Identification system, control method, and control program

Abstract

To improve a user's acquisition willingness by giving diversity to a game medium use scene.SOLUTION: An identification system 100 for identifying a game medium having a specification part SP used for identifying a physical game medium CP and a unique part UP unique to the game medium includes: an acquisition part 42A for acquiring imaged data on the game medium acquired by imaging the game medium, which includes an image of the unique part; and an identification part 42B for identifying a game medium corresponding to an appearance feature of the imaged game medium on the basis of identification information D1 for identifying the game medium and the imaged data without performing identification processing using the identification part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an identification system that identifies a game medium having a specific portion used to identify a physical game medium, without performing an identification process using this specific portion. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a game system in which a character card printed inside the housing of a game machine is discharged. This character card includes a two-dimensional barcode containing character information. The character is reproduced during the game by reading the information on the character card through a barcode reader of the game machine. Also, in a mobile phone capable of reading code information, the character is reproduced during the game based on the two-dimensional barcode on the character card.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a game system in which a game device includes a printer that prints on the surface of a data carrier. When output of a goods card that records tool information is selected, the tool information is written to a non-volatile memory of the data carrier and printed on the surface of the card. When a goods card is inserted into the slot, the game device reads out the tool information recorded on the goods card. Furthermore, even when playing a game on a home game device, a fishing game can be enjoyed by using a goods card. In this case, the home game device includes a reader / writer that reads and writes data from and to the data carrier.

[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a game system in which a player can play a game on an arcade game machine and obtain a card with a two-dimensional barcode written thereon. This two-dimensional barcode can be photographed by a camera mounted on a mobile phone. When the two-dimensional barcode is read, text data converted by a barcode conversion unit is transmitted to a game server device. When the control unit of the game server device receives the card data from the mobile phone, it stores the card information in a database. When a request for card information delivery is received from the mobile game machine, the control unit reads out the card information and transmits the read character data to the mobile game machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-046746 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2002-186782 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2007-289458 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the systems described in Patent Documents 1 to 3, a user acquires a gaming medium such as a card or a data carrier, and plays a game using the acquired gaming medium. For this purpose, the gaming machine performs a process of identifying the gaming medium, such as reading a two-dimensional barcode or reading data from a data carrier. The identification method by these identification processes is unique to each game. Therefore, the gaming medium acquired by the user cannot be used in any other way than using it in a specific gaming machine or a gaming device that cooperates with the gaming machine. As described above, since the situations in which the gaming medium can be used are limited, it is difficult for the user to feel the benefit of acquiring the gaming medium, and it is difficult to increase the user's motivation to acquire it.

[0007] In addition, for example, when a game machine is replaced in a store or when the game service is terminated, users will have no place or opportunity to use the game medium. In such a case, users who have acquired game media may feel dissatisfied. Furthermore, the possibility that there will be no more situations in which game media can be used may reduce users' motivation to acquire them. Therefore, there is a need for a means to diversify the situations in which game media can be used and increase users' motivation to acquire them. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An identification system according to one embodiment is an identification system for identifying a gaming medium having a specific part used to identify a physical gaming medium and a unique part that is unique to the gaming medium, and includes an acquisition unit that acquires shooting data of the gaming medium obtained by photographing the gaming medium, the shooting data including an image of the unique part, and an identification unit that identifies the gaming medium that corresponds to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the shooting data, without performing identification processing using the specific part.

[0009] Another embodiment of the control method is a control method for an identification system having a computer, which identifies a gaming medium having a specific part used to identify a physical gaming medium and a unique part that is unique to the gaming medium, wherein the computer acquires shooting data of the gaming medium obtained by photographing the gaming medium, the shooting data including an image of the unique part, and identifies the gaming medium that corresponds to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the shooting data, without performing identification processing using the specific part.

[0010] In addition, a control program according to another embodiment is a control program for an identification system having a computer that identifies a gaming medium having a specific portion used to identify a physical gaming medium and a unique portion that is unique to the gaming medium, and causes the computer to acquire photography data of the gaming medium obtained by photographing the gaming medium, the photography data including an image of the unique portion, and identifies the gaming medium that corresponds to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the photography data, without performing identification processing using the specific portion. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the service. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of the system. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing an example of a game medium. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart of an identification process. [Figure 6] 13 is a flowchart of a presentation process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of components described in the following embodiments can be set arbitrarily and can be changed according to the configuration or various conditions of the device or method to which the present invention is applied. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below. In the following description, identification information is data consisting of letters, numbers, symbols, images, or combinations thereof, and uniquely identifies an identification object linked to the identification information.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, an identification system 100 for identifying physical game media includes a center server 20. The center server 20 functions as a server device. A game machine 30 can be connected to the center server 20 via a predetermined network 50, and functions as a client device. As an example, the game machine 30 is installed in a predetermined facility such as a store 31. The identification system 100 also includes a user terminal 40 as an example of a game machine that can be connected to the center server 20 via the network 50. Note that the game machine 30 is not included in the identification system 100, but it is possible to include it. Also, the server device connected to the user terminal 40 and the server device connected to the game machine 30 may be different. In the following description, an example in which both server devices are the same center server 20 will be mainly described.

[0014] The center server 20 is configured as one logical server device by combining server units 21 as a plurality of computers. However, the center server 20 may be configured by a single server unit 21. Alternatively, the center server 20 may be configured logically by using cloud computing. The center server 20 provides various services for games to the game machines 30 or users of the game machines 30 and the user terminals 40 or users of the user terminals 40. These services include a distribution service that distributes and updates programs or data for the game machines 30 via the network 50. The center server 20 appropriately distributes various programs or data required for providing games to each game machine 30 and user terminal 40 through this distribution service.

[0015] The service for the game may include a service in which the center server 20 receives identification information of a user and authenticates the user. The service for the game may also include a service in which the center server 20 receives and stores play data of an authenticated user. Furthermore, the service for the game may include a service in which the center server 20 provides the play data stored by the center server 20. In addition, the service for the game may include a service in which the center server 20 matches users together when multiple users play a common game via the network 50. The service for the game may also include a service in which the center server 20 collects fees from users.

