Portable game device, computer program product, and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a portable game device, a computer program product and a computer readable storage medium, and provides game experience with high interestingness. A portable game device (100) for executing an electronic game is provided with a rotation operation unit (131), a push button (132a), and a processor (101). The rotation operation part (131) is an operation component capable of realizing rotation operation with the axis (141) as the center. The push button (132a) is an operating member capable of performing a push operation in a push direction (144) along the axis (141). The processor (101) controls the progress of the electronic game in accordance with an operation performed on at least one of the rotation operation unit (131) and the press button (132a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to portable gaming devices and control programs. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a game device that allows users to experience the act of collecting objects while observing the displayed image. This game device is configured such that when the main body of the device is rotated, the display direction of the image showing the arrangement of objects on the image display unit rotates. Furthermore, this game device includes an operating section on the upper part of the main body capable of performing pressing and rotating operations, allowing the display magnification to be changed using the rotation operation.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-82938 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] Furthermore, in devices such as the game device in Patent Document 1, where the player can operate the control unit during the game's progress, making the operation fun and easy for the player is also an important game element.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a portable gaming device and control program that can provide a highly enjoyable gaming experience.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem (1)

[0011] A portable gaming device that performs video games, wherein,

[0012] This portable gaming device features:

[0013] The first operating unit is capable of rotational operation centered on the first axis;

[0014] The second operating unit is capable of performing a pressing operation in a first direction along the first axis; and

[0015] The control unit controls the progress of the electronic game based on operations performed on at least one of the first operation unit and the second operation unit. (2)

[0017] According to the portable gaming device described in (1), wherein,

[0018] The portable gaming device has a main body, which includes the aforementioned control unit.

[0019] The first operating part and the second operating part are provided in such a way that they protrude from the main body part along the first axis.

[0020] The pressing operation in the first direction is an operation that causes the second operating part to move towards the main body. (3)

[0022] According to the portable gaming device described in (2), wherein,

[0023] The first operating part described above has a peripheral portion that receives the aforementioned rotational operation.

[0024] The second operating unit described above has a pressing part that receives the pressing operation and is located inside the peripheral portion. (4)

[0026] According to the portable gaming device described in (3), wherein,

[0027] In the non-pressed state of the aforementioned pressed portion, the end of the pressed portion on the side opposite to the main body portion is located closer to the main body portion than the end of the peripheral portion on the side opposite to the main body portion. (5)

[0029] The portable gaming device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein,

[0030] The first operating unit is pressed without being linked to the pressing operation performed on the second operating unit. (6)

[0032] According to the portable gaming device described in (5), wherein,

[0033] The second operating unit is configured to rotate around the first axis in conjunction with the rotation of the first operating unit. (7)

[0035] According to the portable gaming device described in (6), wherein,

[0036] When the second operating unit is pressed, the second operating unit rotates without being linked to the rotation of the first operating unit. (8)

[0038] The portable gaming device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein,

[0039] This portable gaming device features:

[0040] The first component rotates according to the rotation of the first operating part and is pressed according to the pressing of the second operating part;

[0041] A rotation detection unit that detects the rotation of the first component; and

[0042] The pressing detection unit detects the pressing of the first component.

[0043] The control unit controls the progress of the video game based on the detection results of the rotation detection unit and the press detection unit. (9)

[0045] According to the portable gaming device described in (8), wherein,

[0046] The first operating part engages with the first member in a rotational direction centered on the first axis, and is capable of sliding relative to the first member in the direction of the first axis.

[0047] An elastic member is provided between the second operating part and the first component.

[0048] The second operating part is subjected to a force in a second direction opposite to the first direction by the force of the elastic member. (10)

[0050] According to the portable gaming device described in (9), wherein,

[0051] The first operating unit described above has a limiting part that restricts the movement of the second operating unit in the second direction.

[0052] The second operating part described above has a contact part that abuts against the limiting part due to the force of the elastic member when not pressed.

[0053] In the non-pressed state of the second operating part, the first operating part and the second operating part rotate together due to the friction between the contact part and the limiting part. (11)

[0055] According to the portable gaming device described in (9) or (10), wherein,

[0056] The first component mentioned above has:

[0057] The shaft portion along the first axis described above is the detected portion detected by the rotation detection unit and the press detection unit described above; and

[0058] The rotating engaging part is wider than the shaft part when viewed along the first axis. It engages with the first operating part in the rotational direction centered on the first axis and can slide relative to the first operating part in the direction of the first axis. (12)

[0060] The portable gaming device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein,

[0061] The aforementioned first operation unit is used for scaling the displayed content in the aforementioned video game. (13)

[0063] According to the portable gaming device described in (12), wherein,

[0064] The aforementioned first operation unit is used to scale the display of the virtual space where the character appears in the aforementioned video game. (14)

[0066] The portable gaming device according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein,

[0067] The aforementioned first operation unit is used in the aforementioned video game to switch between multiple options. (15)

[0069] The portable gaming device according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein,

[0070] The aforementioned second operation unit is used to determine instructions in the aforementioned video game. (16)

[0072] A control program for a portable gaming device that executes an electronic game includes: a first operating unit capable of rotation about a first axis; a second operating unit capable of pressing in a first direction along the first axis; and a processor, wherein...

[0073] The above control program causes the processor to perform the following processing:

[0074] The progress of the aforementioned electronic game is controlled by operating at least one of the first and second operating units described above.

[0075] The effects of the invention

[0076] According to the present invention, a portable gaming device and control program that can provide a highly engaging gaming experience can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0077] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the external structure of the portable gaming device 100 according to this embodiment.

[0078] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the portable gaming device 100 according to this embodiment.

[0079] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the side operation section 130.

