registration process for registering it, and manages it.

[0123] Then, the game management unit 103 manages the basic characters and changes the characters for each player, for example, managing the use in a virtual space such as a game or a metaverse.

[0124] Furthermore, the game management unit 103 may execute various game processes on a single player character based on an instruction from one player, or may execute various game processes on a plurality of player characters.

[0125] The player management unit 104 registers the items owned by the player and the benefits obtained by the player as player information in the player information storage unit 146 for management, and manages the player character set by the player in the game or the card deck set with the character.

[0126] Furthermore, the player management unit 104 manages players and manages information related to player characters used by players in the past (hereinafter referred to as “player-related information”).

[0127] When executing the change character generation registration process, the input information reception processing unit 105 obtains the player-related information stored in the player information storage unit 146 or the player input information input by the player from the terminal device 20 .

[0128] When executing the modified character generation registration process, the character generation management unit 106 executes the modified character generation registration process to manage the basic characters stored in the character information storage unit 148 for each player and to generate modified characters whose constituent elements are changed from the basic characters.

[0129] Furthermore, the character generation management unit 106 registers the generated changed character information in the character information storage unit 148 as changed character information.

[0130] The timer management unit 110 has a timer function for managing the progress of the game. In particular, the timer management unit 110 is linked with the game management unit 103 to output the current time or the preset time to each unit. In addition, the timer management unit 110 is used to synchronize with each terminal device.

[0131] The information providing unit 111 generates various game information so that the terminal device 20 can process the game, and provides the information to the corresponding terminal device 20 .

[0132] Furthermore, the information providing unit 111 provides the registered character change information to the corresponding terminal device 20 based on the instruction of the player.

[0133] [3] Terminal device Next, use Figure 3 The terminal device 20 of this embodiment is described. Figure 3 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block diagram of the structure of the terminal device in the present embodiment. Figure 3 The structure of a part of the constituent elements (parts).

[0134] The input unit 260 is used for the player to input operation data, and its function can be realized by a touch panel or a touch panel type display, etc. That is, the input unit 260 includes a detection unit 262, which can detect the two-dimensional indicated position coordinates (x, y) on the screen displaying the image. For example, the input unit 260 includes a detection unit 262 that can detect the two-dimensional contact position coordinates (x, y) in the contact detection area (touch panel).

[0135] The touch operation on the display screen (hereinafter referred to as “touch panel” except for special cases) 12 may be performed using a fingertip or an input device such as a touch pen.

[0136] Furthermore, the input unit 260 may include buttons, a joystick, a keyboard, a steering wheel, a microphone, an acceleration sensor, and the like that can input operation information (operation signals) other than the indication position.

[0137] The storage unit 270 is a work area for the processing unit 200, the communication unit 296, etc., and its functions can be realized by RAM (VRAM), etc. In addition, the storage unit 270 of this embodiment includes a main storage unit 271 used as a work area and an image buffer 272 that stores the final display image, etc. In addition, a structure in which some of these are omitted may be used, or the storage unit 140 of the server device 10 may constitute a part of them.

[0138] The information storage medium 280 (a medium readable by a computer) stores programs or data, and its functions can be realized by an optical disk (CD, DVD), a magneto-optical disk (MO), a magnetic disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, or a memory (ROM).

[0139] Furthermore, the information storage medium 280 may store a program for causing the computer to function as each unit of the present embodiment (a program for causing the computer to execute the processing of each unit). In addition, as described later, the processing unit 200 performs various processing of the present embodiment based on the program (data) stored in the information storage medium 280.

[0140] The display unit 290 outputs an image generated in this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a CRT, an LCD, a touch panel display, an HMD (head mounted display), or the like.

[0141] In particular, in this embodiment, the display unit 290 also functions as the input unit 260 for the player to perform game operations by using a touch panel display. Here, as the touch panel, for example, a touch panel of a resistive film type (4-wire type, 5-wire type), an electrostatic capacitance type, an electromagnetic induction type, an ultrasonic surface elastic wave type, an infrared scanning type, etc. can be used.

[0142] The sound output unit 292 outputs the sound generated in this embodiment, and its function can be realized by a speaker, headphones, etc.

[0143] The communication unit 296 performs various controls for communication with the outside (eg, a host device or other terminal devices), and its functions can be realized by hardware such as various processors or communication ASICs, programs, and the like.

[0144] In addition, the terminal device 20 may receive a program or data for causing the computer to function as each part of the present embodiment stored in the information storage medium or storage unit 270 of the server device 10 via the network, and store the received program or data in the information storage medium 280 or storage unit 270. Such a case where the terminal device 20 functions by receiving a program or data may also be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0145] The processing unit 200 (processor) performs processing such as game processing, image generation processing, and sound generation processing in conjunction with the server device 10 based on input data or a program from the input unit 260 .

[0146] In particular, in this embodiment, game processing includes: starting the game when the game start conditions are met; advancing the game; configuring objects such as player objects and enemy objects; displaying the objects; calculating the game results; or ending the game when the game end conditions are met.

[0147] The processing unit 200 performs various processes using the storage unit 270 as a work area. The functions of the processing unit 200 can be realized by hardware such as various processors (CPU, DSP, etc.), ASIC (gate array, etc.), or programs.