[0016] The center server 20 may provide various Web services to users of the user terminals 40 via the network 50. These Web services may include a service that provides various game information related to games provided by the game machines 30, a service that distributes various data or software to each user terminal 40, a service that provides a forum for users to send, exchange, and share information, and a service that assigns a user identification ID for identifying each user. The service that distributes software also includes updates to data, etc.

[0017] The network 50 is configured to connect the game machines 30 and the user terminals 40 to the center server 20. As an example, the network 50 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Specifically, a local area network 52 connects the center server 20 and the game machines 30 to the Internet 51. The Internet 51 and the local area network 52 as a WAN are connected via a router 53.

[0018] The user terminal 40 is also configured to be connected to the Internet 51. Alternatively, a local server may be installed between the game machine 30 and the router 53 of the store 31. The game machine 30 can be communicatively connected to the center server 20 via this local server. The server units 21 of the center server 20 may be connected to each other via the Internet 51 instead of or in addition to the local area network 52. The network 50 may be any of a dedicated line, a telephone line, an in-house network, a mobile communication network, other communication lines, and combinations thereof, and may be wired or wireless.

[0019] The game machine 30 is a commercial game machine or an arcade game machine that allows users to play games within a range corresponding to the payment of a predetermined fee. This game machine 30 is sometimes called an arcade game machine. The game machine 30 is a computer device and is installed in a store 31 with the main purpose of making a profit by having many users play the game repeatedly.

[0020] The game machine 30 dispenses physical cards as an example of game media, and provides a game using the dispensed cards. The game media that can be acquired from the game machine 30 are tangible objects, and may be figures, stuffed animals, tags, medals, and the like instead of cards. For example, the game machine 30 provides a simulation-type baseball game in which the user plays the role of a manager by instructing and training characters. The cards dispensed correspond to each player, and each player is reproduced during the game, and the user plays the role of a manager by instructing and training each player. Alternatively, the game machine 30 may provide various other games other than the baseball game. As an example, the other games are a competitive card game, a music game, a board game, a mahjong game, an RPG game, a horse racing game, a fighting game, a puzzle game, a quiz game, and a sports game such as soccer. The following mainly describes a case in which the game machine 30 provides a baseball game using cards.

[0021] The user terminal 40, which is an example of a game device, is a computer device that can be connected to a network and is provided for personal use by a user. For example, the user terminal 40 includes a stationary or notebook personal computer 40A and a mobile terminal device 40B such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone). In addition, the user terminal 40 includes various computer devices such as a stationary home game machine, a portable game machine, and a portable tablet terminal device. The user terminal 40 can allow the user to enjoy various services provided by the center server 20 by implementing various computer software. In the following, a case where the user terminal 40 is a mobile terminal device 40B will be mainly described.

[0022] [Service Overview] Next, an overview of services provided by the identification system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2. When a user plays a game on the game machine 30, the user performs user authentication, and the game machine 30 acquires the user identification ID of the user. Furthermore, when a game is played, the game machine 30 dispenses a player card CP, which is an example of a physical game medium. At this time, the game machine 30 generates a card identification ID as an example of medium identification information of the player card CP. Then, the game machine 30 generates user information that associates the user identification ID of the user with the card identification ID of the dispensed player card CP. Furthermore, the game machine 30 transmits the user information to the center server 20, and the center server 20 stores the user information.

[0023] The game machine 30 includes a monitor 11 as a display device, a control panel 12 as an input device, and a printer unit 13 that functions as an ejection unit that ejects a player card CP. The monitor 11 displays the game screen of a baseball game, and is disposed in front of a user who plays the baseball game. The control panel 12 is disposed below the monitor 11, and receives user operations or instructions regarding the game, or acquires information necessary for the game from the user. The control panel 12 also includes a card reading unit 14 as a reading device that reads information from the player card CP.

[0024] The printer unit 13 performs a predetermined printing on the player card CP and discharges the player card CP from a dispensing opening. The printer unit 13 may also discharge an attachment such as a sticker on which a predetermined printing has been performed, along with dispensing the player card CP. The attachment can be attached to the player card CP by a user. Furthermore, the printer unit 13 may form the player card CP by 3D printing. Alternatively, the dispensing unit may be a player card CP dispensing unit that discharges a player card CP on which a printing has been performed in advance from a dispensing opening.

[0025] A physical gaming medium has a specific portion SP used to identify the gaming medium and a unique portion UP unique to each gaming medium. The specific portion SP and the unique portion UP are physical portions that are part of the gaming medium. The unique portion UP of the player card CP is a printed surface on which images, symbols, character strings, patterns, colors, etc. unique to each gaming medium are printed. For example, on the surface of the player card CP, the image, name, abilities, and other player information of the player to be associated with the player card CP are printed in a manner that is visible to the user. Alternatively, the unique portion UP may be an embossed uneven shape, an engraved character string, etc.

[0026] The specific portion SP of the player card CP is a printed surface on which a read marker is printed. For example, on the back side of the player card CP when turned over, a read marker that can only be observed in the infrared light wavelength range is stealth-printed as an example of the specific portion SP. The specific portion SP may also be a QR code (registered trademark), a barcode, or an IC tag. However, when identifying a gaming medium using a digital camera having an image sensor, a two-dimensional code or a stealth-printed marker is particularly often used to increase the identification accuracy.

[0027] The player card CP is used by a user to play a baseball game. For this purpose, the game machine 30 includes a card reading unit 14. As an example, the read indicator includes a unique pattern associated with medium identification information for identifying each game medium. The medium identification information is set uniquely for each card, and is, for example, a card identification ID. Alternatively, the medium identification information may be a medium name such as the name of the card, an object name such as a player name printed on the card, or a medium or object number. Then, the card reading unit 14 reads the unique pattern to identify the card identification ID of the player card CP. Also, by reading the unique pattern, the basic value of the state parameter of the player associated with the card identification ID is determined.

[0028] The game machine 30 includes a reader that reads authentication information unique to each user stored in an authentication medium. The game machine 30 may also include a physical operation device such as a push button switch, and a value collection device that collects the value required for the game. This value collection device collects at least a portion of the value for the game from the user using cash, substitute coins, medals, electronic currency, virtual currency, points, or the like. The value collection device may collect the value via a card medium that records the remaining amount of electronic currency.

