Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program capable of realizing a configuration of game media groups including a combination of game media corresponding to a quest in a collaboration playable.MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM: An information processing device includes: an organization part for organizing a game medium group including two or more game media that multiple users use in quest play on the basis of selection received from the respective users in a game in which the multiple users collaboratively play a common quest; an effect generation part capable of generating a game effect corresponding to a condition during quest play when a game medium combination included in a game medium group satisfies the condition set to a quest; and a notification part for reporting information regarding whether a combination satisfies a condition to at least one of multiple users while the multiple users can organize a game medium group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in computer games such as online games, there have been known so-called multiplayer games in which multiple users can simultaneously play a common quest (cooperative play). Among the games that allow cooperative play, there are also known games in which multiple users each select game media and play using a group of game media, such as a deck, organized from the selected multiple game media. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that in a competitive game in which teams of multiple players compete against each other, a cooperative team (group of game media) is organized consisting of one or more players selected from the players (game media) owned by each of the multiple users. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-097600 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In some games, a combination of game media corresponding to each quest (e.g., a combination of game media that provides an advantageous effect to the user) may be set. When a user plays alone, the user can select all game media and organize a group of game media to achieve a combination of game media corresponding to the quest to be played. However, as in Patent Document 1, when multiple users each select game media to organize a common group of game media, it is not known what game media other users playing together will select to organize their group of game media. Therefore, in cooperative play, it may be difficult to organize a group of game media that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0005] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention has an organization unit that organizes a group of game media including two or more game media to be used by multiple users in quest play based on selections received from each user in a game in which multiple users play a common quest together, an effect generation unit that can generate a game effect according to a condition during quest play when a combination of game media included in the game media group satisfies a condition set for the quest, and a notification unit that notifies at least one of the multiple users of information regarding whether the combination satisfies the condition while the multiple users are able to organize the game media group. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest in cooperative play. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system including an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a quest play screen. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a game media group organization screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a game media group display screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a condition display screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a quest start screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a condition non-achievement warning screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of functions of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of user information. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of game content information. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of game content group information. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of quest information. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a game content group organization process. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a warning process. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of another warning process. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a change restriction process. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of another change restriction process. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a recommendation process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An information processing device, an information processing method, and a program according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiment described below is merely an example given to facilitate understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. That is, the present invention may be modified or improved from the embodiment described below without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the present invention also includes equivalents thereof.

[0010] Furthermore, the examples of screens described in this specification and the drawings are merely examples, and the screen configuration and design, the content of the displayed information, and the GUI (Graphical User Interface), etc., can be freely designed and appropriately changed according to the system design specifications, user preferences, etc. Note that the basic data processing technologies (communication / transmission technology, data acquisition technology, data recording technology, data processing / analysis technology, image processing technology, visualization technology, etc.) required to realize the content are well-known technologies, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0011] <About the game according to one embodiment of the present invention> The communication system shown in FIG. 1 (hereinafter referred to as information processing system S) is a communication system including an information processing device (hereinafter referred to as server 10) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and provides a game playing environment, etc. to users (hereinafter referred to as users) who are game players. That is, a user is someone who uses the functions of server 10, and more specifically, by operating a predetermined device, the user can enjoy the benefits (services) provided by the functions of server 10 and play the game. Note that the predetermined device may be a device owned by the user, such as a user terminal 12, or a device installed in a store or the like that is not owned by the user but can be used by entering a PIN number, password, etc., or by making a deposit, etc., when visiting the store or the like.

[0012] A game is content that a user plays by operating the user terminal 12 while viewing a game screen on the user terminal 12 used for gameplay. In this embodiment, the game is an online game (electronic game) provided using the information processing system S. Online games include browser games that use a web browser, social games provided on SNS (Social Networking Service), games that can be played by downloading dedicated application software such as mobile games, and regularly updated online games such as play-by-web (PBW). Furthermore, the genre (classification) of a game is not particularly limited. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the term "game" will also include multiple quests that are set as constituent units of a game.

[0013] In this embodiment, when a user performs an operation for playing a game on the user terminal 12, the user terminal 12 receives data for progressing through the game distributed from a server computer of the game provider, i.e., the server 10. The user terminal 12 outputs video and audio corresponding to the received data, and the user progresses through the game while checking the output video and audio. The user terminal 12 also transmits data indicating the user's operation to the server 10, and the server 10 transmits data for progressing through the game corresponding to the user's operation. This type of data transmission and reception between the server 10 and the user terminal 12 is repeated until the user finishes playing the game.

[0014] In a game, a user can acquire (obtain) and possess (own) game media, and use or consume the game media they possess. Game media are game objects that a user can use to progress through the game, including gameplay. Examples include player objects such as characters used in the game, as well as items, cards, and avatars. Game media also include in-game currencies such as coins, medals, tickets, gold, or stones, which have value that can be exchanged for other game media such as items or characters in the game, or consumed to play quests, which are the building blocks of the game, lotteries that randomly provide items called gacha, or other events. In-game currencies include paid in-game currencies that can be obtained by charging and free in-game currencies that can be obtained without charging. Charging refers to a user paying a game usage fee to a game provider, etc., specifically, paying the game usage fee using cash, electronic money, a credit card, a prepaid card, etc. in response to a charging request.

[0015] Each game medium (excluding in-game currency) has its own unique characteristics, and each medium is assigned a name, rarity, attributes, species, characters, appearance, and various parameters that indicate abilities (such as levels, stamina, movement, attack power, or special abilities). These parameters are indicators that affect the progress of the game, and include those expressed numerically, those expressed as ranks using letters such as "A, B, C...," and those expressed by indicators such as gauges. Furthermore, some parameters change as the game progresses, while others remain constant and unchanging regardless of the game's progress. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, parameters that change as the game progresses will simply be referred to as parameters.

[0016] There are no particular limitations on how game media can be acquired. For example, users can acquire game media based on their gameplay results, by purchasing them at a shop within the game, or by participating in a lottery. A lottery is a component of a game and one of the in-game events through which game media can be acquired. It is conducted in response to a user's request for game media (lottery application) while playing the game. Specifically, a lottery is a mechanism that utilizes chance to provide users with game media such as characters or items. Multiple game media of different rarities (including game media known as rare items that are highly rare and may be the highlight of a lottery) are prepared as candidates, and one or a predetermined number of game media are selected randomly or based on a predetermined probability (winning probability) from a set of the multiple candidate game media, and the selected game media are awarded to the user. Note that the application for the lottery may require the consumption of a predetermined value, such as in-game currency, or the lottery may be conducted without the consumption of a predetermined value.

[0017] The game of this embodiment is a so-called multiplay (hereinafter referred to as cooperative play) compatible game in which multiple users (e.g., two to four users) operate their respective user terminals 12 to simultaneously play a common quest (a constituent unit of the game). Cooperative play is performed through the communication function of each user's user terminal 12, and once a cooperative relationship is formed, the progress of play is synchronized between the users participating in the cooperative play. Cooperative play may be either a cooperative play game in which multiple users cooperate, or a competitive game in which users compete against each other. Furthermore, members participating in the cooperative play are not particularly limited, and the cooperative play may be performed together with other users who have a friendship relationship with the user and who have mutually approved relationships between the users (hereinafter referred to as friends). Furthermore, a user can cooperate with a friend to progress through the game, or can borrow game media owned by a friend to play the game.

[0018] Specifically, the combination of multiple users who will play together is determined in the following manner. First, a specific user (hereinafter, the host user) who will act as the host when playing a game cooperatively selects a quest to play from the selectable quests displayed on a quest selection screen (not shown). After the host user selects the quest to play, the host user is then matched with users who will play the selected quest cooperatively together. Specifically, the host user creates a room to gather users and invites other users to join the room to play cooperatively. In response to this invitation, a combination of multiple users who will play cooperatively (for example, a group consisting of one host user and three guest users) is determined, including other users who have joined the room (hereinafter, guest users). The quest selected by the host user is then played by the group including the host user and the guest users.