[0148] In particular, the processing unit 200 of this embodiment includes an input receiving unit 201, a game processing unit 202, a web browser 211, a rendering unit 220, and a sound processing unit 230. In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which some of these are omitted.

[0149] The input receiving unit 201 receives an input instruction from a player inputted through the input unit 260 , and provides the received input instruction to the server device 10 under the control of the game processing unit 202 .

[0150] The game processing unit 202 provides the server device 10 with the command received by the input receiving unit 201 .

[0151] Furthermore, the game processing unit 202 receives game control information or character change information provided from the server device 10 , and controls the input receiving unit 201 , the rendering unit 220 , and the sound processing unit 230 based on the received game control information and character change information.

[0152] Furthermore, the game processing unit 202 sets a player character and various items used in a game such as a battle game on each player based on the player's operation input via the input unit 260 , and provides them to the server device 10 .

[0153] The web browser 211 is an application for browsing the web (game screen or game live broadcast screen), downloads HTML files or image files from the web server (server device 10), analyzes the layout and performs display control. In addition, the web browser 211 uses an input form (link, button, text box, etc.) to send data to the web server (server device 10).

[0154] The web browser 211 of this embodiment can realize the viewing and listening of browser games or game live broadcasts. For example, the web browser 211 can also execute a program written in JavaScript (registered trademark), FLASH, Java (registered trademark), etc. received from a web server.

[0155] The terminal device 20 can display information from a web server specified by a URL via the Internet through the web browser 211. For example, the terminal device 20 can display a game screen (HTML or other data) received from the server device 10 through the web browser 211.

[0156] The rendering unit 220 performs rendering processing based on the results of various processes (game processing) performed by the processing unit 200 to generate an image, and outputs the image to the display unit (display) 290 .

[0157] The sound processing unit 230 performs sound processing based on the results of various processes performed by the processing unit 200 , generates game sounds such as background music, sound effects, and voices, and outputs the generated sounds to the sound output unit 292 .

[0158] [4] Method of this embodiment (changing the character generation registration process) [4.1] Summary Next, use Figure 4 The outline of the modified character generation registration process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0159] in addition, Figure 4 This is a diagram for explaining the modified character generation registration process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0160] The server device 10 of the present embodiment has a configuration for a plurality of players to execute a given game such as an RPG, a battle game, a shooting game, a simulation game, a fighting game, or a street building game in the same game space.

[0161] That is, the server device 10 of the present embodiment has a configuration for executing a given game in a game space in which a plurality of player characters respectively operated by a plurality of players can act.

[0162] Furthermore, the server device 10 of the present embodiment has the following structure: when particle objects are generated in the game space due to game events such as fighting with an enemy character, exploring a given area, the appearance (birth) of an enemy character, etc., winning or losing a battle, completing a task, colliding with a configured object such as a wall, weather changing, or executing a mini-game, the sound effects of the game are controlled.

[0163] In particular, the server device 10 of this embodiment has a structure for changing the appearance, decoration, equipment, and other components of a basic character, generating a modified character by changing the basic character, and registering the generated modified character for use in a game or the like.

[0164] That is, the server device 10 of the present embodiment has a configuration that can generate a character that can be used in a game or the like and that accurately reflects the user's preferences, while eliminating the complexity of character creation by generating a modified character using a basic character.

[0165] Specifically, the server device 10 of the present embodiment has a configuration that manages information defining the basic roles of the components as basic role information.

[0166] Furthermore, the server device 10 is Figure 4 The structure shown has the following processing: (A1) an information acquisition process of acquiring player-related information that has been stored and is related to the player or player input information including at least one of text information, image information, and sound information input by the player; (A2) component determination processing for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; (A3) a modified character generation process of generating a modified character having components changed from a basic character based on the content of the determined components, the changed components, or the added components; and (A4) A role change registration process of registering the generated role change information as role change information.

[0167] In addition, Figure 4 The following example is shown in: (B1) Based on player input information or player association information, attributes, appearance or characteristics are set (style); (B2) based on the set category, a modified character is generated according to a player instruction or randomly, etc., while referring to the basic character and various components stored in the storage unit 140 ; ​​and (B3) The generated changed character is registered in the storage unit 140 .

[0168] in particular, Figure 4 2 shows that in the modified character generation process, two selectable components are read out for each of the face, hands, and feet according to categories, and a modified character is generated by combining the components determined by the player's instructions, etc. among the read components with the basic character.

[0169] With such a configuration, the server device 10 of the present embodiment can generate a player character that accurately reflects the player's preferences while eliminating the complexity of creating a player character.

[0170] 〔4.2〕Various information [4.2.1] Player related information Next, use Figure 5 The player-related information stored in the player information storage unit 146 in this embodiment will be described.

[0171] in addition, Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of player-related information stored in the player information storage unit 146 of the present embodiment. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the changed character information stored in the character information storage unit 148 according to the present embodiment.