[0029] In the example shown in Fig. 2, the game medium is a player card CP as a card dispensed from the game machine 30. The identification system 100 includes a user terminal 40 as a game device that is different from the game machine 30 and provides a game. The user terminal 40 has a game control unit 42D shown in Fig. 3. The game control unit 42D controls the game according to the player card CP determined based on the identification result by the identification unit 42B.

[0030] Specifically, the user uses the player card CP dispensed by the game machine 30 to play a baseball game in the game machine 30. As an alternative method of use, the user photographs the player card CP with the user terminal 40, and the player card CP is identified. The user can then use the player card CP in the user terminal 40 to play a game in which a character corresponding to the player card CP appears. In this way, the identification system 100 identifies the game medium without performing an identification process using the specific portion SP of the game medium.

[0031] That is, in the game machine 30, the player card CP is identified by performing a reading process using the reading marker of the player card CP. On the other hand, in a scene where the player card CP is photographed and used, the player card CP is identified using the image of the player card CP. Therefore, even if the user terminal 40 does not have a function for performing a specific process using the specific part SP, i.e., a reading process using the reading marker, the user can play a game using the player card CP. This allows the game medium to be used in another game device without being affected by the specific process using the specific part SP. For example, the camera 44 of the user terminal 40 can be used to identify the game medium. Therefore, even without a special function or device, the game medium can be easily identified.

[0032] According to such an identification system 100, it is possible to provide diversity to the situations where game media are used. Therefore, the user feels the benefit of acquiring game media, and the motivation to acquire game media can be improved. Furthermore, even if the game machine 30 in the store 31 is replaced or the game service provision is terminated, the user can use the game media. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the loss of the opportunity to use the game media and suppress the decline in the motivation to acquire game media. Furthermore, even if the service provision is not terminated, the user can enjoy the benefit of being able to use the game media on a device other than the game machine 30.

[0033] The game that can be played on the game machine 30 may be different from the game that can be played on the user terminal 40. As an example, the user terminal 40 may be able to play a competitive card game instead of a baseball game. Furthermore, the user terminal 40 may be provided with items, music, etc. that can be used in the game in addition to or instead of adding characters through the use of the game medium. Furthermore, the user terminal 40 may be provided with benefits in the game, or a special event may occur.

[0034] Furthermore, the manner of using the game medium in another device other than the game machine 30 is not limited to use in a game. For example, in the other device, a game medium such as a virtual card corresponding to the game medium to be used, currency that can be used in a game, or an item may be acquired. Furthermore, if the other device is a card dispenser, a card corresponding to the game medium to be used or a card that can be used in a new game may be dispensed. Furthermore, the other device may be an arcade game machine. Furthermore, the identification result of the game medium in the user terminal 40 may simply be stored in the other device (for example, the center server 20).

[0035] [Control system] Next, the control system of the identification system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The center server 20 of the identification system 100 has a server control unit 22 that controls the center server 20, and a server storage unit 23 that stores a program for controlling the center server 20. The server control unit 22 is configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, and other peripheral devices. However, the identification system 100 may be equipped with only the user terminal 40 without including the center server 20.

[0036] As an example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), which controls the entire device and also centrally controls various processes based on a program stored in the server storage unit 23. The server storage unit 23 also includes RAM (Random Access Memory), which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, as well as ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs and system software, and storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disc Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0037] An operating device including a keyboard or various switches for inputting predetermined commands and data is connected to the server control unit 22 via wired or wireless connection. A display device for displaying the input state, setting state, measurement results, and various information of the device is also connected to the server control unit 22 via wired or wireless connection. Furthermore, the server control unit 22 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a CF (Compact Flash) card, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

[0038] The server storage unit 23 is an external storage device including a non-volatile storage medium (a computer-readable non-transient storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. The server storage unit 23 may hold all data on one storage unit, or may store data in a distributed manner across multiple storage units. The server storage unit 23 also stores server data necessary for providing various services. This server data includes various data for the baseball game provided by the user terminal 40, and various data used to identify game media. As an example, the server data includes various data such as identification information D1, user information, user identification information, medium information, medium identification information, and game information.

[0039] For example, the medium information includes card data for managing information associated with each medium for a baseball game. In this card data, a card identification ID unique to each card is associated with information on each card in order to identify each card. The medium identification information is information unique to each game medium that is set to identify each game medium, and is, for example, a card identification ID composed of a predetermined character or symbol. The game information includes character data for managing parameters that define each player in a baseball game. In this character data, a character ID unique to each player is associated with the parameters of each player in order to identify each player.

[0040] The parameters attached to the gaming medium are information indicating a degree, and correspond to the medium identification information. For example, the parameters are represented by numbers, alphabets, or symbols. As an example, the parameters are rarity or price, which are the value of the gaming medium. The parameters may also be information indicating the degree of ability value or level, the presence or absence of ability, or the degree of condition, etc., of an object (e.g., a player) corresponding to the gaming medium.

[0041] The user terminal 40 of the identification system 100 has a terminal control unit 42 that controls the user terminal 40, and a terminal storage unit 43 that stores a control program PG of the terminal control unit 42. The user terminal 40 also has a camera 44, which is an example of an imaging device that images a game medium. For example, the camera 44 is a known digital camera equipped with a CCD image sensor. The user terminal 40 also has a touch panel 45, which is an example of an input display device. However, the user terminal 40 may have a display device and an input device instead of the input display device. For example, the user terminal 40 may have a keyboard or the like, which is an example of an input device. The user terminal 40 may also have a liquid crystal panel or the like, which is an example of a display device. The user terminal 40 also has an audio output device that outputs game audio and the like.

[0042] The terminal control unit 42 is configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program with other peripheral devices. As an example, the processor is a CPU or MPU, and controls the entire device and also comprehensively controls various processes based on a control program PG stored in the terminal storage unit 43. Furthermore, the terminal control unit 42 can also perform control according to the control program PG stored in a portable storage medium such as a CD, DVD, CF card, or USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a server on the Internet.

[0043] The terminal storage unit 43 includes a RAM, which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a storage device such as a ROM, HDD, and SSD that stores programs and system software. The terminal storage unit 43 is also an external storage device that includes a non-volatile storage medium (a computer-readable non-transient storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device. The terminal storage unit 43 stores identification information D1 for identifying the game medium and game data D2 used for game control, together with the control program PG. For example, the user terminal 40 downloads the identification information D1 and the game data D2 from the center server 20. The terminal storage unit 43 also stores various programs and data, and as an example, stores a shooting program used for shooting by the camera 44.