[0019] An example of a game to which the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to FIGS. In this specification, User 1P, the host user, is referred to as the first user, User 2P, the other guest user, is referred to as the second user, User 3P is referred to as the third user, and User 4P is referred to as the fourth user. A deck containing game media, which are characters serving as player objects, is referred to as a game media group. Specifically, a deck corresponding to the first user containing game media selected from among the game media owned by the first user is referred to as the first game media group, a deck corresponding to the second user is referred to as the second game media group, a deck corresponding to the third user is referred to as the third game media group, and a deck corresponding to the fourth user is referred to as the fourth game media group. A common deck containing multiple game media that can be used jointly in quest play by multiple users (four users, User 1 through User 4) who are playing cooperatively is referred to as a common game media group.

[0020] In the game of this embodiment, multiple users playing together use game media included in a shared game media group to defeat enemy characters (hereinafter referred to as "enemy characters") or other users (game media operated by other users). A quest is cleared, i.e., the game is completed, when all enemy characters appearing in the quest or a specific enemy character such as a boss character are defeated, or a specific score is achieved. Each quest has multiple stages, and players can move on to the next stage by fulfilling the achievement conditions set for each stage. The quest may also be cleared when the achievement conditions for the final stage are fulfilled.

[0021] For example, "joint use" means that game media included in a first game media group corresponding to a first user can also be operated by other users, such as a second user. However, even if the game media is part of a shared game media group, game media already used by the first user cannot be used by other users, such as a second user. Furthermore, as will be described later, game media extracted from the shared game media group and assigned to the first user (game media D in the example of FIG. 2) cannot be used by other users, such as a second user, regardless of who selected the game media to include it in the shared game media group.

[0022] 2 is an example of a quest play screen G1 displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by each user. As shown in FIG. 2, the quest play screen G1 has a play presentation area 41, a frame sequence display area 42, a game media display area 43, a HP display area 44, a remaining turn display area 45, and a condition confirmation button 46. The play presentation area 41 displays presentation videos and the like that accompany the progress of quest play of enemy characters, etc. The play presentation area 41 may also display the amount of damage inflicted on the enemy character, the enemy character's HP, and the like. A frame row in which a predetermined number N of frames are lined up in a row is displayed on the screen in the frame row display area 42. A number of frames in the frame row are blank, and each of the remaining b (=Na) frames is filled with one character (for example, alphabet, hiragana, or katakana) in advance. The game media display area 43 displays x game media (x is a natural number equal to or greater than 2) extracted from a group of common game media organized by users. Each game media is pre-assigned a character. In the illustrated example, four game media are displayed: game media D (assigned the character "n"), game media Z (assigned the character "sa"), game media U (assigned the character "ko"), and game media G (assigned the character "tsu"). Note that game media corresponding to each user are extracted; for example, game media D assigned to a first user cannot be used by any users other than the first user. The HP display area 44 displays the stamina (the amount of damage that the common game media group can withstand) set for the common game media group. Note that in this embodiment, stamina is not set for each user, but is set for the common game media group (stamina common to all users), but is not limited to this. The remaining turn display area 45 displays the number of turns or time limit remaining until the clearing condition of the quest given to the users playing cooperatively is met. When the user taps or otherwise operates the condition confirmation button 46, the screen transitions to a screen (condition display screen G4) where the conditions set for the quest can be confirmed. The conditions will be described later.

[0023] Here, the specific game content will be explained in the order of (1) to (6). (1) First, the user selects one game medium from the game medium display area 43 for a blank frame in the frame string displayed in the frame string display area 42, and fills the blank frame with the character assigned to that game medium. For example, as shown by the dotted line in the figure, game medium Z (assigned character "sa") is selected and the character "sa" is filled in the leftmost blank frame in the frame string. When this operation is repeated for all a blank frames, characters are filled in all frames in the frame string. This forms a string of characters consisting of the N characters filled in the frame string. (2) After the character string is formed, the computer analyzes the character string and extracts all of the words contained in the character string that consist of character sequences that form words. Here, words include words consisting of only one character. For example, if the character string "sanka-tetsu" (meaning "samka-tetsu") (N=5) is formed, it will contain six words: "san (acid)," "sanka (participation)," "ka (mosquito)," "kate (food)," "tetsu (iron)," and "sanka-tetsu (iron oxide)." (3) Next, for each word extracted from the string, the computer determines the word length (i.e., the number of characters), tallies the lengths of all the words, and assigns a score according to the tallied result. Here, the more words contained in the string, or the longer the length of the words contained in the string, the higher the score assigned. In addition, game effects such as assigning a higher score are generated according to the conditions set for each quest. (4) After that, the game progresses according to the set score, and for example, if the score is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the clearing condition for the quest being played at that time is met. Specifically, for example, an enemy character appearing in the quest is attacked according to the set score, and the quest is cleared when the damage inflicted on the enemy character according to the score exceeds the enemy's stamina. (5) If the damage to the enemy character does not exceed the enemy character's stamina, the characters in a number of boxes included in the box sequence are changed, the character string described above is formed again, one or more words included in the re-formed character string are identified, the lengths of each word are tallied to set a score, and damage is inflicted on the enemy character according to the set score. On the other hand, if the damage to the enemy character does not exceed the enemy character's stamina, that is, when the characters in a number of boxes included in the box sequence are changed, the user receives damage and the stamina set in the common game media group is reduced. (6) This procedure is repeated until the total damage inflicted on the enemy character exceeds the stamina set for the enemy character, or until the total damage received by the user exceeds the stamina set for the group of common game media. As described above, if the total damage inflicted on the enemy character exceeds its stamina, the quest is cleared. If the total damage received by the user exceeds the stamina set for the group of common game media, the game is over and the quest ends. When a quest is cleared, the player can obtain the game media of the defeated enemy character or other game media as a reward for clearing the quest.

[0024] In this embodiment, multiple users (e.g., a first user to a fourth user) who are playing cooperatively each select two or more game media from the game media they own to actually use in quests, and organize groups of game media (a first group of game media to a fourth group of game media). The groups of game media organized by each user are then combined to organize a common group of game media. At this time, the number of characters included in each group of game media is not particularly limited. For example, if the number of game media that can be included in the common group of game media is 48, the number of game media that each user can include in their respective group of game media is 12 (48 characters ÷ 4 people). Note that when two people are playing cooperatively, the number of game media that each user can include in their respective group of game media is appropriately changed so that it becomes 24 (48 characters ÷ 2 people).

[0025] 3 is an example of a game media group organization screen G2 displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by each user. On this game media group organization screen G2, the user can select game media to be included in the game media group.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, the game media group organization screen G2 has a game media group display area 51, a game media list display area 52, a display condition setting button 53, and a save button . The game media group display area 51 displays a list of 12 game media (e.g., game media A to L) selected by the user to be included in the game media group (first game media group for the first user), and also displays the ability values ​​(e.g., total HP) of the selected game media. The game media list display area 52 displays a list of game media that the user can select, i.e., game media owned by the user. The game media selected from this list is moved or copied to the game media group display area 51. When the user taps the display condition setting button 53, the screen transitions to a screen (not shown) where conditions such as rarity, attributes, species, and various parameters can be set, and by specifying any display conditions, the game media to be displayed in the game media list display area 52 can be narrowed down. The save button 54 can be tapped by the user to save the game media displayed in the game media group display area 51, i.e., the game media selected to be included in the game media group. Once saved, the organization is complete (preparation is complete).