[0080] Figure 4 It means from Figure 3 The side operation section 130 shown is a perspective view of the side operation section 130 with the rotation operation section 131 removed.

[0081] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of shaft component 133.

[0082] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the rotating operating part 131 viewed from above.

[0083] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the rotating operating part 131 viewed from below.

[0084] Figure 8 This is a side view of the side operation unit 130.

[0085] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the side operation section 130 in the non-pressed state of button 132a.

[0086] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the side operation section 130 in the pressed state of button 132a.

[0087] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the various display modes that can be switched in the simulation game according to the embodiments of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 12 This is another example of a display mode that can be switched.

[0089] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0090] 100. Portable gaming device; 100a. Main body; 100b, 100c, 131c, 131e. Limiting unit; 101. Processor; 102. Storage device; 102a. Character database; 103. Memory; 104. Display control device; 105. Operation I / F; 106. Communication I / F; 110. Display; 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d. Displayed image; 111. Character; 112. Selection screen; 114. Imaginary point; 120. Lower operation unit; 121-123. Buttons; 130. Side operation unit; 131. Rotation operating part; 131a. Rotating ring; 131b, 132b. Hollow shaft part; 131d, 131f. Hole; 131g. Hole; 131h. Recessed part; 132. Press operating part; 132a. Press button; 132c. Friction member; 132d. Abutting part; 132e. Insertion part; 133. Shaft member; 133a. Shaft part; 133b. Rotation engaging part; 134. Rotation sensor; 135. Press sensor; 136. Spring; 141. Axis; 142. Clockwise direction; 143. Counterclockwise direction; 144. Press direction. Detailed Implementation

[0091] (Implementation Method)

[0092] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments do not limit the invention as defined in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily necessary for the invention. Any combination of two or more features described in the embodiments may be used. Additionally, identical or identical structures are labeled with the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0093] The following description illustrates an embodiment of an example of a game device capable of playing a character-raising game (hereinafter referred to as a raising game), which is an example of a portable game device. However, the present invention can be applied to any device capable of playing electronic games that include interest elements that allow players to acquire game elements. That is, electronic games to which the present invention is applied are not limited to a specific type of game such as a raising game.

[0094] <Appearance of the portable gaming device 100 in this embodiment>

[0095] Figure 1This diagram shows an example of the appearance of the portable gaming device 100 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the portable gaming device 100 is configured as a portable toy and operates using power supplied by a rechargeable battery or dry cell battery (not shown). In the form of operating using a rechargeable battery, the portable gaming device 100 is configured to have a terminal (not shown) that can be connected to a power source. By electrically connecting a commercial power source or the like to this terminal via a power cable, the rechargeable battery can be charged.

[0096] In addition, the portable gaming device 100 includes: a main body 100a; a display 110 disposed on the front of the main body 100a; a lower operation unit 120 disposed on the same surface as the surface on which the display 110 is disposed; and a side operation unit 130 disposed on the side of the main body 100a when the display 110 is viewed from the front.

[0097] The main body 100a is the casing of the portable gaming device 100, and has a round front shape and rounded corners on the outer periphery (e.g., an egg shape). The display 110 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various images related to the game.

[0098] The side operating unit 130 is a knob-type operating member capable of both rotation and pressing operations. The side operating unit 130 can be rotated clockwise (right-hand direction) 142 and counterclockwise (left-hand direction) 143 around axis 141, and can also be pressed in a pressing direction 144 along axis 141. Axis 141 is an example of the "first axis" of the present invention. Pressing direction 144 is an example of the "first direction" of the present invention.

[0099] With the lower control unit 120 and the side control unit 130 configured in this way, a user who holds the portable gaming device 100 and plays the game while looking at the display 110 can easily operate the lower control unit 120 with one hand and rotate and press the side control unit 130 with the other hand.

[0100] <Hardware Structure of Gaming Devices>

[0101] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the portable gaming device 100 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the portable gaming device 100 includes a processor 101, a storage device 102, a memory 103, a display control device 104, an operation I / F (interface) 105, a communication I / F 106, and a display 110. All components are housed within the main body 100a.

[0102] The processor 101 is an example of the "control unit" of the present invention, and is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like. The processor 101 performs various controls, including the operation control of the various hardware components included in the portable game device 100. The processor 101 reads the required program stored in the storage device 102, loads the program into the memory 103, and executes it, thereby performing various controls. For example, the processor 101 controls the progress of the simulation game based on operations performed on at least one of the lower operation unit 120 and the side operation unit 130.

[0103] Storage device 102, for example, is composed of non-volatile memory and is a device capable of permanent information storage. In addition to storing programs related to the operation of the portable game device 100 and the program of the simulation game executed on the portable game device 100, storage device 102 also stores information on parameters required for various controls. Furthermore, storage device 102 also functions as a database (DB) 102a for data related to the simulation game.

[0104] The character DB102a is a database that manages information (character information) related to characters that can be developed in a raising game as records. In the raising game executed in the portable game device 100 of this embodiment, the user can develop a character that grows through multiple growth stages. The character is configured such that its appearance changes each time the growth stage changes. The character DB102a manages various information as records for the various appearances that the character may become in each growth stage. The character information of a record is configured, for example, to include graphic information describing the character's appearance, a growth stage indicating the stage in which the character develops to become that appearance, and growth target information indicating the target appearance that the character can develop from that appearance, all associated with a character ID (identification) that uniquely identifies the character's appearance.

[0105] The memory 103 is, for example, a storage device such as volatile memory used for temporary data storage. The memory 103 can be used not only as a loading area for various programs, but also as a storage area for temporarily storing data output during the operation of various hardware and various control processes.