[0044] For example, the identification information D1 is information in which the appearance features of each game medium are linked to the medium identification information that identifies the game medium. Specifically, the appearance features of the game medium are the appearance features of the unique part UP of the game medium. As an example, the appearance features are the positions, shapes, and sizes of characteristic points such as the eyes, nose, and mouth of the face of a character printed on the game medium. The appearance features may also be an image including a character, which is a characteristic part of each game medium. In this case, the identification information D1 may be information in which image data regarding the image of each game medium is linked to the medium identification information.

[0045] The game data D2 is data for allowing the user to play a predetermined game in accordance with the control program PG. The game data D2 includes various data such as image data for displaying various images for a baseball game, BGM data for playing various BGM, and user play data. The user play data is data for carrying over content unique to each user, such as the user's play history (e.g., past achievements), to the next and subsequent games. The game data D2 also includes character data and card data distributed from the center server 20.

[0046] The terminal control unit 42 includes, as logical devices, an acquisition unit 42A, an identification unit 42B, an extraction unit 42C, and a game control unit 42D. These logical devices are realized by a combination of the hardware resources of the terminal control unit 42 and a control program PG as a software resource.

[0047] The acquisition unit 42A acquires the shooting data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium, including an image of the unique part UP. As an example, the acquisition unit 42A acquires the shooting data photographed by the camera 44. In this case, the shooting data photographed by the camera 44 may be stored in the terminal storage unit 43. The acquisition unit 42A may also start the camera 44 to acquire the shooting data. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 42A may acquire the shooting data photographed by a photographing device different from the camera 44. In this case, the acquisition unit 42A may receive and acquire the shooting data from an external device different from the user terminal 40. Furthermore, the shooting data may be still image data or video data.

[0048] The identification unit 42B identifies the game medium without performing a specification process using the specific portion SP of the game medium. The identification unit 42B then identifies the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature of the photographed game medium based on the identification information D1 for identifying the game medium and the photographed data. For example, the extraction unit 42C analyzes the photographed data acquired by the acquisition unit 42A to extract the appearance feature. The identification unit 42B then refers to the identification information D1 to search for the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature of the photographed game medium, thereby identifying the game medium. Specifically, the identification unit 42B acquires the appearance feature of the photographed game medium from the extraction unit 42C and compares it with the appearance feature included in the identification information D1. The identification unit 42B then identifies the medium identification information associated with the appearance feature similar to the photographed game medium from the identification information D1. As a result, the identification unit 42B outputs information indicating the game medium corresponding to the medium identification information as an identification result. As an example, the identification unit 42B outputs, as an identification result, medium identification information such as the name of the game medium, an image of the game medium, or a card identification ID.

[0049] In this way, the identification unit 42B identifies at least one game medium based on the photographing data. Then, when the identification unit 42B can identify one game medium, it determines this game medium as the game medium corresponding to the medium identification information to be output. For example, when a user uses a player card CP on the user terminal 40, the user photographs the player card CP with the camera 44. Then, the identification unit 42B identifies each player card CP based on the photographing data obtained by photographing. Here, the player card CP has a printing surface on which a read marker is printed as a specific portion SP used to identify the player card CP in the game machine 30. However, the identification unit 42B identifies each player card CP using the photographing data without performing identification processing using the specific portion SP.

[0050] As a result, each player card CP can be identified and used on other platforms such as the user terminal 40, regardless of the method of the identification process and the device or function required for the identification process. Therefore, the situations in which the player card CP can be used can be diversified, and the motivation of the user to acquire the player card CP can be improved. In particular, when a physical game medium is used later on in a device other than the game machine 30 that discharged the game medium, the game medium can be effectively used. For example, when a service provided by the game machine 30 that discharged the game medium is terminated, the game medium can be effectively used. Furthermore, when the game machine 30 no longer exists in an area where the game medium is available to the user, the game medium acquired by the user can be effectively used. Furthermore, game media to be used for different types of games can be identified regardless of the method of the identification process using the respective specific portions SP.

[0051] The identification of the gaming medium may be performed using AI (Artificial Intelligence) created by machine learning. As an example, the control program PG may include a learned model obtained by deep learning using a data set that combines input data, which is image data obtained by photographing the gaming medium, and a correct answer thereto, as teacher data. The identification unit 42B uses this learned model to identify the gaming medium corresponding to the appearance feature output by inputting the photographed data, by referring to the identification information D1 including the image data group used for printing the gaming medium. As a specific example of learning, a data set is used that combines image data obtained by photographing an object (e.g., a character, text, pattern, etc.) printed in advance on each player card CP and image data used for printing the gaming medium.

[0052] The identification unit 42B may also identify a plurality of game media simultaneously using photographed data including images of a plurality of game media. Furthermore, the identification unit 42B may identify game media in the middle of photographing the game media. When identifying using data received from a device other than the user terminal 40, the identification unit 42B may determine whether the photographed data is obtained by photographing. For example, the identification unit 42B determines that image data that does not include a background is not photographed data. If the image data is not photographed data, the identification unit 42B does not identify the game media. This makes it possible to prevent image data generated by a method other than photographing, such as generation by an image generation program, from being used illegally.

[0053] Furthermore, when a plurality of game media are identified as the identification result of the game media, the identification unit 42B determines one of the plurality of game media. Then, the identification unit 42B outputs medium identification information of the determined game media. The game is controlled in the user terminal 40 using the determined game media. In FIG. 4, three player cards CP of the same player but different from each other are shown as an example of a plurality of game media. Specifically, the first card CP1, the second card CP2, and the third card CP3 are all cards of the player "A Taro". However, the first card CP1 is a card when the player belongs to the Japan team, its rarity is "SR" and its uniform number is "6". In addition, the second card CP2 is a card when the player belongs to the Osaka team, its rarity is "R" and its uniform number is "16". And the third card CP3 is a card when the player belongs to the Saitama team, its rarity is "N" and its uniform number is "18".