[0027] 4 shows an example of a game media group display screen G3 displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by each user. On this game media group display screen G3, the user can check all game media included in the shared game media group, including game media groups organized by other users (i.e., information about game media selected by other users). The user can also check whether the combination of game media included in the shared game media satisfies the conditions set for a quest that generate a game effect.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the game media group display screen G3 has a game media group display area 61, a condition display area 62, and a details button 63. All game media selected by multiple users and included in the common game media group are displayed in a list in the game media group display area 61. In this embodiment, a total of 48 game media (12 media x 4 users) selected by each user and included in their respective game media groups are displayed. The condition display area 62 displays a list of conditions set for each quest, and information regarding whether the conditions are met at that time (including during the course of organization), i.e., the conditions that are met by the combination of game media included in the shared game media group, is clearly displayed. Furthermore, details of the conditions can be confirmed by tapping the details button 63, etc. Specifically, the screen transitions to a condition display screen G4 as shown in FIG. 5.

[0029] 5 is an example of a condition display screen G4 displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by each user. On this condition display screen G4, the user can check details of the conditions set for a quest that will generate a game effect, and whether or not those conditions are met by the combination of game media included in the shared game media.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 5, the condition display screen G4 has a condition detail display area 71. The condition details display area 71 displays details of the conditions set for the quest, and information regarding whether the conditions are met at that time (including when the quest is being organized), i.e., the conditions that are met by the combination of game media included in the common game media group, is clearly displayed.

[0031] Here, the following are examples of conditions set for each quest that can cause game effects (represented as combined special moves A to C in the diagram) such as dealing heavy damage to enemy characters, earning high scores, or obtaining game media such as special items during quest play. (a) Specific characters For example, if a specific string of characters is completed using characters associated with game media included in the shared game media group, this condition is met. In the example shown in the figure, the nine characters of "Super Special Move" must be completed using 48 game media. (b) a specific race or attribute For example, if a certain number of game media of a particular type or attribute are included among the game media included in the common game media group, this condition is met. In the example shown in the figure, condition 1 requires that 10 game media of type ○ be included, but currently only 4 are included (condition not met). On the other hand, condition 3 requires that 12 game media of type ○ or type □ be included, but currently only 12 are included (condition met). (c) Specific words For example, if there is a possibility that a word related to a specific theme can be completed using characters associated with game media included in the common game media group, this condition is met. In the example shown in the figure, for condition 1, 12 game media with characters that can form words indicating currency, such as "doll," are required, but at present, 9 are included (condition not met). On the other hand, for condition 3, 12 game media with characters that can form words indicating currency or animals, such as "cat," are required, but at present, 12 are included (condition met).

[0032] 6 is an example of a quest start screen G5 displayed on the user terminal 12 operated by each user. On this quest start screen G5, the user can also check whether the conditions set for the quest and for generating a game effect are satisfied by the combination of game media included in the shared game media.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 6, the quest start screen G5 has a user display area 81, a game media group overview display area 82, a condition display area 83, and a start button 84. In the user display area 81, information indicating the four users participating in the cooperative play (for example, user names, etc.) and the organization status of each game media group are displayed in a identifiable manner. The game media group summary display area 82 displays details of the combination of game media included in the common game media group. For example, the number of game media corresponding to advantageous characters, the number of game media for each attribute or species, etc. Also displayed are ability values ​​indicating parameters such as stamina (total HP) and attack power (total ATK) set for the common game media group based on the combination of game media. The condition display area 83 displays a list of conditions set corresponding to quests, similar to the condition display area 62 of the game media group display screen G3. When the user taps or otherwise operates the start button 84, the organization of the common game media is completed, and the screen transitions to the quest play screen G1 as shown in Fig. 2. Note that the start button 84 may not be tapped or otherwise operated if all users (first user to fourth user) have not yet completed (completed preparations) the organization of their respective groups of game media (in the process of organization).

[0034] Furthermore, if any of the conditions set for the quest have not been met (or none of them have been met) when the start button 84 is tapped on the quest start screen G5, the user is notified. Specifically, a condition unmet warning screen G6 as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed as a dialog. The notification may be visual, such as with text, images, or video, as in the condition unmet warning screen G6, or may be auditory, such as with sound, or tactile, such as with vibration.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 7, the condition unfulfilled warning screen G6 notifies the user that there are still conditions that have not been fulfilled with the current organization, i.e., that a game effect may not be generated. The condition unfulfilled warning screen G6 displays a start button 91 and a reorganization button 92. If the user wishes to start quest play without fulfilling the conditions, tapping the start button 91 or the like will transition to the quest play screen G1 as shown in Fig. 2. On the other hand, if the user wishes to reorganize the common game media group in order to fulfill the conditions, tapping the reorganization button 93 or the like will transition to the quest start screen G5 as shown in Fig. 6, and the user can then return to the game media group organization screen G2 as shown in Fig. 3 for reorganization.

[0036] <Configuration of an information processing device and a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention> Next, the configurations of an information processing device and a user terminal 12 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The information processing device according to this embodiment is configured by a computer for distributing game data, specifically a server computer (hereinafter referred to as server 10). The server 10 is an example of a computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, is communicatively connected to a plurality of user terminals 12 via a network 14, and together with the user terminals 12, forms an information processing system S. The network 14 is a communication network consisting of, for example, the Internet or a mobile communication network, and may include a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), an intranet, etc.

[0037] In the information processing system S of this embodiment, the server 10 and the user terminal 12 cooperate with each other to progress the game. Specifically, part of the game progress processing is performed on the server 10 side, and part of the graphics processing and the like is performed on the user terminal 12 side. For example, the server 10 side executes a program including certain rules, logic, and algorithms. Meanwhile, the user terminal 12 side synchronizes with the server 10 and progresses the game according to the same rules, logic, and algorithms as the program executed on the server 10. That is, during game play, the user terminal 12 displays a game screen, which is a display screen of the game, on a display or the like, and also expands display data transmitted from the server 10 as needed, and displays images, text information, and the like indicated by the display data on the game screen.

[0038] The server 10 is an example of an "information processing device" of the present invention, and is a computer that performs various information processing related to the progress of the game, such as generating and transmitting and receiving data necessary for the game progress. More specifically, in this embodiment, the server 10 is an SNS server. The server 10 may be configured as a single computer or multiple computers distributed in parallel. The server 10 may also be a server computer for an ASP (Application Service Provider), SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), or IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service). In this case, a series of information processing steps related to the progress of the game (excluding information input and display) are performed by the server 10, and the user terminal 12 only needs to input information to be transferred to the server 10 and display information distributed from the server 10.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1, the server 10 has, as hardware devices, a processor 21, a memory 22, a communication interface 23, and a storage 24, which are electrically connected via a bus 25. The server 10 also has installed thereon, as software, an operating system (OS) and a dedicated program for processing information related to the game. These programs correspond to the "program" of the present invention. When the processor 21 operates in accordance with the program, the server 10 functions as the information processing device of the present invention and executes a series of processes related to the progress of the game. The program of the present invention may be acquired by reading it from a computer-readable recording medium, or may be acquired (downloaded) via a network 14 such as the Internet or an intranet.

[0040] The processor 21 may be configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), MCU (Micro Controller Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), etc.

[0041] The memory 22 may be configured by semiconductor memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0042] The communication interface 23 may be configured by, for example, a network interface card, a communication interface board, etc. The standard of data communication by the communication interface 23 is not particularly limited, and examples include communication by a wireless LAN based on Wi-fi (registered trademark), communication by a 3G to 5G or later generation mobile communication system, or communication based on LTE (Long Term Evolution).