[0106] The display control device 104 performs display control to display various scenes of the simulation game on the display 110. In this embodiment, the display control device 104 also includes a rendering device such as a graphics chip or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and performs rendering processing to generate various scenes of the simulation game. The display control device 104 includes a rendering memory (not shown), loads various graphics data read from the storage device 102, performs predetermined calculations to generate various images (scenes) of the simulation game. The scenes and images generated by the display control device 104 are displayed, for example, on the display 110 of the portable game device 100, and thus presented to the user.

[0107] Operation I / F 105 is a user interface provided by the portable gaming device 100 for accepting operation input. When operation input is detected, Operation I / F 105 outputs a control signal corresponding to the operation input to the processor 101. In a configuration where the display 110 is capable of detecting touch input, Operation I / F 105 includes a touch input detection sensor provided on the display 110. In addition, Operation I / F 105 includes various operating components (e.g., buttons, knobs, etc.) provided on the housing of the portable gaming device 100. For example, Operation I / F 105 includes a press sensor capable of detecting the pressing of the lower operating section 120 and the side operating section 130, and a rotation sensor capable of detecting the rotation of the side operating section 130.

[0108] Communication I / F106 is a communication interface provided by the portable gaming device 100 for communicating with external devices. The portable gaming device 100 of this embodiment is configured to have a connection terminal (not shown), and by connecting these connection terminals to each other, information communication can be performed between other portable gaming devices 100.

[0109] <Operating Components>

[0110] Reference Figure 1 The various operating components of the portable gaming device 100 will be described in more detail. As described above, the operating components include a lower operating section 120 of the button type and a side operating section 130 of the knob type.

[0111] exist Figure 1In this example, the lower operation unit 120 is provided as an operation member with three functions on the lower part of the display 110. In one embodiment, the lower operation unit 120 includes buttons 121 to 123. It is provided on the lower part of the display 110 of the portable gaming device 100. Button 121 is a selection button for changing the selection state of the displayed item on the display 110. Button 122 is a decision button for determining the execution of the function corresponding to the selected displayed item. Button 123 is a cancel button for canceling the execution of the determined item's function and returning to the previous display screen (stage).

[0112] The side operation unit 130 is provided protruding from the main body 100a along an axis 141 extending radially from the side of the display 110 towards the portable gaming device 100. The side operation unit 130 is configured to include a rotation mechanism capable of rotating about the axis 141 and a pressing mechanism capable of being pressed along the axis 141. The user can input operation on the side operation unit 130 by rotating the rotation mechanism or by pressing the pressing mechanism.

[0113] The rotation mechanism of the side operation unit 130 is capable of rotating clockwise 142 and counterclockwise 143 around axis 141. Regarding rotation operation input to the side operation unit 130, operation I / F 105 can output information indicating whether the rotation operation input is in the clockwise direction 142 or the counterclockwise direction 143. Additionally, the pressing mechanism of the side operation unit 130 is capable of pressing in the pressing direction 144 along axis 141. Regarding pressing operation input to the side operation unit 130, operation I / F 105 can output information indicating that the pressing operation input is in the pressing direction 144.

[0114] The side operation unit 130 is mainly used to accept operation input for switching the display mode of display elements that are displayed in association with the character being raised in the raising game. Display elements refer to various graphics related to the raising game that constitute the screen displayed on the monitor 110.

[0115] For example, in a simulation game executed by the portable gaming device 100, the side operation unit 130 is used as an operation member to zoom in or out on the content displayed on the monitor 110. Specifically, in a simulation game executed by the portable gaming device 100, the side operation unit 130 is used as an operation member to zoom in or out on the virtual space where the character appears. Additionally, in a simulation game executed by the portable gaming device 100, the side operation unit 130 is used as an operation member to switch between multiple options displayed on the monitor 110. Furthermore, in a simulation game executed by the portable gaming device 100, the side operation unit 130 is used as an operation member to determine the execution of a function corresponding to the content displayed on the monitor 110. Moreover, the side operation unit 130 may also involve function selection for changing the displayed item in the selection state.

[0116] <Side Operation Unit 130>

[0117] Next, refer to Figures 3 to 10 The structure of the side operation unit 130 will be described in further detail.

[0118] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the side operating section 130. (See image below.) Figure 3 As shown, the side operation unit 130 includes a rotation operation unit 131 and a press operation unit 132. The rotation operation unit 131 is an operation unit capable of performing rotation operation centered on axis 141. The press operation unit 132 is an operation unit capable of performing press operation along axis 141. The rotation operation unit 131 is an example of the "first operation unit" of the present invention. The press operation unit 132 is an example of the "second operation unit" of the present invention.

[0119] The rotation operation unit 131 includes: an annular rotating ring 131a, which receives rotation operation about an axis 141; and a cylindrical hollow shaft portion 131b, which extends along the axis 141 from the rotating ring 131a toward a pressing direction 144 (see reference). Figure 1 The rotating operation unit 132 has a press button 132a that accepts a press operation along the axis 141. The press button 132a is disposed inside the rotating ring 131a. Due to the press operation, the press button 132a is displaced in the pressing direction 144 (towards the main body 100a) along the axis 141. The rotating operation unit 131 and the press operation unit 132 are provided on, for example, the upper side of the main body 100a, sharing the axis 141. Figure 1 The side operation section 130 shows a portion of the hollow shaft section 131b and the state of the rotating ring 131a. The rotating ring 131a is an example of the "peripheral section" of the present invention. The press button 132a is an example of the "press section" of the present invention.