[0172] (Summary of player-related information) In player association information, such as Figure 5 As shown, for each player, corresponding to the player ID, it includes: (A1) historical information of characters that each player has had a past relationship with, including player characters (hereinafter referred to as "character historical information"); (A2) historical information of the virtual space (game space) where each player character is located (hereinafter referred to as "virtual space historical information"); (A3) player-related information of other players, including player characters, associated with each player who has registered a friend (hereinafter referred to as "other player-related information"); and (A4) Information on role change generated by role change processing (hereinafter referred to as “role change information”).

[0173] The information on each character included in (A1) to (A3) above includes image information on the image of the character or virtual space, such as color, decoration, or sound of elements constituting the character or virtual space.

[0174] Furthermore, the character change information is information that specifies the character change that is generated for each player and each time the character change process is executed, and is managed for each player.

[0175] In addition to the above, player-related information also stores: (B1) The player’s nickname and, if a player belongs to a team, the team name or ID (hereinafter referred to as “affiliation information”); (B2) Information related to individual and team performance, such as the player’s current score, experience points, energy parameter values ​​(life energy, stamina or strength), rewards earned or game time (hereinafter also referred to as “performance information”); (B3) Information related to payment records and payment amounts; (B4) Information related to login (access) records (hereinafter referred to as "access record information"); (B5) information on benefits received (hereinafter also referred to as “information on benefits received”); and (B6) Information related to other players with whom you have a certain relationship (hereinafter referred to as “related players”) such as registered friends or followers (hereinafter referred to as “related player information”) wait.

[0176] (Character history information) The character history information is the history information of the following characters: (C1) the player character used by the player in the virtual space (i.e., the game space); (C2) For example, a character that you have had a conversation with in a virtual space, a character that you have fought against, or a character that you have collaborated with to complete a given mission (hereinafter referred to as a "contact character"); (C3) Characters that are the objects of viewing of performance activities such as performances and singing in virtual space (hereinafter referred to as "viewing characters"); (C4) characters of other players with a given relationship, such as other users who have registered friends (hereinafter referred to as "related player characters"); or (C5) Characters such as characters of other users who have visited the same virtual space at the same time period as the player, who are assumed to have the same tendency as the player (hereinafter referred to as "other player characters with the same tendency").

[0177] In particular, the character history information includes information on components constituting the appearance of the above-mentioned character or the characteristics of the components (color, shape or sound).

[0178] Specifically, in the role history information, corresponding to the role ID (role ID) includes Types of roles such as (D1) (C1) to (C5); (D2) Attributes of characters such as humans, robots, or animals; (D3) information about the character as a whole (clothing or posture), the color, shape, decoration, or combination thereof of each component of the character (hair style, eyes, mouth, nose, hands and feet, hat or glasses) (hereinafter referred to as "appearance information"); (D4) Information including the color and shape of items (weapons or objects) held by the character (hereinafter referred to as "item information"); (D5) Information related to sounds such as character voices, sound effects, or music used when a character appears (hereinafter referred to as “character sound information”); and (D6) Time-related information such as the registration date and time of the player character and the duration of use, the date and time of contact with the contact character and the duration of contact, and the date and time of gaze of the gaze character and the duration of gaze Various information related to the color, shape or sound of the character that is a component when generating a changed character.

[0179] In addition, in the above-mentioned character history information, the appearance information and props information can be either text information or image information.

[0180] Furthermore, the character history information about the contact character, the gaze character, the related player character, and other player characters with the same tendency can also be composed of at least the character ID and time-related information, and refer to the game data storage unit 144 or other player-related information, etc., which already stores the character information of each character.

[0181] (Virtual Space Historical Information) The virtual space history information includes, for example, information on the components of the virtual space (color, decoration, or sound) where the player character or a character having a given relationship with the player has been in the past, or the characteristics of the components (color, shape, or sound).

[0182] For example, the virtual space history information includes: (E1) The ID of the virtual space where the player character is located (hereinafter referred to as the "space ID"); (E2) the date and time or period of existence in the virtual space; and (E3) Color information, decoration information, and sound information such as effect sounds that constitute the virtual space.

[0183] In addition, similar to the character history information, the virtual space history information may include at least only the space ID, and refer to the virtual space information stored in the game data storage unit 144 .

[0184] (Other player related information) Among other player-related information, for example: (F1) information indicating the relationship with the player (hereinafter referred to as “relationship information”); (F2) information on the date and time at which the relationship is established or the period of time during which the relationship exists; and (F3) Character history information of other players' characters wait.

[0185] In particular, the character history information of other players may be the character history information of the above-mentioned players such as the player ID and character ID of other players, or information for referring to the character information of other players.

[0186] (Change character information) Change the role information, such as Figure 6 As shown, the following are defined corresponding to the changed character ID that can be identified by each player: (G1) Change the base character ID of the source; (G2) information on unchanged constituent elements (hereinafter referred to as “unchanged constituent element information”); (G3) information on the changed component, such as the location of the changed component and the component ID that identifies the component (hereinafter referred to as “changed component information”); and (G4) Change the character's creation date and time, usage date and time, and other generation and usage history information.

[0187] [4.2.2] Basic role information and component information Next, use Figure 7 The basic character information stored in the character information storage unit 148 in this embodiment will be described.

[0188] in addition, Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of basic character information stored in the player information storage unit 146 according to the present embodiment.