[0043] The storage 24 may be configured with a flash memory, a hard disc drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a flexible disc (FD), a magneto-optical disc (MO disc), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a secure digital card (SD card), a universal serial bus memory (USB memory), or the like. The storage 24 may be built into the server 10 or may be attached to the server main body in an external format. The storage 24 may also be configured with an external computer (e.g., a database server) communicably connected to the server main body. Note that a distributed ledger technology such as a blockchain may be used as a technology for recording various data in order to avoid unauthorized data tampering, etc.

[0044] The server 10 distributes information necessary for the progress of the game to each user, and also collects and stores information from each user. The information stored by the server 10 includes information about each user, information about the room, and various other information about the game. The server 10 also performs various other information processing related to the progress of the game.

[0045] The user terminal 12 is a client terminal operated by a user to play a game. The user terminal 12 may be, for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, a game console, a television set capable of inputting information, or a wearable terminal. Note that, for convenience of illustration, four user terminals 12 are shown in FIG. 1, but of course, in reality, the number of user terminals 12 will correspond to the number of users.

[0046] The user terminal 12 receives data for game progression from the server 10, displays images (video) represented by the data on the display of the user terminal 12 or on a display device such as a TV connected to the user terminal 12, and outputs audio from a speaker or the like. That is, in this embodiment, the user terminal 12 functions as a display unit and an audio output unit. For example, the user terminal 12 displays a quest play screen G1 (FIG. 2), a game media group organization screen G2 (FIG. 3), a game media group display screen G3 (FIG. 4), a condition display screen G4 (FIG. 5), a quest start screen G5 (FIG. 6), a condition unfulfilled warning screen G6 (FIG. 7), and the like, as well as a quest selection screen for selecting a quest to play, a matching screen for matching users to play cooperatively, a result display screen and a clear reward award screen after quest play is completed, and a notification screen for notifying various other information.

[0047] Furthermore, the user terminal 12 accepts user operations performed while playing a game, and transmits information corresponding to the operation content to the server 10. For example, the user performs, on the user terminal 12, a game media group organization operation for selecting game media and organizing a game media group, a quest selection operation for selecting a quest to play, a quest play operation for playing the selected quest, a recruiting operation for recruiting guest users to play collaboratively, and an application operation for selecting a host user to play collaboratively and applying to join a room set up by the host user, and the like, and transmits information based on these operations to the server 10. In addition to the above operations, the user also performs, as appropriate, operations on the user terminal 12 that are necessary to enjoy the services provided by the information processing system S of this embodiment.

[0048] <Functions of an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention> The configuration of the server 10, which is an information processing device according to this embodiment, will now be described from a functional perspective. As shown in FIG. 8, the server 10 includes a memory unit 30, an information acquisition unit 31, a display control unit 32, a composition unit 33, an effect generation unit 34, a notification unit 35, and a game control unit 36. Of these, the memory unit 30 is implemented by the memory 22 or the storage 24, and the other functional units are implemented by the cooperation of the hardware devices that make up the server 10 and programs installed on the server 10. Note that when the server 10 is configured by multiple computers, the above functions may be distributed, with each of the multiple computers performing a different function. Each functional unit will be described in detail below.

[0049] (Storage part) The storage unit 30 stores various types of information necessary for playing a game. Specifically, the storage unit 30 stores information about the user, information about game media, information about a group of game media, information about quests, and various other types of information about the game.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 9, information about users (user information) is stored for each user, with various information linked to identification information that identifies each user (such as an identification ID or a game account name). For example, items of user information include information indicating user rank, owned game media, organized game media group, game progress, cooperative play history, and friends. The information indicating game media includes information for identifying the types and numbers of game media, such as characters, items, and coins, owned by the user. The information indicating a group of game media includes information for identifying one or more groups of game media (including past groups, such as grouping history) containing one or more game media selected by the user. The information indicating the progress of the game includes information for identifying the status and the number of times each quest has been played and cleared. The information indicating the play history of a collaborative play includes information for identifying the number of times collaborative play has been performed (e.g., 10 times with user B, 5 times with user C, etc.) as well as the affiliation history of the room to which the user belonged when the collaborative play was performed. The information indicating friends includes information for identifying other users with whom the user has a friend relationship. The user information may also include information other than the above, such as the user's personal information, such as contact information, a login history, such as the date and time of play, and a billing history, which indicates the number of times and amounts of charges made for the game.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 10, information related to game media (game media information) is stored for each game medium, with various information linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each game medium. For example, items of game media information include information indicating type, characteristics, name, appearance design, various parameters indicating abilities or effects, compatible quests, and compatible game media. The information indicating the type includes information for identifying the type of game content, such as characters, items, paid in-game currency, or free in-game currency. The information indicating the characteristics includes information for identifying the characteristics of the game content, such as attributes and species. The information indicating the parameters includes information for identifying values ​​such as the level, characters, stamina, movement, attack power, or special abilities possessed by the game content. In addition, if the parameters change, information indicating the current values ​​as well as the initial and upper limits is included. The information indicating compatible quests includes information for identifying quests that will give an advantage in play if used with the game content, such as by improving parameters or demonstrating special abilities. The information indicating compatible game content includes information for identifying other game content that will give an advantage in play if used in combination with the game content, such as by including it in the same game content group, such as by improving parameters or demonstrating special abilities. In addition, the game media information may include information other than the above, such as the degree of difficulty in obtaining (rarity), the method of obtaining (conditions for obtaining), the period during which it can be obtained, the period during which it can be used, the price (if it can be purchased with in-game currency, etc.), the number of users who own it, and the usage history by other users. The above game medium information is an example of a case where the game medium is a character, but if the game medium is an item, in-game currency, or the like, the content may be changed as appropriate.

[0052] As shown in Figure 11, information about game media groups (game media group information) is stored for each game media group, with various information linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each game media group. For example, items in the game media group information include information indicating the user who organized the game media, the game media included, various parameters indicating abilities, etc., satisfied conditions, organization history, and usage history, etc. The information indicating the user includes information for identifying the user who organized the group of game media, i.e., the user who selected the game media to be included in the group. Note that the user here may be one or more users. The information indicating the game media includes information for identifying the type and number of game media, such as characters, included in the group of game media. The information indicating the parameters includes information for identifying the parameters of each game media included in the group of game media and values ​​such as level, stamina, movement, attack power, or special abilities determined from the combination of the game media. Furthermore, if the parameters change, information indicating the current value as well as the initial value and upper limit value is included. The information indicating the conditions includes information for identifying whether the conditions for generating a game effect set for each quest, such as a specific character, a specific race or attribute, a specific theme, a specific number of characters, and a specific combination of game media, are met. The information indicating the organization history includes information for identifying the organization history (including update history) of the group of game media, such as the selection or change of game media. The information indicating the usage history includes information for identifying the number of uses, used quests, number of times cleared, and cleared quests. In addition, the game media group information may include information other than the above, such as information indicating compatible quests that are suitable for use, or compatible game media that are recommended to be included. The game media group information is information about a group of game media organized to include game media selected by a user, and includes both a group of game media organized for each user and a group of shared game media organized by multiple users who play together. Furthermore, the game media included in the group of game media are not limited to game media selected by a user, and may also include game media automatically selected by a computer.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 12, information about quests (quest user information) is stored for each quest, with various information linked to identification information (such as an identification ID) that identifies each quest. For example, items in the quest information include information indicating the title, difficulty level, enemy characters, conditions, and rewards for clearing the quest. Information indicating enemy characters includes information for identifying enemy characters that appear during the quest. The information indicating the conditions includes information for identifying the conditions for generating a game effect set for each quest, such as a specific character, a specific race or attribute, a specific theme, a specific number of characters, and a specific combination of game media. The information indicating the clear reward includes information for identifying the type and number of game media to be granted as a reward for clearing the quest. In addition, the quest information may include information other than the above, such as information indicating the playable period, the user level required to play, and the game media required to play.