[0120] Additionally, the side operation unit 130 includes a shaft member 133, a rotation sensor 134, and a press sensor 135. The shaft member 133 is a member that rotates according to the rotation of the rotation operation unit 131 and is pressed according to the pressing of the press operation unit 132. The rotation sensor 134 is a sensor that detects the rotation of the shaft member 133. The press sensor 135 is a sensor that detects the pressing of the shaft member 133. The rotation sensor 134 can detect the amount of rotation of the rotation operation unit 131 by detecting the rotation of the shaft member 133. The press sensor 135 can detect the pressing of the press operation unit 132 by detecting the pressing of the shaft member 133. The shaft member 133, the rotation sensor 134, and the press sensor 135 are arranged along the axis 141 on the pressing direction 144 side of the hollow shaft portion 131b (in...). Figure 3 (The middle is the lower side). Shaft member 133 is an example of the "first member" of the present invention. Rotation sensor 134 is an example of the "rotation detection unit" of the present invention. Press sensor 135 is an example of the "press detection unit" of the present invention.

[0121] Figure 4 It means from Figure 3 The side operation section 130 shown is a perspective view of the side operation section 130 with the rotation operation section 131 removed. Figure 4 As shown, the side operation section 130 has a pressing operation section 132 comprising: a pressing button 132a, which is in the shape of a circular plate; and a cylindrical hollow shaft section 132b, which is continuous with the pressing button 132a and extends along the axis 141 in the pressing direction 144 (see reference). Figure 1 (Extended). The press button 132a of the press operation unit 132 is disposed inside the rotating ring 131a of the rotation operation unit 131, and the hollow shaft part 132b is disposed inside the rotating ring 131a and the hollow shaft part 131b of the rotation operation unit 131.

[0122] Additionally, the press operation part 132 has a friction member 132c. The friction member 132c is, for example, made of metal rivets. The friction member 132c has: an abutment part 132d, which is formed in the shape of a circular plate; and a cylindrical insertion part 132e, which is continuous with the abutment part 132d and extends along the axis 141 in the direction opposite to the pressing direction 144 of the press button 132a. The abutment part 132d is connected to the limiting part 131c provided in the rotation operation part 131 (in... Figure 9(To be described later) The contact portion 132d has a diameter larger than that of the hollow shaft portion 132b. The insertion portion 132e is the portion that is embedded within the hollow portion of the hollow shaft portion 132b. The friction member 132c is configured such that the insertion portion 132e is embedded within the hollow shaft portion 132b in a direction opposite to the pressing direction 144, and the contact portion 132d extends outward beyond the outer periphery of the hollow shaft portion 132b. Furthermore, the friction member 132c can be any member that generates significant friction with the restraining portion 131c it abuts against; for example, it can be made of rubber, silicone, etc.

[0123] A rotation engagement part 133b is provided on the shaft member 133, which engages with the rotation operation part 131. The rotation engagement part 133b is located on the upper part of the shaft member 133. A rotation sensor 134 is provided on the lower side of the rotation engagement part 133b, and a press sensor 135 is provided on the lower side of the rotation sensor 134.

[0124] A spring 136 is provided between the friction member 132c of the pressing operation part 132 and the rotation engagement part 133b of the shaft member 133, arranged along the axis 141. The pressing operation part 132 is forced in the opposite direction (outward toward the main body part 100a) by the force exerted by the spring 136 on the friction member 132c. On the other hand, the shaft member 133 is forced in the pressing direction 144 by the force exerted by the spring 136 on the rotation engagement part 133b. The spring 136 is an example of the "elastic member" of the present invention. The direction opposite to the pressing direction 144 is an example of the "second direction" of the present invention.

[0125] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of shaft component 133. (See diagram below.) Figure 5 As shown, the shaft member 133 has a shaft portion 133a and a rotation engagement portion 133b. The shaft portion 133a is disposed along the axis 141 and is the detected portion detected by the rotation sensor 134 and the press sensor 135. The rotation engagement portion 133b is wider than the shaft portion 133a when viewed along the axis 141. The shaft portion 133a and the rotation engagement portion 133b are, for example, hexagonal in shape when viewed along the axis 141. The rotation engagement portion 133b engages with the rotation operation portion 131 in the rotational direction centered on the axis 141. By making the rotation engagement portion 133b wider than the shaft portion 133a, it is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, space is ensured between the shaft member 133 and the press operation part 132 for the spring 136 to connect the two members.

[0126] A rotation sensor 134 and a press sensor 135 are mounted on the shaft portion 133a. The rotation sensor 134 is configured, for example, to surround the shaft portion 133a, and detects the rotation of the shaft portion 133a. The press sensor 135 is configured, for example, to face the bottom of the shaft portion 133a, and detects the movement of the shaft portion 133a in the pressing direction 144. The rotation sensor 134 and the press sensor 135 connected to the shaft portion 133a are connected to the operation I / F 105. The rotation detection signal of the shaft portion 133a detected by the rotation sensor 134 and the press detection signal of the shaft portion 133a detected by the press sensor 135 are output to the operation I / F 105.

[0127] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the rotating operating part 131 viewed from above. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the rotating operating section 131 as seen from below. "Above" refers to the direction opposite to the pressing direction 144 of button 132a. "Below" refers to the pressing direction 144 of button 132a.

[0128] like Figure 6 As shown, a hole 131d is provided in the rotating ring 131a of the rotating operation section 131 for the placement of the press button 132a of the pressing operation section 132. A limiting portion 131e is formed at the lower part of the hole 131d. The limiting portion 131e is a portion that protrudes inward from the inner circumference of the hole 131d and is formed to have a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the hole 131d. When the press button 132a is pressed in the pressing direction 144, the limiting portion 131e abuts against the lower surface of the press button 132a, determining the position of the press button 132a in the pressed state.