[0189] (Basic character information) The basic character information contains information of constituent elements that form a character, and is information of a character that is set in advance by a player or a system manager and serves as a basis for generating a changed character.

[0190] For example, the components include: (A1) The appearance of the character (hair style, eyes, mouth, nose, hands, feet, body, skin color, etc.); (A2) Equipment (weapons, etc.) or accessories (glasses, hats, or ornaments, etc.) worn by the character; (A3) Voice, sound effects and other sounds; (A4) Items equipped by the character; and (A5) Parameters set on the character wait.

[0191] In particular, the parameters include, for example, various ability parameters used in games, life or energy parameters, parameters related to benefits in the virtual space (number of challenges to a draw, etc.), and points of users who own characters or the amount of currency held in the virtual space.

[0192] Furthermore, the sounds related to the characters include, in addition to the voices uttered by the characters, entrance songs and sound effects when the characters appear in events, etc., and action sounds when attacking in the game, etc.

[0193] On the other hand, in the basic role information, such as Figure 7 As shown, each basic role ID used to identify a basic role includes: (B1) fixed information that is not subject to change in the player character and items that are the basic character (hereinafter referred to as "basic character fixed element information"); and (B2) Information on the elements that constitute the basic characters of (A1) to (A5) and that can be changed (hereinafter referred to as "change element information") wait.

[0194] In addition, "props" include, for example, weapons, armor, magic, farm tools, tools or daily necessities used by characters, means of transportation such as weapons or means of movement, decorations such as clothing, accessories, cosmetics, other characters such as pets or robots, and gifts provided, etc.

[0195] Furthermore, basic character fixed element information includes elements such as body shape or skeleton, base color or decoration, various levels or abilities, etc., which are different for each player character or props.

[0196] (Change the optional component information) The change selection component information is information about each component that is combined with the basic character when the character change process is executed.

[0197] Specifically, the change selection component element information includes, for each part as each component element, the type of the part, and image information or sound information in association with the element ID identified as the component element.

[0198] Each of the change selection component information includes one or more categories of information such as "tsundere", "refreshing and capable", or "sports club type" (hereinafter referred to as "category information").

[0199] In particular, the category information may be information classified into a plurality of levels such as a large category, a medium category, or a small category, or a plurality of category information may be specified in each of the component element information for changing selection.

[0200] In addition, each change selection component element information includes each player's adoption record, the strength of the corresponding category of elements such as "high tsundereness" or "low straightforwardness and competence" (hereinafter referred to as "change strength"), and special recorded matters such as strong red or high affinity with other components.

[0201] [4.3] Information acquisition processing Next, the information acquisition process executed by the server device 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0202] When executing the change character generation registration process, the input information reception processing unit 105 obtains the player-related information stored in the player information storage unit 146 or the player input information input by the player from the terminal device 20 .

[0203] In particular, the input information receiving processing unit 105 obtains information related to the appearance or information related to the nature, personality, characteristics, and attributes of the character that the player wants to change (text information, image information, or sound information) as player-related information or player input information.

[0204] Specifically, the input information reception processing unit 105 acquires character history information, virtual space history information, and other player-related information as the player-related information stored in the player information storage unit 146 .

[0205] Furthermore, the input information reception processing unit 105 acquires text information input by the player using an input device such as a keyboard, a tablet computer, or a voice from the terminal device 20 as player input information.

[0206] Furthermore, the input information reception processing unit 105 may obtain image information and voice information from the terminal device 20 as the player input information instead of text information.

[0207] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the input information receiving processing unit 105 may detect and obtain the payment record of the player or the game status of the game played by the player as the player-related information, instead of or in addition to the above.

[0208] That is, the input information receiving processing unit 105 detects the payment record of the player or the game status of the game played by the player as the player status.

[0209] [4.4] Component determination process Next, use Figure 8 The component element determination process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0210] in addition, Figure 8 This is a diagram for explaining the role change process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0211] (Category determination) The character generation management unit 106 executes a component element determination process of determining a component element to be changed among components of a basic character based on the acquired user-related information or player input information.

[0212] In particular, the character generation management unit 106 acquires the direction of change of the player's basic character such as the player's preference (style) as a category from the user-related information or the player input information in order to determine the changed components of the basic character.

[0213] Furthermore, the character generation management unit 106 obtains, as categories, for example, an atmosphere such as tsundere or cuteness, a personality such as gentleness or irritability, characteristics such as being rich or a member of a sports club, or color features such as a blue base, a primary color base, a poppable image, or a dark image from user-related information or player input information.

[0214] Specifically, when the player input information matches the category specified in the change selection component element information, the character generation management unit 106 directly acquires the player input information as the category.

[0215] For example, when acquiring player input information in which "tsundere" is input as a keyword, the character generation management unit 106 sets "tsundere" as a category.

[0216] Furthermore, when the obtained player input information does not match the predetermined category, the character generation management unit 106 refers to the data pre-stored in the game data storage unit 144 and is dictionary data used to convert the player input information into categories, and sets the category based on text information such as "keywords" input as user input information.