[0054] (Information acquisition department) The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information (data) based on operations performed by the user on the user terminal 12 while playing the game, by communicating with the user terminal 12. The information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 includes information based on the game content group organization operation performed by the user, information based on the quest selection operation, information based on the quest play operation, information based on the recruitment operation, and information based on the application operation. In addition to the above information, the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 also includes information based on various selections, designations, instructions, requests, commands, permission or denial, registration, and other input operations performed by the user at various scenes during the game.

[0055] (Display control unit) The display control unit 32 controls the user terminal 12 to display information for game progression on the screen of the user terminal 12. Specifically, the display control unit 32 generates display data for displaying results of information processing by the organization unit 33, effect generation unit 34, notification unit 35, game control unit 36, etc., which will be described later, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 via the network 14. For example, the display control unit 32 causes the user terminal 12 to display a quest play screen G1 ( FIG. 2 ), a game media group organization screen G2 ( FIG. 3 ), a game media group display screen G3 ( FIG. 4 ), a condition display screen G4 ( FIG. 5 ), a quest start screen G5 ( FIG. 6 ), a condition non-achievement warning screen G6 ( FIG. 7 ), etc., as results of information processing by the organization unit 33, the game control unit 36, etc. In addition, the display control unit 32 displays on the user terminal 12 a quest selection screen, a matching screen, a game result screen, a clear reward award screen, and various other notification screens (none of which are shown) that reflect the results of information processing by the game control unit 36, etc.

[0056] (Organization Department) The organizing unit 33 executes information processing to organize a group of game media for each user (a first group of game media for a first user, and a second group of game media for a second user) including two or more game media selected from among the game media owned by the user and to be used in quest play by the user, using information based on the game media group organizing operation acquired by the information acquiring unit 31 as a trigger. In addition, the organizing unit 33 executes information processing to organize a common group of game media to be used in cooperative play by multiple users by combining the first group of game media organized by the first user and the second group of game media organized by the second user, using information based on the game media group organizing operation acquired by the information acquiring unit 31 as a trigger.

[0057] Specifically, the organization unit 33 selects game media specified by information based on the game media group organization operation from among game media included in user information stored in association with the user in the storage unit 30. The organization unit 33 then adds the selected game media to a game media group associated with the user (a first game media group in the case of a first user, and a second game media group in the case of a second user), updates the game media group information, and stores it in the storage unit 30. The organization unit 33 also combines the game media groups for each user to update game media group information related to a shared game media group used jointly by multiple users who are playing together, and stores it in the storage unit 30.

[0058] At this time, the organization unit 33 changes the number of game media that each user can include in the game media group (first game media group for the first user, second game media group for the second user) depending on the number of users who will be playing collaboratively. For example, when there are few users who will be playing collaboratively, the number of game media per user that each user can include in the game media group (number of selectable game media) is increased compared to when there are many users who will be playing collaboratively, and then the information processing for organizing the game media group is executed.

[0059] Furthermore, when organizing a game media group, the organization unit 33 restricts changes to game media included in the game media group that are related to the fulfillment of a condition. Specifically, even if the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information based on a game media group organization operation, if replacing game media specified by the game media group organization information with game media already included in the game media group would no longer satisfy a previously fulfilled condition, the organization unit 33 does not permit the change of game media. Note that in this case, the organization unit 33 may also restrict changes to game media related to conditions specified by a specific user, the host user. Specifically, for conditions specified by a game media group organization operation acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 from the host user, the organization unit 33 does not permit the change of game media if the conditions would no longer be satisfied. On the other hand, for conditions not specified by the host user, the organization unit 33 allows other users to change game media even if the conditions would no longer be satisfied. Note that the host user can specify conditions that have been fulfilled at least once while each user was organizing a game media group. In the example of FIG. 6, the organization of game media groups for users 1P and 2P has been completed, while the organization of game media groups for users 3P and 4P has not been completed. In such a case, the host user can specify the conditions that are met for the group of game media that users 1P and 2P have prepared. Alternatively, the host user can specify the conditions that are met for the group of game media that users 1P and 2P have prepared and the group of game media that users 3P and 4P are currently editing.

[0060] Furthermore, the organization unit 33 recommends game media that will satisfy a condition when included in a game media group by other users who have not yet completed organization, based on game media included in the game media group by users who have completed organization among the multiple users performing collaborative play. For example, the organization unit 33 identifies game media that will satisfy a condition when combined with game media included in the first game media group by a first user, and selects the game media from among game media owned by a second user. The organization unit 33 then recommends the selected game media to the second user in cooperation with the display control unit 32 or the notification unit 35. Note that if the game media selected by the multiple users performing collaborative play overlap, information processing may be performed to reorganize the game media group.

[0061] Furthermore, the organization unit 33 may control the group of game media organized by the first user so that game media owned by other users who play together or friends, etc., can be included in the group of game media organized by the first user. For example, the first user may be able to select game media that can be included in the first group of game media from game media owned by the second user or the first user's friends.

[0062] (Effect generation section) The effect generation unit 34 performs information processing, triggered by information based on quest play operations acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 during quest play, to generate a game effect during quest play that corresponds to a condition satisfied by a combination of game media included in the group of game media. Specifically, if a combination of game media included in the group of shared game media satisfies a condition set for a quest, or if a combination of game media selected by a first user and game media selected by a second user satisfies a condition, and if the first user or the second user uses game media related to the occurrence of that condition during quest play, the effect generation unit 34 generates the above-mentioned game effect, such as inflicting significant damage on an enemy character. Note that the determination of whether or not to actually generate a game effect is based on the content of the quest play, and therefore, it is possible that a game effect will not occur during quest play even if the condition is satisfied.

[0063] (Notification Department) The notification unit 35 communicates with the user terminal 12 to notify all or at least one of the users of various information at appropriate times while the users are able to organize their game media groups. Specifically, the notification unit 35 generates notification data (including image data and sound data) including various information or links to locations where the information can be obtained, and transmits the generated notification data via the network 14 to the user terminal 12 of the user to be notified. The notification is performed in cooperation with the display control unit 32 depending on the content of the information.

[0064] Specifically, the notification unit 35 notifies the following information. (a) Information on whether the combination of game media satisfies the conditions (b) Information about game media included in a group of game media associated with another user (a first group of game media if the other user is a first user, or a second group of game media if the other user is a second user). (c) Information about the game media that, if included in the group of game media, would satisfy the conditions That is, game media that satisfy the conditions when included in the game media group and game media that do not satisfy the conditions when included in the game media group are notified in a distinguishable manner. (d) Information regarding a change in the number of game media that can be included in the group of game media associated with the user (the first group of game media in the case of a first user, or the second group of game media in the case of a second user). (e) Information containing a warning message if you start playing a quest without fulfilling the conditions. (f) Information regarding the change in the success or failure of the conditions due to the acceptance of a change to the game media included in the group of game media that meet the conditions (i.e., the fact that the conditions no longer meet). (g) Information regarding changes in the success or failure of the conditions due to other users changing their participation in cooperative play (i.e., the conditions no longer being met) (h) Information about alternative game media that would satisfy the conditions if included in the group of game media in the case of (f) or (g) above.

[0065] (Game control unit) The game control unit 36 ​​also executes various information processes necessary for the progress of the game. For example, during quest play, the game control unit 36 ​​processes information regarding the movement, attack, and other actions of the game media included in the group of game media and other game media, such as enemy characters. Specifically, the game control unit 36 ​​performs effects according to the operation content, such as moving the game media based on the quest play operation information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 during quest play. At this time, the game control unit 36 ​​controls the game media included in the group of shared game media so that they can be used by all of the multiple users participating in the collaborative play. That is, the game control unit 36 ​​controls the game media selected by a first user included in the group of shared game media so that they can be used by not only the first user but also the second user, and controls the game media selected by a second user included in the group of shared game media so that they can be used by not only the second user but also the first user.