[0129] A circular hole 131f is provided in the hollow shaft portion 131b of the rotating operating part 131 for insertion into the hollow shaft portion 132b of the pressing operating part 132. In addition to the hollow shaft portion 132b, the abutting portion 132d of the friction member 132c is also inserted into the hole 131f of the hollow shaft portion 131b. Therefore, the size (diameter) of the hole 131f varies depending on the location and is formed corresponding to the size of the inserted hollow shaft portion 132b and the abutting portion 132d. Regarding the size of the hole 131f, in... Figure 9 This will be discussed later.

[0130] like Figure 7 As shown, a hexagonal prism-shaped hole 131g is provided at the lower part of the hollow shaft portion 131b for engaging with the rotation engagement portion 133b of the shaft member 133. The hole 131g is formed in communication with the aforementioned hole 131f. For the hole 131g, also... Figure 9 This will be discussed later.

[0131] Figure 8 This is a side view of the side operation unit 130. Figure 9This is a cross-sectional view of the side operation section 130 in the non-pressed state of button 132a. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the side operation section 130 in the pressed state of button 132a.

[0132] like Figure 9 As shown, for the press operation unit 132, in the non-pressed state of the press button 132a, the end of the press button 132a on the side opposite to the pressing direction 144 (press surface) is located closer to the pressing direction side than the end of the rotating ring 131a on the side opposite to the pressing direction 144. That is, when the press button 132a is not pressed, the press operation unit 132 is configured such that the press button 132a is recessed within the rotating ring 131a by a small amount D1.

[0133] In addition, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the diameter of the hole 131f in the hollow shaft portion 131b of the rotating operation part 131 is formed such that the diameter of the portion into which the hollow shaft portion 132b is inserted is smaller than the diameter of the portion into which the friction member 132c is inserted. Therefore, a stepped portion formed due to the difference in diameter is provided on the inner circumference of the hole 131f, and this stepped portion becomes a limiting portion 131c into which the abutting portion 132d of the friction member 132c abuts.

[0134] When button 132a is not pressed, the friction member 132c is forced in the opposite direction to the pressing direction 144 by the force of the spring 136, and the abutment portion 132d abuts against the limiting portion 131c of the rotation operation portion 131. The limiting portion 131c, by abutting against the abutment portion 132d of the friction member 132c, restricts the movement of the pressing operation portion 132 in the opposite direction to the pressing direction 144. Furthermore, friction is generated between the limiting portion 131c and the abutment portion 132d of the friction member 132c.

[0135] Therefore, when the button 132a is not pressed, and the rotating ring 131a of the rotation operation part 131 is rotated, the pressing operation part 132 can rotate around the axis 141 in conjunction with the rotation of the rotation operation part 131 due to the friction between the abutting part 132d and the limiting part 131c. That is, when the button 132a is not pressed, the pressing operation part 132 and the rotation operation part 131 rotate together as the rotation operation part 131 rotates.

[0136] Thus, the limiting part 131c of the rotation operation part 131 has the following functions: determining the position of the pressing operation part 132 in the "non-pressed state", and abutting the pressing operation part 132d in the "non-pressed state" to rotate the pressing operation part 132.

[0137] Furthermore, the depth D2 of the hole 131d in the rotating ring 131a of the rotating operation unit 131 is larger than the thickness D3 of the press button 132a of the press operation unit 132 disposed within the rotating ring 131a. Also, the hollow shaft portion 132b of the press operation unit 132 is inserted into the hole 131f of the hollow shaft portion 131b of the rotating operation unit 131 in a manner that allows it to slide along the axis 141. Therefore, the rotating operation unit 131 is configured such that when the press operation unit 132 is pressed, it does not move in the pressing direction in conjunction with the movement of the press operation unit 132. That is, the pressing operation performed on the press operation unit 132 is configured to be performed while maintaining the position of the rotating operation unit 131.

[0138] Furthermore, the distance D4 obtained by subtracting the thickness D3 of the pressed button 132a and the amount of recess D1 of the pressed button 132a from the depth D2 of the hole 131d is configured to be smaller than the distance D5 from the friction member 132c to the upper end of the shaft portion 133a of the shaft member 133 in the hole 131f of the hollow shaft portion 131b. Therefore, even if the pressed button 132a is pressed deep into the hole 131d, the friction member 132c sliding along the axis 141 will not directly contact the shaft portion 133a because the position of the pressed button 132a in the pressed state is restricted by the limiting part 131e. Thus, even if the pressed button 132a is pressed forcefully, the pressure sensor 135 can be suppressed from being pressed forcefully.

[0139] Furthermore, when the side operation unit 130 is mounted on the main body 100a, the rotation operation unit 131 of the side operation unit 130 is restricted from moving along the axis 141 by the limiting parts 100b and 100c provided on the main body 100a. Specifically, when the side operation unit 130 is mounted on the main body 100a, the limiting parts 100b and 100c of the main body 100a enter the recess 131h provided in the hollow shaft portion 131b of the rotation operation unit 131.

[0140] Therefore, for example, when the rotating operating part 131 is pressed in the pressing direction 144 towards the main body part 100a along the axis 141, the lower surface of the rotating ring 131a abuts against the limiting part 100b of the main body part 100a, and thus the movement of the rotating operating part 131 in the pressing direction 144 is, for example, Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the shown state, the movement is limited to less than the amount of movement D6. Furthermore, when the rotating operating part 131 is pulled along the axis 141 in a direction opposite to the pressing direction 144 towards the outside of the main body 100a, the outer peripheral wall of the hollow shaft part 131b abuts against the limiting part 100c of the main body 100a. Therefore, the movement of the rotating operating part 131 in the direction opposite to the pressing direction 144 is, for example, in… Figure 9 and Figure 10In the state shown, the movement is limited to less than the amount of movement D7. Furthermore, the movement of the rotation operation unit 131 in the pressing direction 144 includes: the movement caused by pressing the rotation ring 131a of the rotation operation unit 131; and the movement caused by pressing the limiting part 131e of the rotation ring 131a as the pressing button 132a of the pressing operation unit 132 is pressed.