[0217] On the other hand, as described above, when the character generation management unit 106 obtains text information, image information, and sound information pre-stored in the player information storage unit 146 as player-related information, it performs text analysis processing, image analysis processing, or sound analysis processing on the obtained player-related information to obtain information on the feature quantity after the analysis is performed.

[0218] Then, the character generation management unit 106 sets a category based on the acquired feature amount information using table data that associates feature amounts with categories.

[0219] For example, when the character generation management unit 106 detects characteristic quantities of neutral fashion, trouser style, and simple design of clothing for a female character from image information, it refers to the table data and sets the category to “refreshing and capable”.

[0220] Furthermore, for example, when using other player-related information, the character generation management unit 106 sets the same features as the appearance of the player character of another player (such as purple combination) or the features different from the appearance of the player character of the other player (traditional classical clothing) (American casual) to the category.

[0221] (Decision to change constituent elements) After determining the category, the character generation management unit 106 Figure 8 As shown, the change selection component element that specifies the category and can be used for change is identified, and information of the identified change selection component element (change selection component element information) is read.

[0222] Then, if Figure 8 As shown, the character generation management unit 106 determines the modification component element to be used for modification from the modification selection component elements that can be used for modification, randomly or by a specific algorithm.

[0223] In particular, the character generation management unit 106 uses, as a specific algorithm, components with high usage frequency, adoption records of each player (other player related information), change strength, and information on special entries for each player or for all players.

[0224] For example, when using other player-related information, since the category is a feature that is the same as the appearance of other players' player characters (team color, etc.) or a feature that is different (for generating a modified character with a unique personality), the character generation management unit 106 determines a modified component element with this category from the modification selection components.

[0225] Furthermore, for example, when there are few records of character change generation, the character generation management unit 106 determines the component with a change strength of "1" from the change selection components as the change component, and further determines the component with the most player adoption records, etc., and based on the above information, determines the change component to be used for the change.

[0226] In addition, Figure 8 In the figure, an example is shown in which, when "face" and "clothes" are determined as change components and "tsundere" is set as a category, change components equivalent to "face" and "clothes" and having the "tsundere" category are determined from multiple change selection component information.

[0227] (Determine the components of the object to be changed based on the player's instructions) The character generation management unit 106 may determine the modified components to be changed in the basic character based on the instructions of the player or the instructions from the program.

[0228] For example, in this case, when executing the character change process, the character generation management unit 106 inquires the player about the parts of the components that the player wishes to change, and determines the components to be changed based on the player's instructions.

[0229] (Extension of the components of the changed object) When the input information receiving processing unit 105 detects a payment record of a player or a game status of a game played by the player as a player status, the character generation management unit 106 may determine a settable component based on the detected player status.

[0230] That is, the character generation management unit 106 has the following structure: initially only a small number of components (for example, 3) can be set, and according to the player's payment amount or the depth of the game, the number of components that can be set is increased (up to 10), etc., to increase the changes in the characters and increase the player's motivation to pay or play the game.

[0231] Specifically, the character generation management unit 106 releases changeable components when a predetermined payment amount is exceeded or when a predetermined game mission is achieved.

[0232] Then, if Figure 8 As shown, the character generation management unit 106 determines the change component element information to be used for the change from the components that can be used for the change, randomly or by a specific algorithm.

[0233] [4.5] Role change processing Next, use the above Figure 8 The role change process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0234] The character generation management unit 106 executes a modified character generation process for generating a modified character having modified components from the basic character, based on the modified components determined as described above.

[0235] Specifically, if Figure 8 As shown, when a basic character is determined by an instruction from a player or automatically by a program, the character generation management unit 106 reads the basic character information from the character information storage unit 148 .

[0236] Then, the character generation management unit 106 generates a modified character based on the basic character information and the information of the determined modified constituent elements.

[0237] At this time, the character generation management unit 106 can change the content of the components of the basic character based on the player's instructions or according to a predetermined procedure to generate a modified character, or directly change the components of the basic character to the modified components, or add new components to the basic character to generate a modified character.

[0238] The character generation management unit 106 may perform changes on all changeable change components, or may generate a change character only for the change components instructed by the player.

[0239] in addition, Figure 8 , an example of constructing modified character information by determining modified components for face and clothing changes on a basic character.

[0240] [4.6] Change role registration process Next, the role change registration process executed by the server device 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0241] When a changed character is generated through the character change process, the character generation management section 106 registers information of the generated changed character (ie, changed character information) in the player-related information of the corresponding player as changed character information.

[0242] In particular, the character generation management unit 106, as described above, generates the character ID corresponding to the character ID as the changed character information. (A1) Change the base character ID of the source; (A2) Information on components that have not changed; (A3) information on changed character components, such as the location of the changed component and the component ID that identifies the component; and (A4) Change the character's creation date and time, usage date and time, and other creation and usage history information Stored in the player-related information of the corresponding player.

[0243] [4.7] Information provision processing Next, the information provision process executed by the server device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0244] The information providing unit 111 generates various game information (information related to the progress of the game) in order to allow the terminal device 20 to process the game, and provides the information to the corresponding terminal device 20 .

[0245] In particular, the information providing unit 111 provides game information related to the game in which the changed character appears to the terminal device 20 of the player having the changed character or the player having a given relationship such as playing against the changed character, based on the player's instruction or the like.