[0066] The game control unit 36 ​​also changes the parameter settings of the game media depending on the progress of the game, etc. Specifically, during quest play, if a game medium included in the group of game media attacks another game medium, such as an enemy character, the game control unit 36 ​​reduces parameters such as stamina associated with the other game media based on the generated game effect, parameters such as attack power set for the group of game media or the game media, and parameters such as defensive power of the other game media. Furthermore, if a game medium included in the group of game media is attacked by another game medium, such as an enemy character, the game control unit 36 ​​reduces parameters such as stamina associated with the group of game media or the game media based on the generated game effect, parameters such as defensive power set for the group of game media or the game media, and parameters such as attack power of the other game media.

[0067] The game control unit 36 ​​also processes information related to matching users who will play together. Specifically, the game control unit 36 ​​sets up a room for playing together based on information about the solicitation conditions acquired from the host user by the information acquisition unit 31, and solicits guest users to join the room. When a user applies to join a room, the game control unit 36 ​​associates the room with the host user who set up the room and the guest user who applied to join the room, and stores the association in the storage unit 30, thereby allowing multiple users to belong to the same room. Furthermore, when the quest play is completed, the game control unit 36 ​​performs processing to determine whether or not the quest has been cleared, and to grant a clearing reward to the user who has cleared the quest.

[0068] The above has described the configurations of the server 10 and the user terminal 12. Generally, the server 10 and the user terminal 12 have various functions other than those described above, but here, only the characteristic functions that produce the effects in the information processing system S of the present invention will be described, and illustrations and descriptions of other known functions will be omitted.

[0069] <Information processing method according to one embodiment of the present invention> Next, the flow of information processing (hereinafter referred to as information processing flow) executed in the information processing system S configured as described above will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 18. The information processing flow employs the information processing method of the present invention and is realized by using the information processing system S functioning as a computer system. In other words, each step in the information processing flow corresponds to a component of the information processing method of the present invention. Note that the information processing flow described below is merely an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the order in which steps are performed may be changed, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0070] (Game media group organization processing) First, an example of the game content group compilation process will be described. The game media group organization process is information processing that forms the core of the present invention, in which, in a game in which multiple users play a common quest together, multiple users organize a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in the quest play based on selections of game media received from each user, and proceeds, for example, along the flow shown in Fig. 13. Note that in this description, it is assumed that a first user and a second user are playing together, and the first user selects game media that he or she owns to organize a first group of game media, and the second user selects game media that he or she owns to organize a second group of game media, and the organized first and second groups of game media are combined to organize a common group of game media to be used in the quest.

[0071] 13, first, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires information based on a game media group organization operation through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the first user, and accepts a selection of game media to be included in the first game media group from among the game media owned by the first user (S101). The server 10 then adds the selected game media to the game media group information associated with the first user and updates the game media group information associated with the first user, thereby organizing a first game media group including the selected game media (S102). The server 10 then generates display data for displaying information about the game media included in the first game media group, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the second user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby causing the user terminal 12 of the second user to display information about the game media included in the first game media group (S103).

[0072] The server 10 also acquires information based on the game media group organization operation through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the second user, and upon receiving a selection of game media to be included in the second game media group from among the game media owned by the second user (S104), adds the selected game media to the game media group information associated with the second user and updates the game media group information associated with the second user, thereby organizing a second game media group including the selected game media (S105). The server 10 then generates display data for displaying information about the game media included in the second game media group, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the first user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby causing the user terminal 12 of the first user to display information about the game media included in the second game media group (S106).

[0073] Furthermore, the server 10 combines the first game media group and the second game media group and updates the game media group information associated with the first user and the second user to form a common game media group including two or more game media that can be used jointly in quest play by the first user and the second user, the common game media group including game media included in the first game media group and game media included in the second game media group (S107). Note that in this embodiment, the first user and the second user can each include 24 game media in the first game media group or the second game media group, and the common game media group that can be used jointly in quest play includes a total of 48 game media. Also, in this embodiment, when the game media included in the first game media group or the second game media group is updated, the common game media group that can be used jointly in quest play is simultaneously updated.

[0074] The server 10 then generates display data that is information regarding game media included in a common game media group that can be used jointly in quest play, and that identifiably displays whether or not a combination of game media included in the common game media group satisfies the conditions set for the quest, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminals 12 operated by the first and second users through communication with the user terminals 12, thereby displaying information regarding whether or not a combination of game media included in the common game media group satisfies the conditions on the user terminals 12 of the first and second users (S108).

[0075] Next, the server 10 acquires information based on a game media group organizing operation that instructs the first and second users to end organizing the game media group (start quest play) through communication with the user terminals 12 operated by both the first and second users, and determines that the organization of the game media group has been completed (S109: YES). The server 10 then determines whether the combination of game media included in the shared game media group after the organization that can be jointly used in quest play satisfies the conditions set for the quest (S110). If the server 10 determines that the combination of game media included in the shared game media group satisfies the conditions (S110: YES), the server 10 starts quest play (S111) and terminates processing. On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that the conditions are not met (S110: NO), the server 10 issues a warning to notify the user that quest play will begin without satisfying the conditions (S112), starts quest play (S111), and terminates processing.

[0076] Note that the first user can use the game media selected by the second user during quest play, and the second user can use the game media selected by the first user during quest play. Here, a game effect that can occur when a condition is met can occur during quest play when the combination of the game media selected by the first user and the game media selected by the second user meets the condition. Other details about the specific information processing and flow of information processing during quest play are publicly known, and therefore will not be described here. The above is an example of the game content group compilation process.

[0077] (Warning processing) Next, an example of the warning process will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. The warning process is a process for warning the first user and the second user when a condition is no longer met due to a change in the game content included in the game content group.

[0078] 14 , the server 10, which is a computer, acquires information based on a game media group organization operation through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the first or second user. After receiving a request to change the game media included in the first or second game media group (S201), if the server 10 determines that the combination of game media included in the shared game media group that can be used jointly in quest play no longer satisfies the conditions set for the quest (S202: YES), the server 10 issues a warning to notify the user that the conditions no longer are satisfied due to the change in game media (S203). The server 10 then generates display data for identifiably displaying alternative game media that would satisfy the conditions if included in the shared game media group, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the first and second users through communication with the user terminals 12, thereby displaying information about the alternative game media that would satisfy the conditions if included in the shared game media group (S204), and then terminates the process. On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that the conditions are not satisfied even if the game media are changed (S202: NO), the server 10 terminates the process. The above is an example of the warning process.

[0079] The warning process may also warn remaining users if the participation status of a user participating in cooperative play changes, i.e., if a user withdraws from the cooperative play and the game media included in the group of game media changes, causing the conditions to no longer be met. The following describes an example in which a second user withdraws from the cooperative play.

[0080] 15, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires information based on a cancellation operation for an application to participate in cooperative play through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the second user, and upon receiving the cancellation of participation in cooperative play from the second user (S301), if it determines that the combination of game media included in the group of common game media that can be jointly used in quest play will no longer satisfy the conditions set for the quest (S302: YES), it issues a warning to notify that the conditions are no longer satisfied due to the second user's cancellation of participation (S303), and terminates processing.On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that the conditions are not no longer satisfied even if the second user's participation is canceled (S302: NO), it terminates processing. The above is another example of the warning process.

[0081] (Change restriction processing) Next, an example of the change restriction process will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17. The change restriction process is a process that restricts a change when a user attempts to change game content included in a game content group, i.e., disallows the change.