[0054] The first card CP1, the second card CP2, and the third card CP3 all have an image of the player "A Taro" printed on the unique portion UP. Therefore, the external characteristics of the cards, for example, the external characteristics of the players' faces, are similar, and the identification accuracy is likely to decrease. Furthermore, when identifying using photographic data of objects printed on the cards, the identification accuracy is likely to decrease due to light reflection, etc. Therefore, the identification unit 42B may identify the cards as the three player cards CP, the first card CP1, the second card CP2, and the third card CP3, as the identification result. In this case, the identification unit 42B randomly determines one of the three player cards CP and outputs the medium identification information. As a result, even in a situation where the identification accuracy is likely to decrease, information indicating a specific game medium can be output, and the game medium can be used in another device.

[0055] Alternatively, the identification unit 42B may determine the game medium according to a predetermined rule and output the medium identification information of the determined game medium. For example, the predetermined rule is a rule based on the parameters of each of the multiple game media. As an example, the predetermined rule is a rule that determines the game medium with the highest parameter, the game medium with the lowest parameter, or the game medium with a parameter whose value is the intermediate value or median value.

[0056] Furthermore, the identification unit 42B may determine at least one game medium commonly linked to a group of game media including a plurality of game media according to the identification result of the game medium. Then, the identification unit 42B outputs medium identification information of the determined game medium. The determined game medium is used to control the game in the user terminal 40. For example, the game medium group is composed of a group of game media including a first card CP1 to a third card CP3 shown in FIG. 4. A card of a player "A Taro" of a predetermined rarity is commonly linked to this group of game media. Then, when the identification result indicates at least one of the first card CP1 to the third card CP3, the identification unit 42B determines the commonly linked card. The game is controlled in the user terminal 40 using the determined card.

[0057] As a result, even if at least some of the gaming media included in the gaming medium group cannot be used in other devices, if the commonly linked gaming media can be used, the gaming media can be used in the other devices. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare only data corresponding to some of the gaming media as game data for the other devices. Therefore, the amount of data used in the other devices in which the gaming media are used can be reduced.

[0058] For example, there may be cases where the first card CP1 and the second card CP2 cannot be used in a game provided by the user terminal 40, and only the third card CP3 can be used. In this case, the identification unit 42B that identified the first card CP1 and the second card CP2 determines the third card CP3 based on the identification result, and outputs its medium identification information. This allows the user to use the third card CP3 in a game provided by the user terminal 40, using the first card CP1 and the second card CP2.

[0059] Further, the game media included in the skill media group are linked to the game media group. For example, one player card CP included in the game media group may be linked to a game media group consisting of player cards CP corresponding to a common player character. Alternatively, at least one game medium that is linked may not be included in the game media group. In this case, a game medium having an object, type, parameter, or the like in common with the game media group may be linked. As an example of a common type of game medium, one player card CP corresponding to a player representing this team may be linked to a game media group consisting of player cards CP belonging to a common team. As another example, a game medium that can be used in another arcade game machine may be linked to a game media group consisting of a plurality of game media that can be used in a common game machine 30.

[0060] Furthermore, by determining the linked gaming medium as described above, even if multiple gaming media are identified or only one gaming medium is identified depending on the identification accuracy, information indicating the specific gaming medium can be output and the gaming medium can be used on another device. Note that the multiple gaming media constituting the gaming medium group have a common object (e.g., player, etc.) corresponding to the gaming medium. As another example, the multiple gaming media constituting the gaming medium group have a common type of gaming medium (e.g., team, position, attribute, etc.) or a common parameter of the gaming medium (e.g., rarity, etc.). Also, instead of one gaming medium being linked, multiple gaming media may be linked to one gaming medium group.

[0061] Furthermore, when the identification unit 42B is unable to identify the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature, it presents at least one of the cause of the inability to identify and a method for resolving the cause to the user. For example, the identification unit 42B analyzes the photographed data to determine the cause of the inability to identify. As an example, in the photographed data, reflected light may be caught in the face of the player printed on the player card CP. In this case, the identification unit 42B displays the character string "Light is caught" on the touch panel 45 as the cause of the inability to identify. Furthermore, the identification unit 42B displays the character string "Please take the photograph so that no light is caught" on the touch panel 45 as a method for resolving the cause.

[0062] As a result, when the game medium cannot be identified, the identification unit 42B can determine the cause and present the cause and a method for resolving the cause. Therefore, the user can be prompted to eliminate the cause, and a decrease in identification accuracy can be suppressed. When making the above presentation, the identification unit 42B may display an image instead of a character string, or may display a video instead of an image. Furthermore, the identification unit 42B may display a number, code, symbol, or the like that indicates a specific cause or a specific method for resolving the cause. Furthermore, when making the above presentation, the identification unit 42B may output sound to an audio output device instead of displaying on a display device.

[0063] Furthermore, when multiple game media are identified as a result of the game media identification, the identification unit 42B may present at least one of the multiple game media as an option to the user. Then, the identification unit 42B determines the game medium indicated by the option selected by the user, and outputs medium identification information of the game medium. The game in the user terminal 40 is controlled according to the selected game medium. For example, when the first card CP1 to the third card CP3 shown in FIG. 4 are identified, the identification unit 42B presents the first card CP1 to the third card CP3 to the user as options. Note that the identification unit 42B may present all of the multiple game media as options, or may present some of the multiple game media as options.

[0064] As an example, the identification unit 42B displays images of the first card CP1 to the third card CP3 on the touch panel 45. When the user touches any one of the images, the identification unit 42B outputs medium identification information of the player card CP corresponding to the touched position. As a result, even if a plurality of game media are identified, information indicating a specific game medium is output, and the game medium can be used in another device. The identification unit 42B may display a character string instead of an image as the above-mentioned option, or may display a video instead of an image. The identification unit 42B may also display a number, code, or symbol, etc., indicating a specific game medium, as the above-mentioned option. Furthermore, when presenting the above-mentioned option, the identification unit 42B may output a sound to an audio output device instead of a display mode on a display device.

[0065] When presenting the above options, the identification unit 42B may present the options based on the parameters of the game media. For example, when the parameters of multiple game media are different, the identification unit 42B presents the game media with low parameters to the user as options. Specifically, when multiple game media are identified, the identification unit 42B presents multiple game media with low parameters as options from among the multiple game media. In the example of FIG. 4, the identification unit 42B presents the second card CP2 and the third card CP3, whose rarity, which is an example of a parameter, is lower than a predetermined standard, as options.