[0141] Furthermore, the hole 131g of the hollow shaft portion 131b of the rotation operation unit 131 engages with the rotation engagement portion 133b of the shaft member 133 in the rotational direction centered on the axis 141. The shaft member 133, engaging with the hole 131g of the rotation operation unit 131, is inserted into the rotation operation unit 131 in a manner that allows it to slide in the direction of the axis 141. Additionally, when the button 132a is pressed, the rotation engagement portion 133b is forced in the pressing direction 144 by the force of the spring 136. Therefore, the shaft member 133 rotates about the axis 141 according to the rotation of the rotation operation unit 131. Furthermore, the shaft member 133 is pressed along the axis 141 according to the pressing of the pressing operation unit 132.

[0142] Rotation of shaft member 133 is detected by rotation sensor 134. Pressing of shaft member 133 is detected by press sensor 135. Rotation operation unit 131 is connected to processor 101 via rotation sensor 134 and operation I / F 105. Press operation unit 132 is connected to processor 101 via press sensor 135 and operation I / F 105. Processor 101 controls the progress of the simulation game based on the detection results of rotation sensor 134 and press sensor 135.

[0143] Furthermore, when the button 132a of the pressing operation unit 132 is pressed, the abutting portion 132d of the friction member 132c separates from the limiting portion 131c of the hollow shaft portion 131b, the (friction-based) connection between the rotation operation unit 131 and the friction member 132c is released, and the connection in the rotational direction between the rotation operation unit 131 and the pressing operation unit 132 is released. Therefore, when the pressing operation unit 132 is pressed, it is configured to rotate without being linked to the rotation of the rotation operation unit 131. Thus, when the button 132a is pressed, the rotation operation unit 131 rotates independently of the pressed pressing operation unit 132. Therefore, for example, it is possible to press the pressing operation unit 132 while simultaneously rotating the rotation operation unit 131.

[0144] <Game Overview>

[0145] The portable gaming device 100 of this embodiment provides a gaming experience through games such as character development games, user-character interaction elements, and character-interaction elements as interest elements. In these games, users can develop characters by performing actions related to caring for them. For example, a character development game might start by hatching an egg and progress through stages by sequentially performing actions related to the necessary care, thus showing how the character grows while changing its appearance.

[0146] <Summary of display mode switching>

[0147] Simulation games are equipped with various functions to advance the game. On the other hand, in order to utilize specific functions, users are forced to find and select the form of a function from a list of all functions, especially when there are many different functions, which forces users to perform complicated operations.

[0148] Therefore, the simulation game in this embodiment is configured such that multiple display modes are set for screens related to the character, and the types of functions available in each display mode are different. The functions available in each display mode are configured to be related to the content represented on the screen in that display mode. As a result, users can easily and intuitively understand which display mode should be set to use the desired function, and can easily select the desired function from the function group after switching the screen to a display mode that is more relevant to that function.

[0149] In the portable gaming device 100 of this embodiment, as described above, the display mode switching is configured to be performed using the side operation unit 130. The simulation game has multiple display modes, and by operating the side operation unit 130, the user can play the simulation game on a screen with a display mode different from the currently displayed mode.

[0150] Each display mode is configured to include graphics of at least one of the characters and the environment within the character-raising game. As described later, the concept of display scale related to the raising game corresponds to each display mode, and the screen related to the characters is represented in different scaling forms. That is, the operation of the side operation unit 130 corresponds to the scaling operation of the screen. By inputting a rotation operation on the rotating ring 131a, the screen can be switched to different scaling display modes to play the raising game. As described above, the rotating ring 131a is configured to detect two operation inputs corresponding to clockwise direction 142 and counterclockwise direction 143, respectively. By rotating in the forward direction, it receives a magnification instruction to further enlarge the display elements, and by rotating in the latter direction, it receives a shrinking instruction to further shrink the display elements. Therefore, for example, when an operation input is made to rotate the rotating ring 131a in the clockwise direction 142, the screen displayed on the display 110 is switched to a display mode corresponding to a display scale that is one level larger than the current display mode. Furthermore, when an operation input is made to rotate the rotating ring 131a counterclockwise 143, the image displayed on the monitor 110 is switched to a display mode corresponding to a display scale one level smaller than the current display mode. Hereinafter, in the simulation game of this embodiment, four display modes corresponding to different scaling conditions will be described.

[0151] <Various Display Methods>

[0152] Hereinafter, with reference to the figures, we will specifically describe the four display modes that can be switched in the simulation game of this embodiment. Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the various display modes that can be switched in the simulation game according to an embodiment of the present invention. Four display modes provide character-related screens with different scaling methods. The display modes will be described sequentially, starting with the mode that displays the character on a smaller scale (with a wider display area).

[0153] [Wide Area Display]

[0154] For example, as shown in image 110a, the wide-area display is a display method that does not include graphics representing the character's appearance and provides a macroscopic view of the environment in which the character is located. In the raising game of this embodiment, the environment for raising the character is a planet inherently set in the game device, and in the wide-area display, the appearance of the planet is displayed on the display 110. In the wide-area display, image 110a is constructed in the form of a planet overlooking the location where the character is located from outer space.