[0082] 16, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires information based on a game media group organization operation through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the first or second user, and upon receiving a request to change the game media included in the first or second game media group (S401), if it determines that the combination of game media included in the shared game media group that can be jointly used in quest play still satisfies the conditions set for the quest (S402: YES), it permits the change of game media (S403) and terminates processing. On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that changing the game media will no longer satisfy the conditions (S402: NO), it cancels the information based on the game media group organization operation, for example, and denies the change of game media (S404), and terminates processing. The above is an example of the change restriction process.

[0083] In addition, the change restriction process may restrict a guest user from changing the game media included in the group of game media if the change would affect conditions set for the quest, particularly conditions specified by the host user. The following description will be given taking as an example a case where the first user is the host user and the second user is the guest user.

[0084] 17, the server 10, which is a computer, acquires information based on a game media group organization operation through communication with the user terminal 12 operated by the second user, who is a guest user, and accepts a change to the game media included in the second game media group (S501). If the server 10 determines that the change will cause the combination of game media included in the shared game media group that can be used jointly in quest play to no longer satisfy the conditions set for the quest, which are specified by the first user, who is the host user (S502: YES), the server 10 denies the change to the game media by, for example, canceling the information based on the game media group organization operation (S503), and terminates processing. On the other hand, if the server 10 determines that the change to the game media will not cause the conditions specified by the host user to no longer be satisfied (S502: NO), the server 10 permits the change to the game media (S504), and terminates processing. The above is another example of the change restriction process.

[0085] (Recommended action) Next, an example of the recommendation process will be described with reference to Fig. 18. The recommendation process is a process of recommending that game media that may be advantageous to the user when playing a quest be included in the game media group, for example, when conditions set for the quest are met. The following describes an example in which game media to be selected by a second user are recommended when the first user has already organized the first game media group.

[0086] 18, the server 10, which is a computer, identifies game media included in a first group of game media that the first user has completed organizing (S601), and selects game media from among the game media owned by the second user that will satisfy the conditions set for the quest when combined with the game media included in the first group of game media (S602). The server 10 then generates display data for identifiably displaying the selected game media from among the game media owned by the second user, and transmits the generated display data to the user terminal 12 operated by the second user through communication with the user terminal 12, thereby displaying information on the user terminal 12 of the second user recommending the selected game media as game media to be included in the second group of game media (S603), and terminates the process. The above is an example of the recommended process.

[0087] <Other embodiments> Up to this point, we have explained the information processing device, information processing method, and program of the present invention using specific examples, but the above embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and other embodiments may also be considered.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the server 10 functions as the information processing device of the present invention, but this is not limited thereto, and some of the functions of the server 10 may be provided in the user terminal 12. For example, some or all of the functions of the organization unit 33, effect generation unit 34, notification unit 35, or game control unit 36 ​​may be provided in the user terminal 12.

[0089] In the above embodiment, various information such as user information is stored in the server 10, but it is also possible to provide a separate database server (not shown) and store all the information in one place in that database server, or to store the information on the user terminal 12 side.

[0090] In the above embodiment, each user individually organizes a group of game media and combines these multiple groups of game media to organize a group of common game media that can be jointly used in quest play. However, it is sufficient if multiple users provide game media to organize a group of common game media that can be jointly used in quest play. In addition to the case where each user brings together their own group of game media, the user may directly select game media to be included in the group of common game media.

[0091] In the above embodiment, an example of a game has been described in which a character string is formed using game media, and the player competes against enemy characters or other users (game media controlled by other users), and scores are obtained. However, the present invention can be applied to other games as long as the game allows for cooperative play by multiple users. For example, the present invention may be applied to word games, action games, fighting games, sports games, shooting games, racing games, puzzle games, card games, board games, role-playing games, simulation games, etc. The game may be an individual game or a team game. The game may be one in which humans compete against each other as users, or one in which a human competes against a computer (e.g., AI or a robot).

[0092] In the above embodiment, users can generally enjoy all functions free of charge. However, some functions may be limited and users may be able to use the limited functions by paying a predetermined usage fee. That is, special conditions may be set for paying users who have paid a predetermined usage fee to give them an advantage in playing the game. For example, paying users may be able to obtain hard-to-obtain game content or play special quests depending on the amount of their fees. Note that this usage fee may be a pay-as-you-go system, or may be a subscription-like system in which a one-time payment is valid for the user for a certain period of time (e.g., one month or one year).

[0093] <Summary> [General-purpose assignment] One of the objects of the present invention is to facilitate the organization of a group of game media to be used in cooperative play.

[0094] Issues regarding [Appendix 1] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 1] The information processing device of this embodiment has an organizing unit that organizes a group of game media including two or more game media to be used by multiple users in quest play based on selections received from each user in a game in which multiple users play a common quest together; an effect generating unit that can generate a game effect according to a condition during quest play when a combination of game media included in the game media group satisfies a condition set for the quest; and a notification unit that notifies at least one of the multiple users of information regarding whether the combination satisfies the condition while the multiple users are able to organize the game media group. According to the information processing device, while the users are able to organize their game media, information regarding whether a combination of game media included in a group of game media to be used in a cooperative play of a quest satisfies a condition for generating a game effect set for the quest is notified to at least one of the users. This makes it easier to organize the group of game media to be used in the cooperative play, and also makes it possible to organize a group of game media including a combination of game media corresponding to a quest during the cooperative play.

[0095] Issues regarding [Appendix 2] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 2] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1], wherein the multiple users include a first user and a second user, and the organization unit organizes the game media group by combining a first game media group including game media selected from game media owned by the first user and a second game media group including game media selected from game media owned by the second user. As a result, when a first user and a second user play together, a first group of game media including game media selected from among the game media owned by the first user and a second group of game media including game media selected from among the game media owned by the second user are combined to form a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in quest play, thereby making it possible to form a group of game media including a combination of game media corresponding to a quest in joint play.

[0096] Issues regarding [Appendix 3] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 3] The information processing device described in [Appendix 2], wherein the notification unit notifies the second user of information regarding the game media included in the first game media group before quest play begins. This means that when a first user and a second user play together, the second user can refer to the content of the game media selected by the first user when selecting game media, and select game media that will create a combination that meets the conditions.This makes it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in joint play, and also makes it possible to organize a group of game media in joint play that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest.

[0097] Issues regarding [Appendix 4] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 4] An information processing device described in [Appendix 2], wherein the organization unit changes the number of game media that a first user can include in a first game media group depending on the number of multiple users, and the notification unit notifies the first user when the number is changed. This means that if the number of game media that a first user can select changes depending on the number of users playing collaboratively, the first user can understand that the number of game media that he or she can select has changed, making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and making it possible to organize a group of game media in collaborative play that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest.

[0098] Issues regarding [Appendix 5] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 5] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1], wherein the multiple users include a first user and a second user, and the effect generation unit is capable of generating a game effect during quest play when a combination of a game medium selected by the first user and a game medium selected by the second user satisfies a condition. As a result, when a first user and a second user play together, a game effect is generated based on the combination of the game media selected by the first user and the game media selected by the second user, making it possible to create a group of game media in the joint play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0099] Issues regarding [Appendix 6] One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a game environment in which a first user and a second user can enjoy quest play with a sense of unity. [Appendix 6] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1], wherein the multiple users include a first user and a second user, and the information processing device has a game control unit that controls the game media selected by the first user included in the group of game media so that the second user can use the game media during quest play. This means that when a first user and a second user play together, the second user can also use the game media that the first user has included in his or her game media group, providing a gaming environment in which the first user and the second user can enjoy quest play with a sense of unity.

[0100] Issues regarding [Appendix 7] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 7] The information processing device according to [Appendix 1], wherein the notification unit warns at least one of a plurality of users when a quest play is started without satisfying a condition. This allows at least one of multiple users to be warned and made aware that quest play will begin without satisfying the conditions, making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and also enabling the organization of a group of game media that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest to be realized in collaborative play.