[0066] On the other hand, if the proportion of cards with high parameters used in the game increases, this could affect the balance of the game's difficulty. However, if cards with low parameters are presented as options, the number of cards with high parameters will not increase, so this effect can be suppressed. Furthermore, normal users are more likely to desire cards with high parameters. Therefore, if a card with a low parameter is mistakenly presented, the user will perform the task of identifying the card again. This can encourage the user to voluntarily re-identify.

[0067] Alternatively, the identification unit 42B may present a plurality of game media with high parameters as options from among the plurality of game media. In this case, in the example of FIG. 4, the identification unit 42B presents a first card CP1 and a second card CP2 with rarity higher than a predetermined standard as options. A normal user is likely to desire a card with high parameters. Therefore, if a card with high parameters is presented, the user will not be dissatisfied. The identification unit 42B may also present a median or median parameter as an option from among the plurality of game media. For example, if the median or median rarity is "R", the identification unit 42B presents a game medium with rarity "R" as an option. This can reduce the user's dissatisfaction while suppressing the impact on the balance of the game difficulty.

[0068] Alternatively, the identification unit 42B may automatically determine the gaming medium when multiple gaming media are identified as the identification result of the gaming medium. As an example, the user sets a determination criterion in advance for determining the gaming medium to be selected from the multiple gaming media. For example, a determination criterion is set such as selecting the gaming medium with the highest parameter. Then, the identification unit 42B automatically determines the gaming medium according to the determination criterion.

[0069] In addition, the identification unit 42B may present an error to the user based on the parameters of the game media when a plurality of game media are identified as the identification result of the game media. For example, the identification unit 42B presents an error when the difference in parameters between the plurality of game media reaches a predetermined level. As an example, the information indicating this error is a character string indicating an instruction to re-photograph, a fact that an error has occurred, a fact that identification is not possible, a fact that the parameters of the identified game media are not available for use, or a fact that the photographed game medium is not available for identification. Specifically, when the predetermined level is set to two stages and the three cards shown in FIG. 4 are identified, the identification unit 42B calculates the difference in rarity between the first card CP1 and the third card CP3. Then, since this difference is two stages, the identification unit 42B determines that the predetermined level has been reached and presents an error. When an error is presented, the user performs the task of identifying the cards again.

[0070] This makes it possible to prevent a gaming medium with a high parameter from being easily selected by encouraging the user to re-identify the card when multiple gaming media are identified. Alternatively, the identification unit 42B may present an error to the user when at least one parameter of the multiple gaming media reaches a predetermined standard. The identification unit 42B may display a character string instead of an image as the error, or may display a video instead of an image. The identification unit 42B may also display a number, code, or symbol, etc., indicating a specific error content, as the error. Furthermore, when presenting the above error, the identification unit 42B may output a sound to an audio output device instead of displaying it on a display device.

[0071] The extraction unit 42C extracts the appearance characteristics of the game medium from the shooting data. Then, the identification unit 42B identifies each game medium using the extracted appearance characteristics as an identification based on the shooting data. Alternatively, the extraction unit 42C may be omitted. In this case, the identification unit 42B may identify the game medium by comparing the image of the game medium included in the shooting data with the image of the game medium included in the identification information D1. As an example, the identification unit 42B may identify the game medium by comparing the color arrangement pattern of the image included in the shooting data with the color arrangement pattern of the image included in the identification information D1.

[0072] The game control unit 42D controls the game according to the game medium determined based on the identification result by the identification unit 42B. Specifically, the game control unit 42D acquires medium identification information indicating the player card CP determined based on the identification result from the identification unit 42B. Then, the game control unit 42D executes various calculation controls required for the progress of the game according to the player card CP indicated by the medium identification information. For example, the game data D2 includes usage information linked to the medium identification information of the game medium used in each game provided by the game machine 30. Then, the game control unit 42D controls the game based on the usage information or performs a process that changes the progress of the game.

[0073] As one example, in the usage information, game objects such as players appearing in a game played on the user terminal 40 are linked to medium identification information. Then, the game control unit 42D controls the game so that the linked game objects appear based on the medium identification information indicating the player card CP determined by the identification unit 42B. As another example, in the usage information, benefits such as events occurring in a game played on the user terminal 40 are linked to medium identification information. Then, the game control unit 42D controls the game so that the linked events occur based on the medium identification information indicating the player card CP determined by the identification unit 42B.

[0074] Furthermore, the game control unit 42D executes processing for enjoying the services provided by the server control unit 22 of the center server 20. For example, the game control unit 42D receives data for the game from the center server 20 and updates the game data D2.

[0075] [Processing flow] The process executed by the classification unit 42B will be described with reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Fig. 5 is a schematic flowchart of the classification process executed by the classification unit 42B. Fig. 6 is a schematic flowchart of the presentation process performed during the classification process. Alternatively, the presentation process may be executed after the classification process is completed.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 5, when a user photographs a game medium with a camera 44, the acquisition unit 42A acquires the photographed data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium (S101). Then, the extraction unit 42C extracts the appearance characteristics of the game medium from the photographed data (S102). Next, the identification unit 42B identifies the game medium corresponding to the appearance characteristics of the photographed game medium based on the identification information D1 for identifying the game medium and the photographed data (S103). Here, if the game medium corresponding to the appearance characteristics can be identified and the identification is completed (YES in S104), the process proceeds to the next step.

[0077] If multiple game media are identified (YES in S105), the identification unit 42B presents at least one of the multiple game media to the user as an option (S106). Then, the identification unit 42B determines the game medium indicated by the option selected by the user (S107) and outputs its medium identification information. On the other hand, if one game medium can be identified (NO in S105), the identification unit 42B determines this game medium as the game medium corresponding to the medium identification information to be output (S107).