[0155] [Venue Display]

[0156] For example, as shown in image 110b, a field display serves as a way to provide a viewpoint focused on a specific area (field) distributed across the planet. A field display is essentially a way to allow users to observe the ecology of Character 111 on the planet, with Character 111 as the primary subject. Unlike a wide-area display, a field display includes graphics representing the appearance of Character 111.

[0157] [Character Display]

[0158] For example, as shown in image 110c, the character display is a display method specifically for displaying the character 111, compared to the field display. It provides a display screen that magnifies the graphics of the character 111 and the background from the field display. In the character display, graphics representing the appearance of the character 111 are mainly displayed. In the nurturing game of this embodiment, the character display becomes a display method that allows for the use of various functions for directly caring for the character 111 in the nurturing game.

[0159] [In vivo display]

[0160] For example, as shown in display image 110d, in-body display is a display method specifically designed to present to the user changes occurring within the body of character 111, rather than changes occurring on the outer surface of character 111. That is, in-body display becomes a display method for understanding character 111 from a microscopic perspective. In-body display is not a display method representing the appearance of character 111, but rather a display method representing the body of character 111. In this embodiment, display image 110d is constructed by displaying the morphology of cells existing within the body of character 111.

[0161] As described above, these display modes are configured to be switchable by rotating the rotating ring 131a of the rotation operation unit 131. The four display modes enlarge the display elements in the order of wide-area display → field display → character display → body display; therefore, rotating the rotating ring 131a clockwise 142 switches the display modes in this order. Conversely, the four display modes shrink the display elements in the order of body display → character display → field display → wide-area display; therefore, rotating the rotating ring 131a counterclockwise 143 switches the display modes in this order. Furthermore, after switching the display mode using the rotating ring 131a, pressing the press button 132a of the press operation unit 132 determines the execution of a function corresponding to the displayed content.

[0162] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates another example of a switchable display mode. Switching the display mode based on the operation of the side control unit 130 can also be used in simulation games to switch between multiple options displayed on the monitor 110.

[0163] like Figure 12 As shown, a selection screen 112 is displayed on monitor 110, allowing users to choose any option from multiple (e.g., n) options. In selection screen 112, for example, three options are displayed sequentially at the top, middle, and bottom layers. Figure 12 In the selection screen 112 shown, "Option 1" 113a is displayed at the top, "Option 2" 113b is displayed in the middle, and "Option 3" 113c is displayed at the bottom.

[0164] The options displayed on the selection screen 112 are configured to be switchable by rotating the rotating ring 131a of the rotation operation unit 131. For example, rotating the rotating ring 131a clockwise 142 causes the options displayed on the selection screen 112 to scroll upwards. On the other hand, rotating the rotating ring 131a counterclockwise 143 causes the options displayed on the selection screen 112 to scroll downwards. For example, in Figure 12 In the selection screen 112 shown, when the rotating ring 131a is rotated clockwise 142, the options scroll upwards, switching to a display where "Option 2" 113b is at the top, "Option 3" 113c is in the middle, and "Option 4" (not shown) is at the bottom. On the other hand, in Figure 12 In the selection screen 112 shown, when the rotating ring 131a is rotated counterclockwise 143, the options scroll down and switch to a display where "Option n" 113n is on the top layer, "Option 1" 113a is on the middle layer, and "Option 2" 113b is on the bottom layer.

[0165] In selection screen 112, the options displayed in the middle layer become the selection objects. The selection of an option can be determined by pressing the press button 132a of the press operation unit 132. Therefore, when the press button 132a is pressed, the option displayed in the middle layer of selection screen 112 at that time is determined as the selection object. For example, in the display... Figure 12 When button 132a is pressed on the selection screen 112 shown, "Option 2" 113b displayed in the middle layer is determined as the option to be selected.

[0166] In addition, such as Figure 12As shown, in the selection screen 112, among the "Option 1" 113a, "Option 2" 113b, and "Option 3" 113c displayed in the upper, middle, and lower layers, the display position of the middle layer "Option 2" 113b is slightly to the left compared to the display positions of the upper layer "Option 1" 113a and the lower layer "Option 3" 113c. By setting the options to such a display method, for example, it is possible to achieve the visual effect that when the rotating ring 131a is rotated in the clockwise direction 142, the multiple options displayed in the selection screen 112 rotate clockwise around an imaginary position that is to the right of the main body 100a (for example, an imaginary point 114 to the right of "Option 2" 113b). Similarly, it is possible to set up a display that, when the rotating ring 131a is rotated in the counterclockwise direction 143, causes the multiple options displayed on the selection screen 112 to rotate counterclockwise around a position to the right of the main body 100a.

[0167] As described above, the portable gaming device 100 of this form, when viewed from the front of the display 110, has a rotation operation unit 131 on the upper side of the main body 100a that enables rotation about an axis 141 and a press operation unit 132 that enables pressing along the axis 141. The game progresses by operating the rotation operation unit 131 and the press operation unit 132. With this structure, rotating the rotation operation unit 131 allows for simple and continuous bidirectional input to the game, and the amount of input can be intuitively increased or decreased. Furthermore, pressing the press operation unit 132 allows for simple and reliable input of different operations than those using the rotation operation unit 131. Therefore, the rotation operation unit 131 and the press operation unit 132, which share a common axis 141 and are located on the upper side of the main body 100a, can be used separately according to the game's progress, providing a more engaging gaming experience.

[0168] Furthermore, the portable gaming device 100 is configured such that the press button 132a of the press operation unit 132 is located inside the rotating ring 131a of the rotation operation unit 131. In the non-pressed state, the end of the press button 132a opposite to the main body 100a (the pressed side) is positioned closer to the main body 100a than the end of the rotating ring 131a opposite to the main body 100a. With this structure, contact between the press button 132a and the outside (except when needed, such as during a decision) can be suppressed using the rotating ring 131a, thus reducing unnecessary operation of the press button 132a and providing a more engaging gaming experience.