[0101] Issues regarding [Appendix 8] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 8] An information processing device described in [Appendix 1], wherein the notification unit accepts changes to game media included in a group of game media that meets conditions from at least one of the multiple users, and warns at least one of the multiple users if the conditions are no longer met. This allows at least one of multiple users to be alerted if a game medium that satisfies a condition is changed so that the condition is no longer met, thereby making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play and enabling the organization of a group of game media that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest to be realized in collaborative play.

[0102] Issues regarding [Appendix 9] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 9] An information processing device described in [Appendix 1], in which the notification unit notifies at least one of multiple users in an identifiable manner of game media that meet the conditions when included in the game media group and game media that do not meet the conditions when included in the game media group. This allows game media that meet the conditions when included in a game media group to be identifiably notified to at least one of multiple users, making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and also makes it possible to organize a group of game media that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest in collaborative play.

[0103] Issues regarding [Appendix 10] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 10] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1], wherein the notification unit accepts changes to game media included in a group of game media that meets conditions from at least one of the multiple users, and if the conditions are no longer met, notifies at least one of the multiple users in an identifiable manner of information regarding alternative game media that meets the conditions when included in the group of game media. This means that if game media that meets the conditions is changed so that the conditions are no longer met, game media that meets the conditions when included in the game media group in place of the changed game media can be identifiably notified and recommended to at least one of the multiple users, making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play and enabling the organization of a group of game media that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest to be realized in collaborative play.

[0104] Issues regarding [Appendix 11] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 11] An information processing device described in [Appendix 1], wherein the notification unit warns at least one of the multiple users when the success or failure of a condition changes due to at least one of the multiple users changing their participation status in collaborative play. This allows at least one of the multiple users to be alerted if the participation status of other users in the cooperative play changes and the conditions are no longer met, making it easier to organize a group of game media to be used in the cooperative play, and also making it possible to organize a group of game media in the cooperative play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0105] Issues regarding [Appendix 12] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 12] An information processing device according to [Appendix 1], wherein the organization unit restricts changes to game media included in the group of game media that are related to the fulfillment of a condition. This limits changes to game media related to the fulfillment of the conditions, and even if a user changes the game media included in the group of game media, it will not affect the fulfillment of the conditions. This makes it easier to organize the group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and also makes it possible to organize a group of game media in collaborative play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0106] Issues regarding [Appendix 13] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 13] An information processing device as described in [Appendix 1], wherein the organization unit, when receiving an operation from a specific user among multiple users specifying a condition that has been met, restricts changes to game media included in a group of game media related to the specified condition. This restricts changes to game media related to the fulfillment of conditions specified by a particular user, and even if a user changes the game media included in the group of game media, it will not affect the fulfillment of the conditions. This makes it easier to organize the group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and also makes it possible to organize a group of game media in collaborative play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0107] Issues regarding [Appendix 14] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 14] An information processing device described in [Appendix 1], wherein the multiple users include a first user and a second user, and the organization unit recommends game media to be included in a second group of game media organized by the second user so as to satisfy conditions based on a first group of game media that has been organized by the first user. As a result, when a first user and a second user play together, game media to be included in a second game media group organized by the second user are recommended so as to satisfy conditions based on the first game media group that has been organized by the first user, making it easier to organize the game media group to be used in joint play, and also making it possible to organize a game media group in joint play that includes a combination of game media that corresponds to a quest.

[0108] Issues regarding [Appendix 15] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 15] In the information processing method of this embodiment, in a game in which multiple users play a common quest together, a processor organizes a group of game media including two or more game media to be used by the multiple users in quest play based on selections received from each user, and when a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies a condition set for the quest, the processor enables a game effect according to the condition to occur during quest play, and the processor notifies at least one of the multiple users of information regarding whether the combination satisfies the condition while the multiple users are able to organize the group of game media. According to the above information processing method, it is possible to easily organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and it is also possible to realize the organization of a group of game media in collaborative play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest.

[0109] Issues regarding [Appendix 16] One object of the present invention is to realize, in cooperative play, the organization of a group of game contents including a combination of game contents corresponding to a quest. [Appendix 16] The program of this embodiment is a game in which multiple users play a common quest together, in which the processor organizes a group of game media including two or more game media to be used by the multiple users in the quest play based on selections received from each user, and when a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies a condition set for the quest, the processor enables a game effect according to the condition to occur during the quest play, and the processor notifies at least one of the multiple users of information regarding whether the combination satisfies the condition while the multiple users are able to organize the group of game media. According to the above program, it is possible to easily organize a group of game media to be used in collaborative play, and it is also possible to realize the organization of a group of game media in collaborative play that includes a combination of game media corresponding to a quest. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 10 Servers 12 User terminal 14 Network 21 processors 22 Memory 23 Communication Interface 24 Storage 25 Bus 30 Storage section 31 Information Acquisition Department 32 Display control unit 33 Organization Department 34 Effect generation section 35 Information Department 36 Game control unit 41 Play Production Area 42 Frame column display area 43 Game media display area 44 HP display area 45 Time limit display area 46 Condition confirmation button 51 Game media group display area 52 Game media list display area 53 Display condition setting button 54 Save button 61 Game media group display area 62 Condition display area 63 Details button 71 Condition details display area 81 User display area 82 Game media group overview display area 83 Condition display area 84 Start button 91 Start button 92 Reorganization button G1 Quest Play Screen G2 Game Media Group Organization Screen G3 Game media group display screen G4 condition display screen G5 Quest Start Screen G6 condition not achieved warning screen S Information Processing System

Claims

1. When a plurality of users including a first user and a second user play a quest together, a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in the quest by the plurality of users is organized based on game media selected from among game media owned by each of the plurality of users; when an operation to start playing the quest is accepted in a state in which a combination of game media included in the group of game media does not satisfy a condition set for the quest, displaying a warning screen on a terminal of at least one of the plurality of users; making a game medium selected from among the game media owned by the first user and included in the group of game media available to the second user during play of the quest; When a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies the condition, a game effect corresponding to the condition can be generated during play of the quest. Information processing device.

2. the processor, when a plurality of users including a first user and a second user play a quest together, organizes a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in the quest by the plurality of users based on game media selected from among game media owned by each of the users; when an operation to start playing the quest is accepted in a state in which a combination of game media included in the group of game media does not satisfy a condition set for the quest, a processor displays a warning screen on a terminal of at least one of the plurality of users; a processor makes a game medium selected from among the game media owned by the first user and included in the group of game media available to the second user during play of the quest; a processor, when a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies the condition, enabling a game effect corresponding to the condition to be generated during play of the quest; Information processing methods.

3. When a plurality of users including a first user and a second user play a quest together, a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in the quest by the plurality of users is organized based on a game medium selected from among game media owned by each of the users; displaying a warning screen on a display when an operation to start playing the quest is accepted in a state in which a combination of game media included in the group of game media does not satisfy a condition set for the quest; making a game medium selected from among the game media owned by the first user and included in the group of game media available to the second user during play of the quest; When a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies the condition, a game effect corresponding to the condition is enabled during play of the quest. A program that causes a processor to execute a process.

4. A system comprising a server and a terminal, The server, When a plurality of users including a first user and a second user play a quest together, a group of game media including two or more game media to be used in the quest by the plurality of users is organized based on game media selected from among game media owned by each of the plurality of users; when an operation to start playing the quest is accepted in a state in which a combination of game media included in the group of game media does not satisfy a condition set for the quest, displaying a warning screen on a terminal of at least one of the plurality of users; making a game medium selected from among the game media owned by the first user and included in the group of game media available to the second user during play of the quest; When a combination of game media included in the group of game media satisfies the condition, a game effect corresponding to the condition can be generated during play of the quest. system.

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