[0246] Furthermore, when a player wishes to use a modified character in a virtual space other than a game, the information providing unit 111 may provide the registered modified character information to the corresponding terminal device 20 or another server device (not shown) based on the player's instruction.

[0247] [4.8] Modification [4.8.1] Modification 1: Automatic generation of characters using AI Next, as a first modification of the present embodiment, automatic generation processing of a modified character using AI will be described.

[0248] In the above-described embodiment, the modified elements are determined randomly or according to a given algorithm to generate a modified character, but in order to automatically generate a modified character that better suits the player's preferences, machine learning with training data may be performed to generate the modified character.

[0249] Specifically, the character generation management unit 106 performs model data generation processing, that is, uses the input user-related information or player input information and the character model corresponding to the user-related information or player input information (which can be provided from the outside or generated in advance) as training data to generate a changed character model (model data).

[0250] Then, the character generation management unit 106 executes a changed character generation process of automatically generating a changed character based on the input user-related information or player input information using the generated changed character model (model data).

[0251] Furthermore, the character generation management unit 106 preferably inquires the player whether or not to adopt the generated modified character before registering it, and if the player indicates an intention to adopt the modified character, registers it in the player-related information.

[0252] That is, by asking the player whether to adopt the modified character before registration, evaluating the generated modified character, and improving the model data based on the evaluation, a modified character that suits the player's preference can be automatically generated.

[0253] Furthermore, as the above-mentioned changed character model, a model may be generated for each player or for each attribute common to the attributes of the user, or one model may be generated as a whole.

[0254] In addition, when the modified character generated by the model data generation process does not receive favorable comments from players (i.e., when the player does not adopt it, or when the non-adoption continues for a given number of times), the character generation management unit 106 may increase the number of changeable components to strengthen the learning intensity (change intensity) and change the components of the model data as described later.

[0255] [4.8.2] Modification 2: Changing the strength of the character generation process Next, as a second modification of the present embodiment, a description will be given of a change in the intensity of change in the character generation process.

[0256] If the modified character generated in the above embodiment is not well received by players, the intensity of the change in the modified character generation process may be enhanced by changing the prohibited change components to changeable components, etc., increasing the number of changeable components.

[0257] Specifically, the character generation management unit 106 sets the intensity of changes to the components based on instructions from the program or instructions from the player when given conditions are met.

[0258] Then, the character generation management unit 106 generates a changed character whose constituent elements are changed from the basic character based on the set change strength and category.

[0259] For example, the character generation management unit 106 uses, as the given condition, a condition that the player has not adopted (registered) the generated changed character, or has not adopted the character continuously for a given number of times.

[0260] Furthermore, when the above conditions are met, the character generation management unit 106 changes the prohibited change components to changeable components, etc., based on the player's instructions or according to a given algorithm, to increase the number of changeable components and set the change intensity.

[0261] [4.8.3] Variation 3: Changing the character placement in the virtual space based on a given event Next, as a third modification of the present embodiment, a description will be given of a case where the placement of characters in the virtual space is changed based on a given event.

[0262] When a given event occurs to the modified character generated in the above embodiment, the modified character generated as described above may be placed in the virtual space instead of the basic character or the player character designated by the player.

[0263] That is, in this case, when a battle event of a game or the like is detected, a changed character dedicated to the battle can be used.

[0264] Specifically, the game management unit 103 identifies a special purpose of use (for example, a battle with an enemy character) such as changing a character registered as a combat character. When the execution of an event that meets the special purpose (such as a battle event) is detected, the player character that is the player's operation object is replaced with the changed character registered in the player-related information and that meets the special purpose and is configured in the current game space, or is configured together with the changed character in the game space.

[0265] Then, when the changed character is arranged in the game space, the game management unit 103 controls the action and movement of the changed character in the game space based on the player's operation received using the terminal device 20 .

[0266] [4.8.4] Variation 4: Changing the character placement in the virtual space based on given conditions Next, as a fourth modification of the present embodiment, a description will be given of a case where the placement of characters in a virtual space is changed based on given conditions.

[0267] When the modified character generated in the above embodiment meets given conditions, the modified character generated as described above may be placed in the virtual space instead of the basic character or the player character designated by the player.

[0268] That is, in this case, when a specific event such as a mini-game of the game is detected, the character can be changed and used in the mini-game.

[0269] Specifically, when the game management unit 103 recognizes that a modified character has been registered and detects that given conditions in the game such as obtaining a specific prop have been met, the modified character is replaced with the player character of the player's operation object in the current game space, or is configured together with the modified character in the game space.

[0270] Then, when the changed character is arranged in the game space, the game management unit 103 controls the action and movement of the changed character in the game space based on the player's operation received using the terminal device 20 .

[0271] In addition, in this embodiment, the given conditions can also be set arbitrarily by the player.

[0272] [4.8.5] Variation 5: Providing character change information to other players Next, as a fifth modification of the present embodiment, provision of character change information to other players will be described.

[0273] The changed character generated in the above-described embodiment may also be provided to other player characters different from the generated player character.