[0078] Thereafter, if the identification of all game media has been completed (YES in S108), the identification process ends. Then, the game control unit 42D performs game processing to control the game according to the game media determined based on the identification result by the identification unit 42B. On the other hand, if the identification of some game media has not been completed (NO in S108), the user photographs other game media with the camera 44. Then, the identification process is repeated until all game media are identified. Note that the game control unit 42D may perform the game process at any timing. For example, in a state where the user is photographing the game media, the game control unit 42D may perform the game process using as a trigger a change in at least one of the position and the attitude of the game media. In addition, after the identification of the game media has been completed, the game control unit 42D may perform the game process using as a trigger a user's operation (for example, a touch operation on the touch panel 45).

[0079] Also, if the identification is not completed (NO in S104), for example, if the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature cannot be identified, the identification unit 42B executes a presentation process (S109). As shown in FIG. 6, in the presentation process, if the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature cannot be identified (YES in S201), the identification unit 42B presents the user with a solution to the cause of the failure to be identified (S202). Note that the identification unit 42B may present the cause of the failure to be identified to the user instead of or in addition to the solution. After that, the process returns to the flow shown in FIG. 5, and when the user photographs the game medium with the camera 44, the acquisition unit 42A acquires the photographed data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium (S101).

[0080] On the other hand, there are cases where the game medium can be identified (NO in S201), but the identification cannot be completed because an error is displayed. For example, when the identification unit 42B determines that the difference in parameters between the identified game media reaches a predetermined level, the identification cannot be completed. In this case, the identification unit 42B displays an error to the user (S203). After that, the process returns to the flow shown in FIG. 5, and when the user photographs the game medium with the camera 44, the acquisition unit 42A acquires the photographed data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium (S101).

[0081] According to the identification system 100 described above, each game medium can be identified and used in another device, regardless of the method of identification processing used in the game machine 30 and the device or function required for the identification processing. This allows for diversity in the situations in which game media can be used, thereby increasing the motivation of users to acquire them. In particular, when physical game media are used later in a device other than the game machine 30 that dispensed the game media, the game media can be used effectively.

[0082] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. Inventions modified without violating the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention are also included in the present invention. In addition, each embodiment and each modified form, and technical means included in each embodiment or each modified form can be appropriately combined without violating the present invention.

[0083] For example, the photographing device used to photograph the game medium and the game device that plays the game using the photographed data of the game medium may be different. As an example, the mobile terminal device 40B may be used as the photographing device to play the game on the personal computer 40A. In this case, photographing and identifying the game medium are performed on the mobile terminal device 40B. Then, the mobile terminal device 40B uploads information (e.g., medium identification information) indicating the game medium determined based on the identification result by the identification unit 42B to the center server 20. Thereafter, the personal computer 40A acquires the information and controls the game based on the acquired information.

[0084] Furthermore, the center server 20 may have at least one of the acquisition unit 42A, the identification unit 42B, the extraction unit 42C, and the game control unit 42D. For example, the center server 20 may have the acquisition unit 42A, the identification unit 42B, and the extraction unit 42C, and the user terminal 40 may have the game control unit 42D. In this case, the center server 20 and the user terminal 40 cooperate to function as the identification system 100. The acquisition unit 42A of the center server 20 acquires photographed data of the game medium photographed by the user terminal 40. The identification unit 42B of the center server 20 identifies the game medium and transmits information indicating the game medium determined based on the identification result to the user terminal 40.

[0085] Furthermore, the center server 20 may have an acquisition unit 42A, a recognition unit 42B, an extraction unit 42C, and a game control unit 42D. For example, the game control unit 42D of the center server 20 provides a game to a user via a user terminal 40. Then, the acquisition unit 42A of the center server 20 acquires photographed data of a game medium photographed by the user terminal 40. Also, the recognition unit 42B of the center server 20 recognizes the game medium and transmits information indicating the game medium determined based on the recognition result to the user terminal 40. Then, the game control unit 42D of the center server 20 controls the game according to the game medium determined based on the recognition result by the recognition unit 42B.

[0086] A part or all of the above-described embodiments may be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. In order to facilitate understanding of each aspect, reference symbols shown in the accompanying drawings are used. However, the reference symbols are not intended to limit the present invention to the illustrated forms.

[0087] (Appendix 1) An identification system 100 for identifying a physical game medium CP having a specific portion SP used to identify the game medium CP and a unique portion UP unique to the game medium CP, An acquisition unit 42A that acquires image data of the game medium CP obtained by photographing the game medium CP, the image data including an image of the unique portion UP; The identification system 100 includes an identification unit 42B that identifies the game medium CP corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed game medium CP based on identification information D1 for identifying the game medium CP and the photographing data, without performing identification processing using the specific portion SP.

[0088] (Appendix 2) The identification information D1 is information in which the appearance characteristics of each of the game media CP are associated with medium identification information for identifying the game medium CP, The identification system 100 according to appendix 1, wherein the identification unit 42B identifies the game medium CP by searching for the game medium CP corresponding to the appearance feature with reference to the identification information D1.

[0089] (Appendix 3) The identification system 100 according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, when a plurality of game media CP are identified as a result of the identification of the game media CP, the identification unit 42B determines one of the plurality of game media CP.

[0090] (Appendix 4) The identification system 100 described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the identification unit 42B determines at least one game medium CP that is commonly linked to a game medium group including multiple game media CPs according to the identification result of the game medium CP.

[0091] (Appendix 5) The identification system 100 described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4, wherein, when the identification unit 42B is unable to identify the game medium CP corresponding to the appearance characteristics, it presents to the user at least one of the cause of the inability to identify and a method of resolving the cause.

[0092] (Appendix 6) The identification system 100 described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein when multiple game media CP are identified as a result of the identification of the game medium CP, the identification unit 42B presents at least one of the multiple game media CP to the user as an option.

[0093] (Appendix 7) The identification system 100 according to claim 6, wherein the identification unit 42B presents the options based on parameters of the game medium CP.

[0094] (Appendix 8) The identification system 100 according to appendix 7, wherein, when the parameters of the plurality of game media CP are different, the identification unit 42B presents the game medium CP having a lower parameter to the user as the option.

[0095] (Appendix 9) The identification system 100 according to appendix 1 or 2, wherein, when a plurality of game media CP are identified as a result of the identification of the game medium CP, the identification unit 42B presents an error to a user based on parameters of the game medium CP.