[0169] Furthermore, the portable gaming device 100 is configured such that even if the button 132a of the pressing operation section 132 is pressed, the rotating operation section 131 will not be pressed in conjunction with the pressing operation along the axis 141. For example, in a configuration where the rotating operation section 131 and the pressing operation section 132 are pressed together as a result of pressing the pressing operation section 132, the operation section is prone to damage due to the large load applied during the pressing operation. In contrast, according to the structure of this portable gaming device 100, the rotating operation section 131 functions as a protective member for the pressing operation section 132. Therefore, even if the side operation section 130 (the rotating operation section 131 and the pressing operation section 132) is operated haphazardly and an impact such as forcefully pressing it into the main body 100a is applied, the operation section is less likely to be damaged.

[0170] Furthermore, in the portable gaming device 100, when the button 132a is not pressed, and the rotating ring 131a of the rotating operation unit 131 is rotated, the friction between the abutting part 132d and the limiting part 131c causes the pressing operation unit 132 to rotate along with the rotating operation unit 131. By configuring the rotating operation unit 131 to be pressed without being linked to the pressing of the pressing operation unit 132, as described above, and by causing the pressing operation unit 132 to rotate along with the rotating operation unit 131 as in this structure, a clock crown-like operating feel can be obtained, providing a more enjoyable gaming experience.

[0171] Furthermore, the control method for the game device described in the above embodiments can be implemented by executing a pre-prepared management program using a computer. This control program is recorded on a computer-readable storage medium and executed by reading it from the storage medium. Additionally, this control program can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium such as flash memory, or via a network such as the Internet. The computer executing this control program can be included in the game device, or in electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, or personal computers capable of communicating with the game device, or in server devices capable of communicating with these game devices and electronic devices.

Claims

1. A portable gaming device that executes a video game, wherein, This portable gaming device features: The first operating unit is capable of rotational operation centered on the first axis; The second operating unit is capable of performing a pressing operation in a first direction along the first axis; as well as A control unit that controls the progress of the video game based on operations performed on at least one of the first operation unit and the second operation unit.

2. The portable gaming device according to claim 1, wherein, The portable gaming device has a main body, which includes the control unit. The first operating part and the second operating part are arranged to protrude from the main body along the first axis. The pressing operation in the first direction is an operation that displaces the second operating part toward the main body.

3. The portable gaming device according to claim 2, wherein, The first operating part has a peripheral portion that receives the rotation operation. The second operating part has a pressing part that receives the pressing operation and is disposed inside the peripheral part.

4. The portable gaming device according to claim 3, wherein, In the non-pressed state of the pressed part, the end of the pressed part on the side opposite to the main body is located closer to the main body side than the end of the peripheral part on the side opposite to the main body side.

5. The portable gaming device according to claim 1, wherein, The first operating unit is pressed without being linked to a pressing operation performed on the second operating unit.

6. The portable gaming device according to claim 5, wherein, The second operating unit is configured to rotate about the first axis in conjunction with the rotation of the first operating unit.

7. The portable gaming device according to claim 6, wherein, When the second operating part is pressed, the second operating part rotates without being linked to the rotation of the first operating part.

8. The portable gaming device according to claim 1, wherein, This portable gaming device features: The first component rotates according to the rotation of the first operating part and is pressed according to the pressing of the second operating part; A rotation detection unit detects the rotation of the first component; as well as The pressing detection unit detects the pressing of the first component. The control unit controls the progress of the video game based on the detection results of the rotation detection unit and the press detection unit.

9. The portable gaming device according to claim 8, wherein, The first operating part engages with the first component in a rotational direction centered on the first axis, and is capable of sliding relative to the first component in the direction of the first axis. An elastic member is provided between the second operating part and the first component. The second operating part is subjected to a force in a second direction opposite to the first direction by the force of the elastic member.

10. The portable gaming device according to claim 9, wherein, The first operating unit has a limiting part that restricts the movement of the second operating unit in the second direction. The second operating part has an abutting part that abuts against the limiting part due to the force of the elastic member when not pressed. In the non-pressed state of the second operating part, the first operating part and the second operating part rotate together due to the friction between the abutting part and the limiting part.

11. The portable gaming device according to claim 9, wherein, The first component has: The shaft portion along the first axis is the detected portion detected by the rotation detection unit and the press detection unit; as well as The rotating engaging part is wider than the shaft part when viewed along the first axis, engages with the first operating part in the rotational direction centered on the first axis, and can slide relative to the first operating part in the direction of the first axis.

12. The portable gaming device according to claim 1, wherein, The first operating unit is used in the video game to zoom in and out of the displayed content.

13. The portable gaming device according to claim 12, wherein, The first operating unit is used in the video game to scale the display of the virtual space where the character appears.

14. The portable gaming device according to claim 1, wherein, The first operating unit in the video game is used to switch between multiple options for selection.

15. The portable gaming device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The second operating unit is used in the video game to determine instructions.

16. A computer program product comprising a control program for a portable gaming device that executes an electronic game, comprising: a first operating unit capable of rotation about a first axis; a second operating unit capable of pressing in a first direction along the first axis; and a processor, wherein... The control program causes the processor to perform the following processing: The progress of the video game is controlled by operating on at least one of the first and second operating units.

17. A computer-readable storage medium recording a control program for a portable gaming device that executes an electronic game, comprising: a first operating unit capable of rotation about a first axis; a second operating unit capable of pressing in a first direction along the first axis; and a processor, wherein... The control program causes the processor to perform the following processing: The progress of the video game is controlled by operating on at least one of the first and second operating units.

Images