[0274] That is, in this case, since it is possible to generate a modified character based on the player's own basic character using the constituent elements of other players, it is possible to incorporate the style preferred by other players into the player's own basic character.

[0275] Specifically, when recognizing that a character change is registered and predetermined conditions such as player's permission or payment are met, the game management unit 103 provides component information of the character change information to other players as component information for character change of other users.

[0276] Then, the character generation management unit 106 generates a changed character based on the basic character of the player who provided the other-user changed character component information and the provided other-user changed character component information, and registers it in the player-related information.

[0277] In addition, basically, among other players to whom other-user character change component information is provided, since the base characters of the players who provided the other-user character change component information are different, the character generation management unit 106 generates different changed characters even if the same component information is used.

[0278] [4.8.6] Variation 6: Generating multiple change characters Next, as a sixth modification of the present embodiment, a description will be given of a case where a plurality of modified characters are generated in the modified character generation process.

[0279] In the above-described embodiment, in the modified character generation process, a plurality of modified characters may be generated based on the player-related information.

[0280] Specifically, the server device 10 has the following structure: (A1) Information on basic roles whose constituent elements can be changed is managed as basic role information; (A2) obtaining player-related information (especially historical information related to the player character) stored in the player information storage unit 146; (A3) executing a modified character generation process for generating a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from a basic character based on the acquired player-related information; and (A4) The generated changed character information is registered in the player information storage unit 146 as changed character information.

[0281] In particular, the character generation management unit 106 has a structure capable of generating a plurality of modified characters based on image information and sound information related to the player's past characters, such as the player's character usage records and contact records with other characters.

[0282] [5] Operations in this embodiment Next, use Fig. 9 The operation of the modified character generation registration process executed by the server device 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0283] in addition, Fig. 9 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the change character generation registration process executed by the server device 10 of the present embodiment.

[0284] This operation description describes the case where a changed character is generated based on a category determined by both player input information input by the player and player-related information (information related to player characters used in the past).

[0285] In this operation, basic characters are set in advance, and changeable components are set in advance corresponding to each category.

[0286] Furthermore, in the description of this operation, the location of the component to be changed is determined in advance.

[0287] Furthermore, in this operation, it is assumed that the game has already started, and a case where the character generation registration process is changed at a given timing based on the instruction of the player will be described.

[0288] First, upon receiving an instruction to execute a character generation registration process of a player transmitted from a terminal device 20 (step S101 ), the game management unit 103 transmits information for prompting the player to input player input information to the corresponding terminal device 20 (step S102 ).

[0289] Next, when the game management unit 103 receives the player input information sent from the terminal device 20 (step S103), it refers to the corresponding player-related information, refers to the information of the player character used in the past, and determines the color that serves as the base color for constructing the changed character (hereinafter referred to as the "base color") (step S104).

[0290] Next, the character generation management unit 106 sets a category based on a keyword in the player input information, such as “tsundere”, and a base color, such as “dark blue” (step S105 ).

[0291] Next, the character generation management unit 106 changes the corresponding components based on the set category to generate a changed character (step S106 ).

[0292] Finally, the character generation management unit 106 registers the generated changed character in the player-related information of the corresponding player (step S107 ), and ends the present operation.

[0293] [6] Others This embodiment is not limited to the embodiment described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be implemented. For example, a term cited as a broad or synonymous term in the description of the specification or the drawings can also be replaced with a broad or synonymous term in other descriptions of the specification or the drawings.

[0294] This embodiment is not limited to the embodiment described in the above embodiment, and various modifications can be implemented. For example, a term cited as a broad or synonymous term in the description or drawings can also be replaced with a broad or synonymous term in other descriptions in the description or drawings.

[0295] In this embodiment, each game may be provided to the terminal device 20 by a single server device 10, or a server system may be constructed by linking a plurality of server devices 10 to provide each game to the terminal device.

[0296] In the present embodiment, the game provided by the server device 10 is executed by the terminal device 20 , but the functions of the processing unit 100 of the server device 10 and the execution of the game program may also be executed by the terminal device 20 .

[0297] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example of a case where it is applicable to a game system is described, but it is not limited to this, and it can also be applied to a system (entertainment system) that provides various services implemented in a virtual space using an avatar (a character that is the user's operating object) using a metaverse, etc., and it can also be applied to a system that can be implemented using multiple different virtual spaces.

[0298] This embodiment includes a structure that is substantially the same as the structure described in the embodiment (for example, a structure with the same function, method and result, or a structure with the same purpose and effect). Furthermore, this embodiment includes a structure that replaces a non-essential part of the structure described in the embodiment. Furthermore, this embodiment includes a structure that can achieve the same effect as the structure described in the embodiment or a structure that can achieve the same purpose. Furthermore, this embodiment includes a structure in which a known technology is added to the structure described in the embodiment.

[0299] As described above, the embodiment of the game system has been described in detail, but those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications can be made without departing from the novel features and effects of the embodiment. Therefore, all such modifications are included within the scope of the embodiment.