[0096] (Appendix 10) The identification system 100 according to supplementary note 9, wherein the identification unit 42B presents the error when a difference in the parameters between the plurality of game media CP reaches a predetermined level.

[0097] (Appendix 11) The game medium CP is a card CP discharged from the game machine 30. The identification system 100 includes a game device 40 that is different from the game machine 30 and provides a game, The game device 40 has a game control unit 42D, The identification system 100 according to any one of appendices 1 to 10, wherein the game control unit 42D controls the game in accordance with a game medium CP determined based on a result of the identification by the identification unit 42B.

[0098] (Appendix 12) The identification system 100 according to appendix 11, wherein the game device 40 has a photographing device 44 that photographs the game medium CP.

[0099] (Appendix 13) A method for identifying a physical game medium CP having a specific portion SP used to identify the game medium CP and a unique portion UP unique to the game medium CP, and for controlling an identification system 100 having a computer 42, comprising: The computer 42 is acquiring photographic data of the game medium CP obtained by photographing the game medium CP, the photographic data including an image of the unique portion UP; A control method for identifying a game medium CP corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed game medium CP based on identification information D1 for identifying the game medium CP and the photographing data, without performing a specific process using the specific portion SP.

[0100] (Appendix 14) A control program PG for an identification system 100 having a computer 42, which identifies a physical game medium CP having a specific part SP used to identify the game medium CP and a unique part UP unique to the game medium CP, The computer 42 includes: acquiring photographic data of the game medium CP obtained by photographing the game medium CP, the photographic data including an image of the unique portion UP; A control program PG that identifies the game medium CP corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed game medium CP based on identification information D1 for identifying the game medium CP and the photographing data, without performing a specific process using the specific portion SP.

[0101] According to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Notes 1 and 2, the control method described in Supplementary Note 13, and the control program PG described in Supplementary Note 14, each game medium can be identified and used in another device, regardless of the method of specific processing used in the game machine 30 and the device or function required for the specific processing. This allows for diversity in the situations in which game media can be used, thereby increasing the user's motivation to acquire them. In particular, when physical game media are used later in a device other than the game machine 30 that ejected the game media, the game media can be used effectively.

[0102] Furthermore, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Note 3, even in a situation where the identification accuracy is likely to decrease, information indicating a specific game medium can be output, and the game medium can be used in another device. Also, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Note 4, even if at least some of the game media included in the game medium group cannot be used in another device, the game medium can be used in the other device as long as the commonly linked game media can be used. Also, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Note 5, the user can be prompted to perform an operation to eliminate the cause, thereby suppressing a decrease in the identification accuracy.

[0103] Moreover, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Notes 6 to 8, even if multiple game media are identified, information indicating a specific game medium can be output, and the game medium can be used in another device. Moreover, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Notes 9 and 10, when multiple game media are identified, the user is prompted to re-identify the card, and it is possible to prevent a game medium with a high parameter from being easily selected. Moreover, according to the identification system 100 described in Supplementary Notes 11 and 12, each card can be identified and used in another game device, regardless of the method of identification processing used in the game machine 30 and the device or function required for the identification processing. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the situations in which cards can be used, and to increase the user's motivation to acquire cards. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 30: Game console 40: User terminal (game device) 42: Terminal control unit (computer) 42A: Acquisition section 42B: Identification section 42D: Game control unit 44: Camera (photography device) 100: Identification system CP: Player card (game medium) D1: Identification information PG: Control program SP:Specific part UP: Unique part

Claims

1. An identification system for identifying a gaming medium having a specific portion used to identify a physical gaming medium and a unique portion unique to the gaming medium, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires image data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium, the image data including an image of the unique portion; An identification system comprising an identification unit that identifies the gaming medium corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the photographing data, without performing identification processing using the specified portion.

2. the identification information is information in which the appearance characteristics of each of the game media are associated with medium identification information for identifying the game medium; The identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the identification unit identifies the game medium by searching for the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature with reference to the identification information.

3. 3. The identification system according to claim 1, wherein when a plurality of game media are identified as the identification result of the game media, the identification unit determines one of the plurality of game media.

4. The identification system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the identification unit determines at least one game medium that is commonly linked to a game medium group including a plurality of the game media, depending on a result of the identification of the game medium.

5. 3. The identification system according to claim 1, wherein, when the identification unit is unable to identify the game medium corresponding to the appearance feature, the identification unit presents to a user at least one of a reason why the identification was unable to be performed and a method for resolving the reason.

6. The identification system according to claim 1 , wherein when a plurality of game media are identified as the identification result of the game media, the identification unit presents at least one of the plurality of game media to a user as an option.

7. The identification system according to claim 6 , wherein the identification unit presents the options based on parameters of the gaming media.

8. The identification system according to claim 7 , wherein, when the parameters of the plurality of gaming media are different, the identification unit presents the gaming medium having a lower parameter to the user as the option.

9. The identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the identification unit, when a plurality of game media are identified as the identification result of the game media, presents an error to a user based on parameters of the game media.

10. The identification system according to claim 9 , wherein the identification unit presents the error when a difference in the parameters between the plurality of gaming media reaches a predetermined level.

11. the game medium is a card ejected from a game machine, the identification system comprises a gaming device that is different from the gaming machine and provides a game; The game device has a game control unit, The identification system according to claim 1 , wherein the game control unit controls the game in accordance with a gaming medium determined based on a result of the identification by the identification unit.

12. The identification system according to claim 11 , wherein the game device has a photographing device for photographing the game medium.

13. A method for identifying a gaming medium having an identification portion used to identify a physical gaming medium and an intrinsic portion unique to the gaming medium, and for controlling an identification system having a computer, comprising: The computer includes: acquiring photographic data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium, the photographic data including an image of the unique portion; A control method for identifying a gaming medium corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the photographing data, without performing a identification process using the specified portion.

14. A control program for an identification system having a computer, the control program identifying a gaming medium having an identification portion used to identify a physical gaming medium and an inherent portion unique to the gaming medium, the control program including: The computer includes: acquiring image data of the game medium obtained by photographing the game medium, the image data including an image of the unique portion; A control program that identifies the gaming medium corresponding to the external characteristics of the photographed gaming medium based on identification information for identifying the gaming medium and the photographing data, without performing a identification process using the specified portion.

Images