[0300] Description of Reference Numerals S: Game System 10: Server device 16: Character Generation Management Department 20: Terminal device 100: Processing Department 101: Communication control unit 102: Web Processing Department 103: Game Management Department 104: Player Management Department 105: Input information receiving and processing unit 106: Character Generation Management Department 110: Timer Management Department 111: Information provision department 120: Input 130: Display unit 140: Storage 142: Main storage unit 144: Game Data Storage Department 146: Player information storage unit 148: Role information storage unit 180: Information storage media 196: Ministry of Communications 200: Processing Department 201: Input receiving unit 202: Game Processing Department 211: Web Browser 220: Drawing Department 230: Sound Processing Department 260: Input 262: Inspection Department 270: Storage 271: Main storage unit 272: Image Buffer 280: Information storage media 290: Display unit 292: Sound output unit 296: Ministry of Communications.

Claims

1. A character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, characterized in that: have: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; a component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or the acquired user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; as well as A modified character generation processing device performs modified character generation processing, in which a modified character whose components are changed from the basic character is generated based on the determined content of the components, the components to be changed, or the components to be added.

2. A character management system for managing characters used in a virtual space, characterized in that: have: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing device for executing a modified character generation process in which a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character are generated based on the acquired user-related information; as well as A presentation device presents the generated information of the changed character to the player as the changed character information.

3. The role management system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The system further comprises a selection device for allowing the user to select from the generated plurality of changed roles.

4. The role management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The user association information includes: The associated role history information associated with roles that the user has been associated with in the past or user roles possessed by other users associated with the user; or Information about virtual space history information related to the virtual space where the user character was located in the past.

5. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The user input information includes information related to the appearance or information related to the personality of the changed character.

6. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: A model generating device is provided for executing a model data generating process for generating a changed role model as model data by using the input user-related information or user-input information and the role model corresponding to the user-related information or user-input information as training data; The changed character generation processing means performs a changed character generation process in which the changed character is generated based on the input user-related information or the user input information using the generated model data.

7. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The modified character generation processing means determines the constituent elements of the basic character to be modified based on a given instruction; Changes are made to the determined components.

8. The role management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: An event detection device that detects whether a given event occurs; as well as A configuration control device configures the changed role instead of the role being used based on the registered changed role information when the occurrence of the event is detected.

9. The role management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: a condition detection device, which detects whether a given condition is met; as well as The configuration control device configures the changed role instead of the role being used based on the registered changed role information when it is detected that the condition is satisfied.

10. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a user status detection device, which detects the payment record of the user or the game status of the game played by the user as the user status; The character generation processing device is changed: Determining configurable components based on the detected user status; The changed character is generated based on the determined components.

11. The role management system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The constituent elements include at least one of an item equipped on the character, a parameter set on the character, and a sound related to the character.

12. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The device further comprises a providing device for providing the determined information of the component elements to other users as component element information for other users to change their roles; The modified character generation processing means generates a modified character by changing the constituent elements of the basic character of the own user based on constituent element information for modified characters of other users as the modified character generation processing.

13. The role management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also provided is a change intensity setting device which sets the change intensity of the constituent element based on a given instruction; The changed character generation processing means generates a changed character in which the constituent elements are changed from the basic character based on the set change strength.

14. A character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, characterized in that: include: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information, and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; Determining, based on the acquired user-related information or the acquired user input information, any one of the contents of the constituent elements of the basic character, the constituent elements to be changed in the constituent elements, or the constituent elements to be added to the basic character; as well as A modified character generation process is executed in which a modified character is generated in which the component elements are changed from the basic character based on the determined content of the component elements, the component elements to be changed, or the component elements to be added.

15. A character management method for managing characters used in a virtual space, characterized in that: include: Managing information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; Acquire user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; executing a modified character generation process in which a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character are generated based on the acquired user-related information; as well as The generated information of the changed character is presented to the player as changed character information.

16. A method for providing character information, for providing information related to a character from a server device that performs a change character registration generation process to a terminal device, wherein the change character registration generation process performs a change character registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, the method comprising: The server device comprises: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to a user or user input information including at least one of text information, image information and sound information input by the user, which has been stored in a user management storage device; a component determining means for determining, based on the acquired user-related information or the acquired user input information, any one of the content of the component of the basic character, the component to be changed in the component, or the component to be added to the basic character; as well as a modified character generation processing device for executing a modified character generation process in which a modified character having the component elements changed from the basic character is generated based on the determined contents of the component elements, the component elements to be changed, or the component elements to be added; When the server device has the above-mentioned device: sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device.

17. A method for providing character information, wherein a server device that performs a role change registration generation process provides information related to a character to a terminal device, wherein the role change registration generation process performs a role change registration generation process that shows a changed character used in a virtual space, wherein the method for providing character information is characterized by: The server device comprises: A management device that manages information of a basic character whose constituent elements can be changed and stored in a character management storage device as basic character information; an acquisition device for acquiring user-related information related to the user that has been stored in the user management storage device; a modified character generation processing device for executing a modified character generation process in which a plurality of modified characters having constituent elements changed from the basic character are generated based on the acquired user-related information; as well as a presenting device for presenting the generated information of changing the character to the player as changing character information; When the server device has the above-mentioned device: sending information related to the user's operation received by the terminal device to a server device; Information related to the character is received from the server device.

Images